An Introduction To Playa de las Americas Surf
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By
Matt
- Updated | August 15, 2025
Playa de las Americas surf on Tenerife’s southern coast stands as one of the Canary Islands’ most consistent and accessible surf destinations. From October through May, powerful northwest swells transform the shoreline into a haven for experienced surfers, with fast, hollow reef breaks such as Derecha del Cartel and La Fitenia delivering world-class rides.
During summer, conditions ease, providing warm-water waves perfect for longboarders and beginners. Numerous quality breaks lie within walking distance, supported by a thriving surf culture and sunshine year-round. Playa de las Americas surf remains dependable, diverse, and appealing to surfers seeking quality waves across the seasons.
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In This Guide
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Best Time To Surf Playa de las Americas
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Peak Playa de las Americas Surf Season | October to May
Suited For Intermediate & Advanced
Playa de las Americas surf fires from October to May, when northwest and west swells hit Tenerife’s southern coast, lighting up the area’s famous reef breaks. Waves during this season typically range from 3 to 7 feet, offering clean, hollow conditions ideal for confident surfers.
Breaks like Spanish Left and The Right become consistent and powerful, especially through winter when swell intervals increase and offshore northeast winds help shape perfect barrels. This is the best time to experience Playa de las Americas at its fullest, with punchy waves and manageable crowds outside of peak holiday periods.
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Shoulder Playa de las Americas Surf Season | June & September
Suited For All Skill Levels
June and September provide smaller, more relaxed surf around Playa de las Americas, with wave heights between 1 and 4 feet. These months bridge the gap between the heavier swells of winter and the calmer summer period. September can offer the season’s first solid pulses, while June benefits from lingering spring energy.
Mornings are usually the cleanest, thanks to light offshore winds, and lineups tend to be quieter. The shoulder season is a great time for newer surfers to explore the area’s famous spots in more forgiving conditions, with warm water and sunny skies adding to the experience.
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Low Playa de las Americas Surf Season | July & August
Suited For Beginners & Intermediate
July and August bring the smallest waves of the year to Playa de las Americas surf, with waves generally between 1 and 3 feet. Swells are less frequent and less powerful, making this the ideal time for beginners or longboarders looking for mellow, easy waves. Early mornings can still provide clean, glassy rides before trade winds rise through the day.
Altough advanced surfers may find the summer conditions underwhelming, the warm water, scenic coastline, and mellow reef setups offer relaxed and enjoyable sessions throughout the low season.
Playa de las Americas Surf Temperature, What To Wear & Rainfall Guide
Playa de las Americas Surf Temperature:
22–24°C (72–75°F)
What To Wear:
Boardshorts/bikini or a 2 mm shorty are typically all you need. Mornings can be breezy, so a springsuit might help during longer sessions.
Rainfall:
Summer is hot and dry, with just 0–2 rainy days per month. Trade winds dominate, creating occasional wind swell, though conditions are generally small and mellow.
Playa de las Americas Surf Temperature:
23–25°C (73–77°F)
What To Wear:
A shorty or 2 mm suit is perfect in early autumn. Later in the season, a 3/2 mm wetsuit provides more warmth as water starts cooling.
Rainfall:
Expect 3–6 rainy days per month. Autumn sees more consistent west swells and improved surf quality, especially on the volcanic reef breaks.
Playa de las Americas Surf Temperature:
20–22°C (68–72°F)
What To Wear:
A 3/2 mm or 4/3 mm wetsuit is recommended, especially on cooler days. Booties may be useful for navigating sharp reef takeoffs.
Rainfall:
Rain increases to 5–9 days per month. Winter delivers the best and most reliable waves of the year, with long-period northwest swells lighting up the coast.
Playa de las Americas Surf Temperature:
21–23°C (70–73°F)
What To Wear:
A 3/2 mm wetsuit is ideal, providing comfort and flexibility as the water warms again.
Rainfall:
Rainfall drops to around 2–4 days per month. Surf remains steady, with lighter winds and playful swells making spring a dependable shoulder season.
Surf Spots Within 5km or 3 Miles From Playa de las Americas
| Playa de las Americas Surf Spots | Distance from Playa de las Americas | Wave Size | Wave Quality | Skill Level |
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El Medio |
Approx. 0.5km (0.3mi) west |
2-5 foot |
Hollow reef break |
Intermediate to advanced |
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Derecha Del Cartel |
Approx. 1km (0.6mi) west |
3-6 foot |
Fast right-hand reef |
Advanced only |
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El Conquistador |
Approx. 1km (0.6mi) south |
2-5 foot |
Mellow reef break |
Beginner to intermediate |
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La Fitenia |
Approx. 1.5km (0.9mi) south |
2-6 foot |
Consistent reef break |
All levels |
Further Information To Playa de las Americas Surf Spots
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid tide
- Wind: East to southeast
- Swell Direction: West to southwest
- Crowd Factor: Low to moderate
El Medio is a less frequented reef break located between more popular peaks in Playa de las Americas. It offers short, fast rides over sharp volcanic reef and works well when nearby spots are maxed out or too busy. The wave tends to favor lefts but can also produce short rights depending on swell angle.
