After reading numerous surf guides about Peru, I couldn’t help but feel that many were written by tourists surfers who had only visited for a month or so. I came across contradictory information across different guides, along with several inaccuracies. In this article, I aim to provide you – in all modesty 💅🏼 – with the most extensive and reliable surf guide to Peru. So sit back, grab your favorite drink, and enjoy the read ☺
If you have any valuable insights or feedback, feel free to leave a comment at the end!
A Wild Wide variety of
Waves and attractions.
Peru boasts over 2,000 kilometers of Pacific coastline, home to some of the world’s longest waves. From mellow beach breaks to challenging reef breaks, there’s something for everyone. Peru offers a vibrant surf scene with a mix of rich culture, stunning landscapes, delicious cuisine, and a wide range of waves.
Surf all year around!
Peru is endowed with reliable south and southwest swells during most of the year and northwest swells during Austral summer (October – March), making it a perfect surf destination all year round.
What kind of surf trip can you expect in Peru?
Peru boasts over 2,000 kilometers of Pacific coastline, home to some of the world’s longest waves. There’s something for every surfers, from mellow beach breaks to challenging reef breaks. Peru offers a vibrant surf scene with a mix of rich culture, stunning landscapes, delicious cuisine, and a wide range of waves.
Table of Content
First, let’s break the ice and talk about weather:
The Climate on the Peruvian coast
An Ideal Climate!
Peru’s coastal region is a desertic ecosystem from south to North, thus, it doesn’t experience heavy rainfall, creating a dry and pleasant environment for surfers.
What to expect depending on the season?
The Peruvian coast is desertic, and there are 2 main seasons:
Austral Summer, October to March.
Warm wax, and some cool for the South!
During this period (especially December to March), both the outside temperature and the water temperature are warmer. In the northern part of the country (above Lima) you can enter the water without a wetsuit (January – march) or at least wear a jacket or a shorty if you’re a cold person. But in the south you will have to wear a wetsuit regardless of the season.
Also there is less wind at this season, so you may get more glassy conditions all day, and it gets sunny almost throughout all the coast, even in Lima, famous to be under the clouds 8 months a year (“Lima la gris”).
February / March are the hottest months, while August / September are the coolest.
Austral Winter, April to October.
Cool but Not Cold!
During the austral winter months of April to October, Peru’s coastal regions experience cooler air and water temperatures. While Máncora in the far north enjoys relatively warmer conditions and sun every day, everything at the south is cooler due to the wind, especially in the afternoon, still you can enjoy warm days as you can see in the chart above.
Air Temperatures in Peru
Austral Summer (December – March):
Warm and less wind.
South
(Lima, Punta Hermosa)
December to February:
Average high of 25.4°C (77.7°F) with relative humidity around 79%.
—
March:
Average temperature of 24°C (75°F), with a minimum of 20.5°C (68.9°F) and a maximum of 27.2°C (81°F).
Center
(Huanchaco, Chicama,…)
Coastal towns in northern Peru, temperatures are generally warm during these months. Average temperature of 24°C (75°F)
North
(Mancora)
January
Average temperature of 27°C (81°F).
—
March:
Average temperature of 29°C (84°F).
Austral Winter (May – October):
Cooler, and more wind.
South
(Lima, Punta Hermosa)
August/September are the coldest months with an average temperature of 17.2°C (63°F), a minimum of 15.6°C (60.1°F) and a maximum of 18.9°C (66°F).
Center
(Huanchaco, Chicama,…)
Average temperature of 20°C (69°F).
North
(Mancora)
Average temperature of 23°C (73°F).
Please note that these temperatures are averages and can vary annually. consult local weather services or specific climate data sources for the most accurate and up-to-date information,
How to prepare your surf trip to Peru?
Getting There
The only International airport in Peru is Javier Chavez in Lima (LIM) the capital city.
You can also reach Peru from the north via Guayaquil, Ecuador. From the bus terminal next to the airport, you can take a night bus (CIFA International) to Máncora.
Note: We highly recommend taking a direct bus from Guayaquil to Máncora and avoiding buses that stop at the Ecuadorian border.
