Overview
Punta Dos is a barrelling reef wave that explodes over a gnarled, uneven reef in Iquique. It's an uncompromising wave that punishes the hesitant, so it's strictly for experienced surfers. The set-up looks like a right-hand point, but there are lefts too depending on the swell angle. Like most of the breaks around Iquique, the wave sucks hard off the rocky reef and lurches forward in a hurry from take-off, with dry sucks, boils, and urchins all part of the equation. Skill and caution matter here in equal measure.
When It Works
The reef draws swell from south through west-southwest to northwest (S-WSW-NW), with southwest (SW) swell the best match. It works from 0.9 m / 3 ft to 2.4 m / 8 ft. Conditions are moderately consistent, so there are worthwhile windows when the setup lines up.
Wind and Tide
Look for east (E) offshore wind. The reef can work through low, mid, and high tide, with a rising tide generally the better call.
Local Tips
This is an expert-only wave, and the line-up is mainly bodyboarders. Expect a moderately busy line-up when it's on. If you're after lefts, there are more just north at La Cosa.
Access
A surf shop is on hand.
