Located at the north end of Playa Iguanas, Panga Drops is a fun alternative to the heavier Colorados. This spot enjoys similar offshore bathymetry benefits but features a horseshoe-shaped reef. On a proper SW swell, the waves here can really turn on, offering both lefts and rights that have the potential to barrel. It’s true that the right can sometimes remind you of Sunset Beach on the North Shore of Oahu, especially on bigger days. Just keep in mind that this wave tends to break far out, and there have been reports of bull sharks in the area, so stay alert.
Panga Drops can handle swell sizes from 5 feet (1.5 meters) to a hefty 15 feet (4.5 meters) with optimal conditions coming from the Southwest. The waves are mostly reef breaks that can shift from left to right, providing fun rides for both shortboards and longboards, as well as funboards and fish. The wind is best coming from the Northeast, while the tide can be low, medium, or high, making it flexible for different surfing styles. Just be prepared for a lot of paddling, as waves break out quite far and offer long rides when it’s on.
Accessing Panga Drops is pretty straightforward if you stay at Iguanas, or you can opt for a boat ride or hike in. While it can get a bit crowded at times, it usually stays mellow, filled mainly with visiting surfers. As for the season, the prime time to hit Panga Drops is from April to September, with spring, summer, and autumn typically offering the best conditions. Just remember to watch out for debris in the water after heavy rains!