Travel Information
Time Zone Currency Calling code Electric
UTC –5.00. PEN (Nuevos Soles) +51 220V
Money
The local currency is the Sol (Nuevo Sol). While you can pay for accommodation with a credit card, we recommend exchanging USD or Euros for Soles at one of the many currency exchange shops in Miraflores, where the exchange rate is very good.
A useful tip if you’re not staying in Lima is to leave the airport and cross the street to the commercial center outside. Avoid exchanging money at the airport, as the rates are often unfavorable.
Accommodations
On most surf spots, you will find cheap surf hostels. Prices vary from a dorm for under 10 euros/dollars to a private room for 20 euros/dollars. You can also find higher-standard hotels in the major surf towns like Punta Hermosa, Chicama, Máncora, and of course Lima.
Prepaid SIM cards
Claro, Movistar, Entel. 5 USD for the sim card and 7-10 USD for credit.
Visa
Australians, Americans, and Western European countries citizens don’t need a visa to enter the country. All they need is a valid visa and a return ticket, and then it’s possible to stay for 183 days at the longest.
Vaccines
It’s not required to have proof of yellow fever when entering the country. Travelers who are just going to areas like Lima, Machu Picchu, or staying on the coast do not need yellow fever vaccination. Although it’s not mandatory, it’s recommended that you have been vaccinated for hepatitis A & B, typhoid, rabies, meningitis, polio, Tdap, chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia, influenza, measles, mumps and rubella.
Do I need to pack a pharmacy kit?
Even if you can buy almost everything here in Peru, you can still bring a basic kit, including ear drops, eye drops, Band-Aids, ear plugs, gaze, alcohol, mosquito repellent, and broad-spectrum antibiotic ointment. Quality sunscreens are only to be found in good surf shops in Lima or the biggest surf hubs (Huanchaco, Punta Hermosa, Máncora).
Some caution is advised: most tourists get sick at least once in Peru. Probably because the food is cleaned with tap water. Try to avoid eating street sketchy food stands, and fresh vegetables, especially in the beginning of your trip
Travel/Surf Insurance
Always recommended to travel with insurance.
Language The country is multilingual, which means that the population uses more than one language, but the official language is Spanish.
Food Budget
Peru has a rich gastronomy, think of ceviche and lomo saltado. In the surf villages, you can eat these traditional dishes for about 3.5 euros. Mid-range meals start at USD 10. Dining & drinking at high-end restaurants can cost anywhere from USD 20-45. If you have been to Costa Rica, it is about – at least – two times less expensive!
Surfboard recommendations in Peru
Is it easy to rent a surfboard in Peru?
You can find surfboards for rent in popular surf hubs like Huanchaco, Punta Hermosa, and Máncora for $5–10 USD per day. However, don’t expect them to be in perfect condition.
For those looking for high-quality boards, we offer premium surfboards and nearly new wetsuits for rent at Algae Surf Camp in Máncora. Contact us in advance to check our stock.
Where to buy a surfboard in Peru?
If you’re planning a surf trip to multiple locations, it’s best to have your own board. You can either buy one in Lima, where prices are often better than in other countries or get a custom-made board shaped locally at a reasonable price.
Peruvian Surf Shapers
Lima and Punta Hermosa are home to top-notch surfboard shapers, and several well-known international brands rely on Peruvian “ghost shapers” to produce their boards. These brands include Lost, Patterson, Chili, Sharp Eye, Channel Islands, and Pyzel, among others.
If you’re ordering a custom board, plan for at least one month—ideally six weeks—to ensure it is shaped and dry enough to be stepped on.
Surf Shops and Shapers in Lima
You can buy a new or secondhand surfboard at one of Lima’s many surf shops:
- Klimax Surfboards – One of the most famous surf brands in Peru. Shapes for Chili, Sharp Eye, Pyzel, and Arakawa. Also, a Dakine distributor.
- True Concept Store – Distributor of Channel Islands, Catch Surf, FCS.
- Surf Place, is a large online surf retailer selling most major brands and surf accessories.
- Todo Surf Peru – A cool surf shop on Calle Berlín, selling Pyzel, Klimax, and various accessories.
- Wayo Whilar – A classic shaper with a classic mustache shaping classic surfboards.
- Milton Whilar – Wayo’s brother, shaping boards for Lost Surfboards.
