
Peñascal
San Bartolo, Peru
About This Break
Peñascal is one of the heavier, more powerful waves along the southern Lima coastline. Located on the rocky point at San Bartolo, this exposed break is best known for its thick, fast right-hander, which can produce steep drops, open faces and hollow barrel sections when a solid South or Southwest swell arrives. The wave breaks over a boulder-and-rock bottom and really comes alive around 5–6 feet and above, with larger winter swells pushing Peñascal well into double-overhead territory.
Unlike some of the more forgiving waves tucked inside the nearby bays, Peñascal is a wave for confident intermediate to advanced surfers. The peak can shift as swell direction and size change, and bigger days bring substantial water movement, strong currents and a challenging inside section. Low to mid tide is generally favored, while easterly winds help clean up the face. On the right swell, rides can stretch 150 meters or more, combining powerful carving sections with opportunities to get tucked behind the curtain.
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Spot Characteristics
Local Knowledge
Light to Moderate
Peñascal is powerful and moves a lot of water. Surfers should be comfortable with shifting takeoffs, steep drops, rocks and boulders, strong currents/rips and getting caught inside on larger sets. The combination of shallow rock, substantial swell and a technical lineup makes this a poor choice for beginners.










