The Inca country has more than 1,500 miles of coast facing to Pacific Ocean. Thus, the variety of beaches in Peru is awesome and for all tastes. There are for those adventures, for those looking for water sports, for those looking to relax and tan, and for those looking for beautiful sunsets and walking on the beach. Even more, the northern ones are the hottest and keep their temperature around the year. It is due to the warm marine currents of El Niño that arrive from Ecuador. Being between December to March is the most recommendable to visit them. The Lima shores share this temperature. By contrast, the south and central coasts are cold but equally enjoyable.
As you can see, the Peruvian coast is a wonder by itself, and together with Machu Travel Peru, we want to show you its best ones. So, let’s take a look at someone that will make you dream of your next adventure.
The 15 best Peruvian beaches to enjoy on your vacation
- Punta Sal
- Mancora
- Cabo Blanco
- Lobitos
- Cerro Azul
- Las Pocitas
- Playa Roja
- Playa La Mina
- Los Organos
- Huanchaco
- Miraflores
- Chicama
- Pimentel
- Colan
- Punta Hermosa
1. Punta Sal
Located along the north coast. Exactly 80 kilometers from the south of Tumbes (The northernmost city in the country, bordering Ecuador country). Punta Sal is considered one of the most beautiful and charming first-class beaches in the Andean country. Due to its location close to the equator zone that generates a current of warm waters to the south called the “El Niño Current”, the temperature of seawater is around 24 °C throughout the year. Thanks to its soft sand, spectacular views, pleasant temperature, accompanied by calm waters -perfect for sport fishing- Punta Sal is considered by many to be one of the best ones in the Andean country.
It has 6.5 kilometers of coastline and is one of the longest ones. With so much space, you will have no problem enjoying it away from the crowds. Even though you will have to walk a bit before you can swim due to its rocky regions. Moreover, its extensive littoral and unparalleled beauty attract both investors and tourists. So, if you are planning a trip to Peru, here you can find a great selection of rustic resorts and restaurants. Because 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 up in the top position. The fine sands, the big waves for surfing, and an always sunny and pleasant climate make this beach one of the best destinations. It is located 187 kilometers from Piura north, in the warmest region of Peru, this year-round sunny destination, with its laid-back atmosphere, pure and dusty sand, warm waters, and cloudless blue skies, attracts many locals and travelers from around the world.
It is also known for being a great place for surfing as well as partying. Despite its small population, Mancora is full of hotels, restaurants, and resorts dedicated to the tourist market. It is a relatively easily accessible beach 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: Relaxing, sun tanning, surfing, diving, kite surfing inter alia.
- Best time to visit: 365 days of the year!
- Nearby attractions: Bars, restaurants (active nightlife) 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 his famous book, “The Old Man and the Sea” was inspired by Cabo Blanco. It is said that Hemingway was a fan of sport fishing for Black Marlin (During the 50s and 60s) and lived there for about 10 months. But this beach is also popular for being home to the perfect wave for experienced surfers. From November to January, you can enjoy some great quality waves.
It is located 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 located inside the main beach circuit on the Peruvian coast north with the best Peruvian weather. Therefore, you will find more amazing Peru beaches in the north like Organos, Vichayto, Mancora, Punta Sal, and inter alia.
4. Lobitos
If you want a beach that combines history and adventure, Lobitos is for you! It is located 127 kilometers northwest of Piura and was an ancient British oil settlement in the late 19th century. The Peruvians were prohibited from entering this zone. In this sense, the Peruvian government, through its army, took possession of it in 1968, expelling the British and putting a military base.
In turn, the military abandoned the base built there in the mid-90s. Leaving abandoned Victorian buildings, rusty small refineries, and some dismantled military bases. Thus, this history is combined with perfect waves of more than 8 feet of altitude. Even, these are cataloged as the perfect to practice surfing in Peru. Also, it has blue skies around the year, white sand, fresh and intense blue water, and a warm climate. No wonder many surf schools are located there.
- Location: Piura / North.
- What to do: Surfing, paddle surfing, swimming, relaxing, sun tanning.
- Best time to visit: Throughout the whole year.
- Nearby attractions: Lobitos is close to Mancora and Punta Sal (It is located in the south of both) Especially if you are looking to enjoy the adventurous summer in Peru, this beach is for you.
5. Cerro Azul
The Cerro Azul waves are so popular that they were even mentioned in a Beach Boys song. Its 5 beaches are located 155 kilometers south of Lima within the district of San Vicente de Cañete. This was previously an important commercial port. Cerro Azul is characterized by 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 will find other activities such as fishing, kayaking, rafting, jet skis, and much more. If you are planning to stay here for a while, the vacation homes are located just south of the pier. 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, Lima Peruvian Capital.
6. Las Pocitas
Not far from Mancora, you can find Las Pocitas, 217 kilometers north of Piura. Also, it is known as Máncora Chico or Little Mancora. It 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. This beach is an excellent escape option for lovers looking to get away from endless parties.
