Lima becomes the epicenter of surfing and an emerging lifestyle.

In recent years, surfing has gained significant momentum in Lima, becoming not only a recreational activity but also a lifestyle adopted by young people and adults seeking a connection with the ocean. The pandemic, which forced many to stay home, has been a catalyst for many, like Alejandro Puiggrós, a 15-year-old teenager who found in surfing a way to escape confinement. "Surfing has given me freedom," he shares enthusiastically, feeling healthier since he started practicing it, stating that he almost never catches a cold. This interest in surfing is not exclusive to Lima residents. Bryan Virijivich, 14 years old, is one of many young people who have ventured to master the waves at Palillos, a popular beach that attracts surfers of all ages. "I come three times a week. The idea is to improve my surfing so I can compete in tournaments," he explains, reflecting the growing competitiveness of the sport in the region. This desire for improvement is fueled by the recent achievements of Peruvian surfers in international competitions, such as Alonso Correa's fourth place at the Paris Olympics. Pablo Doig, a renowned surf coach, points out that the sport has ceased to be exclusive to a few and has become an accessible discipline for all. "Surfing has become widespread thanks to the work of young people like Lucca Mesinas and Sol Aguirre," he mentions, emphasizing how the success of these surfers inspires others to join in. Lima, with its vast coastline, presents a fertile ground for the development of new talents, especially in iconic places like Makaha Beach in Miraflores. Historically, Makaha Beach has been a starting point for the golden generations of Peruvian surfers who began conquering waves on a global scale in the 1950s and 1960s. Today, this legacy is reflected in the proliferation of surf schools that have emerged in the area, where instructors offer lessons to passersby. Since the first academy led by Roberto 'Muelas' Meza in 1992, the number of schools has grown exponentially, with options like Corzo Surf School and Tubos Surf School, among many others. The quality of instruction in these academies has significantly improved, offering programs designed for beginners to learn in a fun and safe manner. "Surfing requires patience and dedication," emphasizes Doig, reminding the importance of approaching the ocean with respect. For younger individuals, the recommendation is to start from the age of seven, although personalized classes for adults are a viable option that allows for faster and more effective learning. However, surfing is not without its challenges. Instructors warn that falls are part of the learning process. "It's necessary to fall off the board, to feel cold and pain," says the director of Tubos Surf School, who emphasizes that these elements are fundamental for surfing to become part of a person's lifestyle. In addition to technique, instructors focus on teaching students how to read the ocean conditions, which is essential for safety and enjoyment in the water. The appeal of surfing is not limited to locals. More and more tourists from Europe and the United States are joining this trend, seeking to experience the thrill of surfing the Peruvian waves. Some companies even hire group lessons as a team-building activity, offering their employees a unique experience at sea. These groups, often totaling up to 30 people, receive instruction designed to enhance their physical and emotional skills. For those who have always wanted to try surfing, access is not as complicated as it might seem. You don't need to be an expert swimmer; with some basic knowledge and a little motivation, anyone can enjoy the experience. The Pacific waves are waiting, and Lima has positioned itself as the ideal destination for those looking to learn this exciting sport. As surfing continues to gain popularity in Lima, a promising future for the sport in the region is on the horizon, with the hope that more young people will follow in the footsteps of their idols and find in the ocean not just a sport, but a way of life. With every wave ridden, a new story is woven into the rich tradition of Peruvian surfing, a legacy that remains in constant evolution and promises to inspire future generations.