Best surf spots in Peru + eco-friendly places to stay
Looking for the best surf spots in Peru? Discover some of our favourite places to surf in Peru along the country’s Pacific coastline, plus eco-friendly surf resorts and camps for a sustainable stay.
Stretching along the western edge of South America between Chile and Ecuador, Peru is no stranger to international travellers as a tourism destination. It’s here that you’ll find the ancient Incan ruins of Machu Picchu and the colonial city of Cusco, surrounded by the awe-inspiring peaks of the Andes.
In our minds, Peru is the ultimate adventurer-lover’s destination!
But did you know that it also boasts some of the best surf in South America, with over 3,000 kilometres of coastline to discover?
Peru’s reputation as a surf destination is defined by its abundance of world-class lefts, with well-known Chicama an undisputed highlight. Formed by the meeting of powerful swells and the craggy headlands that jut out from the Andes, these long, peeling point breaks are the stuff of legends.
Surf towns like Mancora have put Peru on the map, drawing wave-chasing travellers with its consistent swells and nightlife scene.
But in our opinion, there’s so much more to discover if you’re willing to venture a little further, including a World Surfing Reserve.
In this article, we’ll share all of the best places to surf in Peru, from easy-to-access fishing towns near Lima to the northern tropical reaches. For each destination, we’ll highlight eco-friendly places to stay to help you plan a sustainable surf trip to Peru.
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Best places to surf in Peru
When it comes to surfing in Peru, the country can roughly be divided into two areas. There are the southern breaks around the capital, Lima, and those that pepper the coastline to the north.
Peru’s northern spots are definitely more well-known amongst travelling surfers, with names such as Mancora and Chicama on that list.
In contrast, the south is more popular with locals. Spots like San Bartolo and Punta Hermosa are just a stone’s throw from the capital.
Best places to surf near Lima
Punta Hermosa
Around 30 kilometres south of Lima is Punta Hermosa, a slightly rough-around-the-edges village that brims with charm.
It’s here that Peruvian surfer Sofia Mulanovich earned her stripes before going on to become the first Latin American woman to win the World Title. This is definitely one of the best places to surf near Lima!
Punta Hermosa is most famed for the big-wave spot of Pico Alto, where pounding Pacific swells converge to create towering walls of water.
But there are waves to suit all skill levels in the area’s horseshoe-shaped bays, including a long lefthander at Playa Señoritas. Regular footers can head to Caballeros Beach with its right-hand reef break.
Best places to stay in Punta Hermosa
Casablanca del Mar
While primarily known as a gastronomic destination, this beachfront restaurant has a handful of simple yet comfortable rooms overlooking the sand. The food here is really good, so you don’t have to go far for a post-surf refuel.
At the end of the day, you can enjoy beers on the terrace or play pool in the lounge.
” Excellent food in the restaurant and really helpful staff.” – Gadomski (read more reviews here)
Waves Surf Camp Peru
If you want to learn to surf in Punta Hermosa, this is the place to stay, with board rentals and surf lessons available onsite. It features a mixture of private rooms and dorms that cater to all budgets, plus there’s a rooftop pool to splash around in.
“Exceptional hostel, the staff is super friendly and they all made me feel welcome and safe.” – Marcela (read more reviews here)
San Bartolo
San Bartolo is a fishing town-turned-tourist haven located just south of Lima. Despite its relatively small size, this coastal enclave has become a beloved weekend getaway for city dwellers seeking respite from the urban grind.
But in our opinion, its biggest appeal lies in its reliable surf breaks. They have made it a popular destination for both experienced wave riders and those just starting out.
San Bartolo features a two-sided bay with a couple of consistent, quality beach breaks that perform well in a range of swell directions. The northern end of the bay tends to offer the punchiest and most powerful waves. Meanwhile, the southern reaches are more mellow and beginner-friendly.
Best place to stay in San Bartolo
Cruz del Sur
Located in the nearby fishing town of Pucusana, this seaside apartment oozes charm. It features two bedrooms and a terrace with views across the harbour.
A hearty breakfast is included in stays and guests rave about the hospitality of the owner, Calle, and his family. At the nearby beach are several surf schools offering rentals and lessons.
“Highly recommended. Superb and plentiful breakfast. Clean and spacious room. Great host.” – Christopher (read more reviews here)
Best places to surf in northern Peru
Huanchaco
Designated as a World Surfing Reserve, this picturesque region is a mecca for wave riders and definitely one of the best places to surf in Peru. Huanchaco’s coastline boasts an abundance of peaky beach breaks, with something for all levels.
Beyond the surf, Huanchaco is renowned for its cultural heritage as a pre-Colombian seafaring town. It’s also the home of “caballitos de totora,” traditional reed boats used by early Peruvian surfers.
In fact, Huanchaco’s designation as a World Surfing Reserve celebrates its long-standing wave-riding legacy that dates back thousands of years.
Best places to stay in Huanchaco
Punta Huanchaco Hostel
This highly rated Huanchaco hostel has a collection of private rooms and dorms that will appeal to budget-conscious surfers. In addition to the well-equipped kitchen for self-catering, there’s a lounge with sofas and a sunny terrace.
