Pico Alto
Pico Alto is Peru's premier big wave—a deepwater reef 1.5km offshore from Punta Hermosa that produces some of South America's largest rideable waves. The unique geography means the wave almost never closes out, offering clean faces in the 40-60 foot range about 10 days per year. The 30-minute paddle out is challenging, but the reward is one of the most user-friendly big waves on the planet. Peru's consistent S-SW swells and cold upwelling water create ideal big wave conditions.
Pico Alto surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SSW (200°)
- Direction range
- 180° - 225°
- Size range
- 3.7m - 12.2m
- Ideal size
- 6m - 8.5m
- Height multiplier
- 1.08×
- Ideal period
- 16s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- E (90°)
- Offshore range
- 45° - 135°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- all
Difficulty
6/10
Crowd level
3/10
Access: 30min paddle
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Pico Alto?
The Pico Alto profile does not specify a preferred tide stage. That does not mean tide has no effect: check local conditions alongside swell and wind.
What wind direction is offshore at Pico Alto?
The Pico Alto profile uses wind from E (90°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 45° to 135°. 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 Pico Alto?
The Pico Alto scoring profile favors swell from SSW (180° to 225°), a swell-height range of 3.7m to 12.2m, 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 Pico Alto?
The main season at Pico Alto is May-Sep. A secondary window runs Apr, Oct. ~10 days/year (15ft+)
How do I get to Pico Alto?
The spot profile lists LIM as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 45 minutes. 30min paddle
What kind of wave is Pico Alto?
Pico Alto is a big wave break, a peak with lefts and rights. Difficulty is rated 6/10.
Best Season
Peak: May-Sep
Secondary: Apr, Oct
~10 days/year (15ft+)
Getting There
Nearby Spots
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Plan a trip around Pico Alto
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