Surfing in the Canari Islands

Hola, fellow wave riders, to the Canary Islands, Spain’s sun-soaked archipelago off the coast of northwest Africa. Often referred to as the “Hawaii of the Atlantic”, the Canaries are a year-round surf destination offering an enticing blend of world-class waves, warm waters, and consistent offshore winds. From the punchy beach breaks of Fuerteventura, the reef breaks of Gran Canaria, to the legendary big wave spot “El Fronton,” the islands cater to surfers of all levels. Throw in a sub-tropical climate, stunning volcanic landscapes, and a laid-back Spanish lifestyle, and you’ve got yourself a surf paradise that’ll have you saying “una ola más” one wave after another.

The Canary Islands boast a wealth of surf spots scattered across its main islands. Beginners should hit the sandy beaches of Las Palmas in Gran Canaria or the mellow waves of Cotillo in Fuerteventura. For intermediates, the point breaks of Lanzarote’s Famara Beach offer a great testing ground. Advanced surfers should not miss the world-class waves of El Fronton, a fast, heavy slab that demands respect and expertise. From reef to point and beach breaks, the Canaries have it all.

Surfing in the Canary Islands is a year-round affair. For beginners, the summer months (May to August) serve up smaller, user-friendly waves, making spots like Las Canteras in Gran Canaria and Playa Morro in Fuerteventura ideal. Intermediate surfers will find the shoulder seasons of Spring and Autumn provide the perfect balance of manageable size and frequency. For the big wave hunters, winter is the season to chase. From October to February, powerful North Atlantic swells march into spots like El Fronton and La Santa in Lanzarote, offering up monstrous waves for those who dare. Water temperatures remain a comfortable 19-22°C year-round, but a light wetsuit can be handy in winter.

When you’re not scoring epic waves, immerse yourself in the rich Spanish culture of the Canaries. Explore traditional markets, relish in the local cuisine like “papas arrugadas” or explore the stunning volcanic landscapes of Timanfaya National Park in Lanzarote. Water lovers can dive or snorkel in the crystal-clear waters, while night owls will appreciate the vibrant nightlife, especially in Gran Canaria and Tenerife.

Before hopping on a plane to the Canaries, ensure to check the entry requirements for Spain as they apply to the islands too. Health insurance that covers surf-related injuries is always a wise move. Despite the welcoming vibe, respect the local surf etiquette, especially at crowded or localized spots. Note that powerful waves like El Fronton are only for experienced surfers. Lastly, the sun in the Canaries can be intense, so don’t forget your sunscreen and hydrate well. Vamos, and enjoy the Canarian surf paradise!