Surfing in South America
South America’s enormous Pacific and Atlantic coastlines serve up some of the world’s most consistent and varied surf, from the longest left-hand point break on Earth to warm, palm-fringed beach breaks. Peru and Chile catch relentless southern swells along their exposed Pacific shores, while Brazil’s vast Atlantic coast offers everything from mellow beginner beaches to punchy island reefs.
The variety keeps every level of surfer happy. Peru is a pilgrimage for goofy-foot riders drawn to endless left points like Chicama, Ecuador’s laid-back Montanita offers a fun party-and-surf scene, and Chile’s cold, powerful waves reward those willing to don a thick wetsuit. Over on the Atlantic side, Brazil combines a vibrant surf culture with island gems and buzzing city breaks.
Water temperature and swell seasons vary hugely with latitude, so pack accordingly, from boardshorts in northern Peru and Brazil to a full winter wetsuit in Chile. The biggest, most consistent swells generally arrive with the southern-hemisphere winter, and many of the best waves sit in remote fishing towns. Chase the season, respect the local lineup, and you will find world-class waves with a fraction of the crowds.
Top Surfing Destinations#
Chicama, Peru Home to the longest left-hand wave on Earth, Chicama offers rides so long that surfers take boats or jet skis back to the top of the point. This peeling, mechanical left is a bucket-list pilgrimage for goofy-footers worldwide. The remote desert fishing village works best on solid southern swells during the April to October winter.
Montanita, Ecuador Ecuador’s most famous surf town blends a consistent, beginner-friendly point break with a legendary party atmosphere. Warm water and reliable year-round waves make it a magnet for traveling surfers and learners alike. The lively backpacker scene means the vibe on land can be as memorable as the surf.
Punta de Lobos, Pililcura, Chile A dramatic, powerful left point near Pichilemu, Punta de Lobos is the heart of Chilean surfing and a big-wave destination when swells surge. Cold water and rugged cliffs give it a raw, elemental feel. A thick wetsuit is essential, and the biggest, cleanest waves arrive in the southern winter.
Mancora, Peru In Peru’s sunny far north, Mancora offers warm water and a fun, consistent left point in a relaxed beach-town setting. Its tropical climate is a welcome contrast to the chilly waters farther south. The easygoing waves and beach-resort atmosphere suit intermediates and vacationing surfers.
Florianopolis, Brazil The island city of Floripa is Brazil’s surf capital, ringed by dozens of beaches offering everything from gentle beginner waves to powerful reef and beach breaks. Praia Mole and Joaquina are among the standout spots. The vibrant surf culture and variety make it ideal for a longer surf trip.
Fernando de Noronha, Brazil This pristine Atlantic archipelago transforms into a world-class surf destination during the southern-hemisphere winter, when powerful swells light up its beaches. Crystal-clear water and dramatic scenery set it apart from mainland breaks. Strict visitor limits keep the lineups uncrowded for those who make it out.
Buzios, Brazil This chic peninsula east of Rio catches swells on numerous beaches, offering a mix of mellow bays and more exposed breaks. Its stylish resort atmosphere pairs surfing with excellent dining and nightlife. The varied coastline means there is usually a sheltered or working break on any given day.
Lobitos, Peru A quiet former oil town in northern Peru, Lobitos hides several high-quality lefts, including fast, hollow waves that draw dedicated surfers. Its off-the-grid feel and empty lineups are a big part of the appeal. Warm northern water and steady swells make it a rewarding, low-key alternative to busier spots.
Pichilemu, Chile The wider Pichilemu area is the epicenter of Chilean surf culture, hosting international competitions and a string of quality point and beach breaks. Its cold, powerful Pacific waves demand fitness and a good wetsuit. The town buzzes with a devoted local surf community year-round.
Itacare, Brazil On the lush Bahian coast, Itacare offers a string of beautiful jungle-backed beach breaks in a laid-back, tropical setting. Warm water and consistent waves suit surfers of all levels. The Atlantic Forest scenery and eco-friendly vibe make it as much a nature escape as a surf trip.
Puerto Chicama and Pacasmayo, Peru Near Chicama, Pacasmayo delivers another exceptionally long left point favored by advanced surfers and windsurfers alike. Big southern swells produce fast, walling rides down the sandy point. The strong afternoon winds also make it a renowned kitesurfing and windsurfing hub.
Iquique, Chile In Chile’s far north, Iquique enjoys a warmer, sunnier climate than the south and hosts heavy, hollow reef breaks like the famous El Gringo. Its consistent desert-coast swells and barreling waves attract experienced surfers. The mix of quality reefs and city amenities makes it a standout northern destination.