An Introduction To Lobitos Surf
- Author | Matt K
- Updated | April 24, 2025
Lobitos surf, located along Peru’s northern coast in the Piura region, is a hidden gem famed for its long, peeling lefts & relaxed desert vibes. Known for its consistency & minimal crowds, Lobitos surf offers a dream setup for intermediate & advanced surfers looking to score quality waves without the chaos.
The main break, Lobitos Point, is celebrated for its smooth, drawn-out lefts that let surfers rack up long rides. Just nearby, El Hueco delivers heavier, hollower barrels for those chasing more intensity. For adventurous surfers, La Punta offers a more remote experience with challenging waves & fewer people. Beginners aren’t left out either—Piscinas serves up softer, slower waves perfect for gaining confidence.
Everything in town is easily accessible by foot or bike, making Lobitos surf ideal for travelers seeking a car-free surf trip. The quiet streets, rustic charm, & surf-focused rhythm of daily life all contribute to the town’s authentic, low-key atmosphere. Whether you’re logging endless rides at the point or watching sunsets after your session, Lobitos surf blends perfect waves with simplicity & solitude—an unforgettable stop on Peru’s northern surf circuit.
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In This Guide
Best Time To Surf Lobitos
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Peak Lobitos Surf Season | April to October
Suited For Intermediate & Advanced
Lobitos surf reaches its full potential between April & October, with powerful south & southwest swells lighting up its long, mechanical left-hand reef break. Wave heights range from 4 to 8 feet, sometimes more, delivering long, fast walls perfect for drawn-out carves & tube sections.
Lobitos surf during this period is ideal for experienced riders, especially when sandbars align just right. The crowds stay moderate compared to other hotspots, & the wind often remains light in the mornings. It’s easily the best time to score classic Lobitos surf.
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Shoulder Lobitos Surf Season | March & November
Suited For All Skill Levels
March & November bring more variable but still fun surf in Lobitos, with wave heights typically around 2 to 5 feet. These shoulder months can produce clean surf when south swells align, though sessions are more hit-or-miss.
For beginner & intermediate surfers, Lobitos surf during this time is more forgiving, with gentler drop-ins & mellower walls. While not as consistent, these months offer chances to practice & improve without the full power of peak-season surf. Plus, it’s generally less crowded & relaxed.
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Low Lobitos Surf Season | December to February
Suited For Beginners & Intermediate
The summer season brings smaller waves to Lobitos, usually in the 1 to 3-foot range, & occasional flat spells. While it’s not the best for advanced riders, the mellow conditions make Lobitos surf perfect for longboarders & beginners.
Swells are mostly local wind swell or minor southern pulses, so it’s all about catching smooth, soft peelers. Surf schools thrive during this time, & there’s a laid-back energy in the water. If you’re just getting started, this is a great season to explore Lobitos surf.
Lobitos Surf Temperature, What To Wear & Rainfall Guide
Lobitos Surf Temperature:
23–25°C (73–77°F)
What To Wear:
Boardshorts/bikini are perfect all summer. A rash vest may help during longer sessions under the sun.
Rainfall:
Rainfall is very low, with fewer than 4 days of light showers. Mostly hot & dry across the season.
Lobitos Surf Temperature:
22–24°C (72–75°F)
What To Wear:
You’ll be fine in boardshorts/bikini during Autumn. A short wetsuit top may help early in the morning.
Rainfall:
Expect 3–5 rainy days per month at most. Light showers are possible but rare, & mostly inland.
Lobitos Surf Temperature:
20–22°C (64–68°F)
What To Wear:
A 2 mm spring suit or a 3/2 mm full wetsuit can keep you warm, especially early in the day.
Rainfall:
Rainfall is negligible with just 1–2 days per month. The dry season remains consistent.
Lobitos Surf Temperature:
21–23°C (70–73°F)
What To Wear:
A spring suit or boardshorts/bikini depending on time of day. Later in the season it warms up again.
