La Nilda: a World-Class Wave Returns to the International Circuit
- Ayelet Fuentes Guerra
- 6 hours ago
- 3 min read
During the morning, in Antofagasta, the official launch of the Antofagasta Bodyboard Festival 2026 took place, scheduled to run from April 29 to May 10, marking the beginning of a key stop on the world tour. The announcement also confirmed the long-awaited return of La Nilda as the main venue, reinforcing its status as a world-class wave.
The event brought together authorities, companies, the local community, and national and international riders, setting the stage for high-level competition with ideal performance conditions. During the day, the accreditation process for riders and teams was also carried out, officially kicking off the event’s activities.
In this context, ABF director Arturo Soto highlighted the return to the spot and its evolution over time: “We are happy to return to La Nilda Point; we held the event here more than 10 years ago when it was just bare land, and today we see modern infrastructure that allows us to showcase the best of Antofagasta to the world, especially our coastline, while adding value to our natural arenas.”
Riders from Brazil, France, Venezuela, Portugal, Hawaii, South Africa, Spain, Ecuador, and Peru are part of this edition, raising the competitive level. Among them are South African Tristan Roberts, Frenchman Amaury Lavernhe, and local standout Gustavo Neira, one of Antofagasta’s strongest contenders to fight for the title at home.
Located in the northern sector of the city, La Nilda is a fast and powerful rock-bottom break, with energy felt from the take off. The wave breaks both left and right, offering ideal conditions for radical maneuvers and heavy barrels. Its demanding nature leaves no room for error, as every section requires precise decision-making.
This edition will also host the only Dropknee (DK) world championship event, where the world title in this discipline will be decided. “This is my first time here and I found incredible waves, very powerful; it requires a lot, but it’s pure enjoyment. I came here to become world champion; this is the only stop on the Dropknee tour and I want to take the title”, said Venezuelan rider based in the Canary Islands, David Valladares, who also praised the local conditions and his experience in the city.
The competitive level is already evident in the water, and the true challenge of this spot lies in its nature. It is a sensitive wave that performs best under specific conditions, especially mid tide. It doesn’t need big swell to shine: when the ocean lines up, it delivers clean, hollow, and technical waves; otherwise, it can become dry, fast, and unforgiving.
Beyond its technical aspects, La Nilda offers something deeper. According to local rider Cristopher Aciares: “Being in the water here feels different. It’s a very special wave with a spirit of its own, and it gives you that feeling of coming back to life,” reflecting a shared sentiment within the community.
Today, Antofagasta once again turns its focus to the ocean, and La Nilda, true to its essence, prepares for a world-class spectacle, promising optimal conditions after 11 years away from the international circuit.
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