An Introduction To Caleta de Famara Surf
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By
Matt
- Updated | August 11, 2025
Caleta de Famara sits on Lanzarote’s wild northwest coast, known as one of the island’s most consistent and easy-to-reach surf spots. This stretch offers a blend of beach and reef breaks, all within a short distance.
From October to May, strong northwest swells and offshore winds bring clean, powerful waves that energize the coastline. Playa de Famara’s beach breaks suit all skill levels, while nearby San Juan and Ghost Town serve up heavier reef waves for advanced surfers.
June and September bring smaller, warmer waves, perfect for intermediates wanting less crowded conditions. Summer’s gentle rollers and clear mornings attract beginners and longboarders.
If chasing hefty winter swells or smooth summer lines, Caleta de Famara surf delivers variety, convenience, and quality in one of Lanzarote’s most stunning wave zones.
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In This Guide
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Best Time To Surf Caleta de Famara
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Peak Caleta de Famara Surf Season | October to May
Suited For Intermediate & Advanced
Caleta de Famara surf peaks from October to May, when solid northwest and west swells hit Lanzarote’s north coast. Waves often range between 3 and 8 feet, with long-period swells lighting up the beach and nearby reef breaks. Winter delivers the most consistent surf, featuring powerful, clean waves shaped by steady east and southeast offshore winds.
Caleta de Famara wide beach offers multiple peaks for all skill levels, though advanced surfers find the best waves during this energetic season. With fewer crowds outside major holidays, these months provide prime conditions for many surfers.
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Shoulder Caleta de Famara Surf Season | June & September
Suited For All Skill Levels
The shoulder season in June and September offers smaller, fun waves from 1 to 4 feet, suited for all levels. Conditions are gentler than winter, making it perfect for beginners and intermediates. September often shows early autumn swells, while June holds on to spring energy.
Morning sessions are usually clean and quiet, with lighter winds and playful peaks across the bay. Although less consistent than peak season, the warm water and approachable waves make the shoulder months great for relaxed surfing.
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Low Caleta de Famara Surf Season | July & August
Suited For Beginners & Intermediate
July to August, is the slowest Caleta de Famara surf period, with smaller swells around 1 to 3 feet and frequent flat spells. Gentle rollers appear mainly in the mornings when offshore winds keep conditions glassy.
These soft waves suit beginners and longboarders looking for easy rides. While advanced surfers may seek more powerful breaks elsewhere, Caleta de Famara’s calm beach and steady weather create a peaceful summer surf spot for casual sessions.
Caleta de Famara Surf Temperature, What To Wear & Rainfall Guide
Caleta de Famara Surf Temperature:
21–23°C (70–73°F)
What To Wear:
A 2 mm shorty or just boardshorts/bikini will work for most sessions. Mornings can be cooler, so a springsuit is a good backup option
Rainfall:
Summer is very dry, with only 0–2 rainy days per month. Trade winds are frequent and can cause surface chop, but some protected spots still offer fun waves.
Caleta de Famara Surf Temperature:
22–24°C (72–75°F)
What To Wear:
A shorty is great in early autumn, shifting to a 3/2 mm wetsuit as water temperatures cool later in the season
Rainfall:
Expect 3–6 rainy days per month. Autumn delivers more consistent groundswells, improving wave quality across the exposed reef and beach breaks.
Caleta de Famara Surf Temperature:
19–21°C (66–70°F)
What To Wear:
A 3/2 mm or 4/3 mm wetsuit is essential, especially on windy or overcast days. Booties are usually optional but may help on volcanic reef days
Rainfall:
With 5–9 rainy days per month, this is the wettest time of year. Winter swells offer the most powerful and reliable surf conditions in Famara.
Caleta de Famara Surf Temperature:
20–22°C (68–72°F)
What To Wear:
A 3/2 mm wetsuit is ideal for maintaining comfort and flexibility during shifting spring weather
Rainfall:
Rainfall drops to about 2–4 days per month. Surf remains steady with moderate swells and cleaner morning conditions before winds rise.
