Overview
Puertecillo is one of Chile's most sought-after left pointbreaks, famous for long, sand-dredging barrels. It's tucked into the lee of a stubby headland, further inside than Punta de Lobos, so it sees less swell but the lines are super clean by the time they wrap around the point. Once the sand settles after the winter storms and a proper swell shows up, it can rival any left sandbar tube around, and it's pretty much tuck in and go.
When It Works
The point draws swell from south through west-southwest to northwest (S-WSW-NW), and southwest (SW) is the best match. It's usable from 0.6 m / 2 ft to 3 m / 10 ft. Because it's so tucked away it needs a decent dose of swell to get going, and it always runs smaller than nearby Pichilemu. Autumn is the season to target. Consistency is only moderate, so it rewards patience, but when the sand is parked the walls can run for up to 700 metres.
Wind and Tide
Look for southeast (SE) offshore wind, helped by the headland's good protection from south wind. It works across low, mid, and high tide, with a rising tide generally the better call.
Local Tips
This is a wave for intermediates and up, best ridden on a shortboard. Expect a busy lineup when it's on, especially in summer when the camping scene packs the point, and the atmosphere can feel reserved. A constant rip runs through, so stay switched on and never turn your back on the ocean.
Access
Getting here is tough. The point sits on privately owned land, so you'll need a permission slip before you arrive, and the access roads are rough and easy to get lost on. There's camping at the point, though parking is restricted.
