Peru has more than 1,500 miles of coast facing the Pacific Ocean. Thus, the variety of beaches in Peru is awesome and for all tastes. These natural paradises are perfect for those who enjoy adventure, water sports, sunbathing, and watching beautiful sunsets. You can also take leisurely walks along the beach.
As you can see, the Peruvian coast is a wonder by itself. Thus, together with Machu Travel Peru, we want to show you the best Peruvian water paradises. So, let’s look at someone who will make you dream of your next adventure.
The 15 best Peruvian beaches to enjoy on your vacation
- Peru beaches overview
- Punta Sal
- Mancora
- Cabo Blanco
- Lobitos
- Cerro Azul
- Las Pocitas
- Playa Roja
- Playa La Mina
- Los Organos
- Huanchaco
- Miraflores
- Chicama
- Pimentel
- Colan
- Punta Hermosa
Peru beaches overview
A. South vs North Beaches
In general, Peru’s beaches can divided into two zones: the south beaches and the north beaches. The southern ones go from Paracas (260 kilometers south of Lima) to Huaraz (293 kilometers north of Lima). Consider Lima in the center of Peru.
The southern beaches are rocky, with large sections of sand. In addition, the water temperature is usually cold all year round and covered with algae. The low temperatures are due to the fact that the Antarctic Humboldt Current, which runs from south to north, passes along its coasts. There, the waves are calmer and suitable for surfing beginners.
The north beaches go from Trujillo (563 kilometers north of Lima) to Tumbes, the northernmost Peruvian city in the country, which borders Ecuador. These beaches have white and fine sand, warm waters, and calm waves. In other words, this is as close to the Caribbean beaches as you can find in the Inca country. Therefore, surf practices, hotels, and restaurants abound in the area.
In the north, the waves are longer and wavy, which is suitable for experienced surfers. Even more, the stretch between Mancora and Trujillo is home to the best surfing beaches in Peru. In the far north, from Mancora to Tumbes, sea currents are warmer (76°F) and heat the beaches in the area, making them more pleasant for swimming.
B. Best time to visit it
The best time to visit Peruvian beaches, especially those in the north, is from November to March, the summer season. At this time, the waters are warm (78°F), with clear skies and sunny days.
Otherwise, from April to October, cloudy skies will be present along the coast. Moreover, from June to August, you will see a dense fog for the most part of the day on the beaches; the locals call it Garua.
The cold air currents from south to north (Humboldt) and warm from north to south (El Niño) collide off the Peruvian coast. This collision creates a dense fog that has no escape (due to the high peaks in the east – the Andes), so it just floats over the coast. This is the Garua.
However, the cloudy season is perfect for whale watching, especially in half a year. The coast of Mancora hosts this wonderful experience.
C. How to get there
The Pan-American Highway crosses the entire coast of Peru from north to south. There are formal tourist bus transportation that goes from Lima to the entire north. We can mention Cruz del Sur, Tepsa, and Movil Tours. The main Peruvian north destinations are:
- Chiclayo: 770 km of distance from Lima, and the trip lasts 13 hours.
- Trujillo: 563 km from Lima, and the trip lasts 9 hours.
- Piura: 988 km from Lima, and the trip lasts 16 hours.
- Mancora: 1,166 km from Lima, and the trip lasts 18 hours.
- Tumbes: 1,271 km from Lima, and the trip lasts 20 hours.
Domestic flights always depart from Lima, the Peruvian capital, to Trujillo, Chiclayo, Piura, and Tumbes airports. The frequency of flights is many during the day. Unfortunately, there are no direct flights from other Peruvian cities to northern cities. The flights always make a stopover at Lima airport.
The flights last around two hours, and the safest airlines are LATAM, Skyairline, and Jet Smart. Fortunately, all the beaches are only a few meters away from the cities themselves. So, just take a cab from your hotel or city center to these beaches.
1. Punta Sal
Punta Sal is along the north coast, exactly 80 kilometers south of Tumbes. Tumbes is the northernmost city in Peru, bordering Ecuador. Tourists, surfers, and beach lovers consider Punta Sal one of Peru’s most beautiful and charming first-class ones.
