El Brazo
El Brazo ("The Arm") is a reef and sand hybrid break in the Arica surf zone, offering both lefts and rights depending on sandbar configuration. A versatile option with varied conditions.
El Brazo 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
- 0.9m - 2.4m
- Ideal size
- 1.6m - 2m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 14s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- NE (45°)
- Offshore range
- 20° - 70°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid to high
- Optimal range
- 0.4m - 1.5m
Water temp
18°C
Wetsuit
3/2mm fullsuit
Difficulty
5/10
Crowd level
2/10
Access: Near El Gringo zone.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at El Brazo?
The El Brazo profile favors mid to high tide, ideally between 0.4m and 1.5m 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 El Brazo?
The El Brazo 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 El Brazo?
The El Brazo scoring profile favors swell from SW (200° to 250°), a swell-height range of 0.9m to 2.4m, and a reference period of 14s. 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 El Brazo?
The main season at El Brazo is Apr-Sep. A secondary window runs Mar, Oct. Reef/sand hybrid.
How do I get to El Brazo?
The spot profile lists ARI as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 10 minutes. Near El Gringo zone.
What kind of wave is El Brazo?
El Brazo is a reef break, a peak with lefts and rights. Difficulty is rated 5/10.
Best Season
Peak: Apr-Sep
Secondary: Mar, Oct
Reef/sand hybrid.
Getting There
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