The best time to surf in Lima.
Short answer: you can surf in Lima any month of the year. The “best” time really depends on what you're after — a gentle first lesson or the biggest, most consistent swells. Here's how the seasons break down on Peru's central coast.
Winter (April–October): bigger and more consistent
Peru sits in the southern hemisphere, so its winter is the northern summer. During these months, south swells from the Southern Ocean reach Lima at their largest and most consistent — the season more experienced surfers wait for. Skies are often grey with the coastal garúa mist, but the surf is at its best.
Summer (December–March): warmer and mellower
In the austral summer the swells ease off and the sun comes out. Waves are generally smaller and more forgiving, and the air is warm — which makes it the most comfortable window to learn. If you're booking your first lesson and want easy conditions and blue skies, this is a lovely time to come.
The water is cold — all year
One thing that doesn't change with the season: the temperature. The Humboldt current runs cold water up Peru's coast year-round, so expect roughly 15–19°C (59–66°F) even in summer. It sounds chilly, but a good wetsuit — which we include with every lesson — keeps you warm and adds float while you're learning.
Best time of day
On most days the mornings are cleanest, before the afternoon wind picks up and textures the surface. That's why our lessons tend to run early — calmer water is easier and more fun to learn in. Whatever the season, an early start is usually the move.
So when should you come?
If you're here to learn, don't overthink it — beginner-friendly Playa Makaha in Miraflores works every month, with summer being the easiest and sunniest. If you're chasing size, aim for the winter months. Either way, we'll read the daily conditions and put you on the right wave for your level.
Ready to start? Read our guide to learning to surf in Lima or browse lessons and prices.
Common questions
Can you surf in Lima year-round?
Yes. Lima's central coast gets waves every month of the year. The size and consistency change with the seasons, but there's almost always something to surf.
When are the waves biggest?
During the austral winter, roughly April to October, when south swells from the Southern Ocean are largest and most consistent. That's the season more experienced surfers look forward to.
When is best for beginners?
The summer months, roughly December to March, tend to bring smaller, more manageable waves along with sunnier, warmer weather — ideal conditions for your first lessons. That said, beginner-friendly Playa Makaha works all year.
How cold is the water?
Cold year-round — the Humboldt current keeps it roughly 15–19°C (59–66°F) even in summer. A wetsuit is essential, and we provide one with every lesson.