The seawater temperature remains at a steady 24°C throughout the year. This is because the location is near the equator. The warm “El Niño Current” starts from this area. Therefore, many consider Punta Sal to be one of the best water paradises in Andean.
Owing to its gentle sand, breathtaking scenery, and agreeable climate, coupled with tranquil waters – it is ideal for sport fishing. Even there are local fishing villages.
Punta Sal has a 6.5-kilometer coastline, one of the longest in the world. With so much space, you will have no problem enjoying it away from the crowds. However, because of its rocky regions, you must walk a long stretch before swimming.
Moreover, its unparalleled beauty attracts both investors and tourists. So, if you are planning a trip to Peru, you can find a great selection of rustic resorts and restaurants here. Punta Sal has a great hotel infrastructure compared to others.
- Location: Tumbes / North.
- What to do: Relaxing, perfect to spend romantic evenings at sunset, sport fishing, diving, surfing, windsurfing, or kite surfing.
- Best time to visit: From May to October.
- Nearby attractions: Restaurants, resorts, and Hotel activities.
2. Mancora
Among its lovely beaches, Mancora is undoubtedly the best. The fine sands, perfect waves for surfing, and always sunny and pleasant climate make Mancora one of the best destinations.
Mancora is 187 kilometers from Piura north, in the warmest region of Peru. This sunny destination is open year-round. Thus, Mancora attracts many locals and travelers from around the world. Everybody searches its laid-back atmosphere, pure and dusty sand, warm waters, and cloudless blue skies.
You will be able to spend time in this beautiful paradise. Learning to surf in Mancora can even be your best option in Peru.
The experts know it for its great waves for surfing and nightlife for partying. Despite its small population, Mancora is full of hotels, restaurants, and resorts dedicated to the tourist market. Mancora is a relatively easily accessible and one of the favorite destinations for young travelers. Besides, Máncora has unique marine life, so if you are interested in fishing or diving, this is the place!
- Location: Piura / North.
- What to do: Relax, sun tanning, surfing, diving, kite surfing, etc.
- Best time to visit: 365 days of the year!
- Nearby attractions: Bars and restaurants (active nightlife) are on its main street.
3. Cabo Blanco
Cabo Blanco is, without a doubt, one of the best beaches in Peru. Even if books aren’t your thing, you’ve probably heard of the Nobel Prize in Literature Ernest Hemingway. If so, you have to know that he inspired himself to write his famous book, “The Old Man and the Sea”, in Cabo Blanco.
Scholars affirm that Hemingway was a fan of sport fishing for Black Marlin during the 1950s and 1960s. Therefore, he lived in Cabo Blanco for about 10 months. But this paradise is also popular for being home to the perfect wave for experienced surfers. From November to January, you can enjoy some great quality waves.
Cabo Blanco is 197 kilometers north of Piura. Some waves can reach up to 12 feet in height. They can even crash heavily against rocks during October and January. So, we recommend that you be cautious, even if you are an experienced surfer.
- Location: Piura / North.
- What to do: Surfing, swimming, taking a walk along its coast, sun tanning.
- Best time to visit: 365 days of the year!
- Nearby attractions: Cabo Blanco is inside the primary beach circuit on the north of the Peruvian coast. This zone has the best Peruvian weather. Therefore, you will find more amazing Peruvian beaches in the north, like Organos, Vichayto, Mancora, Punta Sal, and others.
4. Lobitos
If you need a beach that combines history and adventure, Lobitos is for you! It is 127 kilometers northwest of Piura. By the way, Lobitos was an ancient British oil settlement in the late 19th century. Of course, one of the regulations of the British oil company prohibited Peruvians from entering this zone.
In this sense, the Peruvian government and its army took possession of Lobitos in 1968. The Peruvians then expelled the British and built a military base close to this beach.
Later, the Peruvian military vacated the base built there in the mid-90s. So, they left abandoned Victorian-style buildings, rusty small refineries, and some dismantled military bases. Thus, Cabo Blanco combines history with perfect waves of more than 8 feet of altitude.
