Kitesurf at Punta Chame

Although it is not on most tourists' itinerary, Punta Chame is home to one of Panama's greatest beaches and the best site in the country for kiteboarding. This location is practically all about the beach, as it is located on a peninsula extending out into the Pacific Ocean. The sand here is practically limitless, and the sea is pleasant and shallow. This provides new kiters the distinct benefit of being able to stand up in the water and gather themselves while working with their kite.

From December through April, which is Panama's dry season, the winds generally side on shore and very steady. Several kite schools, including Machete Kite and Kitesurf Panama, are positioned at opposite ends of the beach and provide lessons. Along the Pan-American Highway, Punta Chame is roughly 1.5 hours from Panama City and about 20 minutes from Chame. You may find decent lodging in tiny luxury seaside hotels, or if you want to save money, there are various hostels in town. Punta Chame has an out-of-this-world air to it, and it is not a place to go for nightlife. The beach and kitesurfing are the center of attention, and for most visitors, this is the sole reason for visiting.