El Buey

El Buey is an offshore A-frame reef break that generates powerful, tubular waves across left and right-hand peaks. It only begins producing quality waves at 8 feet and excels in the 8–20 foot range, though the reef regularly holds much larger swells, with recorded faces reaching 40 feet during major Southern Ocean swell events. The left-hander locks into fast barrels while the right wall forms steep, roller-coaster sections. Best conditions arrive during autumn through spring with long-period southwest to south-southwest swells, particularly when east offshore winds groom the faces during low to mid tide. The reef demands jet-ski tow-in assistance for larger swells, as the steep takeoffs and powerful walls make paddle access impractical beyond minor conditions. Rip currents and a rocky, shallow bottom create genuine hazards suited only to expert big-wave surfers willing to operate with safety support.

Late-1970s Peruvian and Chilean surfers first explored the Arica area's reef breaks, though they initially focused on more approachable beachbreaks before progressing to El Buey's heavy tubes as skill and equipment improved. The spot gained wider recognition after the 2007 Rip Curl Search competition brought international big-wave competitors to Arica, and documented visits by established figures including Fletcher Chouinard (Patagonia co-founder and FCD Surfboards designer) reinforced its standing as a premier South American big-wave destination.

El Buey breaks approximately 700 meters offshore from Playa El Laucho in Arica, Chile's northernmost coastal city in the Tarapacá region. Jet skis provide the primary and most reliable access to the lineup, though paddling from the beach is possible during smaller swells despite the distance and occasional closeouts. Arica sits roughly 16 kilometers from Chacalluta International Airport and offers tourist infrastructure including the Mirador El Buey Surf Hostel, which caters specifically to big-wave pursuit.