South America is home to one of the longest waves on the planet, alongside a surf culture that stretches the length of the continent's Pacific coast.
Chicama in northern Peru holds a reputation as the longest left hand point break in the world, with rides that can stretch for well over a mile on the right day. Brazil's Florianopolis has grown into the country's main surf hub, with dozens of beaches offering everything from gentle beginner breaks to more powerful open ocean swells. Chile's Punta de Lobos, near the town of Pichilemu, draws experienced surfers for its heavy, reef influenced waves and striking coastal cliffs. Ecuador's Montanita rounds things out as a smaller, more laid back option, known as much for its backpacker energy as for the surf itself.
Water temperatures vary a lot by country and season, so checking conditions ahead of a trip matters more here than the distance between spots might suggest.
