Playa Chinchorro
Playa Chinchorro is the main surf beach in Arica, Chile's northernmost coastal city. This west-facing beach break offers consistent waves year-round.
Playa Chinchorro 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° - 270°
- Size range
- 0.8m - 2.5m
- Ideal size
- 1.6m - 2.1m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 14s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- E (90°)
- Offshore range
- 50° - 130°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- all
- Optimal range
- 0.3m - 1.5m
Water temp
18°C
Wetsuit
3/2mm fullsuit
Difficulty
4/10
Crowd level
3/10
Access: Main beach in Arica. Easy access from town.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Playa Chinchorro?
The Playa Chinchorro profile favors the recorded tide range, ideally between 0.3m 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 Playa Chinchorro?
The Playa Chinchorro profile uses wind from E (90°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 50° to 130°. 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 Playa Chinchorro?
The Playa Chinchorro scoring profile favors swell from SW (200° to 270°), a swell-height range of 0.8m to 2.5m, 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 Playa Chinchorro?
The main season at Playa Chinchorro is Mar-Oct. A secondary window runs Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb. Year-round surf. Best swells autumn through spring.
How do I get to Playa Chinchorro?
The spot profile lists ARI as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 10 minutes. Main beach in Arica. Easy access from town.
What kind of wave is Playa Chinchorro?
Playa Chinchorro is a beach break, a peak with lefts and rights. Difficulty is rated 4/10.
Best Season
Peak: Mar-Oct
Secondary: Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb
Year-round surf. Best swells autumn through spring.
Getting There
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Plan a trip around Playa Chinchorro
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