Pico Alto is a beach on the central coast of Peru, located in the district of Punta Hermosa, Lima. Its waves, among the biggest and best in the world, are very attractive to Peruvian and foreign surfers.

Surf at Pico Alto

Photo: surfinglatino

The sea at Pico Alto has outer-reef type waves that break right, and occasionally left. It is characterized by being well-defined, long, and with a great tubular section.

Because of this, Pico Alto hosts important surfing tournaments, such as the National Championship, the Big Wave World Tour where surfers from Peru and around the world participate in August, when the waves are at their peak and the so-called "Pico Alto" is formed.

Where It Takes Place

It takes place at Pico Alto Beach, which due to the shape of its waves, its size, and dimensions, makes it one of the most attractive for surfers in Peru and the world. To reach the powerful wave, you have to go to the sea area known as Pico Alto, which is 800 meters offshore.

How to Get to Pico Alto Beach

To get to this beach, you have to head south on the Panamericana Sur until kilometer 36, where you must take a right turn towards the Old Panamericana Sur. Then continue until you reach the district of Punta Hermosa, to access Pico Alto, you have to enter through Señoritas beach.

Skill Level

Due to the type of waves at this beach, it is recommended for surfers at an intermediate level, and only for professionals when the power, force, and size of the waves increase.

Wave Size

The waves at Pico Alto range from 8 to 10 meters high, with recorded waves up to 12 meters during peak times.

Season

At Pico Alto, surfing is possible year-round, you just need to have the necessary gear.

Video: Peru Surf

What to Bring

Surfboard
Wetsuit
Sunscreen
Swimwear

Recommendations

Pico Alto has one of the best waves in the world, which also makes it very challenging. Therefore, if you are at an intermediate level, practice it with a professional surfer who knows the area.