Peru Surf Guide 2025 | The Best Surf Towns With Easy Access

An Introduction To Peru Surf

The Peru surf scene is home to some of the longest and most legendary left-hand point breaks in the world. With long and powerful Pacific swells, and a coastline that stretches for thousands of kilometers (or miles to my American friends), Peru surf caters to every kind of wave rider, from high performance to longboarders and soul surfers alike.

Peru not only has some great waves but also has different coasts with beautiful landscapes, culture, and consistency throughout the year. Whether you’re chasing countless lefts or finding unexplored breaks, or seeking out an escape centered on surfing, Peru surf has something, undeniably, to offer.

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The long left-hand waves of Chicama surf with wave after wave peeling perfectly in Peru surf
Chicama Point - Peru

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Overview: Where To Surf In Peru

Rich as it is, Peru boasts all kinds of point breaks, reefs, and beach breaks that offer long rides and swell reliability. Chicama is a global icon, famous for offering rides that stretch for over a kilometer (0.6 miles!) when conditions line up. Lobitos provides hollow sections and long walls, making it ideal for intermediate and advanced surfers.

Mancora is an easy-going warm water surf town with a tropical feel, where waves are user-friendly and perfect for beginners and cruisers. In Lima’s Miraflores district, urban energy meets surf culture in the form of very consistent beach breaks right beneath the cliffs of the city.

Each of these surf towns has its own rhythm, some are the quietest points in the desert, while others boast really active communities on the beach. The variety of waves and styles allows travelers to join serious surfing with easy exploration.

Best Peru Surf Towns

Chicama | Home To The Longest Left In The World

Chicama surf revolve around one single thought, the longest left-hand wave in the world! The point break offers sections to ride for one minute at a time when the swell is right, giving the opportunity for intermediate and advanced surfers a time to work on their style and technique at distance.

The town itself is quiet and surf centered, with minimal distractions and easy access to the break. Chicama isn’t a party spot, but for surfers focused on long rides and consistent lines, it’s one of the most unique Peru surf destinations anywhere on the Pacific. Find Out More

  • Best For

    Intermediate and advanced surfers, wave repetition, technique-focused stays

  • Vibe

    Surf-oriented, mellow, one wave destination

  • Surf Season

    April to October for the most reliable swells

  • Crowds

    Because of the long waves, they have a lot of room to spread out

  • Local Services

    Boat-assisted surf sessions, long rides, focused surf packages

Long left lines at the famous chicama surf in Peru, clear water and blue skies
Chicama Point - Peru

Lobitos | Desert Point Break With Endless Lefts

This northern gem is a dream for point break lovers with lengthy, peeling lefts that break over a sandy reef. The waves are perfect for intermediate to advanced surfers who are eager to carve down clean, open faces. Good swells will see rides peeling off for hundreds of meters.

Lobitos lies on a lonely, dry, windswept strip of coast characterized by silence, dust, and an overwhelming obsession with surfing culture. The town is simple, with a few surf camps, local housing, and oil rigs dotting the background. For serious wave travelers, it is pure, uncrowded Peru surfing. Find Out More

  • Best For

    Intermediate and advanced surfers, point break fans

  • Vibe

    Remote, surf-driven, off-grid

  • Surf Season

    April to October for southern hemisphere swells

  • Crowds

    Light, mostly visiting surfers

  • Local Services

    Simple surf lodges, board rentals, and guiding available

A big, long left-hand break at Lobitos surf Point, Peru, blue water and under blue skies, with two oil platforms visible in the background.
Lobitos Point - Lobitos

Mancora | Warm Water Surf With A Social Atmosphere

Mancora surf are for those who want the sun, fun, and friendly waves. The main point offers long left-hand rides with a soft takeoff, making it great for beginners and intermediates alike. Warm water and a tropical vibe turn it into an easy-going entry into Peru surf.

With beach bars, hostels, and sunny weather most of the year, Mancora attracts both surfers and backpackers looking for a mix of wave time and social energy. It’s the most lively destination for Peru surf, where post-session ceviche and cold drinks are part of the town. Find Out More

  • Best For

    Less-experienced surfers, warmer-water surfers, social travelers

  • Vibe

    Tropical, cute, surfy-meets-backpacker

  • Surf Season

    Peak swell season is December through March

  • Crowds

    Can get busy on the weekends and holidays

  • Local Services

    Daily lessons, beachfront lodging, party options available

A boat in the ocean with blue skies, labeled "Mancora," Peru and several pelicans perched on it, creating a picturesque coastal scene
Mancora - Peru

Miraflores | Urban Surf Base In Lima

Miraflores surf is located directly in the heart of Lima, granting access to many consistent beach breaks along the Costa Verde. Most of the waves are mellow, which is great for beginners and basically laid-back surfers and those who want city comforts alongside daily surf sessions.

Miraflores blends urban life with surf access, making it a great spot for beginners or travelers wanting to surf without leaving Lima. With surf schools, gear rentals, and a consistent wave scene, it’s a practical and reliable hub for exploring Peru surf with city comforts nearby. Find Out More

  • Best For

    Beginners, urban surfers, travelers with short time

  • Vibe

    City-based, efficient, beginner friendly

  • Surf Season

    Year-round, but April to October is peak

  • Crowds

    Moderate density shared between locals and tourists

  • Local Services

    Flexible schedule, city comforts, beach access within walking distance

Makaha Beach, Miraflores surf in Lima, featuring rolling waves under a stunning sky painted with shades of orange and purple
Makaha Beach - Lima

Accommodation In Peru

Trip.com is your go-to source for booking accommodations close to the beach during a Peru surf trip. Their range includes luxury resorts & affordable hostels, providing options for all budgets. Securing your lodging early helps you focus on surfing rather than last-minute arrangements.

