An Introduction To Miraflores Surf
- Author | Matt K
- Updated | April 25, 2025
Miraflores surf is just the perfect blend of urban convenience and coastal charm, with consistent waves and easy access to Lima’s surf culture. Situated on the district’s picturesque coastline, surfers can take advantage of top away spots like Waikiki Beach and Makaha Beach, within walking distance from the heart of Miraflores. Suitable for all levels, these breaks are an ideal setting for a beginner and intermediate surfers refining their skills while enjoying easy access to the city’s amenities.
Punta Roquitas holds much stronger waves and is simply a taxi ride away for those hungry for a challenge. Its breaks often attract advanced surfers looking to charge some fun ride, all just a few minutes from the lively streets of Miraflores.
Miraflores really is a lovely small place, linked through an excellent network of public transportation so that surfers can be flying between city life above and the water below. With surf schools, board rentals, and oceanfront cafes lining the area, everything you need is at your fingertips.
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In This Guide
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Best Time To Surf Miraflores
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Peak Miraflores Surf Season | April to October
Suited For Intermediate & Advanced
Miraflores surf comes alive during Peru’s winter, when powerful southern swells generate 4 to 7-foot waves across its urban reef & beach breaks. This is when local spots like Makaha & Redondo perform best, drawing shortboarders & longboarders alike.
Miraflores surf during peak season offers consistent lines & good push, making it a staple training ground for Lima’s surf community. While the breaks can get busy, the vibe stays energetic & friendly. It’s the best time to experience urban surf at its strongest.
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Shoulder Miraflores Surf Season | March & November
Suited For All Skill Levels
In March & November, Miraflores surf can still be quite fun, with waves generally in the 2 to 5-foot range. These months serve up smaller swells & slightly more variable conditions, but there’s plenty of action for all levels.
Beginners get more forgiving waves, while advanced surfers can still score if they time the sets right. Mornings offer cleaner faces, & local surf schools are still very active. It’s a quieter, less intense time to enjoy the consistent Miraflores surf.
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Low Miraflores Surf Season | December to February
Suited For Beginners & Intermediate
Summer months bring smaller waves to Miraflores, often in the 1 to 3-foot range, with less consistent swell. Miraflores surf in this season is ideal for beginners & longboarders who thrive on soft, rolling waves. It’s a great time to learn, as surf schools line the beaches & offer lessons daily.
Advanced surfers may need to search harder for challenging conditions, but the relaxed pace suits mellow sessions. This is when Miraflores surf feels most accessible & laid-back.
Miraflores Surf Temperature, What To Wear & Rainfall Guide
Miraflores Surf Temperature:
21–23°C (70–73°F)
What To Wear:
A spring suit or 2 mm wetsuit is usually preferred, but on warmer days, boardshorts/bikini can be enough.
Rainfall:
Very little rainfall, typically fewer than 2 days of drizzle per month. Skies may be overcast but dry.
Miraflores Surf Temperature:
19–21°C (66–70°F)
What To Wear:
You’ll want a 2 mm spring suit, especially during early mornings or windier days.
Rainfall:
Rainfall stays light, averaging 2–3 days per month. Some morning mist or fog is common.
Miraflores Surf Temperature:
17–19°C (63–66°F)
What To Wear:
A 3/2 mm full wetsuit is best. Even though it’s not cold by global standards, the water & wind can feel brisk.
Rainfall:
Winter brings misty, overcast skies with about 3–5 days of drizzle or light rain monthly.
Miraflores Surf Temperature:
18–20°C (64–68°F)
What To Wear:
A spring suit or full 3/2 mm wetsuit is recommended as water temps rise slowly.
Rainfall:
Light drizzle may occur 2–4 days a month. Overcast skies are common but heavy rain is rare.
Surf Spots Within 5km or 3 Miles From Miraflores
| Miraflores Surf Spots | Distance from Miraflores | Wave Size | Wave Quality | Skill Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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Waikiki Beach |
Approx. 500m (0.3mi) |
2-6 foot |
Consistent, mellow beach break |
Beginner to intermediate |
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Makaha Beach |
Approx. 500m (0.3mi) |
2-5 foot |
Consistent, mellow beach break |
Beginner to intermediate |
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Punta Roquitas |
Approx. 1km (0.6mi) |
3-8 foot |
Powerful reef break |
Intermediate to advanced |
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Playa Barranco |
Approx. 3km (1.9mi) south |
2-6 foot |
Mellow beach break |
Beginner to intermediate |
Further Information To Miraflores Surf Spots
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Low to mid tide
- Wind: Northeast
- Swell Direction: Southwest
- Crowd Factor: Moderate to high
Waikiki Beach in Miraflores is a popular reef break that picks up southwest groundswells year-round. Offshore northeast winds groom the wave face, creating clean lefts and rights over a rocky bottom. It works at low to mid tides, with mid tide often offering the most consistent peaks.
