Overview
Algarrobo is a major surf zone packed with rock and sand breaks over uneven reef. The pick of them is El Mejoral, a powerful left reefbreak tucked behind the encircling rocks close to the yachting pier.
When It Works
El Mejoral needs the swell approaching head-high before it starts clearing those rocks properly. As it builds, a section further out called Detroit kicks in and links into the main line-up, and the wave handles proper big swell from there. Southwest (SW) is the best swell direction, though it works across a wide south through west-southwest to northwest window, and it's a consistent break. It's usable from 1.2 m / 4 ft to 5.5 m / 18 ft. There's also a hollow right nearby, La Chilena, that prefers west-northwest swells.
Wind and Tide
Look for northeast (NE) offshore wind. It breaks on mid and high tide, with a rising tide the better call, and El Mejoral in particular wants mid tide to start working cleanly.
Local Tips
Expect a busy lineup, especially through summer, and there can be some hassle for waves. Almost everyone ends up meeting a rock here at some point, so it isn't a forgiving spot.
Access
For the rights, factor in a long paddle around from the pier.