Surf Spots Within 5km or 3 Miles From Caleta de Famara
| Caleta de Famara Surf Spots | Distance from Caleta de Famara | Wave Size | Wave Quality | Skill Level |
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Playa de Famara |
In town centre |
2-8 foot |
Long beach break |
All levels |
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San Juan |
Approx. 1.5km (0.9mi) north |
2-8 foot |
Heavy reef break |
Advanced only |
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Surf Spots In The Area |
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Ghost town |
Approx. 9km (5.6mi) west |
2-6 foot |
Powerful reef break |
Intermediate to advanced |
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Caleta de Caballo |
Approx. 9km (5.6mi) west |
2-5 foot |
Short reef break |
Intermediate |
Further Information To Caleta de Famara Surf Spots
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid to high tide
- Wind: Southeast
- Swell Direction: Northwest
- Crowd Factor: High
Playa de Famara is the most accessible and consistent surf spot on Lanzarote’s northwest coast, stretching for nearly six kilometers. It offers a range of peaks over a sand and reef mix, making it ideal for all levels, from beginners to advanced surfers. The wave quality varies depending on tide and sand movement.
Best conditions occur during mid to high tide with clean southeast winds and northwest swell. The beach handles a wide swell window, producing both lefts and rights with long open faces when the sandbanks align.
Playa de Famara draws heavy crowds year-round due to its popularity with surf schools and local surfers. Despite this, the number of peaks helps spread out the lineup and gives everyone a chance to catch waves.
Rating: 4/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Low to mid tide
- Wind: South to southeast
- Swell Direction: Northwest to north
- Crowd Factor: Moderate to high
San Juan is a high-quality left-hand reef break just south of Famara. It’s known for holding solid swell and delivering long, powerful lefts over a lava reef. The wave walls up fast, with sections that barrel depending on size and tide.
Low to mid tide is ideal, with southeast offshore winds grooming the face. It needs a solid northwest swell to come alive and becomes more technical as the size increases. This is a performance wave suited for experienced surfers.
San Juan often hosts local competitions and is a popular spot among Lanzarote’s core surf community. While not as crowded as Famara, the level in the water is high, and newcomers should be aware of priority and etiquette.
Rating: 4.5/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid tide
- Wind: Southeast
- Swell Direction: Northwest
- Crowd Factor: Low
Ghost Town is a lesser-known reef break north of Famara that rarely sees crowds due to its remote access and need for the right combination of swell and tide. It produces long, clean right-handers that break over lava reef, with fun walls and some hollow sections.
Best surf is found during mid tide, when enough water covers the reef for safer takeoffs. A northwest swell and light southeast wind are required to shape the wave. The spot is very exposed, so wind and tide must align carefully.
Because of its isolation and demanding paddle out, Ghost Town is often empty. It’s a perfect escape for advanced surfers wanting to explore and score waves in solitude when conditions align.
Rating: 3.5/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid to high tide
- Wind: South to southeast
- Swell Direction: North or northwest
- Crowd Factor: Low to moderate
Caleta de Caballo is a small village break just west of Famara that comes alive with winter swells. The reef produces both lefts and rights with good shape and moderate power, making it suitable for intermediates and up. Its semi-protected position helps hold wind better than nearby exposed spots.
Best surf is during mid to high tide, as low tide exposes rocks and shallow reef. A north to northwest swell and clean south winds provide the best setup.
The crowd remains light compared to Famara or San Juan, though local surfers do keep a regular presence. Caleta de Caballo is a good backup spot when the main reefs are busy or maxed out.