The take-off zone is short, and rides are punchy rather than long, attracting a mix of beginners and intermediates. Despite its central location and ease of access from Lima, crowds remain manageable, early mornings reward the glassiest sessions. Beware of urban pollution and occasional rocks, but enjoy reliable surf and a vibrant streetside scene.
Rating: 2/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: All tides
- Wind: Northeast
- Swell Direction: Southwest
- Crowd Factor: Moderate
Makaha Beach in Miraflores sits just around the corner from Waikiki, offering a reef-break alternative with slightly mellower peaks. Offshore northeast winds and a southwest swell at any tide stage produce clean, waist-high walls suitable for longboarders and beginners. The paddle-out is longer, and occasional inside barrels add variety for more confident surfers.
Less trafficked than Waikiki, Makaha provides a quieter lineup with easy access from the boardwalk. While urban runoff can affect water quality, the consistent shape and scenic views of Lima’s cliffs make Makaha a charming urban escape for surf sessions.
Rating: 2/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: All tides
- Wind: Northeast
- Swell Direction: Southwest
- Crowd Factor: Moderate
Punta Roquitas is a small beach break at the Miraflores cliffs’ edge, known for its beach-and-rock mix that produces short, punchy rights. Best on a southwest swell with offshore northeast winds, it works through all tides but is at its prime around mid tide.
The wave breaks over a cobble-sand bottom, so take-offs can be abrupt, rewarding quick reflexes. Its small peak and easy access via a stairwell mean lineups stay tight but not overly crowded. Punta Roquitas is perfect for surfers seeking a quick, local session amid Lima’s busiest district.
Rating: 2/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: All tides
- Wind: Northeast
- Swell Direction: Southwest
- Crowd Factor: Moderate
Playa Barranco lies just south of Miraflores, offering a muted beach break over a sandy-pebble bottom. Southwest swells and offshore northeast winds deliver gentle, waist-high waves that work across all tides, making it ideal for beginners and intermediate surfers.
The broad shoreline and lack of intense sections create long, mellow rides, perfect for board practice or longboarding. Though less famous than Waikiki, Barranco sees a steady local crowd, especially on weekends. Nearby cafes and art galleries add cultural flair to surf days, making Playa Barranco a quietly charming spot for a relaxed Peruvian session.
Rating: 2/5
Travel Time To Miraflores Surf Spots
| Miraflores Surf Spots | Walking Time | Biking Time | Public Transport |
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Waikiki Beach |
5-10 min. |
Not required |
Not required |
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Makaha Beach |
5-10 min. |
Not required |
Not required |
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Punta Roquitas |
Approx. 10-15 min. |
5-10 min. |
Not required |
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Playa Barranco |
Approx. 40 min. |
Approx. 15-20 min. |
Approx. 35 min. (Local bus & short walk) |
Accommodation In Miraflores
Trip.com is the best option for booking places to stay in Peru close to the waves during surf trips. It provides an extensive selection of accommodations, including luxury hotels, budget surf hostels, and everything in between. Booking beforehand means more time to be in the water and less time spent planning the trip.
Surf coaching, accommodation, and a good community are part of the surf camps initiated by Tripaneer to up your skills in Peru. One of the best notches to fine-tuning your skills and immersing yourself in the Peru and Miraflores surf lifestyle.
| Accommodation Type | Description | Price Range (EUR)* | Price Range (USD)* |
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Hostels |
Dormitory-style accommodation |
€10 to €20 |
$12 to $22 |
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Mid-range Hotels/Serviced Apartments |
Studio apartments, motels, or 1-bedroom units |
€35 to €75 |
$40 to $80 |
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Luxury Stays |
Luxury beachfront resorts or high-end apartments |
€90 to €230+ |
$100 to $250+ |
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*Rates are per night and subject to change. |
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Miraflores Surf Lessons & Surf Schools
Miraflores surf schools offer a rare urban surf experience, combining quality instruction with the convenience of being right in the heart of Lima. Miraflores Surf Lessons is a standout option, offering professional instruction designed to help surfers of all levels enhance their skills.
At Pukana Surf School, students benefit from personalized coaching and small class sizes, which help create an engaging learning environment. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine advanced techniques, Pukana’s experienced team ensures steady progress in the water.
For those seeking a unique approach, Kamea Surf combines expert instruction with an emphasis on fostering a deep connection with the ocean. With expert instructors & easily accessible waves, Miraflores surf schools provide a great introduction to the sport.
