With the world's longest north-south coastline, it should be no surprise that Chile offers world-class surfing. Recently, Punta de Lobos, was named a World Surfing Reserve, placing it on a short list with the world's top surfing spots.

Located just 3 hours southwest from Santiago in Pichilemu, Punta de Lobos long left hand curl has long been considered one of South America's best. Each year both the Quiksilver Ceremonial Big Wave Championship, which attracts the sport's top big wave riders, and Chile's national surfing championship, are held here, among many other surfing events.

Worldwide, only nine other surf areas have been selected as prestigious World Surfing Reserves. It's a major recognition by the surfing community that places Punta de Lobos, Pichilemu, on an elite list of the planet's top spots.

The setting
Its unique topography with tall cliffs that shield it from the southern winds, and trademark massive rocks, make for an idyllic setting for surf. The sea area around it is rich in marine life, and a migratory stopping point for gray whales. It's a popular spot too with the local sea lions, who can often be seen slumbering about the on its big rocks. The abundant seafood and fish of its waters support the local economy in no small way too, through local multi-generational fishermen who earn their living from an artisanal harvest.

"We are excited to be part of the long-term protection for Punta de Lobos, and have the chance to work with the local community to protect this surfing and ecological treasure." said Nik Strong-Cvetich, Executive Director of Save The Waves Coalition.

Surfing Punta de Lobos
Its famous left-hand point break generally ranges from 2-3 meters in height, though big swells in the fall and winter can reach heights of up to 15 meters, offering something for each type of surfer from short boarders to gnarly big wave chargers. These legendary waves helped shape notable Chilean big wave rider Ramon Navarro, who grew up surfing them.

"Punta de Lobos is a very special place", said Ramon Navarro. "It's where everything comes together in perfect harmony to create the most perfect waves on the planet and gives life to a unique natural setting. Punta de Lobos is an incredible marine sanctuary and it deserves to be respected and treated accordingly."

Pichilemu
Located just 6 kilometers from Punta de Lobos is the lively beach town of Pichilemu, which is also renowned for its great surfing and laidback vibe. The town has plenty of restaurants serving up delicious seafood, usually caught same day, and a large number of hostels and cabanas for rent. Surf rental shops and surf schools line the water's edge. The beach is a popular place in the summer for surfers and sunbathers alike.

About World Surfing Reserves
World Surfing Reserves (WSR) proactively identifies, designates, and preserves outstanding waves, surf zones and their surrounding environments, around the world. WSR is an initiative launched by Save The Waves Coalition in 2009 in conjunction with National Surfing Reserves Australia and other partners.

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