The hosts, Gigi and Dario, are really welcoming and attract like-minded people.
“Great hostel with a homely feel.” – Gabriele (read more reviews here)
Chicama
Situated on a prominent cape that juts into the Pacific Ocean, Chicama is perfectly positioned to harness the powerful southern and southwestern swells that roll in.
It translates them into an endless, peeling wall of water that can stretch as far as the eye can see. Honestly, this left-hander is a dream for goofy footers!
The accessibility of Chicama has made it one of the best places to surf in Peru. In recent years, there has been a growing number of surf camps and hotels catering to the influx of wave-hungry visitors.
If you don’t want to paddle out (or back after riding what may be the longest wave of your life), there are boats that ferry surfers to the take-off points.
Eco-friendly places to stay in Chicama
Chicama Boutique Hotel
Overlooking the break, Chicama Boutique Hotel features 20 rooms designed for solo surfers, couples and groups of friends. It boasts an infinity pool and a jacuzzi with views of the waves, plus a spa with a sauna and a yoga/meditation area.
At the onsite restaurant, you can dine on freshly caught seafood and Peruvian favourites, all while watching incredible sunsets.
Aside from its social responsibility commitments, eco initiatives at this sustainable Chicama hotel include the elimination of single-use plastics and a free coffee if you help to pick up beach litter.
“This is a hotel for surfers. The location to watch the waves and access the beach is great, and network with other surfers from around the world.” – McDougall (read more reviews here)
Surf House Chicama
If you’re travelling on a budget, this sustainable Chicama surf hostel is ideal, with views of the point break from its five seafront rooms. Nestled just behind are five eco-friendly bungalows with ensuite bathrooms, surrounded by a leafy garden.
Hot water and complimentary Wi-Fi come as standard, as do high-quality mattresses to ensure a good night’s sleep.
“Beyond all my expectations! Cosy, clean and friendly.” – Chernova (read more reviews here)
Pacasmayo
While Chicama may be the most famous surf spot in Peru, the long, consistent left-hander of Pacasmayo is sometimes an even more reliable option.
Situated along a rugged coastline, the surroundings are nothing short of dramatic. In fact, a lone lighthouse stands as the sole manmade landmark amidst the stark, desert landscape.
Pacasmayo is definitely for upper-intermediate to advanced surfers, with a steep face that offers epic rides. It rarely gets smaller than head-high but despite this, it never gets super crowded.
On bigger swells, the sections connect up, resulting in a seemingly endless wave that has earned it the nickname “Pacasmagic”! This is definitely one of the best places to surf in Peru for experienced surfers.
Eco-friendly places to stay in Pacasmayo
Monteverde Boutique Hotel
A short drive from Pacasmayo is this retreat-like hotel set within picturesque grounds. It offers beautifully appointed doubles, triples and family rooms, as well as an outdoor swimming pool and a children’s playground.
When you’re not out surfing, you can ride the property’s horses or refuel at the onsite restaurant.
“Beautiful gardens and delicious food.” – Filipa (read more reviews here)
Lobitos
This small coastal town boasts a handful of dreamy lefts that have earned it a reputation as one of Peru’s best surf spots. It’s remarkably consistent and it’s rare that there’s absolutely nothing to ride.
The main wave in town, known as “La Punta”, is the focal point for the local surf community and a magnet for visiting wave riders. With its sandy bottom, it offers a fun, open-faced wall perfect for carving turns.
Walk around the headland and you’ll find Batieras, a more exposed wave that really picks up swell and tends to be less crowded. The closest wave to the town centre is Los Muelles, which breaks alongside the pier and is popular with bodyboarders.
For barrels, hit up El Hueco, a short, fast left that is only for experienced surfers.
Eco-friendly places to stay in Lobitos
El Hueco Villas
Set back from the beach on a small hill, this boutique Lobitos hotel boasts 180-degree views across the beach. It offers your choice of double rooms or two-bedroom apartments, complete with ensuite bathrooms and private terraces.
Meals are served onsite and there’s a swimming pool with hammocks for lounging around.
“The days at El Hueco Villas were amazing and I will be back soon!” – Andreas (read more reviews here)
Buena Vista Lobitos
Centred around a swimming pool, this family-run Lobitos hotel offers views across the water from its upper rooms and terrace. All of the rooms come with ensuite bathrooms and there’s a small fitness room for those who want to work out. The owner is a skilled surfer and is a wealth of information about where to go, depending on the day’s conditions.
“Beautiful and welcoming hotel – fantastic breakfasts and great company.” – Alexander (read more reviews here)
Mancora
Located in the far north of Peru, Mancora offers the warmest water of the country’s major surf towns. Combined with its laidback surf culture, this has transformed Mancora into the place to surf for travellers backpacking through South America.
It’s a rare opportunity to ditch the wetsuit and surf solely in a lightweight rashie and board shorts/bathers.
Mancora boasts a series of point and beach breaks that tend to peak at high tide, serving up a diverse array of wave options to challenge experienced surfers. Additionally, there are mellower and more forgiving options for beginners and this is reflected in the number of surf camps that have mushroomed in the area.
