EuropeSurfing Destinations

Surfing Guide to Fuerteventura, Canary Islands

Surf Tenerife Canary Islands
Photo by Christiane Hartl
 

Summary

Fuerteventura is the second-largest island in the Canary Islands and one of the best surfing destinations in Europe. Nicknamed the “Hawaii of Europe,” the island offers an incredible variety of surf spots, consistent year-round waves, and stunning volcanic landscapes.

Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned surfer looking for barrels, Fuerteventura has something for everyone. The island’s north shore, especially around Corralejo, is the most popular base for surf trips thanks to its proximity to the best waves, surf camps, lively nightlife, and surf-friendly atmosphere.

  Fuerteventura Surf  

When to go

The best time to surf Fuerteventura, in the Canary Islands, is from October to April for bigger and more consistent waves. Beginners will be able to enjoy smaller waves during the summer season which lasts from June to September.  
January-FebruaryMarch-AprilMay-JuneJuly-AugustSeptember-OctoberNovember-December
Suitable for:All surfersAll surfersAll surfersAll surfersAll surfersAll surfers
Air temperature18°C
64°F
19°C
66°F
21°C
70°F
23°C
73°F
23°C
73°F
20°C
68°F
Water temperature19°C
66°F
19°C
66°F
21°C
70°F
22°C
72°F
23°C
73°F
21°C
70°F
CrowdFairly crowdedFew peopleFew peopleFairly crowdedFew peopleFew people
Swell Consistency85%85%55%40%70%85%
Swell height7 ft7 ft6 ft6 ft6 ft8 ft
     

Surf Camps in Fuerteventura

Book a Surf Camp in Fuerteventura, Starts at US$315 surf camp fuerteventura canary islands
  • 4-hour surf sessions
  • 1 hour 30 minutes yoga classes
  • Suitable for beginner and intermediate levels
  • Use of equipment for surfing and yoga practice
  • Transport to spots for the lessons
  • 7 nights accommodation
     

Where to stay in Fuerteventura

The best place to stay on a surf trip to Fuerteventura is Corralejo, a small town located on the island’s north shore giving you access to many amazing surf spots.   Browse our interactive map to find the best accommodation deals in Corralejo!      

Surf Tenerife Canary Islands

Getting there

  • By Air: Fuerteventura Airport (FUE) is located near Puerto del Rosario and serves both domestic and international flights.

  • By Ferry: Ferries run frequently from Lanzarote, Gran Canaria, and Tenerife to Fuerteventura. The crossing from Lanzarote to Corralejo takes just 30 minutes.

     

Safety/things to know

 
  • Fuerteventura means “strong winds.” Expect windy conditions, especially in the afternoons.

  • Localism can be present at popular reef breaks like El Hierro. Always be respectful and wait your turn.

  • Booties are recommended at shallow reef spots.

  • Morning surf sessions are typically best before the trade winds kick in.

     

Surf spots in Fuerteventura

El Cotillo El Cotillo is a wide-open beach that works well across seasons. In winter, it produces heavy, powerful waves best suited for intermediates and advanced surfers. In summer, it’s much more beginner-friendly.
  • Wave direction : Left and right
  • Bottom : Sand
  • Best tide : Any
  • Skill level : Depends on the season
  • Optimal swell direction : W
  • Optimal wind direction : E
    El Hierro El Hierro, also known as The Bubble, is a powerful A-frame reef break that offers barreling lefts and rights. It’s fast, shallow, and for experienced surfers only.
  • Wave direction : Left and right
  • Bottom : Reef
  • Best tide : Any
  • Skill level : Intermediate and advanced
  • Optimal swell direction : NW
  • Optimal wind direction : S
    Los Lobos Accessible by a short ferry from Corralejo, Los Lobos offers a long, fast right-hander with multiple barrel sections. When it’s on, this is arguably the best wave in Fuerteventura.
  • Wave direction : Right
  • Bottom : Reef
  • Best tide : Any
  • Skill level : Intermediate and advanced
  • Optimal swell direction : NW
  • Optimal wind direction : SE
    The Bubble Another fast and powerful wave which is more suitable for experienced surfers.
  • Wave direction : Right
  • Bottom : Reef
  • Best tide : Any
  • Skill level : Advanced
  • Optimal swell direction : NW
  • Optimal wind direction : S
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