Miraflores Surf Camp
7-Day Beginner Miraflores Surf Camp With Waves Surf Camp Peru
Start your surf journey in one of Peru’s most iconic surf towns with Waves Surf Camp Peru. This all-inclusive, beginner-friendly retreat in Punta Hermosa is crafted to give you the perfect introduction to surfing. Led by passionate surf instructor & camp owner Giancarlo, who brings years of experience in both tourism & surf instruction, every day is designed to be fun, educational, & tailored to your personal progress.
What’s Included
Settle in for 6 nights of accommodation at Waves Surf Camp Peru, where you’ll feel instantly at home. Your stay includes 3 freshly prepared meals per day, made with local ingredients to fuel your surf-filled days.
You’ll receive daily surfing lessons from certified instructors who are dedicated to helping you learn with confidence & joy. In addition to local sessions, you’ll go on a full-day guided surf trip, led by a professional surf guide & driver who will take you to the best spots in the region.
Outside the water, explore Peru’s rich history with tours to Pachacamac Ruins & Lucumo. All transportation to local surf breaks is covered, including gas & tolls, ensuring a smooth, worry-free experience. You’ll also enjoy Wi-Fi access, & convenient round-trip airport transfers to & from Lima. Find Out More
Miraflores Surfboard Hire
Miraflores surfboard hire is simple & centrally located, with beachfront rental stands offering a variety of boards to match the area’s beginner-friendly conditions. You’ll find everything from soft-tops to shortboards just steps from the water.
Pukana Surf School offers a variety of boards suitable for all experience levels, from beginners to advanced riders. Miraflores Surf Lessons, too, ensures that surfers can select the right board to match their skills and preferences.
For those seeking variety, Rasta Surf Miraflores and Kamea Surf also offer excellent rental options, giving both locals and visitors the opportunity to fully engage in the vibrant surf culture of Miraflores. If you’re looking to paddle out quickly and easily, Miraflores surfboard hire services deliver.
Miraflores Surf Report & Surf Cam
Planning your Peru surf days with precision means using trusted tools. Surf-Forecast provides detailed swell and tide forecasts, while Surfline live cams offer real-time views of the waves at top Peru surf breaks, available with subscription.
A Drimsim eSIM or a Yesim eSIM keeps you connected instantly upon arrival, no local SIM card needed. This allows you to check surf conditions, stream live cams, & upload your Miraflores surf clips without delay, making your surf trip efficient, connected, and fun.
How To Get To Miraflores Surf
- Jorge Chávez International Airport (Lima Airport) (LIM) To Miraflores
Distance: 20km (12mi)
To reach Miraflores surf, the most convenient route is to fly into Jorge Chávez International Airport (Lima Airport) (LIM) & then take a taxi to your destination. Below is a quick guide with various transportation options to help you choose the best way to get to Miraflores based on your preference.
Public Transport
Approx. 1.5-2 hrs.
Details:
From the airport, take the Airport Express Lima bus which offers a direct route to Miraflores with multiple stops in the district. Alternatively, local buses or shared vans (combis) are available, though navigating these can be confusing without Spanish fluency.
This is the cheapest route but may involve longer waits and stops along the way. Airport Express buses are recommended for a reliable and affordable trip.
Shuttle Service
Approx. 1-1.5 hrs.
Details:
Many hotels and hostels in Miraflores offer shuttle transfers from Lima Airport. You can book private or shared rides depending on your preference and budget.
Pre-book your shuttle service with HolidayTaxis or Welcome Pickups for a vehicle waiting when you land. This makes your trip from the airport to the beach hassle-free and efficient.
Peru Travel Information | 7 Essentials You Need To Know
If Peru is your next surf destination, a little preparation goes a long way. You’ll need Peruvian Sol for most purchases, especially in smaller towns where cash is preferred. Don’t drink the tap water, bottled is safest. Spanish is the main language, and English is rarely spoken outside tourist zones.
To explore everything from visa requirements to health care tips and safety advice, check out our Peru surf page covering all 7 travel essentials before your trip.
Travel Insurance For Your Miraflores Surf Trip
Peru surf has a way of calling people in, but so do last-minute surprises. Anyone can get sick while abroad or lose a board somewhere along the way. These may be more than just financial burdens when not thought of appropriately. VisitorsCoverage allows you to get protection compatible with your trip.
Insurance helps cover the unexpected, from being hospitalized to lost luggage. With coverage secure, your energy can be dedicated to surfing and exploring this beautiful country.
Discover Miraflores: What To Do When The Waves Are Flat
If the surf is flat, Miraflores offers a rich urban experience and activities to enjoy. Below are 3 recommended activities to make the most of your time.
Check out GetYourGuide for more experiences like guided food tours, paragliding over the coast, and cultural walks through Lima’s historic highlights.