Many affirm that Lobitos is the perfect place to practice surfing in Peru. It has blue skies throughout the year, white sand, fresh and intense blue water, and a warm climate. For this reason, many surf schools are in Lobitos.
- Location: Piura / North.
- What to do: You can surf, paddle surf, swim, relax, and sun tanning.
- Best time to visit: Throughout the whole year.
- Nearby attractions: Lobitos is for you if you are looking to enjoy an adventurous summer in Peru. Lobitos is south of Mancora and Punta Sal—it is the closest beach to both!
5. Cerro Azul
The Cerro Azul waves are popular because the Beach Boys mentioned them in one of their first hits. Its 5 beaches are 155 kilometers south of Lima within the district of San Vicente de Cañete.
This was previously an important commercial port. Cerro Azul is a British pier built at the beginning of the 20th century. You will also find pre-Inca ruins, an abandoned lighthouse, and a wide variety of wildlife.
Despite its different attractions, Cerro Azul is often an underrated summer destination. But this means that you can enjoy it without crowds around.
Besides surfing, you can enjoy other activities such as fishing, kayaking, rafting, jet skiing, and much more. If you are planning to stay here for a while, the vacation homes are just south of the pier. This is an excellent alternative for your next vacation in Peru.
- Location: Lima / Center.
- What to do: Surfing, fishing, rafting, jet skis, relaxing.
- Best time to visit: From December to April.
- Nearby attractions: Cañete town and Lima.
6. Las Pocitas
Not far from Mancora, you can find Las Pocitas, 217 kilometers north of Piura. Also, Peruvians know it as Máncora Chico or Little Mancora. Las Pocitas is a more relaxed alternative than its older sister.
You can find a wide selection of hotels facing the sea. Some of these have pools and amazing views. Thus, among interesting facts about Peru, you should know that Las Pocitas is an excellent escape option for lovers!
In Pocitas, you’ll find cerulean waters that collide and contrast against the fine white sand. Of course, tropical gardens delimit its landscape and give it an unparalleled charm. Low tides reveal small marine ecosystems that are perfect for walking on the beach.
Also, it can be an incredible retreat for a romantic getaway. But if you are looking for a better beachside experience, look to stay at Hotel Las Pocitas. A luxury alternative that will make your visit much more magical.
- Location: Piura / North.
- What to do: Relaxing, sun tanning, swimming.
- Best time to visit: It’s Summer. From December to February.
- Nearby attractions: Hotel Las Pocitas and Mancora to the north.
7. Playa Roja
La Playa Roja, or “Red Beach”, gets its name thanks to its reddish sands that contrast greatly with the blue sea. Giving birth to spectacular scenery worth appreciating. The erosion of ancient lava solidified in the area and created them.
By the way, high cliffs in certain areas surround the beach, giving the place a unique appeal. If you are looking for things to do in Paracas, visiting this place is perfect for lovers of sunsets and natural landscapes. The Read Beach is 82 kilometers from the west of Ica, just 4 hours from Lima, in the Paracas National Reserve.
Because it is in the middle of a reserve, wildlife abounds in the area. Except for some authorized travel agencies. So we recommend booking some tours to make the most of the different attractions available!
- Location: Ica / Centre.
- What to do: Enjoy sunsets and wildlife sightings, and take a walk by the beach.
- Best time to visit: It’s Summer. From December to March (Warm and humid)
- Nearby attractions: Paracas National Reserve allows seeing sea lions, seals, and penguins. In the same way, Pisco town is the cradle of the Peruvian Flag Alcoholic Beverage, the Pisco.
8. Playa La Mina
La Mina is one of the most popular beaches in Peru. The beach is also one of the best for swimming, so it is likely to be full of people from January to March (Summer).
La Mina is 87 kilometers northwest of Ica (South of Lima). Its particular name comes from a former coal mine located nearby. The most spectacular desert landscapes of the Paracas National Reserve surround La Mina.
Stunning sandstone rock formations meet the sparkling turquoise-green waters of the Pacific. La Mina becomes even more beautiful at night, turning the sky into a festival for stars and camping enthusiasts.
