Punta Una is a surf spot located in Iquique known for its intense waves. This spot gets crowded, especially during peak surf seasons, so be prepared for a lively atmosphere. The access is pretty straightforward with a parking lot just in front, making it easy to gear up and hit the water quickly.
The waves here are generally right-handers that break over an uneven reef. Punta Una works best with swells from the Northwest and can handle sizes from 9ft to 15ft (about 2.7m to 4.6m). While the waves can get barreling with great speed, they require solid skill to navigate, making this spot more suited for expert surfers. During low to mid tide, the waves tend to be more manageable, but keep an eye out for the wave's reef bottom, as it's shallow and can catch you off guard. Expect some fun action, especially with the right swell conditions.
This spot is best surfed in winter, particularly from May to July, when the swells are more consistent. When it's pumping, paddling can feel like a workout, especially if you find yourself trying to duck dive under cleanup sets. Remember to stick with a shortboard to really enjoy what Punta Una has to offer. While the vibe is cool and mostly made up of locals, it's good to be friendly and respect the lineup.