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.
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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
- 8.1m
- 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?
Pico Alto handles all stages of the tide, so time your session around the wind instead. The live chart above shows the next few days.
What wind direction is offshore at Pico Alto?
Offshore wind at Pico Alto blows from the E (90°). Anything in the 45° to 135° range grooms the faces; outside it, expect chop or bumpy conditions.
What swell size and direction work best at Pico Alto?
Pico Alto wants SSW swell (180° to 225°) between 3.7m and 12.2m, with a period of 16s or more for quality waves.
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?
Fly into LIM, then allow about 45 minutes by road. 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
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