While most people are familiar with Hawaii, Bali, or even South Africa, most people don’t know about the surfing treasure that is Peru. So, when planning your next big surf expedition, if you’ve experienced the “usual” spots, why not consider surfing in Peru and discover the best waves in South America,
Peru’s coastline stretches roughly 1500 miles along the Pacific Ocean, producing some of the longest waves in South America. While most of the coastline is great for surfing, the top surf spots in Peru are Mancora, Playa Chicama, Waikiki, and Punta Hermosa -provided you’re an advanced surfer.
Peru is most famous for its incredible archeological treasures. However, Peru is a wondrous surfing destination thanks to the local currents and rugged coastlines. Below we’ll look at the best surfing spots, when the surfing season starts, surfing’s history in Peru, and how the surf culture looks.
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Peru Surfing Season: When To Catch The Biggest Waves
Peru is good for surfing throughout the year. Providing visitors with a choice of summer or winter.
Most visitors to the Peruvian shores prefer the summer months, December through February (remember, Peru is in the Southern Hemisphere), as these months guarantee warmer water and air temperatures. However, surf conditions are adequate from October to March (spring until early fall).
Consequently, those interested in surfing the biggest of the big waves in Peru should head to southern Peru during the colder months (March to August), when Pico Alto rears its (up to) 35-foot face!
These waves are only for experienced big-wave surfers, as many well-surfed individuals have broken bones here.
Another perspective is that Peru experiences two surfing seasons. The south swell season is between March and November (winter), producing consistent, larger waves.
The north swell season is from November to March (summer months). Although the waves are less consistent, the water is warmer.
Surfing Events And Competitions In Peru
Although Peru is not yet world number 1 for surfing, it has had some recognition from the global surfing community over the years.
Peru has hosted several surfing competitions, including:
Peru International Surfing Championships
This annual surfing event ran in February or March between 1956 and 1974. The competition took place in Lima and was a tremendous success (with many international surfers) thanks to the likes of Carlos Dogny.
The World Championships
In 1965, Peru hosted this competition organized by the International Surfing Federation. Peru’s Felipe Pomar claimed gold in some tricky water.
ISA World Longboard Surfing Championship
Although the longboard surfing event is usually part of the ISA World Events, in 2013, it was a separate competition hosted in Peru.
World Surfing League
In 2017, Peru hosted two qualifying events:
- Rip Curl Pro San Bartolo Peru Men’s QS 1,000
- Jeep Pro San Bartolo Peru Women’s QS 1,000
Where more than 100 athletes from different countries competed for a qualifying spot, Peru also hosted qualifiers in 2012.
The Pan American Games in Lima
Peru hosted these games in 2019, where surfing was one of many events. Peru took home (or kept) 7 medals.
The Peru National Surf Circuit
Peru’s surfing events are not only tied to international competitions. This national event is held annually and showcases the best surfers in Peru.
There are various events, including longboarding, regular surfing, and stand-up paddle boarding across the most popular of Peru’s beaches.
Peru Surfing History: From Ancient Origins To Modern-Day Destinations
While many hold that the origins of surfing trace back to Polynesia (and eventually Hawaii), significant evidence points to ancient Peruvian surfing long before the Hawaiians and probably the Polynesians.
Historians believe that the early peoples of the area (roughly 4000 years ago) rode on “caballitos de totora” (little reed horses), which predates the Incas in the area (part of the Mochica and Chimu cultures, or potentially the 1000 BC Viru culture).
As their name suggests, these flotation devices are constructed from reeds tied together. There are two variations, a fishing boat (with a storage area) and a wave riding/surfing model.
Riders of these “reed horses” stand up or kneel and use a cut bamboo pole to move around on the ocean (like stand-up paddleboarding) or catch the waves.
Although less popular than a few millennia ago, some Peruvian anglers build and surf on their “caballitos.”
Although related, these reed boats are considerably different from modern surfboards. The modern iteration of surfing arrived in Peru from Hawaii in 1942, when Carlos Dodgy established the Waikiki Club in Miraflores.
A unique feature of Dodgy’s club was that it catered to the rich and opulent demographic. Butlers, attendants, board carriers, and luxurious accommodations were commonplace at the club.
