An Introduction To Mancora Surf
- Author | Matt K
- Updated | April 25, 2025
Mancora surf is an inviting experience on Peru’s northern coast, offering consistent waves, warm waters, & a laid-back vibe. This vibrant surf town is perfect for those who want to enjoy top-quality breaks without the hassle of a car, thanks to its compact layout & easily accessible beaches.
Just a short walk from the heart of town is Mancora Beach, the centerpiece of the local surf scene. Known for its reliable waves, it attracts surfers of all levels, from beginners catching their first rides to experienced surfers looking for fun, playful conditions. The atmosphere here is lively, with surf schools, board rentals, & beachside cafés lining the shore, creating a welcoming hub for surf enthusiasts.
For a quieter experience, Las Pocitas is only a 10-15 minute walk from town. This spot features mellow waves, making it ideal for beginners or those seeking a more relaxed session.
With everything within easy reach, Mancora makes it simple to dive into the surf lifestyle. The town’s lively yet relaxed atmosphere, combined with its range of surf spots & excellent local amenities, ensures an enjoyable & stress-free surf adventure.
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In This Guide
Best Time To Surf Mancora
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Peak Mancora Surf Season | December to March
Suited For Intermediate & Advanced
Unlike much of Peru, Mancora surf peaks in the summer months when north swells arrive from storms in the Northern Hemisphere. Wave heights range from 3 to 6 foot, perfect for fun, rippable walls & soft beach break takeoffs. Mancora surf in this season is ideal for all skill levels, especially intermediate riders seeking consistency.
The warm, tropical setting draws big crowds, but the vibe stays friendly. Surf schools thrive, & it’s easy to paddle into wave after wave when conditions line up.
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Shoulder Mancora Surf Season | April, May, October & November
Suited For All Skill Levels
Mancora surf in the shoulder months can still be rewarding, with occasional northwest & southwest swell combos lighting up the main beach break. Waves range between 2 to 5 foot & provide ample fun for all levels. Crowds thin slightly, especially mid-week, & morning conditions are generally cleaner.
These transition periods are great for practicing maneuvers or easing back into the water after a break. Mancora surf remains active, even if less consistent than during its northern swell-driven peak.
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Low Mancora Surf Season | June to September
Suited For Beginners & Intermediate
Winter months are the least consistent for Mancora surf, with only small pulses reaching the northern coastline. Waves hover around 1 to 3 foot, occasionally larger when southern swells wrap in. Mancora surf still works, especially on the right tides, but sessions are mellow. It’s a great time for longboarding, surf lessons, & relaxed beach days.
While experienced surfers may look elsewhere, beginners will enjoy the soft waves & minimal crowd pressure. This is the calmest season for Mancora surf.
Mancora Surf Temperature, What To Wear & Rainfall Guide
Mancora Surf Temperature:
24–26°C (75–79°F)
What To Wear:
Boardshorts/bikini are ideal. No wetsuit needed with these warm temperatures, even during long sessions.
Rainfall:
Expect occasional tropical showers—roughly 5–8 rainy days per month. Some humid afternoons may bring brief downpours.
Mancora Surf Temperature:
23–25°C (73–77°F)
What To Wear:
Boardshorts/bikini still work throughout. A rash vest is useful for added sun protection.
Rainfall:
Rainfall decreases to around 3–5 rainy days monthly. Expect mostly dry & sunny days.
Mancora Surf Temperature:
21–23°C (70–73°F)
What To Wear:
Boardshorts/bikini are usually fine. For early mornings, a spring suit or thin top might be more comfortable.
Rainfall:
One of the driest times of the year, with less than 2–3 rainy days per month. Clear skies are the norm.
Mancora Surf Temperature:
22–24°C (72–75°F)
What To Wear:
A spring suit is optional, but most days are warm enough for boardshorts/bikini.
Rainfall:
Rain remains minimal, around 3–4 days a month. Mostly sunny with low humidity.
Surf Spots Within 5km or 3 Miles From Mancora
| Mancora Surf Spots | Distance from Mancora | Wave Size | Wave Quality | Skill Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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Mancora Beach |
Approx. 1km (0.6mi) |
2-6 foot |
Consistent beach break |
Intermediate to advanced |
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Las Pocitas |
Approx. 1.5km (0.9mi) |
1-4 foot |
Mellow beach break |
Beginner to intermediate |
Further Information To Mancora Surf Spots
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Low tide
- Wind: Southeast
- Swell Direction: Northwest
- Crowd Factor: High
Mancora Beach features a long, peeling left-hand point in the heart of town, known for consistent, chest-high to overhead waves. Best at low tide with a northwest swell and glassy or light southeast winds, it offers easy take-offs and mellow walls, perfectly suited to learners and intermediates.