Surf Shops and Shapers in Punta Hermosa (45 Minutes South of Lima)
- Feeling Board – Probably the largest surf shop in Peru, selling imported boards from DHD, Firewire, Hayden Shapes, JS, and more.
- Milano Surfboards – One of the best shapers in Peru, producing both his own brand and custom boards for Patterson.
- Rusty Surfboards – Sells imported Rusty boards made in Brazil.
Second-Hand Surfboards and accessories Market in Peru
Find used surfboards and accessories on Facebook Marketplace and dedicated Facebook groups:
Compra y vende tablas y accesorios de SURF en Peru
Switch: compra y venta de tablas y accesorios de surf
Ssuks Surf shop in Barranco
Wetsuit recommendations in Peru
Should You Buy, Rent, or Bring Your own Wetsuit to Peru?
Unlike surfboards, wetsuits are usually cheaper in your home country. We recommend bringing your own unless you’re interested in Boz, Peru’s famous handcrafted wetsuit brand.
That said, top international wetsuit brands are available at all the surf shops mentioned above if you need to buy one locally.
Water Temperatures in Peru
Which Wetsuit Should You Use in Peru?
Here’s a guide to choosing the right wetsuit size and thickness based on the season and the surf spot you’ll be visiting in Peru.
👉 I’m going during the Austral Summer (December – April)
👉 I’m going during Austral Winter (May – November)
Checking the Surf Forecast
If you’re flexible with your schedule and want to maximize your chances of scoring a good swell, it’s best to check the surf forecast about two weeks before your trip. This allows you to adjust your plans accordingly and choose the best locations based on incoming swells.
By staying updated on the forecast, you can make last-minute decisions and ensure you’re in the right spot at the right time for optimal surf conditions.
When is the Best Time to Surf in Peru?
Peru’s surf season varies by region, but winter generally offers the most consistent waves across the country.
- Summer (December to March) – Ideal for the north coast, as it receives north swells, making it the best time to surf in spots like Máncora. Surfing in Lima is still fun, but conditions are generally better in the north.
- Winter (April to November) – Delivers consistent waves across Peru.
While waves can be found year-round, certain months statistically see bigger swells:
- May–July & October–November – Peak south and southwest swells.
- January–February – Strong north swells, best for the north shore.
Additionally, Peru has many swell magnet spots, ensuring you can find waves at any time of the year.
Surf Crowds in Peru
Peru is a true surf nation with a rich surfing history and a highly skilled surf community. The country has produced world-class surfers, including Felipe Pomar and Sofía Mulanovich, former world champions, and boasts an exceptionally high level of local talent.
As a result, expect intense competition at popular surf breaks, especially when the best and most challenging waves are firing. Spots like La Herradura, Cabo Blanco, San Gallán, Panic Point, etc, attract some of the most skilled surfers in the country.
To avoid crowds, consider exploring lesser-known surf spots or surfing during off-peak hours—early mornings and weekdays often provide a more relaxed experience.
Getting Around in Peru
Should I use Buses in Peru, and if yes, which bus companies?
Public transport in Peru is well-organized and extensive. Although distances can be long, buses reach almost every destination and offer a high level of comfort. Many buses feature fully reclining seats, similar to armchairs, making overnight travel easy and saving you a night’s accommodation.
If you’re traveling with surfboards, buses are used to handling surf luggage of all sizes for a small extra fee, which is still cheaper than airline baggage fees.
The best bus companies in Peru include:
ExcluCiva Oltursa Cruz del Sur Ittsa
Domestic Flights in Peru
The main domestic airline in Peru is LATAM, but you can also find Sky Airlines and Jetsmart offering competitive prices.
Unfortunately, all flights are centralized in Lima, meaning there are no direct flights between regional airports—you’ll always need to return to Lima to fly to another destination.
From Lima, you can find flights to:
~ Trujillo (Huanchaco, Chicama, Pacasmayo)
~ Chiclayo (Pacasmayo)
~ Talara, Piura (Máncora)
~ Tumbes (Zorritos, Máncora)
Surfboard bag fees: Airlines typically charge around $50 USD per board bag.
Traveling by Car in Peru
Hiring a Driver vs. Road Tripping
If you’re unfamiliar with Peruvian roads, hiring a driver is the safest option.
