Stanleys (Nueva Gorgona)

Stanleys (Nueva Gorgona) is a fairly exposed right-hand point break on the Gulf of Panama coast, known for having consistent surf, particularly around January. It works best when offshore winds blow from the northwest, which helps groom the wave face for cleaner lines. For surfers, the practical sweet spot is generally mid-tide, which can reduce time spent dealing with nearby rocks while keeping the wave shape more usable. The break can be very manageable when the energy and swell angle line up; however, if there’s too much energy or the swell is poorly angled, the session can turn messy. Crowds appear to stay relatively low: it’s described as unlikely to be too crowded even when surf is up, and it’s framed as a low-profile local spot. Safety planning matters because rocks are present at/near the point and rip currents can occur in the area. Conditions are linked to the region’s seasonal trade-wind pattern. The dry season (December through April) is described as the better window for cleaner offshore conditions, and the spot is singled out as best in January for both surf consistency and wind alignment.