Playa del Hombre Surf Guide 2025 | Your Ultimate Guide + Expert Tips

An Introduction To Playa del Hombre Surf

Playa del Hombre and the surrounding spots on Gran Canaria’s eastern coast feature a magnificent collection of waves rich enough for all levels of surfers, from beginner to advanced.

Playa del Hombre is blessed with a popular strong beach and reef break known for its consistency, which peaks from October to May when constant east-northeast swells supply a clean, hollow wave.

More pocket friendly beaches like Playa de Melenara and Playa de San Borondon have softer and more forgiving shapes to introduce beginners and early intermediates to the sport in less-crowded conditions.

Playa de la Garita and Playa de Salinetas tend to deliver forecasted swells with medium crowds. Great waves year-round, an array of breaks, and mostly mild offshore winds provide the perfect environment for enjoying year-round Playa del Hombre surfing.

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The sunsetting overlooking Las Palmas surf in Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria

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Best Time To Surf Playa del Hombre

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

From October until May, Playa del Hombre is in action. Consistent east-northeast swells bathe Gran Canaria’s eastern shore, producing beach-break waves ranging from 2 to 6 feet under gentle offshore breezes. The most reliable windows of swell usually open at this time because autumn and winter storms in the central Atlantic produce steady, long-period swells.

Mornings are mostly glassy with clean faces ripe for powerful turns on both left and right-hand waves. Energy levels and moderate crowds peak at this time, making Playa del Hombre surf exceptional and among the best places to enjoy consistent waves.

June and September are the shoulder season for Playa del Hombre surf, characterized by playful, head-high waves caused by the leftovers of swells Surf heights range from 1 to 4 feet, creating ideal learning conditions for beginners and fun, cruisy rides for intermediates.

September has one last swell dash from the northeast, while June takes over the tail end of spring energy. Fewer crowds and more forgiving waves during shoulder season make it one great opportunity to explore local breaks in a relaxed setting.

The summer months see the flattest, choppier type surf at Playa del Hombre, where the waves hover between 1 to 3 feet in height. The tropics are calm, and the water reaches temperatures that are perfect for building confidence for beginners. Longboarders find plenty of smooth, rolling waves.

Glassy sets with light offshore trades may form early, but flat spells are common. The power will not really inspire the more advanced surfer; however, the easy-going summer surf invites relaxed sessions while practicing skills at one of Gran Canaria’s most accessible beach breaks.

Playa del Hombre Surf Temperature, What To Wear & Rainfall Guide

Playa del Hombre Surf Temperature:
21–23°C (70–73°F)

What To Wear:
A 2 mm shorty or just boardshorts/bikini will be enough on most days. Early mornings may call for a thin springsuit for added comfort.

Rainfall:
Summer is typically dry, with just 0–2 rainy days per month. Trade winds are common, which can affect surface conditions but often create fun wind swell.

Playa del Hombre Surf Temperature:
22–24°C (72–75°F)

What To Wear:
A shorty or 2 mm suit works well through early autumn. Later in the season, a 3/2 mm wetsuit may offer better comfort.

Rainfall:
Rain starts to increase slightly, with 3–6 rainy days per month. Autumn brings cleaner swells and more consistent surf with fewer summer crowds.

Playa del Hombre Surf Temperature:
19–21°C (66–70°F)

What To Wear:
A 3/2 mm or 4/3 mm wetsuit is ideal, depending on wind chill and time of day. Booties are rarely needed.

Rainfall:
The wettest season, with 5–10 rainy days per month. Winter delivers the most reliable and powerful swell of the year, often with offshore mornings.

Playa del Hombre Surf Temperature:
20–22°C (68–72°F)

What To Wear:
A 3/2 mm wetsuit offers the right balance of warmth and mobility as the water slowly warms.

Rainfall:
Expect 3–6 rainy days per month. Spring sees moderate swells and lighter winds, making it a good time for clean conditions and fewer crowds.

