During winter the islands are perfect for the more experienced, but in the Canary Islands you can surf year-round

Surfing is an all-encompassing passion: those who can’t give up their boards know this well. But is there a surf 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, relaxed atmosphere, and most importantly, extraordinary surfing conditions because they enjoy a subtropical climate that makes year-round surfing possible.

It remains for us to find out whether there is a favored 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. Air temperatures between 22-25 degrees, water temperatures (temperatures around 18-20 degrees) make surfing a perfect experience.

During these months, the steady, powerful waves from ocean currents are a boon to the surfing enthusiast; the northern islands, in particular, offer an assortment of spots that cater to the needs of surfers of all levels, from beginner to expert.

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 summer vacation, and see if it is right for them.

So, the perfect season for surfing in the Canary Islands? is more than one: certainly winter is perfect for the more experienced, but spring and summer can also hold great satisfaction for surfers of all levels.

Read also: 5 tips for first-time surfing beginners

Where to surf in the Canary Islands?

Having said the ideal season, or rather ideal seasons, let’s see which locations in the Canary Islands lend themselves perfectly to surfing.

Tenerife, with its famous Playa de las Américas, is a must-see destination for those seeking “epic” waves. Indeed, its southern coast is renowned for its long and powerful waves, ideal for experienced surfers. For beginners, Gran Canaria offers some hidden bays 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, makes this island a must for anyone seeking the thrill of surfing in a wild and unspoiled environment.

Fuerteventura is a popular destination for surfers because of excellent weather conditions, consistent waves, and a 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 surf, 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 both local and distant swells.
Generosa is an exposed reef break that offers “reliable” surf, 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 spots in Fuerteventura where you can practice good surfing, but there are several other locations that can give great satisfaction to beginners and experts all year round.

Learn surfing in all seasons: surf schools in the Canary Islands

So, in the Canary Islands you can surf all year round. But can you also learn to surf year-round?

There are many surf schools in Fuerteventura, as well as in the rest of the Canary Islands, to enroll in to learn to surf. Learning the basics at a school allows you to surf safely, avoiding unnecessary risks and properly approaching the technique needed to ride the wave. Instructors accompany the student step by step in learning depending on the starting level; even the most experienced can perfect their skills by enrolling in a good specialized school.

The surf schools also provide quality equipment and organize events to allow students to socialize with each other under the banner of the same, great passion.

Read also: Kitesurfing vs surfing: which one is best for you? Find out here!

In conclusion

In the Canary Islands you can surf year-round, but it is during the winter months that these islands prove to be a mecca for fans of the sport, particularly the more experienced. The reasons? Great waves and perfect water and air temperatures 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 enrolling in a good school (see Point Break School in Fuerteventura) to learn the basics or to deepen your technique. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced surfer, you are sure to find the location, but more importantly, the season best suited to your needs to practice this amazing sport.

Takeaways

• The ideal season for surfing in the Canary Islands is from November to March. During these months, the air and water temperatures are perfect for surfing, and the consistent, powerful waves due to ocean currents make for an exceptional experience. This is a favorite time for experienced surfers.
• Summer and spring also offer favorable conditions for surfing in the Canary Islands. Between July and November, water temperatures are more pleasant and suitable for beginners. In general, you can surf all year round.
• The Canary Islands offer several outstanding surfing destinations. Tenerife, with Playa de las Américas, is ideal for long, powerful waves, while Gran Canaria has hidden bays for beginners. Lanzarote, with its volcanic beaches, is perfect for those seeking a wild environment.
• Fuerteventura is a popular destination for surfers due to excellent weather conditions and consistent waves. There are many spots, such as Cotillo and Generosa, suitable for surfers of all levels.
• In the Canary Islands, it is possible to learn to surf year-round thanks to surf schools. These schools offer experienced instructors, quality equipment and the opportunity to socialize with other enthusiasts. They are suitable for both beginners and experts who want to perfect their skills.

Questions & Answers

What is the ideal season for surfing in the Canary Islands?

You can surf year-round in the Canaries, but the ideal surfing season is from November to March, with pleasant temperatures of both air (22-25 degrees) and water (18-20 degrees) and consistent, powerful waves.

Where to surf in the Canary Islands?

Some of the best surfing locations in the Canary Islands include Tenerife with Playa de las Américas, Gran Canaria with hidden bays, Lanzarote with black volcanic beaches, and Fuerteventura with numerous spots such as Cotillo and Generosa. There are many other options for surfing in these islands.

Can you learn surfing in the Canary Islands in all seasons?

Yes, it is possible to learn surfing in the Canary Islands year-round. There are numerous surf schools throughout the Canary Islands that offer lessons for beginners and even experienced surfers. Learning to surf at a school allows you to do so safely and with the assistance of experienced instructors.