Overview of surfing in South America
While North America boasts Pipeline and Malibu, South America counters with Chicama (the world’s longest left), Punta de Lobos, and Florianópolis—spots that define the continent’s surf lore and inspire surfers worldwide. With Pacific, Atlantic, and Caribbean coastlines, South America’s surf geography is as vast and varied as its cultures. The Caribbean Sea is a key geographical feature, bordering the north of South America and connecting the region to the broader Americas, including Central America and Mexico to the west and north. The Caribbean region itself includes numerous islands, countries, and nations, highlighting its geographical diversity and the complex mosaic of independent nations, territories, and dependencies found to the east of Central America and Mexico.
This landmass stretches from equatorial tropics to Antarctic cold, with the Andes towering above much of the western coastline. That variety ensures year-round surf somewhere on the continent. Add in rich cultural traditions, delicious food, and a growing surf community, and South America is more than a destination—it’s a surf pilgrimage.
Though the continent represents a modest slice of the global surf map, its diversity and world-class waves make it essential for any serious surfer. Surfing here connects you to ancient cultures, colonial history, and a vibrant modern identity that fuses global surf stoke with uniquely South American energy. European contact dramatically altered the region, leading to the importation of African slaves who worked on sugar plantations, which profoundly shaped the population, culture, and history of the Caribbean and South America.
Getting there
Getting There / Access
Major airports include Lima (Peru), Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo (Brazil), Santiago (Chile), and Quito/Guayaquil (Ecuador). Domestic flights are common, and buses link coastal towns affordably. Surf road trips are popular, especially along Chile’s endless coast or Peru’s desert points. Brazil’s sprawling coastline often requires multiple flights.
Crowds
Brazil and Ecuador’s surf towns see the most crowds, with lively scenes at Montañita or Florianópolis. Peru’s Chicama gets busy during swells but remains spacious due to its length. Chile’s raw coastlines remain relatively uncrowded thanks to cold, heavy conditions.
Lineup Lowdown
Respect is essential. Peru’s points have a strong local presence but are generally friendly. Brazil’s lineups are lively and competitive. Chile’s surf demands experience and respect for heavy conditions. Ecuador’s Montañita is welcoming but busy, especially with visiting backpackers.
Surf spot overview
Surf seasons and when to go
The best time of the year to surf in South America
Surf Seasons & When to Go
Winter (Jun–Aug):
- Peru: 15–18°C → 4/3 or 5/4 wetsuit
- Chile: 12–15°C → 5/4 or 6/5 hooded
- Brazil: 22–25°C → trunks or bikini
- Ecuador: 22–25°C → boardshorts
Summer (Dec–Feb):
- Peru: 18–22°C → 3/2 wetsuit
- Chile: 15–18°C → 4/3 suit
- Brazil: 26–28°C → no wetsuit
- Ecuador: 25–27°C → no wetsuit
Fall/Spring:
- Transition seasons offer consistent swells across all regions. Peru and Chile pump, while Brazil and Ecuador remain warm and consistent.
Weather
South America’s climate varies massively. Peru and Chile’s coasts are cool and dry, Brazil is tropical and humid, with an abundance of sun and beautiful beaches that attract surfers and vacationers alike, and Ecuador is warm year-round. Winters in southern Chile can be stormy and freezing, while Brazil delivers endless summer vibes.
Can’t-Miss Surf Spots
Chicama (Peru)
The world’s longest left. Chicama peels for up to 2 kilometers, offering endless rides where surfers can link multiple turns and sections on a single wave. A dream for intermediates and experts, best on long-period south swells. Paddling back is nearly impossible—boats are often used to get back to the point.
Punta de Lobos (Chile)
South America’s big-wave proving ground. This legendary left point in Pichilemu serves up massive, powerful walls that attract the world’s best big-wave surfers. Cold water, heavy rips, and raw Pacific energy make it a serious challenge. The dramatic cliffs overlooking the lineup add to its iconic status.
Saquarema (Brazil)
Known as Brazil’s surf capital, Saquarema delivers consistent, punchy beach breaks and reefs that have hosted World Surf League events for decades. It’s powerful, competitive, and deeply tied to Brazil’s rise as a surfing powerhouse. Best in winter when Atlantic swells light up the coast.