For those seeking adventure, a scenic road trip along the Peruvian coastline from Lima to the north offers breathtaking ocean views. Along the way, you can visit archaeological sites like:
~ El Señor de Sipán (near Chiclayo)
~ La Señora de Cao (near Trujillo)
However, coastal cities themselves aren’t particularly beautiful or worth long visits.
Car Rental & Driving on the Coast
- Renting a car in Peru is expensive (comparable to European prices).
- If you drive north, be aware that returning the car to Lima is inconvenient (Lima to Máncora is an 18-hour drive on the Panamerican Highway).
- Police checkpoints are common—expect to negotiate fines or bribes, which can range from amusing to frustrating experiences.
Safety Tips for Driving in Peru
~ The Panamerican Highway is relatively safe, but always stay alert.
~ Watch out for trucks/lorries, especially when overtaking.
~ Leaving Lima is the most stressful part—traffic is chaotic.
~ Do NOT drive at night and avoid stopping in outskirts of major cities.
~ Plan your stops in advance and book hotels with private parking for security.
Surf Spots Worth Visiting Along the Panamerican Highway
~ Bermejo (Left Point Break)
- A hidden gem—you’ll need to navigate through the desert for 15 minutes (passing Redondos chicken farms).
- Waves range from 3 to 10 feet, suitable for all skill levels.
- Access: Take a detour at the 220km mark on the Panamerican Highway.
~ Puemape (Left Point Break)
- Located just north of Chicama.
- More powerful than Chicama,
- Situated in a small beach town with a chill vibe.
The Main Surf Spots in Peru
The ideal surf spot for you will depend on your skill level and preferences. We’ve compiled a list of the major surf breaks, including:
- Best season to visit
- How to get there
- Ideal tide conditions
- Recommended skill level
You’ll also find a swell magnet icon 
next to spots that remain surfable even when other breaks go flat.
Join us as we explore the best surf spots in Peru!
San Gallán - Paracas: A Perfect Right in a Wild Island
San Gallán - a boat adventure in Paracas
Before We Start: San Gallán
Before diving into Punta Hermosa, it’s worth mentioning San Gallán, located four hours south of Lima in the Paracas National Reserve. This remote spot offers powerful waves and breathtaking scenery, making it a must-visit for adventurous surfers.
For a unique surfing experience, head to Paracas and explore the waves near the mesmerizing San Gallán Islands. Proper organization is required, as you need a boat and a decent south swell. Along the way, you can pass by the Candelabro, an Incan geoglyph. This spot features a perfect right-hand barreling wave, with hundreds of seals making the scenery even more impressive. A good 4/3 wetsuit is compulsory.
Best Time to Surf: April to November
Best Swell: South
Ideal Tide: Mid to high
Why Surf in San Gallán?
- Unique, untouched island setting.
- Consistent, powerful right-hand barrels.
- Incredible wildlife experience.
Punta Hermosa & Southern Lima Spots
Punta Hermosa & Southern Lima Spots
Note that southern to Punta Hermosa, there are plenty of other spots, like San Bartolo, and it keeps going as you keep following south… Cerro Azul, Puerto Viejo. Etc.
Punta Hermosa: A Surf Hub with Diverse Waves
Just an hour from Lima, Punta Hermosa is one of the best surf destinations in Peru, offering a variety of waves suitable for all levels. While relatively uncrowded on weekdays, the area becomes busier on weekends, crowded and expensive during the summer months (January to March). Punta Hermosa is also home to a thriving surf community, surf schools, and board rental shops. You can always find waves there in winter, but it often comes with foggy, cold, and choppy water conditions, especially during the peak of the winter season.
Main Surf Spots in Punta Hermosa:
- Caballeros & Señoritas – Right and left-hand waves with good consistency.
- La Isla – A reef break offering powerful waves.
- Punta Rocas – A famous swell magnet with strong, powerful waves (find more info below)
- Pico Alto is the Peruvian monsterswell. Here, you can see big-wave surfers taking waves up to 12 meters high.
Punta Rocas
Punta Rocas is a renowned surf spot that has hosted international competitions, Punta Rocas delivers a consistent right-hand wave that can reach up to 3 meters in height. Due to its power and reliability, this spot is popular among experienced surfers looking for a challenge.
