Punta Prieta
Punta Prieta ("Dark Point") is a left point break in the La Libertad region, offering uncrowded waves near the more famous Chicama and Pacasmayo. The dark volcanic rock gives the spot its name.
Punta Prieta 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
- 1.2m - 2.4m
- Ideal size
- 1.7m - 2.1m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 16s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SE (135°)
- Offshore range
- 110° - 160°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- low to mid
- Optimal range
- 0.4m - 1.4m
Water temp
17°C
Wetsuit
3/2mm fullsuit
Difficulty
5/10
Crowd level
2/10
Access: Near Puemape.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Punta Prieta?
The Punta Prieta profile favors low to mid tide, ideally between 0.4m and 1.4m 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 Punta Prieta?
The Punta Prieta 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 Punta Prieta?
The Punta Prieta scoring profile favors swell from SSW (180° to 225°), a swell-height range of 1.2m to 2.4m, 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 Punta Prieta?
The main season at Punta Prieta is Apr-Oct. A secondary window runs Mar, Nov. Near Puemape.
How do I get to Punta Prieta?
The spot profile lists TRU as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 70 minutes. Near Puemape.
What kind of wave is Punta Prieta?
Punta Prieta is a point break, a left-hander. Difficulty is rated 5/10.
Best Season
Peak: Apr-Oct
Secondary: Mar, Nov
Near Puemape.
Getting There
Nearby Spots
Puemape
🌊 Hidden gem • Between the famous spots • Less crowded
Chicama
📏 World's longest wave • 2km+ possible • Four connecting sections
El Faro
🗼 Chicama starting point • Connects to main wave • Part of longest ride
Chicama - El Point
🌍 World longest left • 2km+ rides • Bucket list wave
Chicama - Keys
🔑 Inside section • Near the pier • Perfect walls
Chicama - Malpaso
🛢️ Barrel section • Low tide tubes • Chicama hollow