However, the waters of La Mina can get quite cold depending on the season. For this reason, the best time to visit Peru, especially La Mina, is during the summer. Even if you are lucky, you can spot some sea lions.
- Location: Ica / Centre.
- What to do: Camping (see the stars), swimming, relaxing, wildlife sighting.
- Best time to visit: From January to March (Summer) – However, you will find a crowd of people.
- Nearby attractions: National Park of Paracas (Where you will see amazing animals like sea lions, penguins, seals, inter alia)
9. Los Organos
Los Órganos is one of the most popular beaches in the Piura region. This beautiful beach is just 15 minutes from Máncora. 203 kilometers north of Piura.
This is usually a much calmer and more peaceful alternative to the party shores of Máncora. Here, you’ll find calm waters.
The beach’s name comes from a nearby hill with a peculiar shape that resembles the pipes of ancient musical organs.
You can enjoy watching the fishermen bring the catch of the day or the turtles hanging around the dock. Also, if you are lucky enough to be on this beach, you can enjoy whale watching. Some tours even offer swimming with giant tortoises.
In addition, explore the town of Los Órganos and taste its restaurants’ delicious traditional Peruvian seafood. This supports the livelihood of the fishermen at the same time. Since these restaurants usually buy the catch of their day directly from them.
- Location: Piura / North.
- What to do: Whale watching, swimming with giant tortoises, fishing, relaxing, sun tanning.
- Best time to visit: From July to November.
- Nearby attractions: Máncora Beach and Piura Town.
10. Huanchaco
Huanchaco is home to one of the best beaches in Peru. It also goes by the name of the birthplace of the best ceviche in South America and the entire world. The beach is about 20 kilometers northwest of Trujillo (North of Lima). The water sports and the unusual style of fishing practiced by local fishermen make them famous in Huanchaco.
They ride on the waves with a traditional fishing boat called “Caballito de Totora”. Since the Chimu culture period (850 AD) for thousands of years, the ancient Peruvians already used woven reed boats. That’s why some scholars affirm that Huanchaco could be the cradle of surf in the world.
Furthermore, there are several local historical ruins, like Chan Chan, the largest mud city globally. Which was formerly the residence of the Chimus.
Impressive surfing waves, ancient ruins, ancient boats, and ceviche make the coastal city of Huanchaco invaluable. Even the sure lovers named it World Surf Reserve Site in 2012. Amazing!
- Location: Trujillo / North.
- What to do: Surfing, swimming, paddle surfing, riding the old reed boats known as “caballitos de totora”.
- Best time to visit: From April to October.
- Nearby attractions: Chan-Chan Archeological Center or the largest ancient mud city in the world. The mud city is behind the main beach road.
11. Miraflores
With a cosmopolitan city as a backdrop and one of the best neighborhoods in Lima at your fingertips, this beach is a must-see. You will find opportunities for lessons in surfing, paragliding, and much more. It is not in vain; beaches and restaurants are a source of fame for Lima.
You can also rent bikes or skate on the Malecón. After learning to spend comforting nights in any hotel in Miraflores, a stroll down its pier is a great choice. The Miraflores Pier, also named Costa Verde, is full of bars, hotels, restaurants, shopping centers, and nightclubs.
Miraflores is the closest one for someone who doesn’t want to spend many hours traveling to beautiful northern Peruvian beaches. Its six-mile boardwalk offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Surfers and other endless activities are available!
- Location: Lima / Centre.
- What to do: Surfing, swimming, paddle surfing, body surfing, paragliding, inter alia.
- Best time to visit: It’s Summer. From December to February.
- Nearby attractions: Larcomar Commercial Center is just over the Miraflores shores (Top of the cliff zone). You will find many restaurants, bars, active nightlife, and even cinemas there.
12. Chicama
Chicama is 39 kilometers north of Trujillo (North Peru). History says that a Hawaiian surfer appreciated the waves from a plane flight. Of course, he then wrote to some Peruvian friends to help locate this beach. That’s how it became known.
