Huanchaco

## The spot Huanchaco is a historically significant left-hand point break on Peru's arid northern coast, famous both for its incredibly long rides and for the traditional caballitos de totora (reed fishing boats) that have been used here for thousands of years. The wave peels along a sandy and cobblestone bay for hundreds of metres, offering a continuous workable face rather than heavy barrels. The ancient fishing village atmosphere and the endurance challenge of the long rides give Huanchaco a unique character among South American surf spots. ## When it works South-westerly Pacific groundswells arrive consistently from March through November. The wave activates on 3ft swells and the sections connect on 5ft-plus, offering rides exceeding 500 metres. A south-easterly offshore wind grooms the face, most reliable at dawn. The wave works year-round but the largest swells arrive between May and August. ## Where to sit The take-off zone is at the top of the point where the headland forces the swell to refract and steepen. From here, the wave peels left for several hundred metres along the bay. Position at the top for the longest potential ride. The inside section closer to the pier is mellower and suited to beginners. The caballitos launch from the beach and share the wave space. ## Hazards The main hazard is exhaustion. Rides lasting several minutes demand continuous leg work. The walk back up the point after each wave takes 10-15 minutes. The water is cold (16-19C) due to the Humboldt Current. Sea urchins inhabit the rocky sections near the take-off. The caballitos (reed boats) must be given right of way; they have been here far longer than surfers. ## Parking and access Parking is available along the waterfront road. The beach is flat and immediately accessible. The town has full facilities including restaurants, accommodation, and surf rental. Huanchaco is a 15-minute drive from Trujillo, a major city with airport connections. ## The crowd Moderate crowds of 10-20 surfers, mostly Peruvian locals and visiting South American surfers. International visitors are relatively uncommon. The wave's length distributes surfers along the point. The atmosphere is friendly and community-oriented. The caballito fishermen add a cultural dimension unique to this spot. ## Local tips Bring a longer board (7'0" to 8'0" or a longboard) to maximise glide and minimise the leg burn on these extremely long rides. The wave rewards smooth, efficient surfing over aggressive turning. Your legs will fatigue rapidly; stretch thoroughly and build sessions gradually. The Humboldt Current makes the water cold despite the desert climate; a 3/2mm wetsuit is necessary. The totora reed boats are UNESCO-listed cultural heritage; watch them launch and land with respect.