Chame Banks

Chame Banks, Panama is a long, exposed beach-break reef/point setup off the Pacific coast near Playa Chame, west of Panama City. It’s known for producing powerful, hollow waves when the swell lines up, and for having multiple peaks spread along the bank, so there’s often room to spread out compared with tighter point breaks.

What it’s like

• Wave type: Mostly a sand-bottom beach break over shifting banks, with some sections that can feel more reef-like depending on the seabed.
• Wave quality: Can get fast, punchy, and barreling on the right swell.
• Conditions: Best with a clean offshore wind and a solid Pacific swell.
• Crowd level: Usually less crowded than major urban breaks, but it can still draw locals and traveling surfers when it’s firing.

Best swell and tide

• Swell: Works best with south to southwest Pacific swell.
• Tide: Often better on a mid to low tide for shape and power, though this can vary with sand movement.
• Wind: Light northeast trade winds or any offshore wind for the spot’s orientation.

Skill level

• Intermediate to advanced on bigger days, because it can be strong, shallow, and unforgiving.
• Smaller days may be more manageable for intermediate surfers.

Surroundings

• Chame is on the Pacific side of Panama, about an hour or so from Panama City depending on traffic.
• The area has a hot, tropical climate, with warm water year-round, so usually a boardshorts/rashguard setup is enough.