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.
Water temp
18°C
Wetsuit
3/2mm fullsuit
Difficulty
3/10
Crowd level
5/10
Access: Beach access from town.
Peak: Mar-Oct
Secondary: Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb
Year-round. Historic surf town - caballitos de totora.
Verified by Peru surf community
How well swell angle matches the spot
Wave height in the ideal range
Each spot has different period requirements. Points and reefs can handle longer periods than beaches.
Offshore/glassy conditions