Punta Rocas is a true swell magnet and likely the most consistent spot among the southern breaks around Punta Hermosa. If it’s flat there, you might as well take up another hobby—like golf.
Just kidding!
How to Get to Punta Hermosa from Lima:
- By Private Vehicle or Taxi: 45-minute drive via Panamericana Sur, costing $25-$30.
- By Public Transport: Take a bus for a budget-friendly option (~1 hour ride). The most recommended bus line is the ‘Pucusana-San Miguel’ with stops such as Paseo Colón, the intersection of Avenida Canadá and Circunvalación, or the Benavides bridge.
Best Time to Surf in Punta Hermosa: Year-round, best from April to October
Best Swells in Punta Hermosa: South/Southwest
Ideal Tide: Mid to high
- One of the main surf hubs in Peru with shops, schools, and everything a surfer needs
- Close to Lima
- Something for all levels
- Year-round surfing
Lima & La Costa Verde
Lima & La Costa Verde. Urban surfing!
The city used to have a bad reputation, but it is getting trendier over the last years. The districts Miraflores and Barranco are very nice to stay in for a few days, especially in summer, and the vibrant atmosphere of Lima adds a cultural touch to your surfing adventure.
Lima has a mix of beach and reef breaks suitable for both beginners and advanced surfers. Most waves are soft (except la Herradura) but are a lot of fun! The Costa Verde coastline allows for easy access to multiple surf spots. Weekends see crowded lineups, while weekdays offer more space.
While winter requires serious motivation to face the fog and cold water, December to March transforms the city with a summer vibe, clear skies, and a completely different experience.
Key Surf Spots in Lima:
Punta Roquitas
Steady left & right-hander peaks steady with paddle-out for the strong arm. Punta Roquitas is for intermediate surfers, has good consistency all year around, and works with both south and northwest swell, all tides.
Waikiki
Right-hander behind surf schools, best with SW swell.
Redondo
Calm and forgiving left-hander the other side La Rosa Nautica Pier where Makaha is. Perfect for beginners to intermediate. best with S-NW swell.
Barranquito and Yuyos
Left-handers, easy to reach from Barranco. Perfect beginners spots. Yuyo is a right-hand wave and becomes very nice when a decent swell hits the coast.
Makaha
Classic beginner spot with surf schools next to the pier where the famous restaurant La Rosa Nautica is. You still have to be careful of how you enter and get out. Intermediate surfers can paddle further away and find good waves.
La Pampilla
beautiful and long right-hand where local surfers go, mostly old-timers long boarders.
La Herradura
Located at the southernmost end of Lima, La Herradura offers spectacular scenery and only comes to life with solid southwest swells. This challenging wave attracts Lima’s top surfers and gets packed when it’s firing.
Best Time to Surf in Lima: Year-round
Best Swells in La Costa Verde: South/Southwest, but North swells too.
- Year-round consistency.
- Variety of fun waves for different levels.
- Easy access from the city.
Northern Central Peru Surf Spots
Huanchaco
Located near Trujillo, Huanchaco is a historical surf town known for its waves and iconic “caballitos de totora” fishing boats. This spot is ideal for longboarders, as the waves can be challenging to paddle into with smaller boards. However, you’ll still find plenty of shortboard shredders in the lineup. Huanchaco is the perfect alternative when Chicama or Pacasmayo are flat, located just 1 to 1.5 hours away. On the other hand, when the swell gets too strong, it’s best to head to Chicama or Pacasmayo for better conditions.
How to get to Huanchaco from Lima:
10 hours by bus (Recommended bus companies are Cruz Del Sur, Oltursa, ExcluCiva, or ITSA). Take the left seats to see the Ocean, and ask for the 180-degree seats.
8:30 by car.
1h20 by plane from Lima to Trujillo, and then take a taxi or a bus to Huanchaco.
Best Time to Surf in Huanchaco: Year-round, even though probably more in winter and mid-seasons.
Best Swells for Huanchaco: Southwest
Ideal Tide: All tides
- Long, consistent waves.
- Rich cultural and historical significance.
- Perfect for longboarders and all levels.
Chicama, The Holy Grail of Long Lefts
Chicama is famous for having the longest left-hand wave in the world. The town exudes a laid-back charm, providing a perfect backdrop for surfers looking to escape the crowds.
