The Surf Window

La Serena

Coquimbo, Chile

Beach breakIntermediate

Chile's second oldest city sits on a bay where south swells and river mouth sandbars create consistent beach breaks enjoyed by a small but growing surf community in a colonial city famed for its 1000 sunsets per year.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalW (270°)
WindowSSW–NNW (210°–330°)
Size1–2m at 12–16s

Wind

E

Light to NE under 15 knots

Tide

Mid tide

LowMidHigh

Season

Mar–Aug

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Beach break

Bottom

Sand

Shape

Multiple peaks along a long beach

Length

40–80m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Beginner to intermediate
  • •Why: Moderate, consistent waves make it accessible for all levels

Hazards

  • •Cold water, 14–16°C
  • •Strong afternoon winds
  • •Busy beach in summer, tourist and swimmer traffic

Local Tips

  • •The Elqui Valley nearby is famous for stargazing, extraordinary night skies
  • •Pisco Elqui village is an hour inland and worth the trip on a flat day
  • •The beach along the Avenida del Mar is beautiful for post-surf walking

Location

Map showing the location of La Serena in Coquimbo, Chile

-29.9027, -71.2520