Las Machas
Las Machas ("The Razor Clams") is a mellow beach break named for the shellfish found on its shores. A beginner-friendly option in the Arica area with consistent, forgiving waves.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SW (225°)
- Direction range
- 210° - 250°
- Size range
- 0.9m - 1.8m
- Ideal size
- 1.5m
- 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
3/10
Crowd level
3/10
Access: South of Arica. Beach access.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Las Machas?
Las Machas works best on a mid to high tide, ideally between 0.4m and 1.5m on the local tide chart. The tide chart above shows today’s strike window.
What wind direction is offshore at Las Machas?
Offshore wind at Las Machas blows from the NE (45°). Anything in the 20° to 70° range grooms the faces; outside it, expect chop or bumpy conditions.
What swell size and direction work best at Las Machas?
Las Machas wants SW swell (210° to 250°) between 0.9m and 1.8m, with a period of 14s or more for quality waves.
When is the best time of year to surf Las Machas?
The main season at Las Machas is Mar-Oct. A secondary window runs Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb. Year-round. Named for razor clams.
How do I get to Las Machas?
Fly into ARI, then allow about 12 minutes by road. South of Arica. Beach access.
What kind of wave is Las Machas?
Las Machas is a beach break, a peak with lefts and rights. Difficulty is rated 3/10.
Best Season
Peak: Mar-Oct
Secondary: Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb
Year-round. Named for razor clams.
Getting There
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