Pichilemu.

The breaks

Recognised, publicly known surf spots around Pichilemu. Suitability depends on the day's swell, wind and tide, so treat the level as a guide, not a guarantee.

A coast of left-hand points

Chile has thousands of kilometres of Pacific coastline, and much of it faces south-west into the path of Southern Ocean swells. Along the central coast, headlands catch these swells and turn them into long, peeling left-hand points. Pichilemu, in the O'Higgins Region a few hours south-west of Santiago, is the best known of these surf towns.

The Humboldt Current brings cold water north from Antarctica, which means wetsuits all year and frequent morning fog. It also brings rich marine life, from sea lions to seabirds. The town is laid-back, with a mix of surf hostels, cabañas and seafood restaurants, and it hosts national and international surf contests.

Punta de Lobos

Punta de Lobos, about six kilometres south of town, is Pichilemu's most famous wave. It is a long, powerful left-hand point that breaks below a rocky headland with sea stacks just offshore. On big swells, it becomes one of the most respected big-wave spots in South America and hosts big-wave contests. Even on smaller days, it is a serious wave for experienced surfers, with a tricky entry off the rocks and strong currents.

The headland has been the focus of conservation efforts by local surfers and organisations to protect it from development. Watch from the clifftop viewpoint, and paddle out only if you are confident in powerful waves and cold water.

La Puntilla and the town waves

La Puntilla is the point at the northern end of Pichilemu's main beach. It is a left-hand point that peels gently on most swells, offering long, slow waves that are ideal for learners and longboarders. Surf schools operate here, and it is the main learning spot in town.

The main beach, Playa Principal, stretches south from La Puntilla and offers beach-break peaks. Infiernillo, at the southern end of town, is a heavier left over rock that suits experienced surfers. Each spot responds differently to swell and wind, so there is usually somewhere to surf.

Staying in Pichilemu

Staying in Pichilemu town puts you close to La Puntilla, the main beach, restaurants and shops. Accommodation ranges from hostels to cabañas and small hotels.

Many surf lodges and cabañas are located near Punta de Lobos, south of town. Staying here means you can check the wave from your door, but you will need a car or taxi for supplies and dining. Pichilemu gets busy during the Chilean summer holidays in January and February, so book ahead.

How to get to Pichilemu

Santiago's international airport is the main gateway. Pichilemu is a few hours' drive south-west, and buses run regularly from Santiago. A rental car gives the most flexibility to explore the coast, including spots further south.

Within Pichilemu, taxis and colectivos (shared taxis) connect the town with Punta de Lobos. Cycling is possible but hilly.

Cold water, fog and what to pack

The Humboldt Current keeps the water cold year-round. Expect water temperatures in the low to mid teens Celsius. Most surfers wear a 4/3 wetsuit with boots, and a 5/4 in winter. Gloves and a hood can help on the coldest days.

Morning fog is common, especially in summer. It can make it hard to see the line-up and judge conditions, so wait for it to lift or surf with others. Bring warm layers for after your session, and remember that the sun can be strong when the fog clears. Board and wetsuit hire is available in town.

Ocean safety and line-up etiquette

Pichilemu's waves are powerful, and the cold water adds to the challenge. Rocky entries and exits at Punta de Lobos and Infiernillo require care: watch how local surfers get in and out, and time your entry between sets. Currents can be strong around the points, especially on bigger swells, so know where you will come in before you paddle out.

Lifeguard coverage is limited outside the main beach in summer, so surf with others and tell someone where you are going. Sea lions are common along the coast and usually keep their distance; give them space if you see them.

The line-ups at Punta de Lobos and Infiernillo have experienced local surfers. Sit wide when you arrive, wait your turn and never drop in. At La Puntilla, learners and longboarders share the waves, so keep control of your board and give others room. Respect for local surfers and the conservation efforts around Punta de Lobos goes a long way.

The wider central Chilean coast

Pichilemu is a good base for exploring Chile's central coast, which has many other point breaks. To the south, the coast towards Bucalemu and beyond has quieter waves for experienced, self-sufficient surfers. To the north, the coast near Matanzas and Navidad is popular for windsurfing and kitesurfing as well as surfing.

Further north, near Valparaíso and Viña del Mar, there are more beach and point breaks within reach of Santiago. Many Chilean surfers travel along this coast chasing swells, so local knowledge is invaluable.

Beyond the surf in Pichilemu

Check the swell and wind forecasts: the points need a south-west swell, and morning offshore winds are often best. Fog can delay sessions, so be patient.

On a flat day, explore the Cáhuil lagoon and its salt flats, where salt is still harvested by hand, visit the wine valleys of Colchagua inland, or enjoy fresh seafood in town. Respect local surfers and the conservation efforts at Punta de Lobos, and leave the beaches and headlands cleaner than you found them.

Pichilemu surf season month by month

A broad planning picture, not a forecast. Swell, wind and water temperature vary from year to year.

Learning to surf in Pichilemu

Pichilemu is Chile's most popular place to learn to surf, mainly because of La Puntilla, a gentle left-hand point that offers slow, peeling waves. Several surf schools operate here, offering lessons with wetsuits and soft-top boards included.

The water is cold, so a good wetsuit and boots are important for comfort. Ask the school about group size, instructor experience and whether lessons are timed for the best tide and wind.

Once you are comfortable on green waves, the main beach and La Puntilla on bigger days can help you progress. Punta de Lobos and Infiernillo are best left to experienced surfers.

Comparing options across the country? Read our guide to surfing in Chile.