La Puntilla

La Puntilla is a relatively exposed point break in Arica that’s described as producing long, peeling surf when swell and wind cooperate—especially with southeast (offshore) wind. Reports emphasize that conditions can become blown out at other times, so choosing the right setup matters. For surfing, low tide is repeatedly highlighted as the best window. When the right swell direction and offshore winds align, surfers can get long rides that peel along the point and rocks. Some guides describe nearly kilometer-long left-hand options, while other descriptions focus on long right-hand peeling waves over the point. Safety is a major theme: rip currents are explicitly called out as making the spot dangerous, and the entry/exit area can involve exposed rocks at low tide plus submerged boulders. Additional reported hazards include sea urchins and stronger currents on larger swell days, so careful attention to entry/exit and spacing on a crowded peak are important. In terms of comfort and planning, water temperature is cold-to-mild and suits are commonly discussed; one source notes a spring wetsuit, while others mention that a short session may still be possible with lighter summer coverage. The overall seasonality points to winter being best for surfing, and February being singled out as the most consistent month for clean surf.