Peru’s Waves Are Legendary
When most people think of Peru, they imagine Machu Picchu, llamas, and ceviche.
But for surfers in the know? Peru is a hidden gem — a surfing paradise with thousands of miles of Pacific coastline and some of the longest, cleanest, and most consistent left-hand waves on the planet.
Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or just learning to paddle out, surfing in Peru offers something for everyone: uncrowded lineups, friendly locals, rich culture, and waves that go on forever.
Here’s your ultimate Peru surf travel guide — including top spots, seasons, surf schools, and tips for your next salty adventure.
Why Surf in Peru?
- Consistent Swells: South and southwest swells hit the coast nearly year-round.
- Left-Hand Breaks: Peru is a goofy-footer’s dream.
- Uncrowded Waves: Beyond Lima, it’s common to have waves to yourself.
- Diverse Setups: From beach breaks to reef slabs and peeling points.
- Affordable Travel: Surf, stay, and eat well for far less than Hawaii or Australia.
- Cultural Vibe: Peru’s surf culture is laid-back, soulful, and deeply connected to local traditions.
Best Surf Spots in Peru
1. Lima’s Beaches: City Surfing
Neighborhoods: Miraflores & Barranco
- Playa Makaha: Gentle waves, ideal for beginners and surf schools
- Playa Waikiki: Consistent beach break for first-timers
- Playa La Pampilla: More powerful and peaky — good for intermediates
Bonus: You can surf in the morning and enjoy ceviche or museums by lunch.
2. Punta Hermosa: Peru’s Surfing Hub
Located 45 minutes south of Lima, Punta Hermosa is home to some of the country’s most famous breaks.
| Break | Wave Type | Skill Level |
|---|---|---|
| Punta Rocas | Fast reef break | Advanced surfers |
| La Isla | Hollow, heavy reef | Experienced tube riders |
| Señoritas | Long, mellow left | Intermediate surfers |
| Caballeros | Powerful right | Intermediate/Advanced |
Punta Hermosa is also the birthplace of Peruvian surf royalty, including world champion Sofía Mulánovich.
3. Chicama: The Longest Left in the World
Location: North of Trujillo
Claim to Fame:
Recognized as the world’s longest surfable left — rides up to 2.2 km long!
Details:
- Multiple sections (Malpaso, Keys, Main Point)
- Best with strong south swells (March–October)
- Use boat assist to beat the current and maximize rides
Tip: Bring a board with volume — this wave goes on forever.
4. Huanchaco: Surf and History
Location: Near Trujillo
Why It’s Special:
- Birthplace of Peruvian surf — home of the caballitos de totora, reed boats used by pre-Columbian fishermen
- Long, slow lefts perfect for longboarding
- Relaxed town vibe and strong cultural roots
- Recognized by UNESCO as a site of surfing heritage
5. Máncora: Tropical Surfing Paradise
Location: Far northern Peru, near the Ecuadorian border
Vibe: Think warm water, palm trees, yoga studios, ceviche shacks, and fun waves.
- Consistent left-hand point break
- No wetsuit needed
- Vibrant surf town scene
- Great nightlife and beachside accommodations
Best Season: December–March, with north swells lighting up the coast
Surf Seasons in Peru
| Season | Region | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| April–October | Central & South | Big south swells, wetsuit required |
| November–March | Northern Coast | Warm water, ideal tropical waves |
Tip: The Humboldt Current keeps most of Peru’s waters cold — a 3/2mm wetsuit is recommended for Lima and south nearly year-round.
Surf Trip Tips for Peru
- Boards: Bring your own for specific performance, or rent easily in Lima, Punta Hermosa, and Máncora
- Wetsuits: 3/2mm suit for Lima and south; boardshorts up north
- Booties: Recommended for rocky reefs like Punta Rocas
- Chicama Tip: Hire boat assistance — currents can be brutal
- Balance Itinerary: Combine surfing with visits to Machu Picchu, Cusco, or Lake Titicaca
- Sunscreen: Use reef-safe options — Peru’s UV is no joke
Top Surf Schools and Surf Camps in Peru
| Name | Location | Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Pukana Surf | Lima (Makaha) | Beginner lessons, day camps |
| Chicama Surf Resort | Chicama | Boat-assisted rides, luxury |
| Surfari Peru | Punta Hermosa | All-level surf coaching |
| WildK Surf Camp | Máncora | Surf & yoga retreat combos |
Famous Peruvian Surfers
- Sofía Mulánovich: First Latin American world champion
- Lucca Mesinas: Olympian and top WSL competitor
- Cristóbal de Col: Big wave surfer and national ambassador
Cultural Surf Experiences in Peru
Surfing here is about more than just waves — it’s about soul.
- Watch fishermen ride reed boats in Huanchaco, just like their ancestors did 3,000 years ago
- Explore ancient ruins like Chan Chan, near Trujillo
- Join local surf festivals, such as the San Pedro celebrations in Máncora
Peru blends surf culture with heritage, making every trip deeper than the lineup.
Final Thoughts: Ride Peru’s Endless Summer
From legendary waves at Chicama to tropical curls in Máncora, surfing in Peru is both an adrenaline rush and a cultural journey. The lineups are welcoming, the breaks are world-class, and the post-surf meals (hello, ceviche) are unforgettable.
So wax your board.
Book that flight.
And get ready to ride waves where ancient history meets the ocean’s rhythm.
Want help planning the ultimate Peru surf adventure?
At Explorify Expeditions, we craft custom trips that combine world-class surfing with Peru’s most iconic landscapes.
Contact us today to catch your perfect wave.
