Prepare for an unforgettable journey to Venao and Cambutal on the Azuero Peninsula in Panama, where sun-drenched beaches, thrilling activities, and untouched natural beauty await. These hidden gems along the Pacific coast offer a plethora of exciting experiences for travelers seeking an extraordinary holiday destination. Get ready to surf epic waves, unwind on pristine shores, embark on thrilling adventures, and immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring wonders of Venao and Cambutal on the Azuero Peninsula.
Panama is renowned for its two seasons namely, the dry season (January to April) and the wet season (May to December). Good to know is that the Azuero Peninsula, also known as the Dry Arc experiences drier weather, compared to the rest of Panama.
If you are looking for optimal weather and everything to be open, consider visiting during the dry season. During this peak season you have to be sure to book ahead and be prepared for higher prices. Waves are ideal due to offshore winds.
Here are the top 10 things to do in this captivating tropical paradise.
Witness the incredible phenomenon of sea turtles laying their eggs at the Isla Cañas Wildlife Refuge near Venao during nesting season (June to December). From August to December, you may also have the chance to see baby turtles hatch and make their courageous journey into the ocean for the first time.
Join guided sea turtle tours offered by Tortugas Cambutal, a local turtle conservation group, and they take you to search for female sea turtles laying their eggs. This tour is offered at night, from July to December.
Embark on a memorable adventure by going whale watching off the coast of Cambutal and Venao. Witness the majestic humpback whales during their migration season (August to October), as they journey along the Pacific coast of Panama.
Immerse yourself in the cowboy culture of Cambutal by enjoying guided horseback rides along the beach or through the hills and forested areas. Experience the breathtaking sunrise or sunset views while riding through this picturesque landscape.
Charter a fishing boat trip and experience deep-sea fishing in the waters surrounding the Azuero Peninsula, known as "The Tuna Coast." Reel in prized catches like Marlin, Tuna, and Dorado under the guidance of experienced local captains.
Look out for the following fish in our waters: Mahi-Mahi (Dorado), Bigeye Tuna (Atún), Yellowfin Tuna (Atún), Amber Jack, Rooster Fish (Papa Gallo), Snapper (Pargo), Grouper, Wahoo (season begins in May and peaks in October).
Enjoy the thrill of angling against the stunning backdrop of the Pacific Ocean on a full-day or half-day guided outing.
If you’re not into fishing, you can explore the coastline, spot dolphins, turtles, and even whales (during migration season) on sightseeing boat trips. You can also request to be taken to off-shore snorkeling spots to discover the underwater wonders of the area.
Several boats are available for charter trips, including local Panga boats.
Embark on half-day trips on 4-seater Polaris all-terrain vehicles offered by Hotel Playa Cambutal. Choose your adventure and let the guides take you to waterfalls, secluded beaches, or the area's best tide pools. These tours include guides, drinks, snacks, and a prepared lunch.
Venture into the lush rainforests of Cambutal and explore hidden treasures through unforgettable hikes. The village borders the Nacional Cerra Hoya, Reserva Forestal Tonosi, and Reserva Forestal La Tronosa, large protected forests and jungle reserves for wild and endangered animals, ensuring the area remains natural and undeveloped.
Engage a guide to visit waterfalls and secluded beaches, especially during the rainy season when a 4x4 vehicle is recommended.
Punta Blanca Tour
Discover Punta Blanca, one of Panama's true treasures, owned by Hotel Playa Cambutal. Locally named for its renowned large white rocks visible along the shoreline by boat. This largely preserved land offers guests the unique experience of exploring the jungle and hiking to a private waterfall. The beachfront property ends at Punta Blanca’s public, large black sand beach.
Hiking in Cerro Hoya National Park
Embark on a hike through Cerro Hoya National Park and its El Tigre trail for breathtaking panoramic views. Cerro Hoya is one of the more remote and inaccessible (and most untouched) parks in Panama, and once you enter, you will encounter one of the most pristine forests in the country. The park is home to jaguars, spider monkeys, howler monkeys, and is a paradise for birders, with over 95 species of birds, including the painted parakeet, great green macaws, scarlet macaw, and azuero parakeets. All these species are endangered, and the latter is also endemic to the park. There are rumors of an unknown hummingbird species residing in the higher regions of the park.
