Atlantik Surf is a mobile surf and bodyboard school in Tenerife that is open throughout the year. They offer surf lessons for all levels and look for the best waves every day to ensure a great experience.
Founded in 2009 in Tenerife, Blackstone Surf Camp offers a community-focused surf experience for adults of all levels, combining surf instruction with other activities like yoga and snorkeling.
Ika Ika Surf School - Tenerife offers surf lessons and equipment rental. Located just 50 meters from the waves in Las Americas, it provides ideal surf experiences for all levels.
Vineyard Eladío is a community-focused surf camp and guesthouse in the countryside of Tenerife, offering a unique glamping experience with a focus on sustainable living, outdoor activities, and community.
Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, is a surfer's paradise, often called the "Hawaii of Europe." With its year-round sunshine, warm waters, and a wide variety of waves, it's a top destination for surfers of all levels.
The Surf Scene
Tenerife boasts a vibrant and welcoming surf culture, centered around the sun-drenched shores of Playa de las Américas in the south. This bustling hub is packed with surf schools, rental shops, and a lively, international atmosphere. While the local surfers are generally friendly, it's always important to show respect in the lineup to catch the best waves and vibes.
Types of Waves
Tenerife's volcanic origins have blessed it with a diverse coastline, offering a wide variety of waves for all skill levels. Most of the breaks are reef breaks, so booties are recommended. You'll find everything from mellow, rolling waves to fast, hollow barrels.
For beginners, El Medio in Playa de las Américas is the go-to spot. It's a long, forgiving wave that breaks over a volcanic reef, making it a safe and fun place to learn. For more experienced surfers, the winter months bring powerful swells that light up spots like Las Palmeras (a fast, hollow left) and El Bunker (a powerful left-hand wave for intermediate to advanced surfers). The north of the island also has some great spots, like El Socorro, which is a black sand beach break.
Best Time to Surf
You can surf in Tenerife 365 days a year, but the best time to visit depends on your ability. The winter months, from October to March, see the biggest and most consistent swells, making it the prime season for experienced surfers. The summer, from April to September, offers smaller, more playful waves, perfect for beginners and intermediates looking to hone their skills in the warm Canary Island sun.
Skill Levels
Tenerife is a fantastic destination for surfers of all abilities. Beginners will find a wealth of surf schools and gentle waves in the south. Intermediate surfers can progress their skills on a variety of reef breaks. Advanced surfers will be in their element during the winter, with plenty of challenging waves to choose from.
What Makes It Unique?
Tenerife's charm lies in its unique blend of consistent, world-class waves, a year-round warm climate, and a dramatic volcanic landscape. The island's diverse coastline ensures that you can almost always find a surfable wave, regardless of the swell or wind direction. Plus, its accessibility from Europe makes it an easy and affordable surf trip.
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Tenerife is a year-round surf destination, but the best time to visit depends on your skill level. For beginners, the summer months (April to September) offer smaller, more manageable waves, perfect for learning. Experienced surfers will find more challenging and consistent swells during the winter months (October to March). The south of the island, particularly around Playa de las Américas, offers the most consistent conditions throughout the year.
Tenerife caters to all skill levels. There are numerous surf schools and sheltered bays with gentle waves for beginners, such as El Medio and La Jaquita. Intermediate surfers can enjoy a variety of reef and beach breaks, while advanced surfers can test their skills on powerful waves like La Derecha del Cartel and El Dedo, especially during the winter.
The water temperature in Tenerife is pleasant year-round, ranging from 19°C (66°F) in the winter to 24°C (75°F) in the summer. A 3/2mm wetsuit is recommended for most of the year, although you might want a thicker 4/3mm for winter sessions, especially in the north. In the peak of summer, you might be comfortable in a shorty or even just boardshorts.
Besides your regular travel essentials, make sure to pack a good quality sunscreen, as the Canary Islands sun is strong. A reusable water bottle is a good idea to stay hydrated. For surfing, bring your wetsuit, booties for the rocky reef breaks, and a surf hat. If you are not bringing your own board, there are plenty of surf schools and rental shops where you can get all the necessary equipment.
Tenerife boasts a rich Canarian culture. The local cuisine is a highlight, with must-try dishes like “papas arrugadas” (wrinkly potatoes) with “mojo” sauce, fresh seafood, and “gofio”, a type of flour made from roasted grains. The island has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Exploring the local towns and villages, like La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage site, will give you a great taste of the local culture.
Tenerife is a relatively affordable European destination. A bed in a shared dorm in a surf hostel can cost around €25-40 per night. A private room will be more expensive. A meal at a local restaurant can cost between €10-20. A week-long surf camp package, including accommodation, surf lessons, and equipment rental, can range from €400 to €800, depending on the season and the package.
Yes, surfing in Tenerife is generally safe, but it’s important to be aware of the conditions and your own limits. The main hazards are the volcanic reefs, which can be sharp. It is recommended to wear booties, especially for beginners. It is also important to be aware of the currents, which can be strong in some spots. Always check the forecast and, if in doubt, surf at a lifeguarded beach or with a certified instructor.
Beyond the waves, Tenerife offers a huge variety of attractions. You can hike in Teide National Park, home to Spain's highest peak, explore the dramatic cliffs of Los Gigantes, or wander through the beautiful old town of La Orotava. For a fun day out of the water, you can visit Siam Park, one of the world's best water parks. There are also plenty of opportunities for whale and dolphin watching.
For beginners, the south of the island is the best place to start. Playa de las Américas has several beginner-friendly spots, including the sheltered bay of La Fitenia, where many surf schools operate. El Médano, with its sandy bottom beach break at La Jaquita, is another excellent choice for learners. These spots offer gentle waves and a safe environment to practice and build confidence.
Yes, renting surf equipment in Tenerife is very easy. There are numerous surf shops and schools in all the main surf areas, especially in Playa de las Américas and Costa Adeje. You can rent everything from beginner foam boards to high-performance shortboards, as well as wetsuits and other accessories. Many Tenerife surf camps also include equipment rental in their packages.
