Punta Sal - Peru Punta Sal features a hollow, powerful left-breaking reef wave, typically ranging from 1.5 to 2 meters. The bottom consists of sharp coral and rocks, making it suitable for experienced surfers seeking to execute aerial maneuvers. The spot is located approximately 100 meters upshore from the access point. Accessing Punta Sal is straightforward; from Lima, take a flight or bus to Piura, then continue by bus to Mancora, located 15 minutes north. The wave works best at low and mid tide during falling tide conditions, with optimal wind and swell coming from the southeast, east, and northeast. The area is generally uncrowded, providing a serene surfing experience, but caution is advised due to the presence of rocks.
View spotSanta Rosa - San Bartolo, Peru Santa Rosa is a point break featuring both left and right waves over a boulder-strewn bottom. The wave is known for its hollow, fast, and ledgey characteristics, particularly thriving on mid-tide during rising conditions with swells from the northwest to west. Caution is advised due to the rocky bottom. Located at the northern end of a series of longer left-hand waves, Santa Rosa comes alive with swells around 1.5 meters. This spot offers medium consistency, making it ideal for intermediate surfers seeking a challenge without heavy crowds. Access involves a short walk from parking near the cabana de surfistas, with the best approach being to park as far south as possible. The atmosphere is fun yet demanding, and while it can be tricky to reach during larger swells, it remains a rewarding experience for those willing to navigate its rocky terrain.
View spotPlaya Norte - Punta Hermosa, Peru Playa Norte features a right-hand beach break with a boulder bottom, offering hollow, fast, and powerful waves. Located about 43 km south of Lima, access is instant from the beach. The spot is known for its mixed conditions, with sharp rocks and occasional urchins posing hazards, particularly at high tide. This surf spot is popular among intermediate surfers, especially during the summer months when crowds from Lima flock to the area. While the waves can be short and more suited for bodyboarding, they can provide decent rides when conditions align. The preferable wind direction is from the east, and it works well at mid and high tide. Be cautious of the rocky bottom and the presence of urchins, as these can make getting out back challenging. For those seeking more technical rides, nearby El Paso offers powerful rights over boulders, but it can be punishing for less experienced surfers.
View spotOrillazo - Punta Rocas, Peru Orillazo features a right-breaking beach break with a sandy bottom, delivering fast and powerful waves. The spot is accessible by car, followed by a short walk of 5-15 minutes. It works best during low and mid tides, with rising and falling tide movements. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, Orillazo offers very good waves that are not overly large, making it suitable for various skill levels. The ideal swell directions are from the west and southwest, while wind can come from multiple directions, including northwest and southeast. Although the spot can get crowded on weekends, it typically sees fewer surfers during the week. Be mindful of pollution as a potential hazard when enjoying this surf destination.
View spotPanic Point - Cabo Blanco, Peru Panic Point features a powerful left reef break with hollow, fast waves that can reach heights of 2 to 4 meters. The bottom consists of a mix of coral and sharp rocks, creating a challenging yet rewarding surf experience. This spot works best with S or SW swells during the winter months, particularly from July to September. Located just south of Cabo Blanco, Panic Point is less crowded, offering a more serene surfing environment. Access is straightforward via the Panamericana north road, followed by a short 7 km drive from El Alto village. A brief walk leads to the surf spot. While the atmosphere is dominated by local surfers, respect and strong tuberiding skills are essential. Be cautious of the rocks near the take-off zone. The tropical climate and favorable conditions make this spot a must-visit for those seeking powerful, hollow waves away from the crowds.
View spotLobitos - Northern Peru Lobitos features a left point break with a sandy bottom interspersed with rocky areas, delivering hollow, fast, and powerful waves. The spot is accessible within a 5-minute walk, located near El Hueco and Piscinas in Talara, though navigating the dirt tracks may require a guide. Renowned for its fun waves and occasional barrels, Lobitos offers multiple surf breaks suitable for various skill levels. The main attraction, Lobitos Point, provides open faces for maneuvering alongside barreling sections. While the vibe is generally mellow, expect crowded conditions during the week and ultra-crowded weekends. Surfers should remain cautious of localism and watch for rocks in the water. With straightforward access via taxi or local vans, Lobitos is an excellent destination for surfers seeking a diverse and exciting surf experience.
View spotLas Delicias - Trujillo, Peru Las Delicias features a beach break with both right and left-hand waves, breaking over a sandy bottom. The surf is generally ordinary in power and is accessible at all tides, with rising and falling tide movements. Located in the Moche area of Trujillo, this spot offers instant access within a five-minute walk. The atmosphere is welcoming, with friendly locals and a relatively uncrowded experience during the week, though weekends may see a few more surfers. Be cautious of rips, undertow, and rocks while enjoying the waves. Las Delicias is a favored summer destination for surfers looking for a laid-back vibe and consistent surf conditions.
