Punta Huanchaco

Long mellow lefts steeped in ancient culture.

Huanchaco is a historically rich surf town near Trujillo in northern Peru, famous for its long, cruisy left-hand point break and remarkably consistent year-round swell, with Surfline rating consistency at 95 percent or better every month. The main point delivers smooth, peeling lefts over sand and rock bottom ideal for longboarding and progressive surfing, while beach break peaks throughout the bay offer variety for all levels. Waves are typically 3 to 6 feet with the biggest swells arriving from December through April, and water temperatures hover around 62-68 degrees Fahrenheit. Huanchaco is uniquely notable as the birthplace of the caballito de totora, ancient reed watercraft that local fishermen have ridden through the surf for over 3,000 years, predating modern surfing by millennia. The town offers a welcoming atmosphere with affordable surf schools, accommodation, and serves as a convenient base for day trips to nearby Chicama.

Best months to surf Punta Huanchaco

Wave consistency

Very Consistent

Things to do nearby

• Visit the El Brujo Archaeological Complex and see the famous Lady of Cao mummy
• Visit the ancient ruins of Chan Chan the largest adobe city of the pre-Columbian era
• Try a plate of fresh ceviche at a beachfront restaurant
• Explore the nearby city of Trujillo and admire its colonial architecture and vibrant plazas