Montañita (Ecuador)
Ecuador’s surf hub. Montañita is famous for its fun right-hand point that reels off beside the town, creating a lively surf-and-party culture. Great for intermediates and up, with consistent waves, warm water, and a buzzing social scene that attracts travelers from around the world.
Lobitos (Peru)
A mechanical desert left. Lobitos is a former oil town turned surf paradise, where peeling points offer long rides and perfect sections. It’s consistent, relatively uncrowded, and caters to intermediates and advanced surfers alike. Its barren desert setting makes it one of Peru’s most unique surf experiences.
Florianópolis (Brazil)
Brazil’s surf island. Known for its variety of breaks—beachies, reefs, and points—Florianópolis caters to all levels. Spots like Praia Mole and Joaquina deliver world-class waves, while the island vibe blends Brazilian culture, nightlife, and surf lifestyle. Accessible, vibrant, and consistent year-round.
Pico Alto (Peru)
Peru’s big-wave arena. Located near Lima, Pico Alto breaks far offshore and regularly serves up 10–15 metre faces, making it South America’s answer to Mavericks or Nazaré. It’s tow-in territory for the elite, and a centerpiece of Peru’s heavy-water surf scene.
South America surf travel guide
Find trips that fit a flexible lifestyle
Learning to Surf in South America
Brazil and Ecuador are beginner-friendly, with warm water and surf schools, making these spots ideal for families looking to learn to surf together. Peru offers progression at mellow northern points, while Chile is best left to advanced surfers. The range of waves ensures growth at all levels, supported by surf camps across the continent.
Safety and Etiquette
Cold water, strong rips, and rocky reefs are common in Peru and Chile. Brazil’s crowds require good etiquette and patience. Ecuador’s reef setups are manageable but watch for currents. Respect locals, know your limits, and gear up properly in colder regions.
Surf and Yoga Retreats
Ecuador’s Montañita and Peru’s northern coast host retreats blending yoga and surf, with amenities like spa treatments, healthy meals, and comfortable accommodations enhancing the experience. Brazil has stylish surf lodges and camps along Florianópolis and Bahia. Chile offers eco-retreats in Pichilemu, often mixing surf with wine and mountain culture.
Accommodation Options
Affordable hostels dominate Peru and Ecuador. Brazil offers everything from budget pousadas to luxury surf resorts. Chile has rustic lodges and eco-stays near surf towns. Across the continent, surf camps are popular, offering packages with lessons, meals, and gear. Many surf camps also provide packages tailored for groups, making them ideal for friends or families traveling together.
Comparison to Other Surf Destinations
South America competes with the best: Chicama rivals any point break, Punta de Lobos matches Nazaré’s big-wave prestige, and Brazil’s energy is unique. This region stands out for its unique combination of world-class waves, diverse cultures, and affordable travel. Compared to North America or Australia, it’s cheaper and culturally richer, though infrastructure can lag.
Expenses
- Accommodation: Hostels $15–30, mid-range $40–70, upscale $100+
- Food: $5–15 casual, $30+ upscale
- Transport: Buses cheap ($5–20), domestic flights $50–150
- Surf Costs: Rentals ~$15–20/day, lessons $40–60/session
Cultural Notes
Surf culture here is tied to local traditions. Peru’s ancient wave-riding heritage is unique. Brazil fuses surf with samba, soccer, and street parties. Chile’s scene is raw and nature-driven, while Ecuador blends backpacker culture with island rhythms. Spanish and Portuguese dominate, so basic phrases go a long way.
Cell Coverage & Wi-Fi
Good in cities and surf hubs like Lima, Florianópolis, and Montañita. Rural Chile and remote Peru may lack coverage. Wi-Fi common in hostels and cafes.
Final Thoughts
South America is a surf odyssey: Chicama’s endless rides, Punta de Lobos’s heavy power, Saquarema’s competitive edge, and Montañita’s tropical fun. Add in ceviche, samba, Andes backdrops, and Amazon adventures, and you’ve got a surf trip that’s equal parts culture and waves. Affordable, diverse, and world-class, South America is a must for surfers chasing variety and adventure.
