10 Best Beaches in Peru

Peru has been on people’s bucket list of must-visits for decades. Who wouldn’t love to go and see Machu Picchu, or the ancient Incan city high up in the Andes mountain? This country is rich in its historical significance and natural beauty, so no wonder it’s one of the most popular destinations in South America.

Aside from the colonial city, Inca Trail and Sacred Valley, you can always find beautiful beaches lining up their shorelines. If you happen to want to get away from the historical trail or the city, here are some of the best beaches for you to relax in. You can pick one that’s near the city or secluded, really low-key or more of a party beach. You will be spoiled for choices here in Peru.

10 Best Beaches in Peru

Beaches in Peru are some of the most beautiful in South America. Beaches vary from the desert coast of Peru to the tropical and relatively warm climate around Pucusana, Chincha Alta, Máncora and other smaller marine-side communities. Also, take a look at the best beaches in Suriname.

There are several beaches near Lima as well as on the outskirts of Lima itself. The best known is Rimac Beaches: “La Herradura” beach but for surfers, “Breñas Beach”, where guests can stay at a hotel or campground located right by an amazing left and rights beach breaks that range up to 7 feet high during summer time while winter stays flat with 1 foot high waves

Las Pocitas

It’s hard to pick the most beautiful beach in Peru since everywhere you look is picturesque. But, Las Pocitas may be it. With its golden white sand and soft aquamarine waves, Las Pocitas is the quintessential beach where you can feel like you’re lost but at home too.

Go grab a book and relax on the wide stretched beach, as you enjoy the rippling tides coming in. There’s usually little pods of water and pools forming during low tide, so that’s one thing to look for. The marine life is also abundant here, so you can also go snorkelling.

Playa Roja

If you’re a fan of terrestrial movies, Playa Roja can transport you like you’re not on earth anymore. The beach has red sand made from erosion of ancient solidified lava in the area; hence the name – Red Beach. And it’s located right next to tall jagged cliffs that enclosed its area – making it feels like you’re in a sci-fi movie.

There’s nothing like watching the beautiful aquamarine coloured water hitting the red pinkish beach from over the cliffs. It’s no wonder this beach is protected by a national reserve. If you ever visit Peru, this wonderful unique beach is definitely not to be missed!

Mancora

If you’re after an all-rounder, Mancora should be top of your list. The easy access makes Mancora one of the most popular places to visit, especially for those wanting a weekend getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city.

This beach area is known to be one of the sunniest places in Peru and is already developed with the presence of hotels, motels, and restaurants everywhere. The surf is calm enough to swim in, but can also be suitable for surfing when windy. So if you want a versatile beach, Mancora should be on your list.

Punta Sal

Punta Sal is known as one of the longest beaches in Peru, stretching for over 6.5 kilometres. Located on the Pacific coast in northern Peru, it boasts warm waters all year round, soft sandy beaches and clear blue water. It’s a popular tourist spot, so you might want to book in early.

There are lots of choices for accommodations, from humble dwellings to oceanfront villas. The waves are soft and inviting, so this is an ideal place to bring your family to.

Playa de la Mina

Another wonderful unique beach, Playa de la Mina is surrounded by a stratified rock formation that’s jutting from the sea and stops near the beach on its bay. This place is worth a visit, just to see the secluded beach.

Be mindful that this beach is more on the smaller side, so you should pick your time of visit wisely or else you’ll be fighting for a place among other tourists. Stay awhile, and you might even catch sea lions hanging around here!

Paracas National Reserve

Another beautiful one of a kind beach, Paracas National Reserve’s beach is surrounded by the desert and majestic Andes Mountains. It’s remote and the crowd is sparse, it’s for those wanting to get away from it all. It’s not for the faint-hearted, since the beaches are secluded and underdeveloped. You can also enjoy a boat tour to the Ballestas Island Bird Sanctuary here.

Lobitos

Lobitos beach is a well-known surfer paradise, thanks to its huge waves. The waves can often go for over 2 meters or 8 feet or more, which is why it’s always packed with surfers from around the globe. If you’re not a surfer, you can still enjoy the beaches and colonial architecture in the city. Or if you want to learn how to surf, this is the ideal place because they do have several classes for beginners.

Cabo Blanco

Another one for the surfer, Cabo Blanco is a great beach that has bigger waves. It’s also the inspiration for Ernest Hemingway’s book, the Old Man and the Sea. If surfing is not your thing, you can also enjoy a stroll along the beach watching the rock cliffs, blue turquoise water and the sky.

Huanchaco

A beach that’s deemed as World Surfing Reserve Site in 2012, you’ll be amazed how many surfers will be visiting this place. It was once a quiet fishing town, but thanks to its laid back vibe and big waves, this place is now a famous holiday destination. There’s also the Chan Chan ruins and archaeological site for those interested in history. You can take a guided tour from booking agents in town.

Miraflores

Located in Lima, this is for the cosmopolitan in you who still wants to enjoy nature. Miraflores might be one of the most beautiful urban beaches out there, located below high rocky cliffs that’s literally next to Lima’s downtown. It might be one of the only places where you can have access to beautiful white beach and blue waters and the mall right behind it. It’s perfect for half a day tour if you don’t want to go too far from the city.

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