The sandy bottom and forgiving shape encourage progression, though more powerful sections can barrel on larger swells. Its accessibility from town means lineups can be busy—surf schools and locals crowd the peak. With warm water and a vibrant surf community, Mancora Beach remains a go-to for year-round, fun-filled sessions.
Rating: 4/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: High tide
- Wind: Southeast
- Swell Direction: North
- Crowd Factor: Moderate
Las Pocitas is a sheltered, reef-lined break just north of Mancora, offering playful lefts and rights over a rocky-sand bottom. At high tide when a northerly swell meets light southeast winds, the spot produces clean, chest-high walls that reform on incoming banks.
It’s ideal for intermediates seeking less crowded conditions than the main beach, though some sections can barrel on the inside. With tide-pools framing the lineup and a relaxed vibe, Las Pocitas combines picture-perfect scenery with approachable waves, making it a beloved alternative for surfers looking to escape the hustle.
Rating: 3.5/5
Travel Time To Mancora Surf Spots
| Mancora Surf Spots | Walking Time | Biking Time | Public Transport |
|---|---|---|---|
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Mancora Beach |
5-10 min. |
Not required |
Not required |
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Las Pocitas |
10-15 min. |
5 min. |
Not required |
Mancora Surf Lessons & Surf Schools
Mancora surf schools are ideal for all levels, combining friendly vibes with year-round warm water & gentle waves. The Mancora Surf Club is well-regarded for its professional instructors, who provide structured lessons tailored to different levels of expertise. Whether you’re just starting or seeking to perfect your style, this surf school ensures a fun and educational experience.
At Mancora Surf Point, lessons are conducted with a focus on safety and progression. The skilled coaches guide surfers through the fundamentals while introducing techniques to navigate the unique waves of Mancora. This school’s personalized approach makes it a popular choice among visitors.
For those looking for a distinctive experience, the Inka Warrior Surf School offers comprehensive surf lessons combined with cultural insights. Whether you’re a total beginner or an intermediate looking to improve, Mancora surf schools make learning fun & accessible.
Mancora Surf Camp
Mancora Surf Camp & Yoga Retreat With Wild Kite Peru
Reconnect with nature & ride the waves in laid-back Mancora with this surf & yoga retreat hosted by Wild Kite Peru. You’ll stay at La Maison Eco House-Boutique, an intimate guesthouse set among swaying palms just a short walk from the beach & town center.
Originally a family home, this tranquil retreat now welcomes surf travelers with its cozy eight-room layout, pool, shared dining areas, & chill outdoor spaces—all designed with sustainability in mind.
5-Day Mancora Surf Camp & Yoga Retreat With Wild Kite Peru
Stay 4 nights at La Maison Eco House-Boutique, where you’ll enjoy quiet surroundings & shared access to a terrace, swimming pool, & communal lounge areas. Each morning begins with a hearty, healthy breakfast to set you up for the day.
The 5-day retreat includes 4 surf lessons led by experienced instructors who tailor sessions to your skill level. You’ll also receive surfboard rentals to use during your lesson hours. Round-trip airport transfers from Talara Airport are included, ensuring smooth & hassle-free travel from start to finish. Find Out More
7-Day Mancora Surf Camp & Yoga Retreat With Wild Kite Peru
Spend 6 nights at the same welcoming eco house, soaking in the tropical vibe & peaceful pace of Mancora. Start your mornings with a nutritious breakfast before hitting the waves or stretching it out in a guided yoga session.
This retreat includes 5 surf lessons & 4 yoga classes, offering a great balance of physical activity & recovery. Surf equipment is available during your scheduled lesson hours.
You’ll also receive round-trip transfers from Talara Airport, so all you need to do is show up & enjoy. Find Out More
8-Day Women’s Only Mancora Surf Camp & Yoga Retreat With VITAVENTURA RETREATS
Join VITAVENTURA RETREATS for an empowering 8-day surf & yoga experience designed exclusively for women. Set against the stunning backdrop of Mancora’s warm waves & golden sunsets, this retreat blends movement, mindfulness, & connection in one unforgettable journey.
