Cabo Blanco is known as one of the crown jewels of surfing in northern Peru. This spot doesn't break often, but when it does, it attracts a crowd of surfers eager to catch its powerful waves. The reefbreak is famous for its heavy, radical left-hand barrels that can reach shoulder height to double overhead (about 1.5 to 3.5 meters). It's located near some rocky parts of the shoreline, making it important to stay alert when paddling out.

This wave works best on a big north-west swell, which means you're looking at swell sizes ranging from 4 to 12 feet (about 1.2 to 3.6 meters). The take-offs are typically late, dropping right into a spacious cavern, after which you can race down the reef towards the pier about 100 meters away. Expect a consistent rip due to the convergence of the south and north currents, which can affect the sand and the wave shape, so early season often offers the best conditions. The optimal wind comes from the east or south, and the wave breaks over a combination of uneven reef and sandy bottom. It's better suited for expert surfers, given the heavy nature of the wave.

Be prepared for a crowded session, as Cabo Blanco attracts some of Peru's best surfers. The vibe can get tense when the waves are firing, and while the environment is clean, the crowd factor is high. The spot is accessible, and you can expect to surf here mainly from November to March. Lower tides are your best bet for paddling out, but it can also handle mid and high tides. Most surfers here opt for shortboards to navigate the challenging barrels.