An Introduction To Lobitos Surf
Lobitos surf, nestled along Peru’s northern coast in the Piura region, is a desert oasis renowned for its world-class surfing conditions. This small coastal town boasts consistent, long left-hand point breaks and uncrowded lineups, making it a paradise for intermediate and advanced surfers. Its idyllic combination of perfect peeling waves and tranquil surroundings has earned Lobitos a reputation as a bucket-list destination for wave riders.
The area offers a variety of surf spots catering to different skill levels. Highlights include Lobitos Point, famous for its smooth, endless lefts; El Hueco, known for its powerful hollow barrels; and La Punta, offering more remote and challenging waves for thrill-seekers. Meanwhile, beginners and less experienced surfers can enjoy the gentler, forgiving waves at Piscinas, a spot ideal for building confidence and refining skills.
Lobitos is more than just a surf haven; it’s a community-oriented town where everything you need is within walking or biking distance. Accommodations, surf spots, and basic amenities are conveniently close, allowing visitors to immerse themselves fully in the surfing lifestyle without the need for a car. This laid-back setup, combined with Peru’s breathtaking coastal beauty, makes Lobitos an unforgettable destination for surfers and adventure seekers alike.
In This Guide
Best Time For Lobitos Surf
Seasons:
- Summer (December-February): Small to moderate swells, ideal for longboarding or mellow surf sessions.
- Attire Needed: Boardshorts/bikini or rash guard.
- Autumn (March-May): Consistent waves with occasional bigger swells.
- Attire Needed: Boardshorts/bikini or 3/2mm wetsuit.
- Winter (June-August): Bigger swells, often reaching up to 8 feet, with more powerful waves.
- Attire Needed: 3/2mm wetsuit.
- Spring (September-November): Transition season with fun, moderate swells & glassy conditions.
- Attire Needed: Boardshorts/bikini or 3/2mm wetsuit.
Surf Conditions:
- Wave Size & Swell Direction: Waves range from 2 to 8 foot, best with southwest to northwest swells.
- Break Type: Long, left-hand point breaks with clean faces & sections for manoeuvres.
- Tide & Wind: Best at mid to high tide, with offshore winds from the southeast providing clean conditions.
- Skill Required: Intermediate to advanced surfers due to the strong currents & sharp rocks.
Lobitos Surf Spots Within a 5km Radius
| Best Surf Spots | Distance from Lobitos | Wave Size | Wave Quality | Skill Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Lobitos Point |
In town centre |
3-8 foot |
Long, perfect left-hand point break |
Intermediate to Advanced |
|
El Hueco |
Approx. 2km (1.2mi) north |
4-8 foot |
Heavy, hollow left-hand reef break |
Advanced only (shallow reef) |
|
La Punta |
Approx. 2.5km (1.5mi) |
3-8 foot |
Hollow left-hand point break |
Intermediate to advanced |
|
Piscinas |
Approx. 3km (1.9mi) north |
2-6 foot |
Mellow, long left-hand point break |
Beginner to intermediate, good for building confidence |
Access To Lobitos Surf Spots
| Best Surf Spots | Walking Time | Biking Time | Public Transport |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Lobitos Point |
In town centre |
In town centre |
Not available |
|
El Hueco |
Approx. 25 min. |
10 min. |
Not available |
|
La Punta |
Approx. 30min. |
10-15 min. |
Not available |
|
Piscinas |
Approx. 35 min. |
15 min. |
Not available |
Accommodation in Lobitos
| Accommodation Type | Description | Price Range per night (EUR) | Price Range per night (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Hostels |
Dormitory-style accommodation |
€9 to €30 |
$10 to $35 |
|
Mid-range Hotels/Serviced Apartments |
Studio apartments, motels, or 1-bedroom units |
€35 to €100 |
$40 to $110 |
|
Luxury Stays |
Luxury beachfront resorts or high-end apartments |
€120 to €245 |
$130 to $270 |
How To Get To Lobitos
How to get to Lobitos from Talara Airport (TYL)
To get to Lobitos from Talara Airport (TYL), you have two main options. The quickest way is by taxi, taking about 30-40 minutes. Fares typically range from $15-20 USD.
A more budget-friendly option is by bus, this method takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour. The cost is around $3-6 USD per person. Collectivo depart regularly from the airport & will drop you off in Lobitos.
Distance: Approx. 20km (12mi)
- Taxi or Ride-share:
- Time: 30-40 min.
- Cost: Approx. $15-20 USD
- Public Transport (Collectivo):
- Time: 45 min. to 1 hr.
- Cost: Approx. $3-6 USD per person
How to get to Lobitos from Lima Airport (LIM)
Below is a detailed guide on how to travel from Lima Airport to Lobitos, including transport options, estimated costs, and travel times.
Distance: Approx. 1,120km (700mi)
- Fly to Talara Airport (Best Option): Take a domestic flight from Lima (LIM) to Talara (TYL) & follow steps above
- Time: 1.5 hrs.
- Cost: Approx. $40-110 USD per person
- + Costs from Talara
- Public Transport (Bus) (Not advised):
- Time: 18-20 hrs. (Lima to Talara)
- Cost: $40-550 USD per person
- + Steps from Talara
Discover Lobitos: What to Do When the Waves Are Flat
When the surf isn’t on, there are still plenty of exciting activities to enjoy.
Visit the Old Lobitos Town:
Explore the remnants of the town’s oil boom era, with abandoned British colonial buildings and oil infrastructure. It offers a unique historical experience & a glimpse into the region’s past.
Sunset at Lobitos Beach:
The sunsets here are stunning, & many travellers enjoy relaxing on the beach or nearby dunes to watch the sky transform into vibrant shades of orange & pink.
If the surf goes flat for a few days, head to Máncora, just a couple of hours north of Lobitos, for lively nightlife, more surf options, & great food. Alternatively, take a trip to the nearby Los Órganos beach for a more laid-back vibe & whale-watching tours during the right season.