Chicama - Malpaso
Malpaso is Chicama's barrel section - where the wave hits a shallower reef and throws perfect tubes at low tide. The name means 'bad pass' in Spanish, referring to the challenging shallow section that rewards those who commit.
Chicama - Malpaso 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 - 3m
- Ideal size
- 2.3m - 2.7m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 16s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SE (135°)
- Offshore range
- 110° - 160°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- low
- Optimal range
- 0.2m - 1.2m
Water temp
17°C
Wetsuit
3/2mm fullsuit
Difficulty
7/10
Crowd level
3/10
Access: Third section of Chicama.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Chicama - Malpaso?
The Chicama - Malpaso profile favors low tide, ideally between 0.2m and 1.2m 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 Chicama - Malpaso?
The Chicama - Malpaso profile uses wind from SE (135°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 110° to 160°. 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 Chicama - Malpaso?
The Chicama - Malpaso scoring profile favors swell from SSW (180° to 225°), a swell-height range of 1.8m 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 Chicama - Malpaso?
The main season at Chicama - Malpaso is Apr-Oct. A secondary window runs Mar, Nov. Best at low tide. Barrel section.
How do I get to Chicama - Malpaso?
The spot profile lists TRU as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 90 minutes. Third section of Chicama.
What kind of wave is Chicama - Malpaso?
Chicama - Malpaso is a point break, a left-hander. Difficulty is rated 7/10.
Best Season
Peak: Apr-Oct
Secondary: Mar, Nov
Best at low tide. Barrel section.
Getting There
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