Playa Salaverry

The basics

If you’re feeling weary after traveling around Peru, Salaverry is a relaxed place to take a load off and soak up local life. Because of its proximity to the international cruise port, it’s also sometimes a stop on shore excursions to highlights of the Trujillo area. These include the UNESCO-listed Chan Chan archeological site, home to a majestic abandoned city, and the Temples of Moche (Huacas del Sol y de la Luna), famous for their intricate mythological carvings.

Things to know before you go

• There are plenty of places to eat and drink on the streets just behind the beach; ceviche (raw fish marinated in lime juice) is a traditional must-try dish.

• You won’t find many accommodation options in the town. You’re better off staying in the city of Trujillo or the quaint surfing town of Huanchaco further up the coast.

• Bring cash in small denominations to buy food and drinks from the vendors along the beach.

How to get there

The major transportation hub in this part of Peru is the city of Trujillo, home to an international airport with regular departures from Lima. From there, Playa Salaverry is 16 miles (26 kilometers) away, about a 30-minute drive. There aren’t any official buses departing from Trujillo, but you’ll likely be able to take a collectivo (shared taxi).

When to get there

Northern Peru has a subtropical desert climate, and surfing conditions are consistent. Some visitors may prefer cooler August and September to the hot summer months of January to March.

The best surfing spots in north Peru

Salaverry isn’t the only place in north Peru to catch a wave or two; in fact, this part of the country is one of South America’s surfing hotspots. The fishing village of Huanchaco has some of the country’s most consistent swell (and is backed by a cute and colorful cluster of buildings), while nearby Chicama holds the record for the world’s longest wave.