On a good day, you can see waves of over 6 feet. If you are an experienced surfer, Chicama will be a paradise. Despite the growing popularity of the beach, the Chicama town remains a humble place. You will find no more than a few simple lodgings and good seafood restaurants.
One of the main reasons to visit this beach is because of the known, longest left-hand waves in the world. These waves bear their name: “Chicanero waves”. Therefore, we suggest enjoying the local surf resort that has a towing service. You won’t have to paddle or return to shore to catch your next wave.
- Location: Trujillo /North.
- What to do: Surfing, swimming, paddle surfing, body surfing.
- Best time to visit: From April to October.
- Nearby attractions: El Brujo archeological complex, located near the beach. The ancient ceremonial center of the Moche culture.
13. Pimentel
Pimentel is 20 kilometers southwest of Chiclayo (on the Northwest coast of Peru). The place was an important commercial port. Today, visitors can see the railways that transported trains full of sugar sacks years ago.
Currently, it is one of the most beautiful and longest beaches in Peru. You can generally expect sunny weather around the year. Its main activity is fishing, so you will also find delicious seafood restaurants.
With its luxurious houses, delicious ceviche, and picturesque promenade, Pimentel is the perfect place to vacation with family. This beach also has the most beautiful sunset in Peru. Because of the summer crowds, we recommend visiting Pimentel early.
In addition, we recommend visiting the Museum of the Royal Tombs of Sipán in Chiclayo. There, you can learn a little about the local pre-Colombian culture.
- Location: Chiclayo / North.
- What to do: Fishing, swimming, riding the old reed boats known as “caballitos de totora”, relaxing, sun tanning.
- Best time to visit: Summer (From December to March).
- Nearby attractions: Museum of the Royal Tombs of Sipán.
14. Colan
This paradise is in the district of the same name, 82 kilometers from West Piura. Colan is one of the best tourist attractions in Peru. Its coast has a sunny and pleasant climate of clear skies, hard sun, white sand, and warm waters.
You will be able to enjoy a modern environment full of establishments that offer the best attention. The local people also call it La Esmeralda, Emerald in English. Its turquoise waters contrast with the landscape, which makes it worthy of this nickname.
The Bay of Colán has shallow waters but is a bit cold. However, If you are adept at diving, this bay is a magnificent alternative. In addition, one of the main activities is fishing.
However, stingrays can infest its waters in low tide. That’s why enjoying it during high tide is recommendable. In addition, Colan is home to one of the oldest Spanish churches in the country, Saint Lucas.
- Location: Piura / North.
- What to do: Diving, fishing, swimming, relaxing, sun tanning.
- Best time to visit: 365 days of the year!
- Nearby attractions: Picturesque town of Paita.
15. Punta Hermosa
Punta Hermosa (58 kilometers south) is just an hour’s drive from Lima. Because of its proximity to the Peruvian capital, it’s one of the most popular beaches among locals. Also, during the summer, the winds and waves tend to calm down, attracting thousands of bathers. In the last few years, its coastlines have seen a growing number of hotels, restaurants, and nightclubs.
Also, Punta Hermosa celebrates a prestigious surf contest. Its waves go so high that it usually reaches up to 40 feet. If you are an experienced surfer looking for giant waves, the Pico Alto of Punta Hermosa is for you! The downside is that you will have to add boulders and sea urchins to the challenge.
- Location: Lima / Centre.
- What to do: Relaxing, sun tanning, swimming, surfing.
- Best time to visit: Between December to March (Summer in Peru).
- Nearby attractions: Hotels, restaurants, bars, and even nightclubs.
“KEEP CALM AND ENJOY THE BEACH”
Together with Machu Travel Peru, we hope to help you with these suggestions. The north coast has truly off-the-beaten-path beaches in Peru, full of cool places with limitless potential for adventure! Peru stands out as a world-premium place to practice extreme and adventure sports. And, it’s cheap to enjoy Summer and the waves.
Let yourself be fascinated by the beach environment of Peru. Let’s start planning your trip. Our qualified team of advisers can help you with this. Check with them to start organizing the trip of your dreams!