In Pocitas, you’ll find cerulean waters that collide and contrast against the fine white sand. All this landscape is limited by tropical gardens that 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 Beach 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. Moreover, in certain areas, the beach is surrounded by high cliffs that give 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. It is located 82 kilometers from the west of Ica, just 4 hours from Lima in the Paracas National Reserve.
Because it is located in the middle of a reserve, wildlife abounds in the area. And, much of the landscape is protected and therefore inaccessible. 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 (Possibility to see sea lions, seals, penguins inter alia) and Pisco town (cradle of the Peruvian Flag Alcoholic Beverage, the Pisco)
8. Playa La Mina
La Mina is one of the beaches in Peru with great popularity among tourists. Note that it is one of the best for swimming. So, it is very likely that you will find it full of people from January to March (Summer). It is 87 kilometers northwest of Ica (South of Lima). And, it receives its particular name from a former coal mine located nearby. It is surrounded by the most spectacular desert landscapes of the Paracas National Reserve.
Stunning sandstone rock formations meet the sparkling turquoise-green waters of the Pacific. In addition, La Mina becomes even more blindingly beautiful as the night sky turns into a festival for star and camping lovers. 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. It is located 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. Los Organos is named after 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, on this beach, if you are lucky, you can enjoy whale watching. Some tours even offer swimming with giant tortoises. In addition, explore the town of Los Órganos and taste the delicious traditional Peruvian seafood of its restaurants. 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: Mancora Beach and Piura Town.
10. Huanchaco
Huanchaco is not only home to one of the best beaches in Peru, but it is also known as the birthplace of the best Soutn American Ceviche. It is located about 20 kilometers northwest of Trujillo (North of Lima). This quiet beach is known for its water sports and the unusual style of fishing practiced by local fishermen. They ride on the waves with a traditional fishing boat called “Caballito de Totora”. This woven reed boat has been used for thousands of years since the Chimu culture period (850 AD). That’s why some scholars affirm that the Surf could be born in Huanchaco.
Also, there are many close historical ruins, including Chan Chan, the largest mud city in the world that belonged to Chimus. For this reason, Huanchaco is a coastal city that is prized for its impressive surfing waves, ancient ruins, ancient boats, and ceviche. Even, It was named a 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 (the largest ancient mud city in the world) located 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. The Miraflores coast is known as the Costa Verde and it is a beautiful area where you can stroll and enjoy numerous activities. You will find opportunities for lessons in surfing, paragliding, and much more. Not in vain Lima is known for its beaches and restaurants.
You can also rent bikes or skate on the Malecón. After a historical tour and knowing certain facts about Peru capital, a walk along its pier is a great option. Also, Miraflores Pier is full of bars, hotels, restaurants, shopping centers, and nightclubs. Moreover, it is the closest one for someone who doesn’t want to spend many hours traveling to reach beautiful northern Peru beaches. Its six-mile boardwalk offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. You will find surfers and other endless activities to enjoy!
- 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 located just over the Miraflores shores (Top of the cliff zone). There, you will find many restaurants, bars, active nightlife, and even cinemas.
12. Chicama
Chicama is located 39 kilometers north of Trujillo (North Peru). It is said that a Hawaiian surfer was able to appreciate the waves from a plane flight and 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 walk back to the 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 located 20 kilometers southwest of Chiclayo (Northwest coast of Peru) The beach was an important commercial port. Today, the visitor can see the railways that transported trains full of sugar sacks years ago. And, currently, it is one of the most beautiful 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, it is the perfect place to vacation with family, without mentioning that it has the most beautiful sunset in Peru. It is recommended that you visit it early, due to the crowd in Summer. In addition, we recommend visiting the Museum of the Royal Tombs of Sipán in the city of Chiclayo, where 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
Colan is located in the district of the same name, 82 kilometers from West Piura. It is without a doubt one of the best tourist attractions in Peru with 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. This beach is also known as La Esmeralda (Emerald in English) due to its Turquoise waters that contrast with the landscape.
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
Just an hour’s drive from Lima is Punta Hermosa (58 kilometers south). It’s one of the most popular beaches among locals due to its proximity to the Peruvian capital. Also, during the summer the winds and waves tend to calm down, attracting thousands of bathers. Its coastlines have seen a growing number of hotels, restaurants, and nightclubs in the last few years.
There prestigious surf contests are celebrated. Its waves go so high that it usually reaches up to 40 feet. Also, If you are one of those experienced surfers looking to conquer the giant waves, we recommend going to the Pico Alto de Punta Hermosa. 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 where the potential for adventure is limitless! Peru stands out as a world-premium place to practice extreme and adventure sports. And, it’s very cheap to enjoy Summer and waves. If you have been fascinated by the beach environment of Peru, you have to start planning your trip. For this, our qualified team of advisers can help you. Check with them to start organizing the trip of your dreams!
