Infiernillo is a fast sand-bottomed left point tucked into the next bay just south of Pichilemu, and it is the hidden gem of the area. It runs hollower than Punta de Lobos and stays a lot quieter. When the sand lines up, sections racetrack down the line toward the inside rocks and the whole thing feels like a reverse Burleigh Heads. The bottom is mostly sand with a few scattered rocks, and bouncing off it is the main thing to watch. Getting out is manageable on an average day, but when it is big the paddle turns into a serious job, almost as hard and complex as Ocean Beach in San Francisco.
When It Works
The point picks up swell from southwest to north (SW-N), and it is usable from 1.2 m / 4 ft to 2.1 m / 7 ft. Autumn is the season to aim for, with March and April the standout months. It is a good wave, but it usually asks for a lot of speed to make. Choose a high-speed line while you are getting it wired, and after a couple of days it gets easier to relax into the tube and make sections. Take extra care when it is big.
Wind and Tide
Look for east-northeast (ENE) offshore wind, with a workable wind window running from north-northeast through east to southeast (NNE-E-SE). Low tide is the call here, and a rising tide is generally better.
Local Tips
Bring a shortboard. The wave suits intermediate and expert surfers, mostly because of the speed it demands. The lineup is usually fairly quiet and a little reserved. Dawn patrols can be empty, while after school it gets busier. If the Pichilemu locals are out, they will get the best waves, so humility and respect go a long way.
Access
Park right at the base of the point and headland.
