Chicama - surf spot statistics

Chicama, Peru, is renowned for its long, consistent left-hand point breaks, offering some of the most rideable waves in the world. The swell data shows that ground swells dominate year-round, with percentages rarely dropping below 88%, ensuring high-quality, clean waves. The best months for surfing at Chicama are from January to April, when ground swells are at their peak (95–99%) and wind conditions are most favorable, with good wind percentages ranging from 68% to 71%. During these months, the mean swell size is moderate (1.3–1.6m), providing ideal conditions for long, mellow rides. From May onward, wind conditions deteriorate, with bad wind percentages rising above 50%, peaking at 68% in July and August. Despite this, ground swells remain strong, and the swell size increases to around 1.7–1.8m, making summer and early autumn still surfable but less reliable due to increased onshore winds. The shoulder months of October to December see a gradual improvement in wind conditions, with good wind percentages rising back above 50%, though swell size decreases slightly. For surfers seeking the most consistent waves with minimal wind interference, the window from January to April is optimal, offering the perfect balance of swell consistency, size, and favorable winds.

December at Chicama offers consistent, high-quality surf conditions with a dominant southwest swell direction, making it an excellent month for intermediate to advanced surfers. The average swell height is 1.3m with a solid 13.2s period, producing long, well-formed waves ideal for powerful turns and down-the-line rides. The swell is predominantly from the SW (45.98% of waves in the 1-1.5m range) and SSW (17.71% in the same range), ensuring clean, organized lines with minimal wave interference. Larger sets occasionally reach 1.5-2m (13.71% SW, 4.29% SSW), providing more challenging sections for experienced surfers. Wind conditions are favorable 59% of the time, predominantly light to moderate southerlies (S, SSE, SSW) under 30kph, keeping the surface clean. However, stronger south winds (10-30kph) occur frequently (26.86% S, 15.05% SSE), which can create minor texture but rarely ruin the swell’s power. Expect mostly rideable days with a mix of shoulder-high to slightly overhead waves, minimal closeouts, and long, fast walls—classic Chicama perfection.