The Peruvian coastline runs down from the Ecuadorian border in the north to the Chilean border in the south. There is a tropical dry climate on the northern shores, and a subtropical desert climate with little rainfall on the central and southern coast. The waters are influenced by two important currents, one called El Niño (a warm current) and the other called the Humboldt (a cold current). Together, these currents are responsible for the variety of wildlife found in Peru, as well as the climate, and of course the Ocean’s temperature. As a rule of thumb, head north for warmer and more Mediterranean-like waters.
The Paradise Beach – Punta Sal, Tumbes.
Want a romantic get-away, or just a peaceful retreat in paradise? Look no further than Punta Sal. Situated in the north of Peru, here you’ll find long, sandy beaches, lush palms, and beautiful sunsets. Discover tranquility in a luxurious spa hotel, appreciate the amazing seafood, try fishing or diving, and if you visit between June and October you can even go whale watching. A dreamy place with white sands, blue skies, and calm, warm waters all year round (24 degrees Celsius), there are even accommodation options to match the beauty of this beach. Stay in a beach-front bungalow or villa, or an all-inclusive resort, and let all your worries wash away.
The Party Beach – Mancora, Piura.
Head north to beat the fog that hangs over the central and southern coast, and enjoy the sun whatever the season. Here in Mancora there are many nightclubs, open-air bars and restaurants, and over 30 resorts, making this a popular destination for people from all over South America. Here you’ll find a party pretty much every night of the week! The most popular party season is from December to March. If you’re looking for some downtime the morning-after, this is the perfect place. Aside from partying, the other main activity here is relaxing on the beach. Take a refreshing dip in the water or simply lie in the sun. If you’re after something more lively, here you’ll also find plenty of activities to do including windsurfing, kayaking, horse-riding, and of course, surfing.
The City Beach – Miraflores, Lima.
Whilst it may not be the most beautiful, this beach with a city backdrop makes for a cosmopolitan feel. If you head down to the shore by Miraflores – known as the ‘Costa Verde’ and one of the best neighbourhoods in Lima – you’ll pass some nice apartment blocks with exclusive sea-views, lush green vegetation, as well as looming brown cliffs. With the paragliders floating up above you like giant, colourful birds, there’s something surreal and dreamlike about this beach.
The Secret Beach – La Mina, Paracas.
145 miles south of Lima, and found tucked away in the Paracas Natural Reserve, this peaceful beach has stunning scenery and is great for wildlife watching. Look out for the many species of birds and fish, and if you’re lucky you may spot a sea-lion. With landscape dramatic enough to feature in a movie, this beach is set in an endless desert, and has beautiful, cool blue waters, making for a refreshing dip from the hot sun and sands. Don’t forget your swimsuit, sunblock, or even your tent if you fancy camping – you’ll get the most amazing sunrise and sunset here.
The Surfer Beach – Huanchaco, Trujillo.
Officially an International Surfing Reserve – one of just five worldwide – this is the place to go with your surfboard and hit the waves (which are, in surfers’ terms “consistent”, and best between April and October). If you’ve never tried this sport before don’t worry, you can find many places offering lessons. The summer season (from December to March) is the most popular time to visit, although surfing can be done at any time of year with a wetsuit if you’re cold.