Canary Islands surf forecast

Surfing in Canary Islands

The Canary Islands sit in the Atlantic off the coast of Morocco and catch North Atlantic swell all winter, which is why they are a popular cold-season escape for European surfers. The prevailing wind is the north-east trade wind, so breaks on west-facing coasts tend to be offshore, while north-facing coasts take the swell most directly. In winter the trades are usually lighter and more easterly, which helps.

On Lanzarote the action is on the north and north-west coast. Famara is a long sandy beach with room for learners and intermediates, while La Santa and El Quemao are shallow, hollow lava reefs that are strictly for experienced surfers. Fuerteventura's north shore between Corralejo and El Cotillo has beach breaks with surf schools, plus reefs that come alive in bigger winter swells; the beach at El Cotillo is the friendlier option. On Gran Canaria, El Confital near Las Palmas is a powerful right-hand reef for advanced surfers. Tenerife has both north and south facing coasts, so it can find a wave in most swell and wind combinations.

The reefs are volcanic rock, often shallow and sharp, and booties are commonly recommended. Popular reefs can be crowded and some have a strong local crew, so respect the line-up. The main season runs from roughly October to March, with mild air and water that bottoms out at around 18°C, so a shortie or light full suit is usually enough. Summer is smaller and windier.

Each of the main surf islands has its own airport, and the islands are separated by sea, so most surfers base themselves on one island rather than chasing swell between them. Use the island pages for the detail.