Mancora is an ideal place to linger for a few days (or a few weeks) if you want to hone your skills or just enjoy surfing in warm water before heading further south.
Eco-friendly places to stay in Mancora
Arennas Mancora
With its absolute beachfront setting, this luxury boutique hotel in Mancora is ideal for couples wanting to splurge during their Peru surf vacation. The rooms exude a minimalist aesthetic while the restaurant serves some of the best food you’re likely to eat in Peru.
When it comes to sustainability, Arennas Mancora practices the 3 Rs (reduce, reuse and recycle). It composts all of its food waste and responsibly disposes of oil with the Biolis company.
“This hotel is simply stunning.” – Emily (read more reviews here)
Eco Lodge Mancora
This eco-friendly accommodation in Mancora is just steps from the sand and is ideal for solo travellers, couples and friends travelling on a budget. It offers both private rooms and dorms (constructed from bamboo and with thatched roofs), all of which enjoy access to the natural swimming pool. Healthy breakfasts are included in stays and there’s a rooftop space for socialising.
“Quiet place to relax and recharge.” – James (read more reviews here)
Discover more of the best eco-resorts and hotels in Mancora here.
Best time to surf in Peru
While you can surf in Peru throughout the year, swells tend to peak between March and November. This is the best time to surf in Peru for experienced boardriders.
During the winter season, famous surf spots like Chicama really light up. That being said, the water temperatures can get chilly, dropping as low as 16°C (60°F) in July and August.
In summer, the water temperature climbs to around 21°C/69°F (and up to 25°C/77°F in Mancora), meaning you can surf in a 3mm wetsuit. While the swells usually drop off, this is the best time to surf in Peru for beginners. The winds also tend to be less powerful, so you’re more likely to score a glassy session.
FAQs about surfing in Peru
Does Peru have good surfing?
Peru’s extensive Pacific coastline, stretching over 3,000 kilometres, boasts some of the longest waves in South America. The northern regions of the country, in particular, are renowned for their world-class surfing conditions.
Surfers flock to iconic spots like Chicama, home to the longest rideable wave on Earth, which can take you for over a kilometre without a break.
Other famous Peruvian surf spots, such as Mancora and Punta Hermosa, have developed an alluring surf culture. They are clustered with surf hostels and camps catering to all abilities. Also worth mentioning are the surf breaks of Huanchaco, which have been designated as a World Surfing Reserve.
Is the surf crowded in Peru?
As the secret of Peru’s incredible waves gets out, many of its surf beaches are becoming increasingly crowded. This is particularly true of big-name spots like Chicama and Mancora where the surf culture is in full swing.
It’s also worth keeping in mind that the surf breaks around Lima are consistently busy, predominantly with local surfers.
Do you need a wetsuit to surf in Peru?
In the far north of the country, you can get away without a wetsuit. Most surfers will be comfortable in board shorts and a rashie (during the summer months at least).
But further south, you’ll want at least a shortie or a full-length 3mm. During the winter months, a 5mm may even be required at Peru’s southern surf spots.
When is the surf season in Peru?
You can find waves in Peru all year long. But the prime time for seasoned surfers is from March to November when the swells are at their best.
In winter, spots like Chicama really shine. However, the water can get pretty cold, dipping to about 16°C (60°F) in July and August.
Summer brings warmer water, hitting around 21°C/69°F and even 25°C/77°F in Mancora. During these months, you can surf with only a 3mm wetsuit.
While the swells are smaller during the summer season, it’s perfect for beginners, and the lighter winds often create smooth, glassy conditions.
Are there big waves in Peru?
Many of the point breaks along Peru’s coastline can hold big swells and there are spots where the waves rarely get smaller than head height.
Pico Alto, off the coast of Punta Hermosa, is the biggest wave in Peru and is considered the largest in all of South America. When the conditions are right, Pico Alto can swell to truly monstrous proportions, easily reaching heights of 50 feet or more.
Where is the best surf spot in Peru for beginners?
While there are lots of breaks up and down the Peruvian coastline that cater to beginners, the best place to base yourself is Mancora. The waves here rarely get to monstrous sizes and they can often be quite “mushy”, making them ideal if you’re just starting out.
Not only that, but Mancora boasts a great choice of surf camps and schools, plus a lively social scene that only adds to its appeal.
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About the authors
We are a team of passionate divers and surfers with decades of combined experience in the water and travelling to all corners of the globe. After years of chasing waves and descending into the deep blue, we’ve created this resource to highlight sustainably run surf camps, eco-friendly dive resorts and conservation-focused ocean trips to help inspire your next adventure.
Eco Ocean Escapes was born out of a love of the ocean, an obsession with travel and a concern about the impacts of our adventures on the environments we explore. Despite the benefits that surf and dive tourism can bring to local communities, we recognised that ocean-based adventures are not always managed in a sustainable manner.
Through our articles, we hope to inspire those seeking a responsible surf or dive trip that is all about supporting local communities, preserving our coastal environments and the incredible marine species that inhabit our oceans.
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