When planning a surf trip to Central America, two destinations often come up in the same conversation: Playa Venao in Panama and Tamarindo in Costa Rica. Both offer warm water, consistent waves, and a vibrant surf culture, but the similarities stop there. Choosing between the two depends on what kind of trip you want to have. Below, we’ll break down the differences in surf, vibe, accessibility, cost, and accommodations to help you decide — and show you how our Playa Venao surf camp has become a go-to for travelers who want an authentic, all-inclusive surf experience.

When surfers plan a trip to Central America, Nosara in Costa Rica and Playa Venao in Panama often end up on the same shortlist. Both are surf towns with consistent waves, yoga culture, and a reputation for being more relaxed than the big resort destinations. But beneath the surface, these two spots couldn't be more different.

Surfing feels different once you’ve moved past the beginner stage. You’re catching waves on your own, starting to ride down the line, maybe even pulling off your first cutbacks. But if you’re stuck in that “intermediate purgatory,” progress can feel slow. The good news is that with a few refinements—both in and out of the water—you can break through the plateau. Here are 10 tips every intermediate surfer should keep in mind.

Surfing feels different once you’ve moved past the beginner stage. You’re catching waves on your own, starting to ride down the line, maybe even pulling off your first cutbacks. But if you’re stuck in that “intermediate purgatory,” progress can feel slow. The good news is that with a few refinements—both in and out of the water—you can break through the plateau. Here are 10 tips every intermediate surfer should keep in mind.

Surf trips are way more fun when you're not gassed after the first paddle out. At Beach Break Surf Camp, we've hosted every kind of surfer—from total beginners to competitive athletes—and if there's one thing we've learned, it's that a bit of surf fitness goes a long way. You don't have to be a triathlete to make the most of your sessions, but if you want to surf longer, paddle stronger, and recover faster, it pays to prepare.

‍Planning a surf trip should be simple, but one missing item can throw off the whole trip. At Beach Break Surf Camp in Playa Venao, we’ve seen what works and what doesn’t when it comes to preparing for a trip. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveler, this surf trip packing list will help you stay focused on what matters most: chasing waves in warm water.

Planning a jiu jitsu retreat isn’t just about finding some random Jiu Jitsu gym in a tropical setting — it’s about curating an experience that balances physical intensity, personal growth, good waves, and a sense of community. At Beach Break Surf Camp in Playa Venao, Panama, we’ve created a space that does exactly that. Whether you’re a black belt looking to lead a retreat or a student searching for the perfect destination to combine jiu jitsu and surfing, this guide covers everything you need to know to make it happen.

While Panama may not be the first country that comes to mind when you think of surfing, the tiny Central American nation is home to 1,771 miles of coastline, accessing two oceans and dozens of world-class waves. While it was often overlooked in favor of destinations like Costa Rica and Mexico, Panama is now widely recognized as a premier surf destination. The country has a long and fascinating history of wave riding and surf exploration, which is closely tied to the US military presence in the region.

At first glance, surfing and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) might seem worlds apart. One plays out in the ocean, where surfers ride waves produced thousands of miles away as they collide with the shore. The other takes place on the mats, where two fighters go head to head in a physical chess match. For a growing number of athletes, the two are inseparable. Their shared emphasis on balance, timing, flow, and resilience has forged a unique cultural crossover that continues to expand globally.