Complete Surfing Guide to Tenerife, Canary Islands
Summary
Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, is a year-round surf destination with waves for all levels. Known for its powerful reef breaks, volcanic coastline, and sunny climate, Tenerife has earned its reputation as part of the “European Hawaii.”
The island offers a perfect balance of consistent surf, incredible scenery, lively beach towns, and unique activities like hiking Spain’s highest peak, Mount Teide. Whether you’re a beginner looking to catch your first wave or an advanced surfer chasing barrels, Tenerife has something for you.
When to surf Tenerife
The best time to surf Tenerife, 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.
| January-February | March-April | May-June | July-August | September-October | November-December | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Suitable for: | All surfers | All surfers | All surfers | All surfers | All surfers | All surfers |
| Air temperature | 18°C 64°F | 19°C 66°F | 21°C 70°F | 23°C 73°F | 23°C 73°F | 20°C 68°F |
| Water temperature | 19°C 66°F | 19°C 66°F | 21°C 70°F | 22°C 72°F | 23°C 73°F | 21°C 70°F |
| Crowd | Fairly crowded | Few people | Few people | Fairly crowded | Few people | Few people |
| Swell Consistency | 85% | 85% | 55% | 40% | 70% | 85% |
| Swell height | 7 ft | 7 ft | 6 ft | 6 ft | 6 ft | 8 ft |
Getting there
By Air: Two airports:
Tenerife North Airport (TFN)
Tenerife South Airport (TFS) the busiest, with most international flights.
By Ferry: Regular ferries connect Tenerife with Gran Canaria, La Palma, and mainland Spain (Cadiz).
Safety/things to know
Tenerife is the most visited island in the Canary Islands. Expect busy beaches, especially on the south coast.
Winter swells can be powerful and dangerous for beginners—always check local surf conditions.
Localism exists at some spots. Respect the lineup and be polite to local surfers.
Reef booties are recommended for reef breaks.
Afternoon winds can affect surf conditions—morning sessions are usually cleaner.
Surf spots in Tenerife
Playa de Las Americas
This busy and accessible beach has several surf spots for all levels, making it perfect for beginners and intermediates. It’s also the center of Tenerife’s nightlife and tourism.
- Wave direction : Left and right
- Bottom : Sand
- Best tide : Any
- Skill level : Any
- Optimal swell direction : SW
- Optimal wind direction : E
El Charco
El Charco produces heavy, barreling waves when solid northwest swells hit. It’s a challenging spot best left to advanced surfers.
- Wave direction : Left and right
- Bottom : Reef
- Best tide : High
- Skill level : Intermediate and advanced
- Optimal swell direction : NW
- Optimal wind direction : S
El Socorro
El Socorro is a reliable beach break with waves for all levels. It’s a favorite among both locals and tourists and can hold solid swells.
- Wave direction : Left and right
- Bottom : Sand and reef
- Best tide : Any
- Skill level : Any
- Optimal swell direction : N
- Optimal wind direction : SW