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12 June 2025
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12 June 2025During the winter the islands are perfect for the most experienced surfers, but in the Canary Islands you can surf all year round.
Surfing is an all-encompassing passion: those who can’t give up the board know it well. But is there a surfing season, and is there an ideal season in the Canary Islands?
These spectacular volcanic islands in the Atlantic Ocean offer a unique combination of beautiful scenery, a relaxed atmosphere and, above all, extraordinary conditions for surfing, as they enjoy a subtropical climate that makes surfing possible all year round.
It remains to be seen if there is a preferred season when surfing is particularly suitable: let’s find out together.
Surfing in the Canary Islands: what is the perfect season?
Let’s answer the question right away: from November to March, the Canary Islands are a surfer’s paradise. The air temperatures, between 22 and 25 degrees Celsius, and the water temperatures, around 18 and 20 degrees Celsius, make surfing a perfect experience.
During these months, the constant and powerful waves due to the ocean currents are a blessing for surf lovers, especially in the northern islands, where there is a great variety of spots for surfers of all levels, from beginners to experts.
However, summer and spring are also great seasons for surfing: between July and November, but especially between July and August, the more pleasant water temperatures are perfect for those who want to approach surfing, perhaps during the summer vacations, and see if they do well.
So, the perfect season for surfing in the Canary Islands is more than one: without a doubt, winter is perfect for the most experienced surfers, but spring and summer can also provide great satisfaction to surfers of all levels.
Read also: 5 tips for beginners approaching surfing for the first time.
Where to surf in the Canary Islands?
Having said the ideal season, or rather, the ideal seasons, let’s see which places in the Canary Islands lend themselves perfectly to surfing.
Tenerife, with its famous Playa de las Americas, is a must for those looking for “epic” waves. In fact, its south coast is famous for its long and powerful waves, ideal for experienced surfers. For beginners, Gran Canaria offers some hidden coves and quieter beaches where you can learn the basics without being overwhelmed by the waves.
Lanzarote, with its black volcanic beaches, is another gem for surfers. The consistency of its waves, combined with the unique beauty of the landscape, make this island a must for those seeking the thrill of surfing in a wild and unspoiled environment.
Fuerteventura is a very popular destination for surfers because of its excellent weather conditions, the consistency of its waves and the variety of spots suitable for surfers of all levels.
In fact, Fuerteventura offers numerous surf spots: Cotillo, for example, is an exposed beach break that has consistent waves, although during the summer it tends to be mostly flat. The best wind direction is from the east, with some shelter from northerly winds. Waves come from local and distant swells.
Generosa is an exposed reef break that offers “reliable” waves, although the summer tends to be mostly flat. Waves come from both local and distant swells and the ideal swell direction is from the north-northwest.
These are just two examples of good surf spots in Fuerteventura, but there are many other places that can give great satisfaction to both beginners and experts all year round.
Learn to surf in all seasons: surf schools in the Canary Islands
In the Canary Islands you can surf all year round. But can you also learn to surf all year round?
There are many surf schools in Fuerteventura, as well as in the rest of the Canary Islands, in which to enroll to learn to surf. Learning the basics in a school allows you to surf safely, avoiding unnecessary risks and correctly approaching the technique needed to ride the wave.
Instructors accompany the student step by step in the learning process, depending on the starting level; even the most experienced surfers can perfect their skills by enrolling in a good specialized school.
Surf schools also provide quality equipment and organize events for students to socialize with each other in the name of the same great passion.
Read also: Kitesurfing vs surfing: which is better for you? Find out here!
In conclusion
You can surf in the Canary Islands all year round, but it is during the winter months that these islands prove to be a mecca for surfing enthusiasts, especially the most experienced. The reasons? Great waves and water and air temperatures perfect for surfing.
From Tenerife to Lanzarote, not forgetting Fuerteventura, surfing is therefore a sport that can be practiced in spring, summer and winter, perhaps by joining a good school (see Point Break School in Fuerteventura) to learn the basics or deepen the technique. Beginner or experienced surfer, you will surely find the place and, above all, the season that best suits your needs to practice this amazing sport.
Takeaways
- The Canary Islands offer year-round surfing thanks to its subtropical climate, ideal for surfers of all levels.
- The winter season is perfect for experienced surfers, with powerful, consistent waves and ideal air and water temperatures.
- Spring and summer are also good seasons for beginner surfers or those who wish to get started in this sport, with milder waves and pleasant temperatures.
- The Canary Islands have varied spots such as Tenerife, Fuerteventura and Lanzarote, which offer options for both beginners and advanced surfers.
- Surf schools in the Canary Islands are available all year round, providing training to learn and perfect surfing technique, ensuring safety and fun.
FAQ
Is it possible to surf in the Canary Islands all year round?
Yes, in the Canary Islands you can surf all year round thanks to its subtropical climate. The conditions are optimal in winter as well as in spring and summer.
What is the best season for surfing in the Canary Islands?
Winter, from November to March, is ideal for experienced surfers due to the constant and powerful waves. However, in spring and summer you can also enjoy good conditions, especially for beginners.
Where are the best surfing spots in the Canary Islands?
Tenerife, Lanzarote and Fuerteventura are some of the best islands for surfing. Tenerife is known for Playa de las Americas, while Fuerteventura offers spots like Cotillo and Generosa for surfers of all levels.