Overview
El Pelado is a powerful right-hand point that peels over a mix of uneven reef and sand. Long walls run from the barrelling section in front of the rock on the point through to another hollow inside section, and rides of up to 300m are possible when it all links up. It sits within a string of seven right-hand points leading into Playas.
When It Works
A consistent break, El Pelado wants a decent swell from the southwest, its optimal direction, though it will pick up anything from south through west. It works from 0.6 m / 2 ft to 3 m / 10 ft, giving a wide window of usable size to play with.
Wind and Tide
Offshore winds come from the northeast, but the point is almost always blown out by the south winds that dominate here, so get up very early to catch it clean before the wind fills in. It breaks through low and mid tide, with a rising tide the better call.
Local Tips
This one suits intermediate surfers, though when it jumps overhead the sharp drop on the outside is really only for experts. Expect a moderately busy lineup when it's on, with a pack coming down from Guayaquil on weekends. Watch for sharp rocks at some stage of the ride.
Access
Parking is easy to find, with a car park offering free spaces alongside paid and roadside options.
