The Surf Window

Piriápolis

Maldonado, Uruguay

Beach breakIntermediate

Uruguay's oldest resort town, Piriápolis sits at the base of a series of granite hills overlooking the Río de la Plata estuary, where Atlantic swells round the cape and deliver consistent beach break to a charming old-fashioned resort.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalW (270°)
WindowSSW–NNW (210°–330°)
Size–S 1–2.5m at 12–16s

Wind

W

Light to NW under 15 knots

Tide

Mid tide

LowMidHigh

Season

Mar–Sep Uruguayan autumn and winter

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Beach break

Bottom

Sand and rock

Shape

Peaks with lefts and rights along the main beach

Length

50–100m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Beginner to intermediate
  • •Why: Consistent swell in a beautiful setting with full beach facilities

Hazards

  • •Strong rip currents in bigger swells
  • •Rocks at the Punta Colorada end of the beach
  • •Cold water, 12–16°C in winter requires wetsuit

Local Tips

  • •The Art Deco Argentino Hotel and the old casino are historically fascinating
  • •The hills behind town (Cerro Pan de Azúcar) offer hiking with views over the bay
  • •Argentine and Uruguayan families share this resort tradition, very welcoming culture

Location

Map showing the location of Piriápolis in Maldonado, Uruguay

-34.8630, -55.2809