Arenillas Negras
Arenillas Negras ("Black Sands") is a reef break on a distinctive dark volcanic sand beach in Arica. The wave offers quality walls without the intensity of nearby El Gringo.
Arenillas Negras surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SW (225°)
- Direction range
- 200° - 250°
- Size range
- 1.2m - 2.4m
- Ideal size
- 1.7m - 2.1m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 16s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- NE (45°)
- Offshore range
- 20° - 70°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid
- Optimal range
- 0.4m - 1.4m
Water temp
18°C
Wetsuit
3/2mm fullsuit
Difficulty
6/10
Crowd level
2/10
Access: Near Arica slab zone.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Arenillas Negras?
The Arenillas Negras profile favors mid tide, ideally between 0.4m and 1.4m on the local tide chart. Compare this preference with the forecast tide and local conditions before choosing a session.
What wind direction is offshore at Arenillas Negras?
The Arenillas Negras profile uses wind from NE (45°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 20° to 70°. Wind speed matters too: light winds outside that range can still produce surfable conditions, while strong offshore winds can make takeoffs difficult.
What swell size and direction work best at Arenillas Negras?
The Arenillas Negras scoring profile favors swell from SW (200° to 250°), a swell-height range of 1.2m to 2.4m, and a reference period of 16s. These are model inputs, not guaranteed breaking-wave heights or a promise that the surf will suit every ability.
When is the best time of year to surf Arenillas Negras?
The main season at Arenillas Negras is Apr-Sep. A secondary window runs Mar, Oct. Quality reef break.
How do I get to Arenillas Negras?
The spot profile lists ARI as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 12 minutes. Near Arica slab zone.
What kind of wave is Arenillas Negras?
Arenillas Negras is a reef break, a left-hander. Difficulty is rated 6/10.
Best Season
Peak: Apr-Sep
Secondary: Mar, Oct
Quality reef break.
Getting There
Nearby Spots
El Gringo
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El Buey
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La Lisera
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El Laucho
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Las Machas
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