An Introduction To Chicama Surf
- Author | Matt K
- Updated | April 24, 2025
Chicama surf in northern Peru is very much talked about because of its infinite long left-hand break, perhaps considered to be one of the longest in the world. With soft, beautifully peeling waves that glide you for hundreds of meters, Chicama is ideal for all levels of surfers, especially those yearning for long distance, uninterrupted rides.
The pride of the area is Chicama Point, which offers one of the most consistent waves anywhere with clean breaks over a sandy bottom. It’s a dream come true for surfers working on their technique or simply enjoying extended, flowing lines. Even on small days, it provides a smooth and forgiving section that invites stylized, relaxed surfing.
Chicama surf is something special, whether you’re hunting your first proper ride or refining your style. The legendary wave, the mellow setting, and the surfer-friendly vibe easily make Chicama one of the best surf trip destinations in the world.
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Best Time To Surf Chicama
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Peak Chicama Surf Season | April to October
Suited For Intermediate & Advanced
The Chicama surf shines in the southern hemisphere winter, when April to October delivers long-period southwest swells that create the legendary left-hand pointbreaks this town is famous for. Chicama surf during this time is ideal for those seeking long, clean rides, some stretching over a kilometer.
Swells consistently hover between 4 to 8 foot, offering perfect conditions for intermediate to advanced surfers. Although it’s a quiet town, strong currents & the wave’s long length demand stamina. This is prime time for chasing the best Chicama surf experience.
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Shoulder Chicama Surf Season | March & November
Suited For All Skill Levels
During March & November, Chicama surf still offers some fun, especially when late-season or early-season swells pulse through. Wave sizes dip slightly to 2 to 5 feet, but the famous pointbreak still turns on with the right tide.
Chicama surf is less consistent in these months, but fewer crowds & lighter winds make it appealing. This period is excellent for those who want more manageable waves or longer sessions without competition. It’s also a great time to explore the wave’s forgiving inside sections.
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Low Chicama Surf Season | December to February
Suited For Beginners & Intermediate
Summer months bring the slowest surf for Chicama, with inconsistent swells & smaller wave heights, typically around 1 to 3 feet. Chicama surf during this time lacks the power & length it’s known for, but the soft rollers are excellent for beginners.
While advanced surfers may get restless, mellow conditions mean less effort paddling & more practice time. Chicama surf schools often use this time to teach newcomers, taking advantage of the calm lineup & soft wave faces. It’s peaceful, though not performance-focused.
Chicama Surf Temperature, What To Wear & Rainfall Guide
Chicama Surf Temperature:
21–23°C (70–73°F)
What To Wear:
Boardshorts/bikini will be comfortable during summer months. A rash vest can help with extended sun exposure, but most won’t need a wetsuit.
Rainfall:
Rainfall is minimal, typically with fewer than 3 days of light rain per month. Clear skies dominate this dry coastal season.
Chicama Surf Temperature:
20–22°C (68–72°F)
What To Wear:
Boardshorts/bikini may still work, but early mornings could call for a thin spring suit or a 1–2 mm top.
Rainfall:
Still very dry, with no more than 3–4 rainy days per month. Coastal areas stay arid with mostly clear skies.
Chicama Surf Temperature:
18–20°C (64–68°F)
What To Wear:
A 2/2 or 3/2 mm full wetsuit is ideal in winter as the water gets cooler, especially with chilly early mornings.
Rainfall:
Rain remains scarce, with around 1–3 days of light drizzle each month. Dry, stable conditions continue.
Chicama Surf Temperature:
19–21°C (66–70°F)
What To Wear:
You’ll be comfortable in a spring suit or 2 mm wetsuit. Late spring can lean back toward boardshorts/bikini.
Rainfall:
Still dry with fewer than 3 rainy days per month. Expect lots of sunshine with the occasional light mist.
Surf Spots Within 5km or 3 Miles From Chicama
| Chicama Surf Spots | Distance from Chicama | Wave Size | Wave Quality | Skill Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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Chicama Point |
Approx. 1km (0.6mi) from town centre |
2-8 foot |
Long, mellow left-hand point |
All levels |
Further Information To Chicama Surf Spots
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Low to mid tide
- Wind: Southeast
- Swell Direction: Southwest
- Crowd Factor: Low
Chicama Point is famed as the world’s longest left, peeling perfectly over a sand point for up to two miles of uninterrupted ride. With a southwest swell and light southeast winds, the wave holds at all tide stages but best at low and mid tides. Chicama Point offers consistent, glassy walls that suit surfers from beginner to advanced levels.
The take-off is gentle, and the sandbottom runnel smooths out potential chop, making for long, drawn-out carves. Despite its renown, the lineup remains uncrowded thanks to the wave’s length, many riders simply surf down and walk back. Easily accessed via a short stroll from the parking area, Chicama Point delivers an unforgettable, marathon surf session.
Rating: 5/5
Travel Time To Chicama Surf Spots
| Chicama Surf Spots | Walking Time | Biking Time | Public Transport |
|---|---|---|---|
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Chicama Point |
Approx. 15 min. |
Not required |
Not required |
Accommodation In Chicama
Trip.com offers all you’ll need to plan a smooth surfing adventure to Peru. From luxury resorts to budget surf hostels, there are options for everyone in terms of proximity to the ocean and accommodation style. Booking ahead of time also ensures that more time is spent on the waves and less time stressing.
