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Level 3/10

Huanchaco

La Libertad, Peru
🌀Strong rips

Huanchaco is where surfing's ancient and modern worlds collide—a charming Peruvian fishing village where local fishermen still paddle out on caballitos de totora, the reed watercraft that represent 3,000 years of wave riding history. The beach break itself is mellow and forgiving, perfect for beginners and longboarders, but the real magic is watching the caballito fishermen work the same waves their ancestors did. The colorful waterfront, excellent ceviche, and proximity to the archaeological wonders of Chan Chan make Huanchaco a cultural surf destination unlike any other on Earth.

Spot Details

Swell Requirements

Optimal direction
SSW (200°)
Direction range
180° - 230°
Size range
0.5m - 2m
Ideal period
14s+

Wind Requirements

Optimal direction
E (90°)
Offshore range
50° - 130°
Best window
morning

Tide Requirements

Optimal tide
all
Optimal range
0.3m - 1.5m

Water temp

18°C

Wetsuit

3/2mm fullsuit

Difficulty

3/10

Crowd level

5/10

Access: Beach access from town.

Getting There

Airport
TRU
Drive time
15 min

Best Season

Peak: Mar-Oct

Secondary: Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb

Year-round. Historic surf town - caballitos de totora.

Data Quality

community

Verified by Peru surf community