Rainfall:
Very little rainfall—around 2–3 days a month. Skies are generally clear with comfortable humidity.
Surf Spots Within 5km or 3 Miles From Lobitos
| Lobitos Surf Spots | Distance from Lobitos | Wave Size | Wave Quality | Skill Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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Lobitos Point |
In town centre |
3-8 foot |
Long, perfect left-hand point break |
Intermediate to Advanced |
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El Hueco |
Approx. 2km (1.2mi) north |
4-8 foot |
Heavy, hollow left-hand reef break |
Advanced only (shallow reef) |
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La Punta |
Approx. 2.5km (1.5mi) |
3-8 foot |
Hollow left-hand point break |
Intermediate to advanced |
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Piscinas |
Approx. 3km (1.9mi) north |
2-6 foot |
Mellow, long left-hand point break |
Beginner to intermediate, good for building confidence |
Further Information To Lobitos Surf Spots
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Low to mid tide
- Wind: South to southeast
- Swell Direction: Southwest
- Crowd Factor: Low
Lobitos Point is a classic long left-hand sand-and-reef break in northern Peru’s desert coastline. Best at low to mid tide with a southwest swell and light south-southeast winds, it produces clean, head-high to overhead barrels that peel along smooth sandbanks. The take-off can be critical, but the wave often opens into long, rippable shoulders ideal for both performance turns and occasional tube rides.
Despite its world-class quality, the remote setting and long paddle keep crowds mellow, ensuring plenty of waves for those who make the journey. The shoreline features a small surf camp and basic amenities, adding to Lobitos’ laid-back charm.
Rating: 4.5/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Low to mid tide
- Wind: South to souteast
- Swell Direction: Southwest
- Crowd Factor: Low
El Hueco (“The Hollow”) offers one of Lobitos’ heaviest barrels, breaking over a shallow reef that funnels swell into a tight, explosive left. At low to mid tide, a strong southwest swell and offshore south-southeast breeze carve out thick, hollow tubes that require quick reflexes and commitment.
Advanced surfers prize El Hueco for its unwavering power and consistent form, though beginners should steer clear. The lineup remains small due to the spot’s technical nature, and a short walk from town lands you at a raw, desert-backed reef that epitomizes Peruvian point-break intensity.
Rating: 5/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Low to mid tide
- Wind: South to southeast
- Swell Direction: Southwest
- Crowd Factor: Low
La Punta is a streamlined left-point break just north of Lobitos town, delivering fast, hollow walls that peel over a sandy reef. Ideal when a southwest swell lines up at low to mid tide with light south-southeast winds, La Punta offers head-high barrels and open-faced sections perfect for quick maneuvers.
Its take-off is less critical than El Hueco’s, making it accessible to strong intermediates while still rewarding experts. The sparse lineup and minimal infrastructure preserve the spot’s remote vibe—surf, walk back, and repeat. It’s a superb alternative when neighboring breaks are either too crowded or too extreme.
Rating: 4.5/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Low to mid tide
- Wind: South to southeast
- Swell Direction: Southwest
- Crowd Factor: Low to moderate
Piscinas is the mellowest of Lobitos’ main breaks, breaking both lefts and rights over a broad, shallow sandflat. At low to mid tide with a southwest swell and gentle south-southeast winds, it produces fun, waist-high walls that are perfect for beginners and longboarders.
While not the barreling powerhouse of the neighboring points, Piscinas rewards flow-style surfing with endless shoulder sections and forgiving take-offs. The crowd is light, with space to practice turns or simply cruise. Basic facilities and a laid-back beachside camp make Piscinas an ideal spot for extended surf stays.
