Surfing in Peru
The waves along Peru’s Pacific coast are regarded as some of the longest in the world and the country is indeed a world-class surfing destination, attracting thousands of surfers each year from the world over. Happily, surfers can practice their sport here just about year round. In the north, the waves are ideal from September to February. From March through December, surfing is king in the southern portion of the country.
The marvelous waves off Peru’s coast are caused by two specific currents. In the south, the Humboldt Current from Antarctica is responsible for the great surfing conditions. In the north, the waves are affected by the warm El Nino current. Hence, if you’re anywhere south of the city of Piura, you’ll probably want to wear a wet suit because the surf can be mighty cold in that part of the country, though some people wear wet suits in the north as well.
It isn’t unusual to find a number of international competitions going on in Peru. Punta Rocas is the most popular place for summer competitions and Pico Alto also welcomes competitors as well, with its most famous event being the Balin Open each May.
Despite the fact that Peru is an amazing surfing destination, the waves – for the most part – remain uncrowded and it’s a pleasant place to practice the sport. However, you’ll want to bring your own equipment if possible as board rental here is very expensive. Also, facilities along the beach are limited as well. The north coast has the most organized surf program, however, including a number of surf shops that offer decent boards and organize day trips. Many are owned by individuals who have made a mark on the sport and can offer good advice for those contemplating the sometimes unforgiving waves of Peru.
Where to Go
Again, you can find great places to surf up and down the coast. Here are spots that have been highly acclaimed by those who love surfing.
- North – There are a number of top spots here
including:
- Puerto Chicama – This is the site of the longest break in the world and surfing is good year round and is appropriate for anyone from beginner to advanced.
- Los Organos – Definitely for experienced surfers only, here you’ll find a rocky break with excellent tubular waves reaching up to about 6-7 feet in height.
- Mancora – Easy to reach, Mancora is good for all skill levels and also boasts waves of up to about 6 feet.
- Cabo Planco – This pipeline is awesome but is really only suitable for those with excellent skills. The waves at this pipeline can reach up to 9 or 10 feet and break on the rocks, demanding an experienced rider.
- Huanchaco – This venue is also suitable for everyone and offers long, well-formed waves with a pipeline.
- South – If you’re in Lima and points south, check
out these surf spots:
- Playa Costa Verde – Called “South America’s Waikiki”, Playa Costa Verde is the local’s favorite and is suitable for surfing year round.
- Playa La Herradura (Chorrillos) – This is not a surf spot for the faint of heart. Here, the waves can reach some 12-15 feet when the swells are ideal. (Surf guides warn that theft is a problem here, so watch your belongings!)
- Punta Hermosa – Further south from Lima, this is a good choice for surfers who want to hang out for a few days as the waves are great and so are the local accommodations and food.
- Pica Alto – The site of a few annual international competitions, Pico Alto is home to the largest wave in Peru, sometimes reaching as high as 30 feet!! Hence, it’s for the experienced crowd.
- Punta Rocas – A bit further south than Pico Alto, this is another venue for experienced surfers and is also home to annual competitions. Look for the Hostal Hamacas, owned by a surfer, offering decent rooms for a good price and some equipment rental.
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