El Gringo
El Gringo is Chile's most dangerous wave—a left-hand slab that breaks over an impossibly shallow rock shelf in Arica, earning it the nickname "Chilean Pipeline." The wave is so heavy and the reef so unforgiving that most professional surfers wear helmets here. When solid South swells light up this section of coast, El Gringo produces perfect, death-defying barrels for those brave enough to paddle out. This is the realm of big-wave hellmen only.
El Gringo surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SSW (202°)
- Direction range
- 180° - 225°
- Size range
- 1.8m - 3.7m
- Ideal size
- 2.7m - 3.2m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 17s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- N (0°)
- Offshore range
- 315° - 45°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid
Difficulty
6/10
Crowd level
3/10
Access: Beach/paddle
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at El Gringo?
The El Gringo profile favors mid tide. Compare this preference with the forecast tide and local conditions before choosing a session.
What wind direction is offshore at El Gringo?
The El Gringo profile uses wind from N (0°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 315° to 45°. 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 Gringo?
The El Gringo scoring profile favors swell from SSW (180° to 225°), a swell-height range of 1.8m to 3.7m, and a reference period of 17s. 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 Gringo?
The main season at El Gringo is May-Jul. A secondary window runs Apr, Aug, Sep. ~31% Feb clean (May-Jul best)
How do I get to El Gringo?
The spot profile lists ARI as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 10 minutes. Beach/paddle
What kind of wave is El Gringo?
El Gringo is a reef break, a left-hander. Difficulty is rated 6/10.
Best Season
Peak: May-Jul
Secondary: Apr, Aug, Sep
~31% Feb clean (May-Jul best)
Getting There
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