Playa del Hombre surf break at Gran Canaria in Canary Islands surf
Gran Canaria

Surf Spots Within 5km or 3 Miles From Playa del Hombre

Playa del Hombre Surf Spots Distance from Playa del Hombre Wave Size Wave Quality Skill Level
Playa del Hombre
In town centre
2-6 foot
Hollow reef/beach mix
Intermediate to advanced
Playa de Melenara
Approx. 1.2km (0.7 mi) south
1-4 foot
Mellow beach break
Beginner to intermediate
Playa de la Garita
Approx. 1.6 km (1 mi) north
2-5 foot
Consistent beach break
All levels
Playa de Salinetas
Approx. 1.6km (1 mi) south
2-6 foot
Reef break
Intermediate to advanced
Playa de San Borondon
Approx. 2.5 km (1.5 mi) north
1-4 foot
Mellow beach break
Beginner to intermediate

Further Information To Playa del Hombre Surf Spots

Ideal Conditions:

  • Tide: Mid tide
  • Wind: Southeast
  • Swell Direction: North to northwest
  • Crowd Factor: Moderate to high

Playa del Hombre surf is a well exposed beach break, popular with local bodyboarders and surfers due to its consistent and punchy waves. The beach is flanked by rocky outcrops that help form hollow lefts and rights, especially during northwest swell pulses.

Mid tide is ideal here, as lower tides expose rocks and higher tides can soften the wave. With a north to northwest swell and offshore southeast winds, the wave quality improves significantly, delivering fast walls and barreling sections suitable for experienced surfers.

Crowds can grow on good days, and the locals are known to fiercely protect their peak. While not ideal for beginners, Playa del Hombre rewards confident surfers who can handle its power and respect the lineup.

Rating: 3.5/5

Ideal Conditions:

  • Tide: Low to mid tide
  • Wind: East to southeast
  • Swell Direction: North to northwest
  • Crowd Factor: Low to moderate

Playa de Melenara is a sandy urban beach that offers mellower surf compared to the breaks nearby. Much more open in its setup, it can take all kinds of swells, especially the north and northeast, and the presence of nearby cliffs can shape the sandbanks depending on seasonal changes.

The wave here is softer and slower, best surfed on low to mid tide when the sandbars line up accordingly. The beach is suitable for longboards and beginners on small days when the clean southeast winds groom the wave face.

Playa de Melenara is less popular in the surf because of its family-friendly environment and a not so uplifting wave. It’s a great option when nearby Playa del Hombre is too heavy or packed with locals.

Rating: 2.5/5

Ideal Conditions:

  • Tide: Mid tide
  • Wind: Southeast
  • Swell Direction: North
  • Crowd Factor: Moderate

Playa de la Garita sits in a small bay that tends to pick up north facing swells well, especially during winter months. It offers a fun beach break with multiple peaks that can deliver decent rides when the sandbars are in shape and the tide is mid.

The wave is largely forgiving, making it a solid option for intermediates, although it can occasionally surprise with a steeper section. Light southeast winds create clean conditions, and the wave can hold up to medium swells before getting mushy at high tide.

Crowds tend to shift depending on the season, so there are more locals appearing in the swell windows. Playa de la Garita, however, is definitely somewhere where one can rely on good surfing from even the most casual crowd to performance surfing.

Rating: 3/5

Ideal Conditions:

  • Tide: Low to mid tide
  • Wind: Southeast
  • Swell Direction: North
  • Crowd Factor: Moderate

Playa de Salinetas is a semi-protected beach break that reacts well to north swells and southeast winds. The setup is relatively open for multiple peaks with rideable lefts and rights, depending on tide and sandbar.

Best conditions occur at low to mid tide when the waves offer the most push and shape. High tide often kills the wave, turning it into shorebreak or flat conditions. The wave is generally mellow, catering well to beginners and longboarders.

It’s a popular choice for local surf schools, which can increase crowd numbers during weekends and holidays. Despite that, the vibe remains friendly and ideal for progressing surfers looking for consistent and manageable waves.

Rating: 3/5

Ideal Conditions:

  • Tide: Mid to high tide
  • Wind: South to southeast
  • Swell Direction: North or northwest
  • Crowd Factor: Low

Playa de San Borondon is a lesser-known beach tucked along the Telde coastline, offering a quiet and relaxed surf setting. It only works on some solid north to northwest swell and clean southeast winds, and when it lines up, it can deliver surprising clean rights and playful shoulders.

This spot handles mid to high tide best, as the wave tends to break close to shore and can become too fast or backwashy during low tide. It’s not consistent year-round but can be a gem on the right day.