Rating: 3/5
Travel Time To Caleta de Famara Surf Spots
| Caleta de Famara Surf Spots | Walking Time | Biking Time | Public Transport |
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Playa de Famara |
0-5 min. |
0-5 min. |
Not required |
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San Juan |
20-25 min. |
5-10 min. |
Not required |
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Ghost Town |
Not recommended |
Not recommended |
10 min. local taxi |
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Caleta de Caballo |
Not recommended |
Not recommended |
10 min. local taxi |
Accommodation In Caleta de Famara
Before heading off on your Caleta de Famara surf adventure, browse Trip.com for accommodation options. With everything from high-end oceanfront hotels to simple, surfer-friendly hostels, you’ll find a spot that fits your needs. Book early to lock in a great location and focus on surfing, not logistics.
If you want a more immersive surf experience in Canary Islands, Tripaneer surf camps offer expert lessons, cozy lodging, and a great way to connect with the surf community. These camps are designed to help you grow your skills and get fully into the rhythm of Caleta de Famara surf living.
| Accommodation Type | Description | Price Range (EUR)* | Price Range (USD)* |
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Hostels |
Dormitory-style accommodation |
N/A |
N/A |
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Mid-range Hotels/Serviced Apartments |
Studio apartments, motels, or 1-bedroom units |
€100 to €300 |
$120 to $350 |
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Luxury Stays |
Luxury beachfront resorts or high-end apartments |
€400 to €600+ |
$470 to $700+ |
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*Rates are per night and subject to change. |
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Caleta de Famara Surf Lessons & Surf Schools
When it comes to learning, Caleta de Famara surf schools have plenty to offer. Surf School Lanzarote is recognized for its technical teaching and long-standing presence in the area. ZooPark Famara runs daily lessons in small groups led by certified instructors, while Aloha y Olas Surf School provides a relaxed atmosphere ideal for beginners gaining confidence in the water.
For surfers seeking more advanced training, JMC Surf Training delivers personalized coaching focused on improving skills and performance. Most Caleta de Famara surf education in happens through these well established Caleta de Famara surf schools, which cater to surfers of all levels with a variety of lesson options.
Caleta de Famara Surf Camp
Caleta de Famara Surf Camp Retreat With Surf School Famara Slu
Surf School Famara Slu offers the ideal setup for surfers of all levels looking for a relaxed and professional Caleta de Famara camp experience. With 5-day and 8-day surf camp packages available, guests can choose the right duration to match their goals and schedule.
Located just steps from the beach in the Chinijo Archipelago Natural Park, Surf School Famara Slu runs daily surf lessons at Famara’s consistent beach break, known for its year-round swell and forgiving sand bottom.
Accommodation is provided at the Surf School Famara Slu surf house, a sociable and comfortable base with shared kitchens, chill-out spaces, and outdoor terraces perfect for connecting with other travelers.
Both surf packages include equipment rental, beach transfers, surf insurance, and expert instruction from qualified coaches. Lessons are adapted to your level and daily wave conditions, making this a great place to learn, progress, and enjoy Lanzarote’s laid-back surf lifestyle.
Book your 5-day Caleta de Famara surf camp or settle into the rhythm of surf life and book the 8-day experience.
Caleta de Famara Surf Camp & Yoga Retreat With Lanzasurf and Yoga Retreat
For surfers who want to pair their wave-riding with deep relaxation and mobility training, Lanzasurf in Famara offers a 7-day surf and yoga holiday ideal for beginners and intermediates.
Located in the quiet bungalows just steps from Playa de Famara, this retreat combines surf progression with daily yoga, helping guests reconnect with nature while enjoying Lanzarote’s warm water and mellow island pace.
The program includes five full days of surf instruction and yoga sessions, with gear, beach snacks, and video analysis included.
Lessons run from morning through early afternoon and are taught at Famara Beach, a 6-kilometer sandy stretch with reliable waves and a forgiving bottom. Instructors tailor the program to your level, ensuring progression in both surf and yoga.
Accommodation is provided at Lanzasurf’s Surf House Deluxe, right on the beach and walking distance from restaurants and shops. The vibe is sociable yet peaceful, offering shared kitchens, terraces, and comfortable common areas.
