
Where to surf all year round? Spoiler: in Fuerteventura!
12 June 2025
How to choose the right surfboard for your needs
12 June 2025There are many, each with its own characteristics, its own waves, its own activities and its own surf schools for all levels
The Canary Islands, nestled in the Atlantic, are an earthly paradise: for everyone, of course, but especially for those who love surfing. Crystal-clear waters, pleasant temperatures and perfect waves make the Canary Islands a favorite stop for surfers from all over Europe (and beyond!). In this article, we will find out which are the best beaches for surfing and other water activities in these beautiful islands.
Read also: Kitesurfing vs wingfoil: all the differences and how to choose the best alternative for you
Canary Islands: which beaches are best for surfing (and the rest of the water sports)
Let’s start with Playa de Famara in Lanzarote, a spot that offers powerful, consistent waves and a long, sandy beach. Here, you can surf while enjoying views of the surrounding mountains, in a pleasant and relaxed atmosphere,.
El Confital beach in Gran Canaria, set in a beautiful, unique volcanic landscape, is unspoiled and wild. The waves are ideal for experienced surfers, and there is no shortage of surfing competitions for professionals either: in fact, international championships in the discipline have been held here partly because of its fast, powerful waves that form extraordinary tubes.
El Hierro, in Fuerteventura, provides fast waves, and tube-forming quarries on a deep volcanic seabed create the perfect environment for advanced maneuvers.
El Cotillo, also in Fuerteventura, is a spot suitable for all levels and all seasons: the waves are perfect even for beginners, and the white sand and crystal-clear waters frame a relaxed, almost bohemian atmosphere. There is no shortage of surf schools, where you can learn the basics of the discipline.
At La Derecha del Cartel in Tenerife, long, powerful waves rise over rocky swells in a spectacular landscape. Suitable especially for more experienced surfers, the serene atmosphere makes it a spot among the ipi
Playa del Inglés, in Gran Canaria, offers waves suitable for various skill levels and a nice lively atmosphere, a wide range of services and entertainment events. There is no shortage of surf schools and ancillary services here either.
Lanzarote’s La Santa beach is especially loved by advanced surfers: there is no shortage of surfing events and competitions, but neither are there restaurants and bars where you can refresh yourself after your surfing exertions.
Playa de la Fajana, in La Palma, is a suitable spot for beginner and experienced surfers, who can surf with beautiful panoramic sea views, thanks in part to the year-round pleasant weather.
Back in Tenerife, Izquierda de Las Palmeras is home to world surfing events, but it also offers a suitable experience for beginners thanks to surf schools that allow you to learn the fundamentals in a friendly environment. The best time to visit this beach? October through March.
Finally, we close with El Quemao, in Lanzarote, one of the best spots in the world for experienced professionals. The fast, deep waves make it a spot to be approached with caution, but one that gives a lot of satisfaction to those who give the board a thou.
Why the Canary Islands are a surfing paradise
The Canary Islands are perfect for surfing-just talk to someone who is passionate about water sports to find out. These islands enjoy constant waves due to their prime location in the Atlantic Ocean. Sea currents promote the formation of waves of various sizes, providing year-round surfing opportunities at any level.
The beaches of the Canary Islands are of incredible variety. From Famara in Lanzarote, with its long sandy beaches perfect for beginners, to El Cotillo in Fuerteventura, with breaks for every skill level, each spot has unique characteristics that make it suitable for all types of surfers.
The climate of the Canary Islands is another reason why they are so popular with surfers. Pleasant year-round temperatures make surfing, kitesurfing and windsurfing possible in any season. The constant breeze helps to maintain an optimal temperature: this is compounded by the wonderful atmosphere, another reason why the Canary Islands are so beloved by the surfing community.
Whether you are looking for powerful and challenging waves, or something more relaxed for beginners, the Canary Islands offer a variety of conditions: quiet bays or beaches exposed to the “force” of the Atlantic.
Read also: Is there an ideal season for surfing in the Canary Islands?
In conclusion
Are you looking for a place where the love of surfing blends perfectly with breathtaking nature and a fantastic atmosphere? Well, the Canary Islands is the destination you’re looking for: crystal-clear waters, perfect waves, pleasant weather and a passionate and open surfing community make these islands a true surfing sanctuary. And if you wanted to learn, there is no shortage of surf schools, such as Point Break in Fuerteventura: everything in the Canaries is tailored to surfing!
Takeaways
- The Canary Islands offer a wide range of surfing beaches suitable for surfers of all levels, from Famara Beach in Lanzarote for beginners to the challenge of El Quemao for seasoned pros.
- Due to their prime location in the Atlantic Ocean, the Canary Islands enjoy constant waves throughout the year. The pleasant climate allows surfing in any season.
- Each surf spot in the Canary Islands has unique characteristics, from long sandy beaches perfect for beginners to powerful, challenging waves for experienced surfers. There are options for all tastes.
- The Canary Islands have a community of passionate and welcoming surfers. Surfing schools like Point Break in Fuerteventura offer opportunities to learn and improve your skills.
- In addition to fantastic surfing opportunities, the Canary Islands offers a breathtaking atmosphere, crystal clear waters and a constant breeze. It is an authentic destination for surfers looking for the perfect combination of nature and surfing passion.
Questions & Answers
What are the best surfing beaches in the Canary Islands?
Some of the best surfing beaches in the Canary Islands include Playa de Famara in Lanzarote, El Confital in Gran Canaria, El Hierro in Fuerteventura, El Cotillo in Fuerteventura, La Derecha del Cartel in Tenerife, Playa del Inglés in Gran Canaria, La Santa in Lanzarote, Playa de la Fajana in La Palma, Izquierda de Las Palmeras in Tenerife, and El Quemao in Lanzarote.
Why are the Canary Islands such a popular surfing destination?
The Canary Islands are a popular surfing destination because of their constant waves, variety of beaches suitable for all skill levels, and pleasant climate that allows year-round surfing. In addition, the Canaries offer a wonderful atmosphere and a passionate surfing community.
Where can I learn to surf in the Canary Islands?
You can learn to surf in the Canary Islands at several surf schools, such as Point Break in Fuerteventura. These schools offer courses for beginners and can help you learn the basics of surfing in a friendly environment.