Mid tide is best, as low tide can make the takeoff zone dangerously shallow. A clean west to southwest swell paired with light southeast winds provides optimal conditions.
Due to its narrow takeoff zone and exposure to the reef, El Medio is best suited for confident intermediates and advanced surfers. It remains relatively uncrowded and is a good option when other breaks are too hectic.
Rating: 3/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid to high tide
- Wind: East
- Swell Direction: West
- Crowd Factor: High
Derecha del Cartel is the most famous and consistent right-hand reef break in Playa de las Americas. It offers long, fast rides with clean, carving walls that appeal to high-performance shortboarders. When the swell is big, it can barrel on takeoff and hold solid size.
Best surf is during mid to high tide, as low tide becomes too shallow and sketchy. With a clean west swell and offshore easterly wind, the wave turns mechanical and high quality.
This spot draws serious local talent, surf school groups, and visiting surfers, so expect a competitive and busy lineup. Respect in the water is essential, especially on good days when the wave is firing.
Rating: 4.5/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Low to mid tide
- Wind: Southeast
- Swell Direction: West to southwest
- Crowd Factor: Moderate to high
El Conquistador sits in front of the hotel zone and is a playful reef peak offering both rights and lefts depending on the swell direction. It’s more approachable than neighboring waves, with an easier paddle-out and less powerful sections, making it a favorite for intermediate surfers.
Low to mid tide offers the best shape before the wave becomes too soft or fat at higher tides. It handles west to southwest swells well and is cleanest under southeast wind.
Despite being centrally located, the wave remains manageable in terms of crowd thanks to multiple peaks. It’s a great warm-up or fallback option when more advanced breaks like Cartel or La Fitenia are packed.
Rating: 3.5/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Low to mid tide
- Wind: East
- Swell Direction: Southwest
- Crowd Factor: High
La Fitenia is a long, fast left-hand reef break located at the north end of Playa de las Americas. It works best on a southwest swell and offshore east winds, producing rippable walls and occasional barrels for experienced surfers. The takeoff zone is tight, and the wave breaks over uneven volcanic rock, demanding precise timing.
Low to mid tide is ideal, giving the wave enough push while keeping it hollow and fast. At high tide, it becomes fat and loses power.
This spot gets crowded quickly on good days and has a highly skilled local presence. Not recommended for beginners, La Fitenia is a performance wave that rewards confident, experienced surfers.
Rating: 4/5
Travel Time To Playa de las Americas Surf Spots
| Playa de las Americas Surf Spots | Walking Time | Biking Time | Public Transport |
|---|---|---|---|
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El Medio |
5-10 min. |
0-5 min. |
Not required |
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Derecha Del Cartel |
10-15 min. |
5 min. |
Not required |
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El Conquistador |
10-15 min. |
5 min. |
Not required |
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La Fitenia |
15-20 min. |
5-10 min. |
Local bus available, approx. 15 min. |
Accommodation In Playa de las Americas
Heading to Playa de las Americas for a surf-filled getaway? Be sure to check out Trip.com for accommodation deals close to the waves. Whether you’re going solo or with friends, they’ve got beachfront stays ranging from high-end to affordable. Booking early gives you one less thing to think about.
If you’re ready to dive deeper into surf culture in Canary Islands, Tripaneer camps provide everything from coaching to cozy lodging and group sessions. These camps are ideal for anyone wanting to explore the Playa de las Americas surf scene while building confidence in the water.
| 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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Playa de las Americas Surf Lessons & Surf Schools
Playa de las Americas surf schools cater to all levels, from first-timers to experienced surfers looking to refine their skills. Ocean Life Tenerife Surf School is a popular choice for its friendly instructors and well-structured lessons. Franz Surf School also stands out among Playa de las Americas surf schools, offering both group and private classes with personalized feedback.
Kontraola Surf School by Quiksilver and Roxy blends brand-quality gear with professional coaching, while Tilegit Tenerife Surf School provides a supportive learning environment and easy beach access. With several Playa de las Americas surf schools to choose from, visitors can find lessons tailored to their needs while enjoying the island’s famous waves.
Playa de las Americas Surf Camp
Playa de Las Americas Surf Camp Retreat With The Point Surf Club
Choose from flexible 6-day and 8-day surf camp with The Point Surf Club packages, designed to make the most of your time in Playa de las Americas. Located just steps from the Atlantic Ocean, this surf camp offers the perfect mix of world-class waves, a lively beachside atmosphere, and everything you need for an unforgettable stay.
