Overview
Panamá La Vieja is an unusual left and right beachbreak that peels over sand directly below an elevated highway. The pilings under the road block much of the swell, so even on the biggest days and the biggest tides the wave arrives soft and messy, rolling in from a long way out. A rivermouth empties into the lineup as well, adding to the pollution around this strange break beneath the road.
When It Works
The break draws swell from south through southwest, with a south swell the best match. It is usable from 0.6 m / 2 ft to 1.8 m / 6 ft. Waves can be somewhat inconsistent here, so they will not show up on every day.
Wind and Tide
Look for northwest offshore wind. La Vieja can break through low, mid, and high tide, with a rising tide generally the better call.
Local Tips
The mushy, forgiving wave makes this a spot beginners can handle. Expect a very busy lineup when it works.
Access
There is a surf shop close by, and parking is easy to sort out, with a car park plus paid and roadside options.