To enhance your skills in Peru, Tripaneer runs surf camps that offer coaching, comfortable lodging, & a supportive community. These camps provide a wonderful way to fully experience the Peru surf lifestyle while honing your surfing technique.

Accommodation Type Description Price Range (EUR)* Price Range (USD)*
Hostels
Dormitory-style accommodation
€10 to €20
$12 to $22
Mid-range Hotels/Serviced Apartments
Studio apartments, motels, or 1-bedroom units
€35 to €75
$40 to $80
Luxury Stays
Luxury beachfront resorts or high-end apartments
€90 to €230+
$100 to $250+

*Rates are per night and subject to change.

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Peru Surf Camps

Peru surf camps are located in some of the countries’ best wave zones and allow people to have different kinds of encounters with waves that have made the country so legendary.

Chicama is a quintessential surf camp site, a place where surfers can perfect their technique riding long leg-burning lefts. Mancora has warm waters and a slow-moving pace for the surf camps, which tend to also include waves friendly to beginners and accommodations along the beach.

Miraflores, smack in the center of Lima, has surf camps that combine easy access to the urban environment with everyday beach sessions making it a good option for short or city-based trips. These generally include board hire, coaching, meals, and local guidance to create an all-round surf experience in culturally rich context.

Browse through some of the top-rated surf camp options in Chicama, Mancora, and Miraflores to plan your dream surf trip to Peru and see why this coastal stretch remains one of South America’s most iconic destinations.

Or, use the Tripaneer search tool below to easily explore more Peru surf camp options.

Peru Travel Information | 7 Essentials You Need To Know

  • Currency

    Peru’s currency is the Peruvian Sol (PEN). Credit & debit cards are accepted in hotels, restaurants, & larger stores, but cash is necessary for markets, small vendors, & rural areas. ATMs are widely available, but some charge high fees. Currency exchange services can be found at airports, banks, & exchange offices. Carrying small bills is useful for everyday transactions.

  • Visa Requirements

    Many nationalities, including those from the US, UK, EU, Canada, & Australia, can enter Peru visa-free for up to 90–183 days, depending on nationality. Others may need a visa before arrival. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your stay, & keep a copy of your entry stamp for departure.

  • Wifi & Connectivity

    Wi-Fi is available in hotels, cafes, & public areas, though speeds can vary. In remote areas, connectivity may be limited. A local SIM card from Claro, Movistar, or Entel provides affordable data & reliable coverage. International roaming fees can be high, so check your plan before traveling or consider an eSIM.

  • Language

    Spanish is the official language, with Quechua & Aymara spoken in some regions. English is understood in major tourist areas but less common in rural locations. Learning basic Spanish phrases can be helpful for communication. Locals appreciate visitors who make an effort to speak Spanish. A translation app can be useful.

  • Safety

    Peru is generally safe, but petty theft & scams occur, especially in crowded areas like markets & public transport. Keep valuables secure & avoid displaying expensive items. Use official taxis or rideshare apps rather than hailing cabs on the street. In remote areas, be cautious of altitude sickness & changing weather conditions. Dial 105 for police assistance.

  • Health & Emergency Contacts

    Travel insurance covering medical emergencies is recommended. Major cities have good healthcare facilities, but rural areas may have limited services. Some travelers may need vaccines for hepatitis A, typhoid, & yellow fever, especially for jungle regions. Pharmacies are common, but some medications require a prescription. Dial 106 for medical emergencies.

  • Drinking Water

    Tap water in Peru is not safe to drink. Always opt for bottled or filtered water, even for brushing teeth. Many hotels & restaurants provide purified water. Refillable water stations are available in some areas to reduce plastic waste. When buying bottled water, ensure the seal is intact to avoid contamination.

Travel Insurance For Your Peru Surf Trip

The freedom of surf travel is what draws people to places like Peru, but freedom doesn’t mean skipping preparation. A twisted ankle or a travel delay can interrupt your plans in a heartbeat. Travel insurance gives you a fallback, handling problems without draining your wallet.

Whether it’s missed connections or broken gear, having support is key. VisitorsCoverage helps you lock in that backup before things get messy. Your Peru surf trip deserves both excitement and stability. It’s a better ride when you’re covered.

Exploring Peru: The Best Sights & Landmarks To Visit

Peru is filled with breathtaking landscapes, ancient history, and rich cultural experiences. Below are three activities that will elevate your time in this incredible country.

For even more to explore, check out GetYourGuide and Viator, offering everything from Machu Picchu tours and Amazon excursions to food tastings and city walks, helping you discover the best of Peru beyond the surf.

  • Machu Picchu

    This iconic Incan citadel is perched high in the Andes Mountains, offering breathtaking views & a window into Peru's ancient past. It's one of the New Seven Wonders of the World & a UNESCO World Heritage site.

  • Sacred Valley of the Incas

    The Sacred Valley is dotted with impressive Incan ruins, traditional villages, & stunning natural landscapes. Highlights include Ollantaytambo, Pisac, & the Maras salt mines.

  • Colca Canyon

    One of the deepest canyons in the world, Colca Canyon is twice as deep as the Grand Canyon & is home to the majestic Andean condor.

Find Your Next Peru Surf Destination

Chicama

Lobitos

Mancora

Miraflores