Surf in Lanzarote

Lanzarote is not only a volcanic paradise for tourists in search of sun and scenery, it is also one of the most desired destinations for surfers from all over the world thanks to its coastline that offers a perfect mix of consistent waves, ideal wind and beaches that suit all levels. 

In addition to its privileged location on the Atlantic Ocean, Lanzarote enjoys a temperate climate all year round, with pleasant average temperatures even in winter being an ideal climate that allows surfing in any season, something that not many destinations can offer. On the other hand, the local surfing community is active, welcoming and always ready to share their passion for the waves with anyone who wants to get on a board.

Best surfing spots in Lanzarote

Famara Beach

Located in the northwest of the island, Famara is undoubtedly Lanzarote's surfing mecca with a beach over 6 kilometres long, this area offers plenty of space for surfers of all levels making it a perfect place to progress with its sandy bottom and consistent waves making it the number one destination for surf schools.

Furthermore, the scenery of the beach is simply hypnotic, the cliffs of the Risco de Famara dominate the horizon and create a scene worthy of a film. From the themed hostels to the bars with surf videos on the big screen, it's a small but vibrant community where it's easy to meet other surfers, share tips and have an unforgettable experience.

The waves in Famara tend to be gentle, perfect for beginners and intermediates. The best time to surf here is during low to mid tide, when the waves break more orderly with several peaks scattered along the beach, allowing you to avoid crowds and enjoy a more relaxed surfing experience.

La santa beach (El Quemao)

If Famara is for everyone, La Santa is only for the brave with waves considered one of the most powerful in Europe, located in front of the small fishing village of La Santa. It breaks over a sharp lava bottom and produces perfect, fast and dangerous barrels so it is not a beach for beginners, experience and technique are needed here, so if you are ready to catch a wave of this calibre, it could be the session of a lifetime.

La Santa is active with big north swells and easterly winds with right hand waves (although sometimes it also breaks left) offering dry and very technical tubes, many compare it to Pipeline (Hawaii) for its shape, intensity and danger.

Every year, the "Quemao Class" is held here, a championship that brings together some of the best surfers in Europe and the event has no fixed date, as it depends on the optimal sea conditions.

San Juan beach

Also located near La Santa, San Juan beach is another gem of Lanzarote surfing. Less known than El Quemao (La Santa), but equally appreciated by surfers looking for waves with good shape and less crowds, it is an intermediate to advanced level spot, ideal for those who already control the basics and want to improve in somewhat more demanding conditions in an environment that is calm and offers a feeling of direct connection with the sea and nature.

The waves at San Juan are consistent, fast and with tubular sections, on a volcanic rock bottom, although it is not as radical as El Quemao, it is still a place where respect and good reading of the sea is required and it has days when the waves exceed two metres, and if you get one of those, you will have a session you won't forget.

One of the advantages of this beach is its accessibility, you can park nearby and walk to the peak without complications, there is not too much tourist infrastructure in the surroundings, which makes it a wilder and more authentic option.

La Garita beach

If you are just starting out or want a friendly place, La Garita beach, in the coastal town of Arrieta, is an excellent choice. This beach is ideal for beginners thanks to its sandy bottom, the softness of its waves and the relaxed atmosphere of the area, it is also one of the few beaches in the north of Lanzarote with good services and a more family oriented approach.

It also has some surf schools in the area that offer both private and group lessons and you can find surf house type accommodation, hostels or flats overlooking the sea, perfect for a surfing getaway, plus the promenade of Arrieta is full of small restaurants where you can enjoy fresh fish and local cuisine after a session.

La Cantería beach

In the north of the island next to the village of Órzola is one of the wildest and least crowded surfing beaches, La Cantería, a hidden paradise, surrounded by nature, with views to La Graciosa and a quiet atmosphere. Although not the best known beach, it offers interesting conditions for intermediate surfers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of other more popular spots.

The beach is known for its wonderful views and powerful swell, it is a difficult beach to access in bad weather, but if conditions are favourable, it can offer fun waves with fast and powerful sections. It should be noted that the bottom is sandy with rocks and there are no facilities nearby, so it is advisable to bring everything you need before surfing.

This beach is not recommended for beginners due to the strength of its waves and currents, however for experienced surfers, it can be the perfect place to enjoy a solitary session or one with very few people. Of course, always with caution and respect for the natural environment.

Live an unforgettable experience

Whether you are a beginner or an expert in surfing, you have a wide variety of options of beaches in Lanzarote to practice surfing, whether you are an expert and want to go to a beach where there are reckless waves where you want to test your surfing skills, or if you prefer a more beginner beach to start surfing.

In addition to surfing and visiting these wonderful beaches of Lanzarote, you can also visit the wonderful beaches of La Graciosa with Bioesfera Express.