El Gringo

El Gringo is a heavy left-hander that breaks over a sharp, shallow reef, producing thick barrels that demand precision timing and commitment. The wave reliably starts working around 6 feet and can grow well beyond 15 feet, with the steepest rides followed immediately by tight tube sections over unforgiving reef. Southwest swells combined with northeasterly offshore winds create optimal conditions, typically in the morning before the wind turns onshore. The spot also has a lesser-known right, locally called the Chilean Backdoor, which generally handles larger swells more forgivingly. Sea urchins, sharp rock formations, strong rips, and an experienced local crew make this a spot for advanced surfers only.

El Gringo entered international competitive surfing in 2007 when the World Championship Tour hosted The Search event, where Andy Irons scored a perfect 10 in the final. Since then it has remained part of the World Qualifying Series calendar, hosting the Arica Pro multiple times and holding the distinction of being South America's longest-running WQS venue. The spot draws traveling professionals during the austral winter (May through July) when southern swells are most consistent and powerful. A memorial cross near the water serves as a sobering reminder of the wave's unforgiving nature.

El Gringo sits roughly 5 kilometers south of Arica along an outer island formation, with straightforward access via a parking area and walkway to the break. Arica's airport offers connections to Santiago, placing the spot within easy reach for international travel.