Colegio is a well-known surf spot in Iquique, located just across from the main high school. This spot offers robust waves, especially as the swell picks up. It's recognized for its powerful right-hand break that can deliver a solid ride. While it can be enjoyable, it’s not for the faint of heart, and typically attracts experienced surfers looking for a bit of a challenge.
The wave at Colegio works best with swells coming from the South and Southwest, reaching up to about 2 meters (6 feet). It breaks over an uneven reef, which can make things interesting. The best conditions often happen on a low to high tide, and it tends to handle a variety of swell sizes. The wave features a draining barrel section, and if you’re skilled enough, you can catch a long ride that might stretch for about 100 meters, especially in good conditions with the right swell. It’s important to remember that this spot is best suited for expert surfers.
When it’s firing, you can expect to see plenty of other surfers in the water, so be prepared for some competition. The preferred wind direction is from the Northeast, which helps shape the waves nicely. And keep an eye out for the outside indicator bomboras, as clean-up sets can sometimes close out the channel. Respect the local surfers and the waves, and you’ll have a better time at Colegio.