La Islilla is a small fishing village in Piura, Peru, that’s known for its laid-back vibe and picturesque scenery. The spot isn’t exactly buzzing with tourists, which means it can offer some peace and quiet for surfers looking to catch some waves. The village life is simple, and local kids often ride the waves using wooden boards made from old fishing boats. The surf scene here is pretty low-key, making it a nice escape for those who want to surf without all the crowds.
When it comes to surfing at La Islilla, the main wave setup features a right-hand point break that works best with a southwest swell. The surf can get hollow, especially during summer swells coming from the north and the east winds. This spot tends to break over uneven reef and can handle swell sizes starting at about 2 ft (0.6 m). The wave is generally suited for intermediate surfers looking to ride a mixture of right point breaks and some decent beachbreak peaks north of town. However, keep in mind that the consistency is just low to medium, so don't expect it to be firing often.
For the best conditions, aim for low to mid or even high tide, as the waves tend to perform better during these times. There are not many surfers out here due to the erratic nature of the breaks, which gives you plenty of space when the waves do come in. Remember, if you’re hoping to score some epic sessions, it might take a bit of patience since the waves can be hit or miss. Overall, La Islilla offers a chill experience for surfers looking for something different.