Intendencia
Intendencia is a wedging slab in the Iquique heavy wave zone, producing thick, hollow lefts when SW swells wrap into the bay. A step up from beginner waves but not quite as heavy as El Colegio.
Intendencia 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 - 3m
- Ideal size
- 2m - 2.6m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 16s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- ENE (67°)
- Offshore range
- 45° - 90°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid
- Optimal range
- 0.4m - 1.4m
Water temp
17°C
Wetsuit
3/2mm fullsuit
Difficulty
8/10
Crowd level
2/10
Access: Iquique slab zone.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Intendencia?
The Intendencia 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 Intendencia?
The Intendencia profile uses wind from ENE (67°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 45° to 90°. 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 Intendencia?
The Intendencia scoring profile favors swell from SW (200° to 250°), a swell-height range of 1.2m to 3m, 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 Intendencia?
The main season at Intendencia is Apr-Sep. A secondary window runs Mar, Oct. Hollow wedge. Iquique slab zone.
How do I get to Intendencia?
The spot profile lists IQQ as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 10 minutes. Iquique slab zone.
What kind of wave is Intendencia?
Intendencia is a slab break, a left-hander. Difficulty is rated 8/10.
Best Season
Peak: Apr-Sep
Secondary: Mar, Oct
Hollow wedge. Iquique slab zone.
Getting There
Nearby Spots
Iquique
🏜️ Atacama meets Pacific • Cold water lefts • Dramatic desert setting
Punta Dos
✌️ Point Two • Iquique slab • Heavy barrels
El Colegio
🎓 The School • Harsh lessons • Iquique heaviest
Hueso de Ballena
🐋 Whale Bone reef • Quality left • Less intense
Cavancha
🏖️ Iquique city beach • Beginner-friendly • Consistent
Huayquique
🌊 Northern Chile point • Long lefts • Desert backdrop
Plan a trip around Intendencia
Compare this break with other destinations in these surf guides.