The Surf Window

Puerto Montt

Los Lagos, Chile

Beach breakIntermediate

Gateway to Chilean Patagonia, Puerto Montt sits at the head of the inland sea where fjords begin, the surf here is minor but the scenery is extraordinary and a stopover en route to the wild south is worthwhile.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalW (270°)
WindowSSW–NNW (210°–330°)
Size1–1.5m at 12–16s

Wind

NE

Light under 15 knots

Tide

Mid to high

LowMidHigh

Season

Dec–Apr

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Beach break

Bottom

Sand and dark volcanic rock

Shape

Small inconsistent peaks

Length

30–50m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Beginners
  • •Why: Small, sheltered waves in a calm bay

Hazards

  • •Very cold water, 8–12°C requires 5/4mm or more
  • •Ferry traffic in the bay
  • •Weather is notoriously unpredictable in Patagonia

Local Tips

  • •Puerto Montt is a gateway, the real adventure is continuing south to Chiloé or Carretera Austral
  • •The Angelmo fish market is extraordinary, eat empanadas and seafood before exploring
  • •Osorno Volcano visible on clear days is one of Chile's most perfect conical peaks

Location

Map showing the location of Puerto Montt in Los Lagos, Chile

-41.4718, -72.9396