View spotPenascal - Punta Negra Penascal is a powerful point break featuring hollow and fast waves that break to both the right and left over a boulder bottom. This challenging wave works best at low and mid tide, with optimal conditions arising from a northwest to southwest swell and southeast to northeast winds. Located at Punta Negra, Penascal is less frequented than other nearby spots, making it ideal for surfers seeking a quieter session. Access is straightforward, with a short paddle from San Bartolo - Playa Norte. The wave is known for its quick peaks and can be tricky to catch due to its shifting nature. While it attracts few surfers during the week, caution is advised due to rips and rocks. Intermediate surfers will find it rewarding, especially when the swell is right, but getting caught inside can be perilous.
View spotPunta Rocas - Peru Punta Rocas features powerful and fun waves breaking over a rocky reef, with both left and right directions. This spot is renowned for its consistency, accommodating a range of swell sizes, and is best surfed at low to mid tide. Caution is advised due to submerged rocks and rips. Located at km 46 south of Lima, access is straightforward via the old Panamerican Highway. The top track offers a view of the break, while the lower track leads to beach-front parking. The spot can get crowded, especially on manageable swell days, so arriving early is recommended. Ideal wind conditions are from the east, while northeast winds can disrupt the surf. Punta Rocas is suitable for shortboards and guns, but surfers should remain vigilant for fishing lines and the shorebreak, particularly on bigger days.
View spotExplosivos - Peru Explosivos is a beach break featuring hollow and fast waves that break both right and left over a sandy bottom. The spot is known for producing short, exhilarating rides, often culminating in perfect barrels before crashing onto the shore. It is best surfed at low and mid tide during rising tide conditions. Located halfway down the sandy stretch between Punta Rocas and Punta Negra, Explosivos is easily accessible with less than a 5-minute walk from parking. The spot attracts a competitive crowd, particularly body-boarders, when conditions are optimal. While it does not handle large swells, it can be a reliable option when other nearby breaks are flat. Surfers should arrive early to avoid the frequent onshore winds that can disrupt the wave quality.
View spotHuanchaco (Punta Huanchaco) - Peru Huanchaco features a long left point break with flat rocks and sand as the bottom composition. The wave is best surfed during mid to high tide, particularly on a rising tide. The spot is easily accessible, located about 10 km northwest of Trujillo, with instant access to the beach. This surf destination is ideal for surfers of all skill levels, offering consistent and manageable waves, especially from April to October. The local atmosphere is relaxed, although weekends can see a crowded lineup. The typical east winds create favorable conditions, making it a great place for shortboards, funboards, longboards, or fish. While the waves are not overly challenging, they provide a fun performance experience, especially near the small pagoda on the beach. Be mindful of the ocean conditions and enjoy the vibrant local culture surrounding this charming surf spot.
View spotEl Paso - Punta Hermosa El Paso is a powerful right-hand point break characterized by hollow, fast, and powerful waves breaking over boulders. Located 43 kilometers south of Lima, it offers instant access with a short walk of less than 5 minutes. The spot is best during southwest and south swells, making it ideal for experienced surfers. Known for its high-quality surf, El Paso can deliver solid sessions, particularly from March to September. While it generally remains uncrowded during the week, weekends may see a few surfers. Caution is advised due to the presence of dangerous rocks and sea urchins. The local vibe is mostly chill, but surfers should stay alert and avoid turning their backs to the waves. With easy access and a clean environment, El Paso is a must-visit for those seeking thrilling surf experiences.
View spotSan Bartolo (Peñascal) - Peru San Bartolo features a beach break with both right and left waves, breaking over boulders. The wave is characterized as ordinary to fun in power, working best at mid to high tide with rising and falling tides. The spot is accessible via a short walk (<5 min) from the main roads, making it convenient for surfers. The area offers a friendly atmosphere, though it can get crowded on weekends. Peñascal, located at the northern headland, is known for its powerful waves and rugged landscape, attracting more experienced surfers. While the wave can handle some onshore wind, be cautious of the rocky bottom and potential hazards like urchins. For those new to rocky breaks, starting at the mellower peaks in the bay is advisable. Consistency improves with proper swell, but expect to wait for optimal head-high conditions for the best rides.
View spotSeñoritas - Southern Headland of Señoritas/Caballeros Bay Señoritas is a left-point break characterized by hollow, fast, and powerful waves over a boulder bottom. The spot works best at low and mid tide with rising and falling tides, making it ideal for experienced surfers. Access is instant, requiring less than 5 minutes of walking from the nearest point, and public access is available. This surf spot features three sections of rocky reef, providing a unique and challenging experience. While it can become ultra crowded on weekends, the local crowd remains laid-back. The picturesque setting, combined with the strong waves, makes Señoritas a must-visit for thrill-seekers. However, caution is advised due to the presence of urchins and sharp barnacles. With a consistency score of 8, this spot promises rewarding sessions for those willing to tackle its demanding conditions.
