El Buey Surf Guide
Surf spot guide
El Buey Surf Guide
El Buey is a huge, open-ocean wave that breaks in the deep water in the middle of the bay in front of the Gringo, about half a mile from the coast, and can deliver rides of more than 200 yards. It only starts breaking at eight feet and can reach 20 to 25 feet on big south swells.The wave breaks left and right, but it's the right that can handle more size. The peak big-wave season is between April and August. It can be good in October and November as well. The best swell direction is south-southwest between 190 and 210 degrees for the left to break perfect 15-foot tubes.Swells over 220 degrees will allow the right to deliver huge, steep drops and, if you're lucky, barreling tubes on a wave that is described as a cross between huge Sunset and Waimea.The shortest way to enter the lineup is by the parking lot next to Hotel Arica. There is a small cove on the left where you can start your paddle. If it's big you might have to duck-dive shallow, overhead closeouts on your way out.Another safer option is to take on the small sand beach on the right side and paddle toward the left of the wave, but the paddle is longer. Some people surfing Gringo realizing that Buey is breaking paddle from one spot to another directly, but it is nearly a mile paddle. Be on the lookout for the rogue closeout sets.
Ability Level
Intermediate - Advanced
Intermediate when medium, expert when huge
Local Vibe
Welcoming
Cool vibe, not a lot of people, sometimes better not to surf alone.
Crowd Factor
Moderate
It is hardly ridden -- five to 10 people in the water in general, 20 in May to July when crowded.
Spot Rating
Fun
Needs a big swell, but produces some bombs when it's on.
Shoulder Burn
Exhausting
Wave is half a mile from shore, you're gonna feel it.
Water Quality
Clean
Not bad
Hazards
Long hold downs, recognition of the transience and meaninglessness of human life when a cleanup set rolls through.
Bring Your
Gun
Access
Park and change on the parking spot on the main avenue in front of El Laucho beach, or go to the parking lot to the left of the Hotel Arica.
Bottom
Sand, but it's deep there -- you'll never touch the bottom.
Best Season
May-July
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