It is not advisable to hike this majestic mountain without a guide. There are options available for a 1-Day hike and a 3-day summit hike of Cerro Hoya, which stands at 1534m. The ascent to the base camp is only 5 kilometers, but it is quite steep. You should be in good physical condition and health to undertake this hike.
El Ciruelo Trail
Explore the captivating waterfalls and diverse flora and fauna along the El Ciruelo Trail in Cambutal.
Venao and Cambutal are very popular with surfers and renowned for their numerous surf spots, catering to both beginners and advanced surfers. The dry season (January to April) offers the best wave shape as the winds blow offshore almost continually, while August to October is best for wave size.
From Cambutal Beach Break to Dinosaurios and Playa Guanico, you can experience thrilling surf breaks with varying characteristics. Choose your preferred spot and ride the waves against the backdrop of this tropical paradise.
Cambutal Beach Break is located directly in front of the Hotel Playa Cambutal and offers ideal breaks for beginners and advanced surfers.
411 - Cuatro Once (High Tide) is considered one of the most popular breaks for intermediate and advanced surfers in Cambutal. It is located approximately 10 minutes away from Cambutal.
Dinosaurios is located adjacent to 411. It features a powerful break with a rock bottom, providing both rights and lefts at medium to high tide. It is ideal for intermediate to advanced surfers.
Horcones Beach Break is situated down the beach from Dinosaurios. It is a sand bottom beach break with both rights and lefts, making it suitable for beginners and advanced surfers.
Corto Circuito is a rock bottom point break with a very powerful peak that breaks over a rock ledge. After peeling the point for approximately 80 yards, it throws a nice tube.
Playa Guanico is an exposed beach and reef break that has a consistent surf. The beach break offers both left- and right-handers as well as left- and right-hand reef breaks.
Modrono is located between Cambutal and Venao. It is an exposed beach break with dependable surf, offering both left- and right-hand waves. Watch out for dangerous rips.
Playa Venao's exhilarating surf breaks will leave you thrilled and wanting more. It is an exposed beach break with very consistent surf, best around mid-tide when the tide is falling. It is a popular wave and can get crowded. Watch out for dangerous rips.
Destiladeros is situated between Venao and Pedasi. It is an exposed point break that provides quite reliable surf. It very rarely gets crowded here. Watch out for rocks.
Lagart Point is closer to Pedasi and is a reasonably exposed point break with fairly consistent surf. The point breaks offer both lefts and rights. When it's working here, it can get crowded. Look out for rocks in the lineup.
Relaxing on serene beaches, while soaking up the sun, and enjoying refreshing dips in crystal-clear waters, or indulging in water activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, jet skiing, and sailing. Explore the coastlines and hidden coves of Venao and Cambutal, immersing yourself in crystal-clear waters and breathtaking views.
Immerse yourself in wellness retreats offered by resorts and retreat centers. Engage in yoga classes, meditation sessions, and rejuvenating spa treatments while enjoying the tranquil ocean vistas that surround you. Rejuvenate your senses with spa treatments, embracing ultimate relaxation and tranquility.
Delight your taste buds with the flovors of Panama by savoring fresh seafood and traditional dishes at beachfront restaurants in Venao and Cambutal. Experience a culinary journey that encompasses local delicacies and international cuisine, all while overlooking the breathtaking Pacific Ocean.
End your day in Venao and Cambutal by embracing the beauty of stunning sunsets. Relax on the beaches or find the perfect spot along the coast to witness nature's masterpiece as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky with vibrant hues.
Venao and Cambutal offer a treasure trove of adventure, relaxation, and natural wonders. From world-class surfing to tranquil beaches, captivating hikes, exhilarating wildlife encounters, and serene wellness retreats, this tropical paradise promises a truly unforgettable vacation experience. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture, embrace thrilling activities, and bask in the beauty of Venao and Cambutal's breathtaking landscapes.
Embark on this extraordinary journey and create memories that will last a lifetime.
