An Introduction To Canary Islands Surf
-
By
Matt
- Updated | August 15, 2025
The Canary Islands surf scene is a hidden gem in Europe. It offers waves all year round, warm waters, and uncrowded beaches. Rocky points to sandy reefs are scattered along a diverse and volcanic coastline stretching across the islands. These varied breaks attract everyone, from local surfers to international travelers hunting lesser-known waves.
The Canary Islands are gaining recognition as one of Europe’s top surfing destinations thanks to consistent swell year-round, welcoming communities, and a relaxed island lifestyle. Surfing here combines adventure and charm, whether chasing empty reef breaks or joining a lively Canary Islands surf camp experience.
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Overview: Where To Surf In Canary Islands
The Canary Islands are home to a mix of classic surf towns, urban beaches, and reef breaks, offering wave variety and consistent surf all year round.
Along the northern coasts, you’ll find iconic spots like Caleta de Famara on Lanzarote and Corralejo on Fuerteventura, both known for their reliable surf breaks and active surf communities.
Meanwhile, Las Palmas on Gran Canaria and Playa de las Americas on Tenerife provide a more urban, social vibe with easy access to waves suitable for all levels. Playa Del Hombre, also on Gran Canaria, offers beginner-friendly conditions and mellow reef setups, ideal for learning and progression.
The surf scene across the Canary Islands blends local charm with international appeal, with right and left-hand waves, beach breaks, points, and reefs. This makes it a versatile surf itinerary suitable for every style and level.
Best Canary Islands Surf Towns
Caleta de Famara, Lanzarote | Classic Beach Break & Point Combo
Caleta de Famara surf delivers long, consistent waves on a wide sandy beach framed by cliffs and natural beauty. The main beach break works well at most tides, picking up steady swells perfect for intermediates and beginners. Longboarders enjoy the mellow sections, while more confident surfers can head to the points for faster, more challenging rides.
The biggest draw at Caleta de Famara is its blend of raw nature, scenic surroundings, and a friendly surf community. It isn’t a party town, making it ideal for travellers who want quality waves, surf camps, and a relaxed environment without distractions. Find Out More
Corralejo, Fuerteventura | Reef & Beach Break Variety
Corralejo surf offers a mix of reef and beach breaks just minutes from town, with waves suited to all levels. Beginners can enjoy mellow beach breaks, while intermediates and advanced surfers head to points and reef breaks for faster, more powerful rides. The wide variety of waves and consistent swell make it a hotspot for surfers seeking both challenge and ease.
The town combines relaxed island charm with a lively surf community. Its proximity to quality surf schools, board rentals, and surf camps makes Corralejo perfect for those who want to improve skills in a supportive environment without overcrowding. Find Out More
Las Palmas, Gran Canaria | Urban Surf & Reef Breaks
Las Palmas surf delivers waves right inside the city, combining urban convenience with quality reef and beach breaks. Reef breaks offer fast, technical rides for intermediates and advanced surfers, while beach breaks are perfect for beginners seeking smooth, manageable waves. The surf is consistent year-round, with winter providing the most powerful swells and summer offering calmer conditions for relaxed sessions.
Surfers benefit from a strong local community, surf schools, and nearby amenities, making Las Palmas ideal for city-based surf travel. It’s a great mix of culture, social life, and dependable waves. Find Out More
Playa de las Americas, Tenerife | Fast Reef & Beach Breaks
Playa de las Americas surf features consistent reef and beach breaks on Tenerife’s south coast. Hollow, fast reef waves attract advanced surfers, while mellow beach breaks are ideal for beginners and longboarders. The waves are reliable, with winter swells producing high-energy rides and summer offering warm, gentle surf for learning and progression.
The town provides a lively atmosphere with plenty of surf schools, camps, and social spots nearby. Surfers can combine their sessions with easy access to shops, restaurants, and local culture, making it a top choice for both performance and convenience. Find Out More
Playa del Hombre, Gran Canaria | Beginner & Mellow Reef Breaks
Playa del Hombre surf in Gran Canaria offers gentle reef and beach breaks suitable for beginners and intermediates. Waves range from soft rollers to small peeling waves, ideal for longboarding and learning new skills. The area is calm, with uncrowded beaches and consistent swell during shoulder and winter months.
The town has a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for surfers who want easy waves and space to practice. Local surf schools and rentals provide guidance and gear, while nearby accommodations and surf camps make it convenient for a full surf-focused stay. Find Out More
Accommodation In Canary Islands
Trip.com is your go-to for finding a place to stay during your Canary Islands surf trip. Their platform makes it easy to browse and book oceanfront resorts or low-key surf hostels. Booking early means no last-minute scrambling and more time spent enjoying the waves.
To make your trip truly memorable, consider a surf camp through Tripaneer. Located in top spots across Canary Islands, these camps include expert instruction, laid-back lodging, and a built-in surf community. You’ll leave with improved skills and a better feel for what makes the Canary Islands surf scene so special.
| Accommodation Type | Description | Price Range (EUR)* | Price Range (USD)* |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Hostels |
Dormitory-style accommodation |
€15 to €30 |
$17 to $32 |
|
Mid-range Hotels/Serviced Apartments |
Studio apartments, motels, or 1-bedroom units |
€100 to €300 |
$120 to $350 |
|
Luxury Stays |
Luxury beachfront resorts or high-end apartments |
€400 to €600+ |
$470 to $700+ |
|
*Rates are per night and subject to change. |
|||
Canary Islands Surf Camps
Surf camps in the Canary Islands are the best way to make the most of year-round waves, warm water, and a variety of beach, reef, and point breaks. These camps cater to all levels, from beginners learning their first turns to advanced surfers chasing powerful waves.
Each surf camp combines expert coaching, surfboard hire, and lessons with accommodation, creating a hassle-free experience for travelers who want to focus on surfing. Many also include extras like yoga, fitness sessions, or local excursions to complement your surf adventure.
Scroll above to find our featured surf towns, each with its own surf camp options listed on Tripaneer. Every camp is designed to suit different skill levels and travel styles, making it easy to plan the perfect surf holiday and enjoy the islands’ consistent swell, warm water, and welcoming surf communities.
Canary Islands Travel Information | 7 Essentials You Need To Know
Travel Insurance For Your Canary Islands Surf Trip
A Canary Islands surf adventure is meant to excite, not stress you out. Still, injuries, delayed flights, or missing luggage can happen. Travel insurance provides coverage that helps you adapt quickly without losing precious surf time.
VisitorsCoverage offers simple, effective policies that let you focus on the waves instead of complications. Whether it’s a minor mishap or a major disruption, you’ll be prepared. By planning ahead, your Canary Islands surf trip remains a thrilling, carefree experience, even if the unexpected occurs.
Exploring Canary Islands: The Best Sights & Landmarks To Visit
Even when the swell drops in the Canary Islands, the islands offer plenty of ways to enjoy your time. From dramatic landscapes to rich 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, island tours, and full-day excursions.
Find Your Next Canary Islands Surf Destination
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.