What’s Included
Relax for 7 nights at Villa del Sol, a serene & intimate setting ideal for reflection & rejuvenation. Enjoy half board with breakfast & either lunch or dinner included—each meal thoughtfully prepared with fresh, local ingredients to nourish your body & mind.
Level up your surf skills with 6 coaching sessions, each lasting 2 hours & tailored to your experience level. Surfboards are included during lesson hours, & video analysis provides helpful insights to accelerate your progress. Daily spot selection ensures you’re always catching the best waves based on local conditions.
Balance your surf with daily yoga sessions focusing on flexibility, strength, breathwork, & mindfulness. Styles include Vinyasa, Hatha, & Nidra, creating a holistic practice to enhance both body & mind.
You’ll also enjoy welcome & closing circles that foster community, private round-trip airport transfers from Capitán FAP Víctor Montes Arias International Airport (TYL), & full assistance throughout your stay—all curated with care by the VITAVENTURA RETREATS team.
Find Out More
Discover your ideal surf camp below—compare options across Peru and around the world!
Mancora Surfboard Hire
Mancora surfboard hire services are convenient & beginner-friendly, with plenty of foam boards, longboards, & shortboards available just steps from the water. Inka Warrior Surf School offers high-quality board rentals, ensuring you’re equipped for Mancora’s diverse breaks.
Additionally, the Mancora Surf Shop provides a wide selection of surfboards for hire, catering to all skill levels. With quality boards & helpful local services, Mancora surfboard hire makes getting in the water simple.
Mancora Surf Report & Surf Cam
While you’re enjoying your time, staying updated on Mancora surf conditions is key to making the most of your sessions. Websites like Surf-Forecast and Surfline provide detailed weather and Mancora surf reports, including swell size, wind direction, and tide times, to help you plan your day.
For those wanting a real-time view of the waves, Surfline offers live surf cameras at many popular breaks. However, access to these cameras requires a paid subscription. Despite the cost, Surfline’s cameras can be a valuable tool for surfers who want to check conditions before heading out. With these resources, you’ll always be in the know about the best times to hit the water.
How To Get To Mancora Surf
- Tumbes Airport (TBP) To Mancora
Distance: 120km (75mi)
Tumbes Airport (TBP) is a common arrival hub for travelers heading to the vibrant surf and beach scene in Mancora. Here’s how to get there:
Public Transport | Cheapest Option
- Time: 2-2.5 hrs.
- Cost: Approx. $5-15 USD per person
Details:
From Tumbes Airport, take a taxi to the local bus terminal. There, hop on a colectivo or minibus heading toward Mancora. The drive south along the Pan-American Highway is scenic and relatively smooth.
This is a great budget option, but you may encounter crowds and need to wait for the colectivo to fill before departure.
Shuttle Service
- Time: 2-2.5 hrs.
- Cost: Approx. $20-$45 USD per person
Details:
Some surf lodges and boutique hotels in Máncora offer pre-booked shuttle transfers from Tumbes Airport. These are a good balance between price and comfort and typically include support for large luggage and boards.
Shared shuttle services may include pickups from other hotels but still offer a smoother experience than public transit.
Accommodation In Mancora
| Accommodation Type | Description | Price Range (EUR)* | Price Range (USD)* |
|---|---|---|---|
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Hostels |
Dormitory-style accommodation |
€10 to €25 |
$12 to $28 |
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Mid-range Hotels/Serviced Apartments |
Studio apartments, motels, or 1-bedroom units |
€40 to €75 |
$45 to $80 |
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Luxury Stays |
Luxury beachfront resorts or high-end apartments |
€95 to €180+ |
$100 to $190+ |
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*Rates are per night and subject to change. |
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Find Your Perfect Stay
When planning your stay at Mancora, Tripaneer should be your first stop, offering a seamless booking experience for surf camps and unique local adventures that truly capture the spirit of the coast. Tripaneer’s curated options ensure you start your journey with the best blend of excitement and comfort.
For those interested in a wider array of accommodation, Booking.com presents a range of luxurious beachfront properties and cozy apartments just steps away from the sand, while Hostelworld caters to budget-conscious travellers with its selection of affordable hostels and social surf lodges.
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