Punta Gruesa (La Bestia)

Punta Gruesa (La Bestia) is an exposed reef break south of Iquique that produces very powerful, hollow barreling surf over shallow rock. The wave is widely described as one of the heaviest/powerful reef setups in northern Chile, with takeoffs that demand strong technique and timing due to the shallow platform and exposed rocky entry. For performance, mid tide is consistently recommended. The surf is most associated with southern swell directions (especially south through southwest), and in winter (May–September) the spot is most consistent with colder water and more dependable swell. Reported wave ranges include chest-high to triple overhead (roughly 4–10 ft) with excellent wave quality when conditions line up. Wind direction strongly affects quality: northeast (NE) flow is commonly described as offshore/cleaning, but conditions can deteriorate in the afternoon when thermal sea breezes (often from the south/southwest or S/SW afternoon pattern) build and can blow the wave out. Several notes emphasize going early and before afternoon winds increase. Safety is a major factor at this spot. Hazards include sharp rocks/magma rock and a large sea urchin population, with strong currents and heavy water movement near the reef. Wetsuit and protective gear are repeatedly stressed (reef booties and helmet are emphasized), and no lifeguard presence is reported; while maritime rescue services exist, the on-site rescue situation is limited.