When there’s no major swell, there aren’t many surfers, and you can surf the point or the cape, which is a 30-minute walk away.
When everything lines up and a major south swell rolls in, all the sections link up, and you can experience the longest ride of your life. However, the spot does get crowded, and there are boats constantly towing surfers and dropping them at the point. So, if you don’t have the budget (about 20 euros / USD for 2 hours) – or too much scruples – to pay for one of those boats, be prepared to paddle through a current as strong as a river, and get frustrated – not to say pissed off! – when you see surfers getting dropped in front of you while you’re paddling like your rent depends on it, just to remain at the same spot. To be honest, paying for the boat is a total game-changer. For just $25—and a slight compromise on your surf ethics—you’ll likely score some of the longest rides of your life, several times in one session.
Also, fortunately, when it’s firing, Chicama is like a wave machine, and the area is vast, so you can catch waves at many different points.
Best Time to Surf in Chicama: May to October
How to get to Chicama from Lima:
Lima – Chicama
By Plane and Private Transfer
Duration: 2.5-3 hours
There are between five and seven daily direct flights between Lima and Trujillo, LATAM and Sky Airlines Peru are the main carriers. Flight time is just over an hour. From Trujillo’s Capitán FAP Carlos Martínez de Pinillos International Airport, where many taxis wait, it is a 1.25 hour drive by private transfer to Puerto Chicama.
This is the quickest and most expensive means of getting from Lima to Puerto Chicama.
By Bus to Paiján and Colectivo
Duration: 9.5-10.5 hours
Buses to Trujillo depart around the clock from Lima for the eight to nine-hour journey. Cruz del Sur has nine to 12 daily departures from their Javier Prado terminal. In Trujillo, buses generally stop at the Terrapuerto Trujillo.
If Trujillo is the final destination of your bus, change here for another bus continuing north up the Pan-Americana Norte. Ask the driver to let you off at the town of Paiján, around an hour north of Trujillo, at the crossroads with the Puerto Chicama road. If you are on a bus bound further north than Trujillo anyway, ask the driver when you reach Trujillo to let you out in Paiján. From here, jump in a colectivo to Puerto Chicama. The drive takes 30 minutes.
Colectivos are the shared taxis commonly used for transportation throughout Peru, a quicker if pricier alternative to the bus. They leave when full (with four passengers). If you want to leave sooner, you will have to pay for the additional seats.
Best Time to Surf: April to November
Best Swell: South to Southwest
Ideal Tide: Mid to high
- It’s the longest left-hand wave in the world.
- Remote and laid-back atmosphere.
Pacasmayo, the big brother.
Pacasmayo is Chicama’s bigger brother, more powerful counterpart. With several sections that can link up, it offers long and challenging rides. The paddle-out can be tricky through the rocks, and taking on the big sets can be especially tough. This left-handed point break has multiple sections, and when they connect, you can have amazing rides.
The spot is also popular among windsurfers, kitesurfers, and wingfoilers, especially in May (“PacasMayo”), but remains relatively more or less quiet the rest of the year, even though it’s gaining popularity and getting more crowded each year.
As with Chicama, a few locals offer boat towing services. The town’s colonial architecture and the welcoming local community add a cultural touch to the surfing experience.
How to get to Pacasmayo
Lima – Pacasmayo
Pacasmayo is in between 2 major cities: Trujillo in the south and Chiclayo in the north. Take a domestic flight to one of those cities, and then hire a taxi or take a bus to Pacasmayo, which is approximately a two-hour drive away in both cases. Better if you arrange the taxi with your accommodation before your flight.
Best Time to Surf in Pacasmayo: April to October
Best Swells for Pacasmayo: South/Southwest
Ideal Tide for Pacasmayo: Mid to high
- Long, powerful left-hand waves.
- Less crowded than Chicama.
- Ideal for experienced surfers.
The Northern Beaches: Máncora, Cabo Blanco, Lobitos and Negritos.
Negritos and the last sunset in Latin America
Negritos is a old quiet town located in northern Peru at the most occidental point in Latin America (Punta Balcones beach). Although this coastal town remains largely untouched by mass tourism, it offers a few tourist attractions like its salina, Punta Balcones beach, the petrified forest (“el bosque petrificado”) and provides a peaceful and authentic experience.