Rating: 3.5/5
Travel Time To Lobitos Surf Spots
| Lobitos Surf Spots | Walking Time | Biking Time | Public Transport |
|---|---|---|---|
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Lobitos Point |
In town centre |
In town centre |
Not available |
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El Hueco |
Approx. 25 min. |
10 min. |
Not available |
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La Punta |
Approx. 30min. |
10-15 min. |
Not available |
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Piscinas |
Approx. 35 min. |
15 min. |
Not available |
Lobitos Surf Lessons & Surf Schools
Lobitos surf schools deliver a more intimate & focused surf learning experience, ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in Peru’s legendary left-hand point breaks.
Surf Lobitos School provides expert coaching with personalized attention, ensuring both beginners and intermediate surfers feel confident and supported as they hone their skills.
Jhonny’s Surf School is another standout, offering tailored instruction backed by local knowledge to help you understand the unique breaks of Lobitos.
For surfers seeking a passionate and dynamic learning environment, Surf Zone “El Gus” delivers lessons focused on technique and progression.
Surf Fun Lobitos rounds out the options with its relaxed and friendly vibe, perfect for anyone looking to learn or improve in a more casual setting. For surfers seeking expert guidance in a more relaxed & wave-rich environment, Lobitos surf schools offer an exceptional opportunity.
Lobitos Surf Camp
Unfortunately, Lobitos doesn’t have a dedicated surf camp, but just up the coast in Mancora, you’ll find Wild Kite Peru—a top-rated surf camp that blends wave-riding with laid-back beach vibes. With all-inclusive packages, expert instruction, and a sociable atmosphere, it’s a great option for surfers looking to make the most of their time in northern Peru. You’ll find more details about this camp in the section below.
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
Discover your ideal surf camp below—compare options across Peru and around the world!
Lobitos Surfboard Hire
Lobitos surfboard hire options may be limited in number, but they provide well-maintained, high-quality boards suited for the town’s famously long & fast waves. Rentals are typically available through surf hostels & local surf camps.
Surf Lobitos School offers a variety of high-quality boards for hire, accommodating surfers of all skill levels. Despite its small size, Lobitos surfboard hire services offer solid gear tailored to the unique waves in the area.
Lobitos Surf Report & Surf Cam
While you’re enjoying your time, staying updated on Lobitos surf conditions is key to making the most of your sessions. Websites like Surf-Forecast and Surfline provide detailed weather and Lobitos 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 Lobitos Surf
- Talara Airport (TYL) To Lobitos
Distance: 20km (12mi)
Talara Airport (TYL) is the nearest airport for accessing the remote surf spot of Lobitos. Here’s how to get there:
Public Transport | Cheapest Option
- Time: 1.5-2 hrs.
- Cost: Approx. $5-15 USD per person
Details:
From Talara Airport, take a mototaxi or taxi to the main terminal in Talara. From there, board a colectivo heading toward El Alto. Once you reach El Alto, you’ll need another mototaxi to take you the final 15–20 minutes down to the coast at Lobitos.
Though very affordable, this route involves rough roads and multiple legs, which can be challenging with luggage or surfboards.
Shuttle Service
- Time: 1.5 hrs.
- Cost: Approx. $20-$40 USD per person
Details:
Many surf camps in Lobitos offer private or shared shuttle transfers from Talara Airport. These should be arranged in advance and typically include surfboard transportation.
Shuttles are more reliable than public transport and offer a smoother ride on the rough roads leading to Lobitos, making them ideal for surf travelers looking for a more relaxed arrival.
Accommodation In Lobitos
| Accommodation Type | Description | Price Range (EUR)* | Price Range (USD)* |
|---|---|---|---|
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Hostels |
Dormitory-style accommodation |
€9 to €30 |
$10 to $35 |
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Mid-range Hotels/Serviced Apartments |
Studio apartments, motels, or 1-bedroom units |
€35 to €100 |
$40 to $110 |
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Luxury Stays |
Luxury beachfront resorts or high-end apartments |
€120 to €240+ |
$130 to $260+ |
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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 Lobitos, 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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