Punta Panico - surf spot statistics

Punta Panico in Peru is a highly consistent surf spot with ground swell dominating year-round—there is virtually no wind swell, and flat days are extremely rare. The swell size remains steady, averaging 0.9m to 1.0m throughout the year, making it ideal for intermediate surfers looking for manageable waves. However, wind conditions vary significantly, and this is the key factor determining the best months to surf. From January to March, offshore winds are most reliable, with January offering the best combination of clean conditions (72% good winds) and consistent swell. February and March follow closely, though wind quality declines slightly. April through August sees a sharp drop in favorable winds, with May being the worst (only 23% good winds), often resulting in onshore chop that disrupts wave quality. Conditions improve from September onward, with October being particularly good (57% good winds), though not as consistent as early-year months. In summary, the prime window for surfing Punta Panico is January to March when clean offshore winds align with steady ground swells, providing the most reliable and enjoyable sessions. Late September through November also offers decent conditions, but early year remains superior. If you prioritize glassy waves, avoid May to August when onshore winds dominate.

November at Punta Panico sees consistent, surfable conditions with a dominant swell coming from the SW and WSW directions, offering a mix of wave heights between 0.5m to 1.5m. The average swell height of 1.0m combined with a long 15.0s period ensures well-spaced, clean waves, ideal for intermediate to advanced surfers. Around 49% of the time, winds are favorable—primarily light to moderate SSE to S breezes (10-30kph)—creating clean faces with minimal onshore interference. However, stronger winds (20-30kph) from the SSE can occasionally disrupt conditions, particularly in the afternoons. Expect the best sessions during morning hours when winds are lighter. Overall, November delivers reliable, medium-sized waves with good shape and rideable conditions nearly half the time, making it a solid choice for surfers seeking consistency.