View spotPuntilla - Punta Hermosa Puntilla features powerful, hollow right-hand reef waves over a sandy bottom mixed with rock. The spot works best at mid to high tide with rising and falling tides, making it ideal for experienced surfers. Access is straightforward via the Panamericana Sur, with a short walk of 5-15 minutes from the beach. Located near the main resort area of Punta Hermosa, Puntilla is known for its scenic environment and consistent wave setup. While weekends can be crowded, weekdays offer a quieter experience. The paddle out is approximately 350 meters, but entering from the causeway can conserve energy. Surfers should be cautious of sharp rocks and urchins in the area. For those seeking more adventure, additional waves can be found further out, including the bombora reef at Kon Tiki, which caters to more advanced riders looking for bigger swells.
View spotCabo Blanco - Peru Cabo Blanco features powerful left-hand reef breaks, renowned for their hollow and fast barrels, reaching heights of 1 to 3 meters. The spot is characterized by a sharp coral reef bottom, making it dangerous for inexperienced surfers. It works best during low and mid tides with a rising tide, particularly under north or northwest swells. Located near the town of El Alto, Cabo Blanco is accessible via a 7 km paved road from the North Panamericana highway. The area is known for its ultra-crowded conditions, especially on weekends, and localism can be intense. Surfers should be cautious of the sharp rocks and the aggressive local crew. Nearby Punta Panico offers additional challenging surf options, but navigating the rocky outcrops requires skill and awareness of the powerful waves. Helmets are recommended due to the reef's proximity, making this spot suitable only for advanced surfers seeking thrilling barrels.
View spotPepinos - Peru Pepinos is a left-breaking reef wave characterized by a rocky bottom with flat rocks and sand. The spot offers fun surf conditions and works well at all tides. Accessing Pepinos requires navigating unpaved roads and farmland, making a 4WD vehicle advantageous, though not strictly necessary. This hidden gem is located off the Pan American Highway, about 96 kilometers south of Punta Hermosa. The trek to the beach can be tricky, so it's advisable to go with someone familiar with the area. Once there, surfers can enjoy uncrowded waves, with the surf ranging from 1.2 to 2.4 meters. The wave can be fast and powerful, especially during sets, providing an exhilarating experience. Be cautious of urchins and rocks while surfing. Overall, Pepinos is a rewarding spot for those willing to make the journey, offering a unique surfing adventure away from the crowds.
View spotNaplo - Peru Naplo is a beach break featuring both right and left waves, with a bottom composed of sharp rocks and coral. The waves are known for being fast, powerful, and ledgey, making it suitable for experienced surfers. The spot works best at low and mid tide, particularly during falling tide conditions. Located inside a protected harbor, Naplo can become crowded with boats and beachgoers, but it offers excellent wave opportunities when conditions align. Access is straightforward via the Panamericana Sur road, followed by a short walk of 5-15 minutes. Surfers should be cautious of local dangers such as urchins, sharp rocks, and pollution. The best time to visit is during Semana Santa when the waves are at their peak. Overall, Naplo presents a thrilling challenge for those who are prepared and aware of their limits.
View spotKon Tiki - Punta Hermosa Kon Tiki features a right and left reef break with a bottom of flat rocks and sand. The wave is known for its hollow, fast, and powerful characteristics, making it a serious option for surfers. It works at all tides, provided the swell is present, and is less crowded than nearby breaks, especially during intermediate swells. Located 43 km south of Lima, access is straightforward from Punta Hermosa beach, requiring a 500-meter paddle to reach the peak between La Isla and Punta Rocas. While the spot can get crowded during peak season from March to September, it generally remains empty on weekdays. Surfers should be cautious of rips and undertow, and while the local vibe can be edgy, it often remains chill. Enjoy the clean environment and be prepared for solid sessions, but always stay alert to the ocean's dynamics.
View spotMáncora - Northern Coast of Peru Máncora features a powerful left-breaking reef wave over flat rocks and sand, ideal for experienced surfers. The wave is hollow and fast, with two defined sections that perform best at high tide. Conditions are favorable at all tides, with rising and falling tides, and the spot is accessible within a five-minute walk. This vibrant fishing village is renowned for its warm weather, lively atmosphere, and scenic views. Máncora attracts a mix of locals and tourists, especially during peak season, leading to crowded lineups. Despite the hustle, surfers can find their space among the waves. The local surf culture is friendly, but be mindful of localism and drop-ins. With a variety of dining options and affordable prices, Máncora offers a complete surf experience, combining solid waves with a buzzing nightlife.
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