You will stay at The Club House, a social and comfortable surf base with quick beach access, modern amenities, and a friendly international vibe. Both packages include professional lessons with licensed instructors, all surf gear, access to yoga and fitness classes, excursions, and social events.
You can enjoy a fully equipped kitchen, high-speed Wi-Fi, communal lounge areas, and storage space for your boards. Everything is within walking distance so you can surf, connect, and explore with ease.
Book your 6-day surf camp or 8-day surf camp in Playa de las Americas, Tenerife, and enjoy expert coaching, consistent waves, and warm year-round conditions.
Playa de las Americas Surf Camp With Volcano Surf Camp
Join Volcano Surf Camp for an unforgettable 8-day surf and yoga experience in the heart of Playa de Las Americas.
Designed for all levels, this camp combines 6 surf lessons, 3 yoga classes, surf-skate training, and SUP sessions for a well-rounded ocean lifestyle holiday. Small group sizes ensure personal attention and steady progress in the water.
Guests stay in a comfortable villa with a fully equipped kitchen, garden with barbecue, free Wi-Fi, and shared spaces to relax after an active day. The package includes all surf equipment, medical insurance, bed linen, bath and beach towels, plus free access to gear for your own practice sessions.
Book your 8-day surf camp with Volcano Surf Camp, designed to give you the perfect mix of quality coaching, great waves, and the laid-back vibe of Playa de las Americas.
Playa de las Americas Surfboard Hire
Playa de las Americas surfboard hire options are easy to find, with several schools and centers offering quality gear right by the beach. Ocean Life Tenerife Surf School provides a variety of boards, from beginner-friendly foamies to high-performance shortboards, along with wetsuits and accessories.
Franz Surf School also offers Playa de las Americas surfboard rental with flexible durations, making it ideal for both day visitors and longer stays. Tilegit Tenerife Surf School adds another convenient choice, supplying reliable boards suited to the local wave conditions.
With multiple Playa de las Americas surfboard hire locations in town, surfers can quickly get equipped and head straight into the water.
Playa de las Americas Surf Report & Surf Cam
To make the most out of Playa de las Americas surf, staying informed about the current conditions is crucial. Surf-Forecast offers detailed insights on swell size, wind direction, and tide charts, while Surfline provides subscription-based live cams giving real-time footage of popular Tenerife surf breaks. These tools make it easier to plan your surf sessions confidently.
How To Get To Playa de las Americas Surf
- Tenerife South Airport (TFS) to Playa de las Americas
Distance: 18km (11mi)
Tenerife South Airport (TFS), also called Reina Sofía Airport, is the main gateway for those heading to Playa de las Americas surf, with quick and easy transport options available.
Public Transport
Approx. 25-40 mins.
Details:
Titsa bus line 40 connects Tenerife South Airport directly with Playa de las Americas, making it a cost-effective option. The trip takes around 30 minutes, depending on traffic, and buses run frequently throughout the day.
While inexpensive, this option can be less convenient with surf gear or after long travel days, so checking schedules in advance is recommended.
Shuttle Service
Approx. 20-40 mins.
Details:
Private and shared shuttles run regularly from Tenerife South Airport to Playa de las Americas. Shared transfers may involve extra stops, while private options provide a direct route.
Booking through companies like HolidayTaxis or Welcome Pickups ensures your transfer is confirmed, comfortable, and able to accommodate surf equipment without delays.
Canary Islands Travel Information | 7 Essentials You Need To Know
A surf trip to the Canary Islands combines world-class breaks with smooth travel logistics. The Euro is the official currency, and cards are accepted in most places. Spanish is spoken island-wide, but English is easy to get by with in surf spots like Playa del Hombre and Corralejo.
Our Canary Islands surf page covers all 7 essentials, from visa information to health tips, so you can plan with confidence.
Travel Insurance For Your Playa de las Americas Surf Trip
Surf trips are adventures, and adventures are unpredictable. If Playa de las Americas is your next stop, make sure you’re ready for more than just the waves. Travel insurance is your safeguard against illness, delays, or gear problems that could otherwise ruin the experience.
VisitorsCoverage offers travel plans tailored to surfers who want to explore without hesitation. Protect your time, your gear, and your stoke, all with one smart decision before departure.
Discover Playa de las Americas: What To Do When The Waves Are Flat
When the surf quiets down in Playa de las Americas, Tenerife, the area still delivers endless ways to enjoy the day. From seaside walks to island excursions and lively nightlife, here are five great activities to fill your time.
For even more experiences, explore GetYourGuide and Viator for boat trips, cultural tours, and adventure activities around the island.
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.