With a hidden vibe and minimal services, San Borondon is normally uncrowded, allowing intermediate surfers to enjoy less crowded waves just a few minutes away from the busier beaches.

Rating: 2.5/5

Travel Time To Playa del Hombre Surf Spots

Playa del Hombre Surf Spots Walking Time Biking Time Public Transport
Playa del Hombre
0-5 min.
0-5 min.
Not required
Playa de Melenara
15-20 min.
5-10 min.
Local bus and taxi available
Playa de la Garita
15-20 min.
5-10 min.
Local bus and taxi available
Playa de San Borondon
30-40 min.
10-15 min.
Local bus and taxi available
Playa de Salinetas
20-25 min.
10-15 min.
Local bus and taxi available

Accommodation In Playa del Hombre

To make the most of your Playa del Hombre surf trip, book your accommodation with Trip.com. Their listings include hotels, guesthouses, and hostels, all close to the beach so you’re never far from the action. It’s best to reserve early so you can enjoy the surf without stress.

If you want more than just a vacation, look at Tripaneer surf camps in Canary Islands. These camps provide coaching tailored to your level, a place to stay, and opportunities to connect with other surfers. It’s the perfect way to experience the Playa del Hombre surf lifestyle up close.

Accommodation Type Description Price Range (EUR)* Price Range (USD)*
Hostels
Dormitory-style accommodation
N/A
N/A
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.

Playa del Hombre Surf Lessons & Surf Schools

Playa del Hombre surf schools are notably scarce. The beach is deserted of the usual surf schools, with no major standalone surf schools operating directly on the beach. Any kind of surf instruction tends to come from surf camps based in Las Palmas or other towns nearby.

Mostly these camps will teach as part of a bigger package combining accommodation, guiding, and gear. The most reliable way to get coaching in this part of the island is to book in with a surf camp. More information on Playa del Hombre surf camps can be found below.

Playa del Hombre Surf Camp

Playa del Hombre Surf Camp Retreat With High Voltage Adventure

One of the best Playa del Hombre surf camps is hosted by High Voltage Adventure. This surf camp is located at the very doorstep of the beach. Their flexible surfing packages last for 6-days, 8-days, and 11-days and are perfect for fun surfing for beginners to advanced surfers.

They offer excellent group sizes of a maximum of six participants and all year round waves available for beginners and advanced surfers. It’s perfect for practicing your technique or just lounging in the ocean. Playa del Hombre surf is known to be reliable, easy paddle-outs, and laid-back for the atmosphere.

Guests can choose between stylish private suites like “Maui” and “Jaws” or stay in the cozy ocean-view dorm. Each designed with comfort and eco-conscious flair.

Mornings start with a self-serve breakfast followed by easy beach access for your surf sessions, afternoons are all yours to explore the local coastline or snooze at the surf house terrace.

With optional airport transfers, good vibes, and close proximity to beaches such as Salinetas and Melenara, this surf camp is about ridin’ waves and livin’ it like a real Canarian.

Book your 6-day surf camp in Playa del Hombre, plan your 8-day surf escape, or settle into the full 11-day surf experience.

Students learning how to surf at High Voltage Adventure surf camp in Playa del Hombre
Image Credit: High Voltage Adventure
Accommodation of High Voltage Adventure surf camp at Playa del Hombre
Image Credit: High Voltage Adventure
Students learning yoga at High Voltage Adventure surf camp at Playa del Hombre
Image Credit: High Voltage Adventure

Playa del Hombre Surfboard Hire

Playa del Hombre surfboard rentals are limited, with practically none set up on the sand in stark contrast to the other more developed surf towns in Gran Canaria. Maybe a few shops here and there in Telde to the east or down along the coastal road toward Las Palmas. This means surfers visiting Playa del Hombre should either bring their own equipment or arrange rentals in advance from surf shops in the surrounding area.

Playa del Hombre Surf Report & Surf Cam

Staying connected to Playa del Hombre surf conditions can make a big difference in how well you ride the waves. Surf-Forecast offers comprehensive swell & tide forecasts, and Surfline live cams give a live look at the waves at popular Gran Canaria surf breaks, accessible via subscription.