For those surfers looking to advance in Peru, there is the opportunity on Tripaneer surf camps that offer learners the best coaching, comfortable accommodation, and a good community. You may delve deep into the surf culture of Peru while really having a chance to hone your surfing skills.
| Accommodation Type | Description | Price Range (EUR)* | Price Range (USD)* |
|---|---|---|---|
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Hostels |
Dormitory-style accommodation |
€13 to €28 |
$15 to $30 |
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Mid-range Hotels/Serviced Apartments |
Studio apartments, motels, or 1-bedroom units |
€35 to €70 |
$40 to $80 |
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Luxury Stays |
Luxury beachfront resorts or high-end apartments |
€110 to €230+ |
$120 to $250+ |
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*Rates are per night and subject to change. |
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Chicama Surf Lessons & Surf Schools
Currently, there are no dedicated surf schools in Chicama. However, its world-renowned left-hand point break attracts experienced surfers from around the globe, making it an excellent destination for those with prior surfing experience.
Chicama Surf Camp
7-Day Chicama Surf Camp With Waves Surf Camp Peru
Get ready to surf multiple times a day at over five uncrowded Northern Peruvian breaks like Bermejo, Centinela, El Point, El Faro, & more. With certified local guides, professional drivers, & a focus on authentic experiences, this trip is all about catching unforgettable waves, enjoying amazing food, & discovering Peru’s cultural treasures with like-minded travelers in a relaxed & safe setting.
What’s included
This 7-day Chicama surf camp includes 6 nights of comfortable accommodation & daily surf sessions, two or more each day, at a variety of empty, world-class surf spots along Peru’s northern coast. You’ll also enjoy delicious local Peruvian meals throughout the week & travel in a modern van with a professional driver or surf guide.
Cultural experiences like guided tours of the Chan Chan ruins & Paramonga fortress are part of the journey, along with airport transfers from either Lima or Trujillo. Gas, tolls, & Wi-Fi are all taken care of, so you can focus fully on the surf & adventure. Find Out More
Chicama Surfboard Hire
Unfortunately, there are no surfboard rental services available in Chicama. Surfers visiting the area are advised to bring their own boards and equipment to fully enjoy its incredible waves.
Chicama Surf Report & Surf Cam
Keeping an eye on surf conditions in Peru is a must to ensure a good surf trip. Surf-Forecast gives you swell size, tide, and wind information, whilst Surfline live cams show real-time surf footage in Peru’s most beloved surf breaks (for subscribing members).
You’ll stay online with a Drimsim eSIM or a Yesim eSIM that activates digitally upon landing, therefore letting you skip all the hassle of getting a local SIM card and making a store visit. This allows you to keep on checking forecasts, keeping up to date on your socials, or even uploading your favorite Chicama surf moments from your phone.
How To Get To Chicama Surf
- Trujillo Airport (TRU) To Chicama
Distance: 70km (44mi)
Trujillo Airport (TRU) is the most convenient entry point for surfers heading to Chicama. Here’s how to get there.
Public Transport
Approx. 2.5-3 hrs.
Details:
From the airport, take a local taxi or mototaxi to Trujillo’s main bus terminal. From there, you can catch a colectivo or minibus bound for Paiján, a town roughly an hour north. In Paiján, transfer to a smaller colectivo or mototaxi that takes you directly to Chicama (Puerto Malabrigo).
While cheap, this option involves several transfers and may take longer depending on wait times between rides.
Shuttle Service
Approx. 2-2.5 hrs.
Details:
Private shuttle services can be arranged through hotels or surf camps in Chicama. Companies like Chicama Surf Resort and other local providers often offer pickup services from Trujillo Airport.
Pre-book your shuttle via HolidayTaxis or Welcome Pickups to guarantee a waiting vehicle on arrival. This makes your transfer from the airport to the beach easy & comfortable.
Peru Travel Information | 7 Essentials You Need To Know
Before chasing waves in Peru, it helps to cover a few basics. The currency is the Peruvian Sol, and cash is still useful in smaller surf towns. Spanish is the official language, and English is less common outside tourist areas. Tap water isn’t safe to drink, so stick to bottled.
For visa requirements, health tips, safety info, and more, head to our Peru surf page where we’ve laid out all 7 essentials to keep your trip smooth.
Travel Insurance For Your Chicama Surf Trip
Let the surf trip be one wild ride for a few days or weeks in Peru. Luggage lost? Sick? Schedule change? That is where travel insurance makes sense. You are not left scrambling to find a fix, there is one already standing in the way.
VisitorsCoverage provides the peace of mind you need to enjoy every moment. Peru surf conditions may be world-class, but the journey there and back can be full of surprises. Let your focus stay on the waves.
Discover Chicama: What To Do When The Waves Are Flat
When the surf isn’t on in Chicama there are plenty of other exciting activities to explore. Here are 3 recommended activities to make the most of your time.