Los Palos
Los Palos is Peru's southernmost quality surf spot - a remote left point in the desert just north of the Chilean border. Complete isolation and consistent waves reward the adventurous.
Los Palos surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SW (230°)
- Direction range
- 210° - 260°
- Size range
- 1m - 3m
- Ideal size
- 1.9m - 2.5m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 16s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- E (90°)
- Offshore range
- 50° - 130°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid
- Optimal range
- 0.5m - 1.5m
Water temp
15°C
Wetsuit
4/3mm fullsuit
Difficulty
6/10
Crowd level
1/10
Access: Remote point near Chile border. 4WD recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Los Palos?
The Los Palos profile favors mid tide, ideally between 0.5m 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 Los Palos?
The Los Palos 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 Los Palos?
The Los Palos scoring profile favors swell from SW (210° to 260°), a swell-height range of 1m 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 Los Palos?
The main season at Los Palos is Apr-Sep. A secondary window runs Mar, Oct. Best March-October. Remote desert point.
How do I get to Los Palos?
The spot profile lists TCQ as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 120 minutes. Remote point near Chile border. 4WD recommended.
What kind of wave is Los Palos?
Los Palos is a point break, a left-hander. Difficulty is rated 6/10.
Best Season
Peak: Apr-Sep
Secondary: Mar, Oct
Best March-October. Remote desert point.
Getting There
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