Negritos also has a rich history, once hosting a large oil industry presence, but it’s now mainly known for its growing surfing, windsurfing, kitesurfing and foiling destination.
There are very few accommodation options (the nicest is Punta Negritos hotel), and (still) no surf vibe in the town.
Negritos offers a rugged coastline and consistent waves all year around. The three main surf spots in the area—Malpaso, Bomberos, and Punta Balcones—offer a variety of waves for intermediate/advanced surfers. The main bay (Punta Pariñas) spot is better suited for wind sports.
Malpaso
Malpaso is a long, powerful left-hand point break in Negritos that offers consistent waves and long rides, comparable to Pacasmayo. Ideal for intermediate to advanced surfers, the wave features a fast take-off and can build up to powerful barreling sections. The paddle-out can be a challenge due to the strong current and heavy sets, but the effort is rewarded with some of the best waves in the area. The spot can be crowded when it’s on fire. Malpaso works best with southwest swells and a light offshore breeze early in the morning.
Best Swells for Malpaso: South and South West Swells
Ideal Tide for Malpaso: High Tide
Bomberos
Bomberos is one of the few pure beach breaks on the north shore of Peru. The wave breaks both ways, but the right-hand side is more commonly featured in photos and videos. Over the past few years, Bomberos has gained popularity, and whenever a consistent north swell hits, you’ll often see incredible shots of top surfers getting barreled on a wave that resembles Backdoor.
Best Swells for Bomberos: North West Swells
Punta Balcones
Punta Balcones is probably the most challenging of Negritos’ surf spots, offering powerful left-hand barrels that are best suited for advanced surfers. The wave breaks over a shallow reef, creating hollow, fast barrels, particularly during larger swells. You can find yourself alone or with a colony of seals living on the big rock next to the wave. The reef can be unforgiving, so only experienced surfers should attempt this break. It is a swell magnet spot and the tide plays an important role in determining the wave’s quality.
Best Time to Surf in Negritos:
April to October for Malpaso and Punta Balcones,
November to March for Bomberos
Best Swells in Negritos: South and South West Swells, North for Bomberos.
Why Surf in Negritos?- Stay in an authentic place at a unique geographical disposition.
Lobitos: Abandoned by Time, Perfected by Waves
Lobitos is a small, laid-back coastal town in northern Peru, famous for its waves, golden beaches, and striking desert-meets-ocean landscape. Once a thriving oil hub controlled by British and American petroleum companies in the late XIX century, the town still bears traces of its past, with colonial-style wooden houses, abandoned industrial structures, and an old pier left behind. Then it became a military territory, and you can still see some collapsed barracks and no-go areas.
In the 90’s some surfers took the village into use, and since then, it has become a popular place for surfers from all over the world. And not without reason. Lobitos is home to 3 surf points:
Lobitos (Main Point)
Lobitos’ main surf break was not a long time ago considered as a world-class wave, but probably due to its success and thus most likely to human construction, it has mellowed over time. Today, it’s a good spot for beginners, becoming surfable for all levels during its prime season from August to October. It works best with south and southwest swells, while the ideal tide varies depending on the swell size.
Baterías
Baterias is a consistent left-hand point break in Lobitos, with different sections from mellow to hollow. Baterias is sensitive to swells but also on sand banks, so you may be quite lucky or go frequently to score the perfect session. It is not easy to find the right spot to drop on the wave.
In the afternoon, when the wind picks up, Baterias is a popular kitesurf spot (especially since the local surfers started to throw them out from Lobitos main spot) and also because it is easier for them to pass those close out sections.
Baterias is best suited for intermediate to advanced surfers, as the wave can get steep and fast, especially during solid swells.
Piscinas
Piscinas is a fun and versatile left-hand point break in Lobitos, known for its consistent, clean waves that cater to intermediate and advanced surfers. The wave features a variety of sections, starting mellow and building into a fast, hollow finish, particularly during larger swells. The lineup space is tiny, where everyone fights for the spot next to the stone, and competing with local surfers can get very frustrating as you will probably lose 100% of the time. You must be patient and find the right time when the locals are not there. Fortunately, the wave is largely unaffected by wind, making it possible to surf throughout the day.
