Young man surfing a huge wave in Tenerife, Canary Islands

Best surfing beaches in the Canary Islands

Canary Islands

Lapped by the Atlantic Ocean, the Canary Islands boast some of the best surfing spots in all of Europe. They are also among the top European destinations for a wide range of water sports. Surfing enthusiasts and professionals flock to the islands to learn how to surf in the numerous surf schools while enjoying water temperatures that hover around 20 degrees Celsius most of the year. A permanent spring climate, accompanied by trade winds and quality waves on dream beaches, are you in?

  • El Confital Beach, Gran Canaria

    International surfing championships such as the Red Bull Rivals have been held on this beach in the north-east of the island of Gran Canaria, and El Confital is a suitable place for the most experienced surfers. The strong swell provides fast and powerful waves, shaping incredibly high quality tubes. Breaking right-handed on volcanic bedrock, its waves are considered the best right-handed reef break (a term used when waves break on a rocky bottom) in these islands. However, it is not recommended for beginner surfers to practice the sport in El Confital, since the rocks at the bottom are dangerous and the currents can bring you close to the cliffs.

  • Tourists relaxing after a surf session on the beach of El Hierro in Fuerteventura, Canary Islands

    El Hierro, Fuerteventura

    El Hierro is the most famous surfing spot on the island of Fuerteventura. Why? Its known for its quality breakers, fast, hollow waves that tend to form tubes and break over a considerably deep volcanic bed.It's a great spot in the north of Fuerteventura where numerous surfers come together to put on a surfing stunt show!

  • Izquierda de Las Palmeras, Tenerife

    The most popular surfing spot on the island is located at the tourist beach of Las Americas in southern Tenerife. It has hosted world surfing events such as the WQS (World Qualifying Series) and ASP (Association of Surfing Professionals) championships.The left-hand waves tend to be long and of medium difficulty, and are thus suitable for beginners. The beach has even set up surfing schools where you can start to learn how to surf. Surfing at Izquierda de Las Palmeras is recommended between the months of October and March.

  • Dude surfing a big wave at El Quemao on Lanzarote, Canary Islands

    El Quemao, Lanzarote

    From the fishing village of La Santa, you can see the El Quemao beach, renowned as one of the world's best surfing spots, but also one of the most feared and intimidating in the Canary Islands. That's why only experienced and skilled professionals should surf it. The swell is very strong, giving rise to fast and deep tubes. Visit this Lanzarote beach between October and March for the best surfing season in Lanzarote. There are also surf equipment rental shops and surf schools near El Quemao.