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How To Get To Playa del Hombre Surf

Distance: 9km (5mi)

Gran Canaria Airport (LPA) is the nearest arrival point to Playa del Hombre surf, making for a quick and hassle-free transfer. Here’s how to get there:

Taxi or Rideshare
Approx. 10 mins.

Details:
Taxis are available directly outside the terminal and typically reach Playa del Hombre in under 10 minutes via the GC-1 motorway. Ride-share options are limited in this part of Gran Canaria, so it’s best to rely on a taxi or pre-booked transfer.

Services like HolidayTaxis or Welcome Pickups allow you to reserve in advance, ensuring your driver is waiting and ready, especially helpful if you’re traveling with surfboards or large luggage.

Public Transport
Approx. 20-30 mins.

Details:
Bus Line 1, operated by Global Las Palmas, connects the airport to the nearby town of Telde. You can disembark at Cruce de Melenara, from which Playa del Hombre is a short walk.

Buses run frequently and are the most economical option, but surfboards and gear may make the walk from the stop less convenient. Checking the schedule in advance is recommended.

Shuttle Service
Approx. 15-25 mins.

Details:
Shuttle companies offer both shared and private transfers from Gran Canaria Airport to Playa del Hombre. Shared services may involve short stops en route, while private transfers provide a direct ride.

Booking ahead through platforms like HolidayTaxis or Welcome Pickups guarantees timely service and space for your surf equipment, making the transition from airport to surf smooth and stress-free.

A surfer riding a wave in Playa del Hombre Surf

Canary Islands Travel Information | 7 Essentials You Need To Know

Surfing in the Canary Islands combines consistent Atlantic swells with a laid-back island atmosphere. The local currency is the Euro. Most shops and restaurants accept card payments. Spanish is the official language, and English is widely spoken in main surf towns like Corralejo and Las Palmas.

For visa rules, health advice, and more useful tips, our Canary Islands surf page breaks down the 7 essentials to know before your trip.

Travel Insurance For Your Playa del Hombre Surf Trip

Surfing in Canary Islands promises incredible waves, but travel isn’t always smooth. Flights can be delayed, boards can break, or illness can strike at the worst moment. Travel insurance helps protect your plans, covering medical care, trip interruptions, and lost gear.

VisitorsCoverage makes it easy to select coverage that suits your style of travel and the realities of a surf trip. With the right preparation, your Playa del Hombre surf adventure stays enjoyable, even when unexpected obstacles arise.

Discover Playa del Hombre: What To Do When The Waves Are Flat

When the surf is down at Playa del Hombre, Las Palmas offers a variety of activities to enjoy off the water. From exploring volcanic landscapes to indulging in local cuisine, below are five recommendations to make the most of your time.

For more experiences, check out GetYourGuide and Viator, where you’ll find walking tours, day trips, and cultural activities to help you make the most of your visit.

  • Visit the Natural Pools of La Garita

    Just a distance away from Playa del Hombre, the natural pools of La Garita offer a unique swimming experience. These volcanic rock formations create calm, clear waters perfect for a relaxing swim or a peaceful sunbathe.

  • Explore the Historic Town of Telde

    Telde, one of Gran Canaria's oldest towns, is nearby and rich in history. Wander through its charming streets, visit the Church of San Juan Bautista, and explore the archaeological site of the Cenobio de Valerón, an ancient grain storage system carved into the cliffs.

  • Hike the Caldera de Bandama

    For nature enthusiasts, the Caldera de Bandama is a must-visit. This volcanic crater offers hiking trails with panoramic views of the island's rugged landscape. It's a great spot for photography and immersing yourself in Gran Canaria's natural beauty.

  • Enjoy Local Seafood at Taliarte

    Head to the coastal village of Taliarte, just west of Playa del Hombre, to savor fresh seafood. Restaurants like La Cofradía de Taliarte offer a variety of dishes featuring the day's catch, providing an authentic taste of the island's maritime cuisine.

  • Discover the Cueva Pintada Museum

    Located in Gáldar, the Cueva Pintada Museum showcases ancient cave paintings and artifacts from the indigenous Canarian people. It's an insightful stop for those interested in the island's pre-Hispanic history and culture.

Keep Exploring With More Canary Islands Surf Destinations

Caleta de Famara, Lanzarote

Corralejo, Fuerteventura

Las Palmas, Gran Canaria

Playa de las Americas, Tenerife

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.