The Best Surfing Waves in the Canary Islands
Canarias, often dubbed the “Hawaii of Europe,” is a surfer’s paradise. For decades, the islands have welcomed winter surfers from across Europe, offering a tantalizing mix of warm waters, solid barrels, and high-quality waves. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced pro, you can’t help but be drawn to these incredible waves, some of which are world-class, capable of providing exhilarating rides—and, occasionally, challenging wipeouts against razor-sharp reef bottoms.
1. El Quemao
El Quemao, located in Lanzarote, is often referred to as the “Pipeline of the Canaries.” Known for its powerful, fast waves, it delivers beautiful, hollow barrels that create thrilling challenges for those brave enough to surf here. The volcanic seabed ensures that any miscalculation will remind you of the ocean’s ferocity.
Renowned surfer Natxo González expresses his fondness for this wave, stating, “I try to go to Lanzarote every year. It’s a super technical and dangerous wave that has led to incredible moments with the locals. I’ve ridden one of my best waves here. It’s one of my favorites!”
2. El Confital
El Confital, situated in Gran Canaria, has garnered a reputation as one of Europe’s best right-hand breaks. Its vertical walls and solid tubes make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike, especially during winter when the surf can become more robust.
El Confital is also famous for being very accessible, although it can get crowded due to its urban location. Experienced surfers appreciate its consistency, while beginners might find it less forgiving when the swell is up.
3. La Isla de Lobos
Located off the coast of Fuerteventura, La Isla de Lobos is known for its long, right-hand waves that break over a rocky sea bed. This wave offers multiple sections, some of which are barreling, and it’s considered a sweet treat for surfers willing to make the journey by boat. However, due to its increasing popularity, it can get quite busy.
4. El Frontón
El Frontón, located in Gáldar, is celebrated as a world-class bodyboarding spot, recognized for some of the most powerful and spectacular barrels in the world. This wave offers a unique experience that attracts big-wave surfers and is often featured in various international surfing competitions.
With its challenging conditions, surfers are treated to an otherworldly ride, as El Frontón continues to redefine what it means to catch a wave.
5. Spanish Left (La Izquierda de Las Palmeras)
In Tenerife, Las Américas is home to the charming Spanish Left, also known as La Izquierda de Las Palmeras. This wave has a local reputation grounded in the palm trees lining the promenade as well as its unpredictable nature, which makes it challenging to read.
Despite its capriciousness, Spanish Left can turn into a thrilling skatepark when the conditions are right, offering perfect ramps for surfers to chain together breathtaking maneuvers.
6. La Izquierda de La Santa
La Izquierda de La Santa is often regarded as a sacred wave, honored and preserved by the local community. Nested in the bay of La Santa, it is one of four waves in the area, with its powerful tubes offering excellent sections for experienced surfers seeking adrenaline-filled rides.
This wave carries a rich history, as many prominent surfers have honed their skills here, solidifying its status as a must-ride for surf enthusiasts.
7. El Hierro and El Corral
El Hierro, alongside El Corral, stands as another epitome of Fuerteventura’s surfing capabilities. With waves that frequently break over a rocky bed, they offer vertical, tube-like sections that keep seasoned surfers returning for more.
Despite the allure, surfers must be prepared for a trek to access these stunning breaks, as reaching them often requires a hike through challenging terrain.
Winning Big: Wave of the Winter by Organic Shit
Surfers now have the opportunity to showcase their talents through the Wave of the Winter by Organic Shit competition, which aims to honor the most impressive waves ridden during the Canary winter. Categories include awards for the biggest wave and the most spectacular tube, each with a prize of €500.
Surfers interested in participating can submit their videos via email. The finalists will be revealed soon, with judges evaluating the entries to determine the champions in each category.
In conclusion, the Canary Islands offer a diverse array of incredible surfing waves that cater to all levels, all with their distinctive flair and challenges. Whether you’re drawn to the powerful barrels of El Quemao or the consistent rides at El Confital, the magic of Canarias is sure to leave a lasting impression on any surfer seeking their next great adventure.
