Surfing in Lanzarote

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Far away from the Spanish mainland are the beautiful Canary Islands.  Lanzarote is the fourth largest of these islands.  Volcanic in origin, it is located close to the African coast and, despite being a Spanish province, is autonomous and has its own council that governs it.  Tourism and agriculture are the island’s two major industries, so it is no surprise that the fantastic surfing conditions that exist around the island and the facilities available for those traveling here are world-class. Here, we take a closer look at surfing in Lanzarote.

Visit Lanzarote in the Winter

It may seem a little surprising, but the best surfing in Lanzarote conditions exist in the region during the winter months from late November until March.  With waves breaking head high and reaching heights of over 14ft, the region has been described as the “Hawaii of the Atlantic” and with good reason.  The conditions around the different coastlines offer perfect surfing locations for both the experienced surfer and the beginner, looking for the perfect location to perfect their new sport.

Top Areas for Surfing in Lanzarote

Grab a car and follow the surf trail to the following five surf locations in Lanzarote offering the best waves.

Haria Coast Breaks

Located on the east coast of the northern aspect of Lanzarote, the Haria Coast has four major beaches offering ideal conditions.  Many of the points between Orzola and Arietta are extremely dangerous and newcomers to the region should stick to the four major break beaches within this region.  These beaches are suitable for beginners to experienced surfers.  Orzola Beach is ideal for beginners and more experienced surfers will like the breaks at Jameos.

West Coast Beaches and Breaks

Stretching along most of the west coast between El Golfo in the south and Famara in the north, are four major surfing areas, offering perfect conditions spread throughout most of the coast.  Travelling the coast to the different locations can make this an ideal road trip especially if you want to combine business with pleasure and explore the island whilst indulging your passion. From north to south, these areas are the:

  • Famara Breaks
  • Caleta de Cabello Breaks
  • La Graciosa Breaks
  • El Golfo Breaks

Conditions along the coast do vary and finding the best waves to suit your experience is worthwhile, There are many reasons to visit these locations apart from the surfing conditions.  You can enjoy quaint fishing villages, excellent amenities (some a short drive from the surfing locations), and beautiful scenery.  Many areas are world heritage listed sites and worthy of a visit whilst on the island.  Each location has its own appeal.

There is little nightlife available at the major surf locations, but most people head to the capital city of Lanzarote at Puerto del Carmen on the East Coast.  This is an easy trip by good roads from either the east or west coast.  The routes are scenic and with a distance of only 60km from north to south and 25km east to west, road travel is easy.  Here you can find pubs and clubs at the world-class resorts and the perfect entry and exit port for your travels around the island.