Book your 7-day surf and yoga camp with Lanzasurf Surf and Yoga Retreat today.
Caleta de Famara Surfboard Hire
Caleta de Famara surfboard rental options are plentiful, making it simple to find the right gear before hitting the waves. ZooPark Famara, Surf School Lanzarote, and Aloha y Olas Surf School all offer a broad range of boards, from soft-tops perfect for beginners to hardboards and performance shapes suited for more advanced surfers.
If you need a board for a day or a longer stay, these Caleta de Famara surfboard rental providers give flexible rental periods and are all located within easy walking distance to the beach. Many also rent wetsuits, and the staff are knowledgeable about matching you with the best equipment for the local conditions.
Caleta de Famara Surf Report & Surf Cam
Planning your surf days in Caleta de Famara is simpler with reliable tools like Surf-Forecast & Surfline. Surf-Forecast offers detailed swell & tide forecasts, while Surfline’s live cams give real-time views of waves at top Lanzarote surf spots with subscription access.
How To Get To Caleta de Famara Surf
- Lanzarote Airport (ACE) To Caleta de Famara
Distance: 38km (24mi)
Lanzarote Airport (ACE) is the closest airport for travelers headed to Caleta de Famara surf, with several convenient transfer options to get you there efficiently. Here’s how to make the trip.
Public Transport
Approx. 1-2 hrs.
Details:
Catch the number 22 bus from just outside the terminal toward Arrecife, then transfer in Arrecife to the 16 bus that serves Caleta de Famara. The full journey lasts approximately 60–90 minutes and is very budget‑friendly.
That said, carrying surfboards and gear between buses may be cumbersome. Checking schedules before you arrive is recommended to minimise waiting time.
Shuttle Service
Approx. 45-60 mins.
Details:
Shared and private shuttle options operate between Lanzarote Airport and Caleta de Famara. Shared shuttles may pause at multiple locations, extending travel time, while private transfers offer a direct, fuss‑free route to the beach.
Pre-book your shuttle via HolidayTaxis or Welcome Pickups to have a waiting vehicle on arrival. This convenient service provides a quick & comfortable transfer to the beach.
Canary Islands Travel Information | 7 Essentials You Need To Know
The Canary Islands offer reliable waves and an easy travel experience. Euros are the local currency, and you can use credit or debit cards almost everywhere. Spanish is the official language, but English is commonly spoken in major surf towns like Corralejo and Las Palmas. Tap water is generally safe, though bottled is also widely available. In case of emergencies, dial 112 for quick help.
Visit our Canary Islands surf page to learn about all 7 essentials, including visa requirements, health advice, and other key travel details.
Travel Insurance For Your Caleta de Famara Surf Trip
Heading to Canary Islands? Surf’s looking good, but life doesn’t always cooperate. A twisted ankle or rerouted flight can throw things off. Insurance helps pick up the slack so you don’t lose out completely.
You’ll have support for emergencies, trip changes, or gear issues. VisitorsCoverage offers flexible plans to cover what matters. Don’t let small setbacks ruin the whole journey. One policy keeps the focus on the waves, not the what-ifs.
Discover Caleta de Famara: What To Do When The Waves Are Flat
When the surfs not on in Caleta de Famara, Lanzarote still offers plenty of ways to enjoy your time. From dramatic landscapes to island culture and local cuisine, here are five memorable activities for flat-wave days.
For more unique experiences, check out GetYourGuide and Viator for guided hikes, vineyard tours, and full-day island excursions.
Keep Exploring With More Canary Islands Surf Destinations
Written by Matt
Surfer for nearly 20 years and an environmental scientist for nine, Matt grew up on the Sunshine Coast in Australia and now calls Melbourne home. He’s all about finding surf towns you can reach without a car and writes simple surf guides to help you do the same.