Since its re-introduction, surfing has become a popular pastime for many Peruvians, surfing alongside traditional reed horses (especially in Huanchaco).
Peruvian Surfers’ Contribution To The Sport
Although Peru’s coastline lends itself to fantastic surfing, the sport’s popularity and global interest in Peru relate to the impact Peruvian surfers have, showcasing to the world.
2004 Sofía Mulanovich put Peru back on the surfing map when she won the World Title (coming first in 3 out of 6 events).
Although Sofia is one of the most famous Peruvian surfers, she’s not the only one contributing to the sport.
Others include:
- Felipe Pomar – 1965 World Surfing Champion and surfing legend.
- Joaquin Mirá – Quesada, Francisco Aramburu, and Miguel Plaza – were the first to ride the Pico Alto (Tall Peak) in 1965.
- Cristobal de Col – in 2016 earned his Guinness Book of Records spot thanks to the 34 carved turns he made while riding the longest wave in Peru at Chicama.
How Peru’s Coastline Affects Surf Conditions
Peru’s surf conditions are created through the workings of the Humnbolt (or Peru) current, bringing cold water from the Antarctic. With the colder water come cold southwest winds, which whip up the waves.
The roughly 1500-mile coastline experiences mostly tropical-dry and subtropical-desert climates. The coastline creates many point breaks, producing wonderful left-handed waves.
Thanks to offshore reefs, Peru has some of the largest waves for those brave, crazy, and skilled enough to ride them, as they are channeled between headlands.
The Best Places For Surfing In Peru: Top Spots To Ride The Waves
Although most of Peru’s coastline creates fantastic surfing conditions, certain areas are leagues ahead.
For reference, we’ve grouped the following surf spots according to their location along the coastline.
Surfing Hotspots Along Peru’s Central To Northern Coast
By far the more diverse section of Peru, the central to northern regions contain several bays, which create ideal point breaks.
Whether you’re a beginner or experienced, the north of Peru has something for you.
Chicama/Puerto Malabrigo
If you’re looking for the longest rideable left-hander waves, then Chicama is the spot. Thanks to its bay location, the point break creates these long waves.
Huanchaco
If you love surfing and history, then Huanchaco is up your alley. As the alternative birthplace of surfing, you’ll find locals on the original vessels (caballitos de totora) and may get to try one yourself.
Aside from history, the area produces 5 consistent wave regions (of which 3 are left-handed point breaks).
Cabo Blanco
When you want to increase the intensity, Cabo Blanco holds several cards. The powerful left-handed waves generated by the reef break are the Peruvian Pipeline, producing barrels akin to those in Hawaii.
Mancora
One of the most popular spots in Peru, Mancora, has some wonderful left-handed point breaks. Additionally, the nightlife in the area attracts tourists (and locals), so if you want to mingle, this is the spot for you.
Lobitos
Although Lobitos is an old military complex, the 3 fantastic pointbreaks mask any aesthetic issues with the area.
You’ll be spoiled with barrels and pristine left-handers thanks to the offshore wind (mostly) and physical features.
Los Organos
If you’re looking for bigger, more challenging waves (but don’t want to challenge the “monster”), Los Organos is your beach.
This region boasts plenty of left-handers and will keep you occupied.
If this beach is too busy, you could try El Ñuro, which maintains similar conditions.
acasmayo
Another great spot for left-handed point breaks, some of the waves at Pacasmayo link up, providing a longer ride. The waves here are bigger/higher than Chicama‘s (although not longer).
Puemape
If you’re looking for 3 to 8 feet waves that push you 300 yards quickly, then Puemape is the perfect fit. The waves in this area produce lovely barrels, and some experience will benefit you significantly.
Zorritos
If you enjoy hot springs and medicinal mud baths on top of surfing, you might try Zorritos. This region is great for beginners thanks to the Coco Beach surf school, which will bring you quickly up to speed.
Surfing Hotspots Along Peru’s Central To Southern Coast
Although beginner surfers will benefit from the waves around Lima, heading further south is only recommended for experienced surfers hunting for the biggest waves.
Lima
Lima is a popular area for many tourists and locals. While the surfing is spread out along the coastline, the area has fantastic beach breaks.
