Surfing in Lanzarote

The Canaries have a reputation as the Hawaii of Europe for surfing thanks to the lack of continental shelf and shallow lava reefs that conspire to create fantastic surfing conditions. Add to this the great climate and mild water temperatures and its easy to see why Lanzarote makes for a great winter getaway for the European surfer. The biggest waves are between November and March when the winter Atlantic swells create 1.5m – 4m waves, although smaller waves in the summer are compensated for by warmer water (no wetsuit required).

Famara and La Santa, both on the North coast, are the main centres for surfers, with Famara being the more beginner-friendly of the two. Localism can be a problem on some of the reef breaks, though visitors should be wary of these anyway since they can be very dangerous. On the other hand, at Famara beach there is plenty of space and waves for everyone and this should be the first port of call for any visiting surfer or beginner.

Surf Spots

Famara Beach
Home to many of the Lanzarote’s surf schools, Famara beach is the perfect place for the beginner and a great place to base yourself, since it is close to many of the other surf spots on the north-west of the island.

El Muelle
Located at the opposite end of Famara village to the beach, this is a reef break that should be avoided by beginners.

San Juan
Just east of Famara, this is another rocky break that has hosted 6* WQS events and is really for the experienced surfer. It can get a little crowded and has a reputation for localism.

La Santa
In and around La Santa are several outstanding surf spots. The Slab is a world-class left that unfortunately has a bad reputation for localism. El Quemao is another stunning left over a rocky reef and is known as one of the best in Europe.

Arrieta
Located on the north-east coast, Arrieta is another beginner-friendly beach that can be good when the conditions are wrong on the Famara-side.

Jameos del Agua
Located close to the tourist attraction of the same name, this rocky volcanic reef point break works when there is a big swell and is good for intermediate and above.