Cerro Azul

This picturesque town is at the edge of the fertile valley formed by the Cañete River and is graced with a long pier, an extensive stretch of fine sand, and great hospitality. Known as a popular destination among families, Cerro Azul’s charming fishing village also attracts visitors to hang out near the beach and enjoy fresh ceviche.

Surrounded by desert, the little fishing port is one of the best surf spots on the southern coast of Peru. To the left of the main pier, you’ll find the only break in the area. With long lefts and a good swell, the area can get crowded but it’s worth visiting for its quality waves. The best times to surf are early in the morning (6 to 9 am) and late afternoons (4 to 6 pm) when the winds are the calmest.

If you’re feeling adventurous, rent some 4x4s and explore the entirety of the beach. The areas around the pier are usually crowded with chairs and umbrellas, but if you drive out away from the populated spots, the rest of the beach is uncharted and perfect for an adventure.

A popular pastime in Cerro Azul is to fish from the pier—on any given day, you’ll find the pier lined with enthusiastic fishermen with beers in hand. At the entrance of the pier, vendors sell makeshift fishing poles made of blocks of wood with strings attached and sand crabs as bait.

Tripadvisor Rating: 4.5/5
Location: Cerro Azul, Peru