Punta Hermosa
Punta Hermosa makes it onto most surfing hotspot lists thanks to the Pico Alto. You’ll find these monstrous waves in the winter, and they are well worth the fight to get out there.
However, don’t try it unless you’re a pro or advanced! These waves easily reach 20+ feet.
Punta Rocas
Aside from more consistent waves, Punta Rocas also has some fantastic point breaks. This popular spot has hosted the World Surfing League tournament several times.
If you’re limited on time and can’t surf all of the amazing areas, the top surf spots in Peru are:
- Mancora and Lobitos in the north.
- Playa Chicama.
- Punta Hermosa (for the advanced and daring surfer).
Can I Rent Surfing Gear In Peru?
While most surfers prefer to bring their gear, sometimes it’s not feasible.
If (for reasons personal to you) you want to get to Peru, but can’t bring your surfing equipment out, don’t panic and cancel your trip!
There are several surf shops and rental places in the popular surf spots.
Surf Rentals In Lima
Thanks to Lima’s surf-orientated history, there are several surf rental shops in the town, including:
- Pukana Surf offers wetsuits in all sizes, booties, and 40 beginner surfboards of various lengths and styles. They also stock 20 experienced surfer boards.
- Tubos Surf School – they stock various new and used boards. They also stock wetsuits.
Surf Rentals In Mancora
If you’re taking a northward trip up the coast, then you may decide to rent from the many shops in the area:
- Mancora Surf Shop – they have a decent selection of boards and wetsuits.
- Inka Warrior Surf School’s selection of surfboards and other equipment for rent adds to their fantastic surfing lessons.
Tips For Surfing In Peru
- Although Peru is mostly safe, there are cases of petty crimes (like theft), so be aware of your surroundings, don’t leave your valuables lying around, and try to travel in groups.
- While many locals head to the beach during their lunch break/siesta, most surfing hotspots have the best conditions earlier in the morning.
- You may need to rent/bring a wetsuit, depending on where you surf. The northern coastline is usually warm enough during the summer to forgo a wetsuit, but the further south you move, the colder it becomes.
- Although it depends on your preference, many surfers recommend a 3/2mm wetsuit along most regions of Peru’s coast.
- There are various hazards when surfing in Peru, including reefs, submerged rocks, rip currents, and big waves (that cause serious damage if you’re inexperienced). If you’re new to surfing, stick to the “beginner friendly” areas, and ask for advice/assistance from experienced surfers.
- When surfing in a foreign country, it is essential to remain respectful of the locals and other tourists. You’re a guest in someone else’s house, and because you’re an ambassador for surfers from your country, you must act responsibly.
- Remember, don’t drop in on someone else’s wave (although the locals may do it to you. Often)!
Surfing In Lima, Peru: A Beginner’s Guide To Catching Your First Wave
Not only is Lima Peru’s capital city, but it is also one of the surf capitals of the area!
Lima is one of the more popular regions for surfing thanks to its proximity to the airport, better accommodation, and the quality of waves in the surrounding areas.
Lima should be at the top of your surfing to-do list as a beginner heading abroad. One of the significant benefits of surfing at Lima is that the swells are more consistent than those up north.
Lima has several surfing hotspots, which include:
- Playa Barranquito – thanks to the reef, the breaks are consistent year-round.
- La Herradura in Chorillos, where you’ll find a large, strong left-hander (advanced surfers only).
- Punta Rocas – although there are some easy waves for beginners, the rocks in the area are potential hazards.
- Punta Roquitas – by the Miraflores Boardwalk.
- Playa Waikiki – is one of the most popular beaches and beginner friendly.
As a beginner, you’ll most likely surf at Playa Waikiki.
Waikiki is directly off Lima and features some of the most beginner-friendly surf in the area. The upmarket suburb Miraflores also provides visitors with a “nice” experience (depending on what you’re used to).
Thanks to the gentle waves and abundance of surf schools in the region, we recommend heading here first if you’re a beginner.
You may venture to Punta Roquitas as you improve in skill, but you’ll need to fight strong waves to get out (powerful paddling is required).
Lima: Catering For Beginner And Experienced Surfers Alike
No surfing review of Peru is complete without highlighting the Pico Alto (Tall Peak).
