Surf Camps in Lanzarote

Lanzarote, the 'Hawaii of Europe,' offers a surfer's paradise with its volcanic coastline and a wide variety of waves. From beginner-friendly beach breaks to powerful reef breaks for the pros, this Canary Island has something for everyone.

The Lanzarote Surf Scene

Lanzarote, known as the "Hawaii of Europe," is a surfer's paradise in the Canary Islands. This volcanic island offers a dramatic coastline with a wide variety of surf spots suitable for all levels, from gentle beginner waves to powerful, world-class reef breaks. The consistent swells from the Atlantic Ocean, combined with the island's year-round mild climate, make it a top destination for surfers from all over the world. The main surf hub is the town of Famara, a laid-back village with a long sandy beach that's perfect for learning and progressing.

Types of Waves

Lanzarote's volcanic origins have created a diverse range of surf breaks. You'll find everything from mellow beach breaks to challenging point breaks and powerful reef breaks. Famara beach is the most well-known spot, offering a long stretch of sandy-bottomed waves that are ideal for beginners and intermediate surfers. For the more experienced, the north shore of the island is home to some of the best waves in Europe. Spots like La Santa, El Quemao, and San Juan offer powerful, hollow waves that break over volcanic reefs, providing a thrilling challenge for advanced surfers.

Best Time to Surf

While you can find waves in Lanzarote year-round, the prime surf season is from autumn to spring (September to April). During these months, the island receives consistent groundswells from the North Atlantic, producing bigger and more powerful waves. The winter months, from November to February, are when you'll find the biggest and most challenging waves, attracting experienced surfers from around the globe. For beginners, the summer months (May to August) offer smaller, more manageable waves, making it the perfect time to learn.

Who is it for?

Lanzarote has something for every surfer. Beginners will feel right at home on the gentle waves of Famara beach, where numerous surf schools offer lessons and board rentals. Intermediate surfers will find plenty of opportunities to progress their skills on the various beach and reef breaks around the island. Advanced surfers will be in their element, with a wide selection of world-class reef breaks to choose from, including the legendary El Quemao, which is often compared to Hawaii's Pipeline. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, Lanzarote is a surf destination that won't disappoint.

What Makes It Unique

Beyond the world-class waves, Lanzarote's unique volcanic landscape creates a surreal surfing experience. You'll be paddling out with dramatic cliffs and black sand beaches as your backdrop. The island's biosphere reserve status means you'll be surfing in pristine, protected waters. Plus, the laid-back, surf-centric culture, especially in Famara, makes it a welcoming place for surfers to hang out, share stories, and enjoy the island's natural beauty.