The Surf Window

Pucatrihue

Los Lagos, Chile

Beach breakIntermediate

Near the Los Lagos Region border in Chile, Pucatrihue is a sleepy beach town where dark volcanic sand meets consistent south swells in a setting that feels like the edge of the world, and practically is.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalW (270°)
WindowSSW–NNW (210°–330°)
Size–W 1.5–3m at 14–18s

Wind

NE

Light under 15 knots

Tide

Mid to high

LowMidHigh

Season

Mar–Oct

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Beach break

Bottom

Dark volcanic sand

Shape

Beach peaks, predominantly rights

Length

50–100m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Intermediate surfers
  • •Why: Consistent swell but powerful and cold water requires experience

Hazards

  • •Very cold water, 10–13°C requires 5/4mm wetsuit with hood and gloves
  • •Strong longshore currents
  • •Very limited services, remote town

Local Tips

  • •The farther south you go in Chile, the fewer surfers and the more powerful the waves
  • •Pucatrihue sits near the border of the lake district, combine surfing with hiking
  • •Bring your own provisions, the town is tiny with minimal shopping

Location

Map showing the location of Pucatrihue in Los Lagos, Chile

-40.5833, -73.8667