Situated at Punta Hermosa (south of Lima), the protruding landforms (cliffs, headlands, rocks, and coves) force swells over underlying reefs, causing the swell to form between 8 and 10 feet, which may hold its shape up to 35 feet.
These waves were popular in the 1960s but fell out of popularity until the 1990s when interest in massive wave-surfing re-emerged.
Aside from a 30-minute paddle to get to the line (they break roughly half a mile out), these waves have a difficult drop, made worse by their shifting nature (i.e., you can’t rely on using the same drop-in point every time).
However, when you’re good enough to catch and ride a Pico Alto, you have spectacular right-handers, some good left-handers, and a monster wave that drives you along for around 300 yards.
So, if you’re a professional surfer with a “gun,” looking for the next challenge, head to Punta Hermosa during the local fall/winter and look for a light easterly wind.
However, practice your wave hold-downs (two to three waves at a time).
Surfing In Mancora, Peru: The Longest Left-Handed Point Break In South America
While Chicama claims the longest left-handed wave in South America (up to 1.4 miles long), Mancora holds the esteemed largest left-handed point break (and a diversity of other waves).
It is best to surf during mid and high tide when in Mancora because low tide exposes the submerged rocks in the middle of the surf. This region is most popular during the summer, when large, warm-water waves roll in, and tourists (and locals) flock to the beaches.
Mancora is ideal for beginners to learn how to surf. Thanks to the gentle wave gradients, learning to drop in is not too difficult.
Another benefit to surfing in Mancora is the many (good) surf schools close by.
It’s important to note that although it’s considered taboo for foreigners, many locals feel obliged to drop in on your wave. This dropping in extends to surf schools, encouraging students to take any wave.
Most experienced surfers avoid this beach during the midday “rush.”
Chicama: The Longest Left In South America
If you’re an experienced surfer and want to challenge your abilities 350 miles south of Mancora, you’ll find the record-holding left-hander of Chicama.
If you’re tired of getting dumped (by a wave), it might delight you that you get about 5 minutes (on average) of ride time on these monsters.
That is, provided all the “stars align” and the four smaller wave segments join together (the southern swell needs to be pretty big for this to happen).
Your best shot at catching these waves is between May and September (winter).
Peru Surf Camp: Immersing Yourself In The Surf Culture Of Peru
The best part about Peru is that although the surf scene is large, it is still a (mostly) hidden gem.
The beaches are largely free of intense commercialization, and (aside from getting dropped in on by a local or beginner), the experience is peaceful and mostly uncrowded.
Thanks to the rich history, fantastic waves, and several world surfing events, the surf culture in Peru is here to stay.
Most coastal towns are geared toward surfers, as tourism is a major form of income. Some areas, like Mancora, boast nightlife and a “party-vibe” for those interested.
Peru has something for you, whether you’re a beginner or an advanced surfer. The great part is it is relatively cheap (when you’re bringing dollars to convert).
The Surf Culture In Peru And Its Influence On Surfing
Peruvians have a deep connection to surfing and the ocean.
Roughly 4000 years ago, anglers constructed reed boats/boards that they took out into the waves to catch the bounties of the Pacific.
During this time, they developed a type of surf culture where anglers tested their skills against the force of the ocean.
Skip forward a few thousand years, and the old ways are less popular. However, surfing remains an integral part of many Peruvians’ lives.
Thanks to the spectacular (and often large) waves the coastline experiences, Peru has hosted several surfing competitions. After winning her 2004 title, Sofia Mulanovich established the youth surfing academy “Proyecto Sofia Mulanovich.”
This academy trains Peruvian youth from various backgrounds, offering them a chance they may never have otherwise had to improve their surfing skills while uplifting the community.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a surfing getaway, look no further than South America’s west coast. Peru is (arguably) the birthplace of surfing, and the surf culture remains strong across most coastal towns. Whether you’re experienced or a beginner, Peru’s assortment of waves and beaches cater to everyone’s needs.
If enjoying the less crowded warmer waters are for you, then Peru’s north coast is ideal. However, if you’re looking for a challenge, head down to Chicama to ride the longest left-hander or test your skills on Pico Alto, the 20-foot (or more) monster south of Lima!