Best Time to Surf in Lobitos: May to October
Best Swell: South and South West Swells
Ideal Tide: All tides
Why Surf in Lobitos?- Hippie cool vibe
- Secluded and out of time
Cabo Blanco (and Panic Point), the Peruvian gems
One of Peru’s best waves, Cabo Blanco and Panic Point spots both deliver powerful, hollow left-hand barrels. While Cabo Blanco only works with the rarest but consistent north swells that hit the coast during the Austral summer, Panic Point – its sister break – comes alive during Austral Winter with consistent southwest swells from May to September.
When it’s on, Cabo Blanco lineup fills up with Peru’s best national surfers and it will be no picnic for any challenger gringos to get a wave.
Panic Point can offer a less crowded option, especially during shorter mid-size swells. As the name suggests, this wave is no joke—it’s challenging, with rocks scattered throughout, making it a truly intimidating ride.
Best and Only Time to Surf Cabo Blanco: November to March (and April to October for Panic Point)
Best Swell: Big NW only (and SW for Panic Point)
Ideal Tide: Mid-high for both waves
Why Surf in Cabo Blanco or Panic Point?
- Powerful barrels.
Mancora, The Surfer's Paradise of the North
Mancora is a popular surf destination with warm waters and a lively atmosphere. Máncora’s is a perfect and long left-hand point break for all levels. It works best in the mornings before the wind picks up.
Mancora offers ideal conditions for relaxation and beach life, with temperate waters and pleasant temperatures throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy the beach to relax, sunbathe, or explore the surroundings. Between June and October, it is also possible to observe humpback whales. The beaches of northern Peru also offer a cuisine rich in seafood, as well as quality accommodations for all budgets.
Máncora is known for its vibrant nightlife, though the scene has mellowed somewhat since the pandemic. That said, if you’re looking to go out, you’ll have plenty of options. However, if you prefer a healthy routine and skip the nightlife, it’s easy to enjoy Máncora without even noticing the party scene.
How to get to Mancora?
20 hours by bus from Lima. THese are the recommended bus companies: Oltursa, ExcluCiva, or ITSA. Take the left seats to see the Ocean, and ask for the 180-degree seats.
18 hours by car.
1h45 by Plane to Talara + 1h taxi drive (150 soles) to Máncora. There is also Tumbes airport (2h drive to Mancora 220 soles) and Piura’s airport (2h30 drive to Mancora, 300 soles).
Best Time to Surf in Máncora: All year round
Best Swells for Máncora: SW/NW
Ideal Tide: All tides
Why Surf in Máncora?- Consistent, fun waves.
- Warm water year-round.
- Vibrant nightlife and surf scene.
- Gentle but consistent waves, ideal for surfers of all levels.
- Great surf schools available.
Zorritos & the very north
Ideal for those looking for tranquility. Located in the Tumbes region, Even thouth it is a less touristy destination, Zorritos (and the spots around) is a good surfing destination, but works only in Austral summer (December to March), apart from Peña Redonda, which works all year around and is kind of a swell magnet spot. Warm waters and gentle waves make this place an excellent choice for those who want to surf in a relaxed way, without the pressure of big waves and the large crowds usually found on other beaches.
Still, there are other powerful and barreling waves in Zorritos (La Quebrada del Toro) and around, like Punta Mero, Caleta Grau, La Cruz, etc.
Best Time to Surf in Zorritos: December to March
Best Swell for Zorritos spots: A decent NW swell
Why Surf in Zorritos?- Warm waters and gentle waves.
- Quiet and less touristy place.
- Ideal for beginner surfers.
Conclusion
Peru’s surf scene is no longer a secret, but it’s still not the first destination that comes to mind for many surfers. However, with its world-class waves, incredible consistency, long rides, and diverse breaks for all levels, Peru undoubtedly stands among the best surf destinations in the world.
Cool but Not Cold. While challenges like foggy conditions and cooler water temperatures in the south exist, the rewards far outweigh them. Beyond the waves, Peru offers a rich cultural experience, breathtaking landscapes, and countless places to explore. It’s also an affordable and relatively safe country to travel through, making it an ideal choice for adventurous surfers looking for something special.
