The Canary Islands, a volcanic archipelago off the coast of Africa, are an Atlantic paradise. It enchants with its wild nature and variety of landscapes. With wild beaches, perfect waves and a mild climate all year round, the Canaries represent an ideal destination for those who love surfing and seek real contact with nature.
In this article we’ll discover the best beaches where you can ride the waves in the Canaries. Among spectacular landscapes, wind on the water and authentic atmospheres.
From the unspoilt beaches of Fuerteventura to the spectacular cliffs of Lanzarote, passing through the lunar landscape of Tenerife, each island offers unique spots. These are suitable for both beginners and experienced riders. Surfing here is not just a sport: it’s a way to reconnect with the ocean and live the journey in harmony with nature.
1. El Cotillo
Located on the north – ovest coast of Fuerteventura, El Cotillo is a huge, fascinating and wild beach. It perfect for lovers of surfing and unspoilt nature. Its consistent waves and sandy bottoms make it ideal for both experienced surfers and beginners. Around it, an arid and lunar landscape typical of the island meets an ocean with intense colours. Here the small lagoons and black cliffs create quiet corners sheltered from the wind, a common element in the north coast of Fuerteventura.
El Cotillo is an authentic destination, far from mass tourism and where the rhythm of nature dictates the time of days.
2. Corralejo
Moving on the north – east coast of Fuerteventura, we find Corralejo, one of the most loved destination by surfers. The spot has regular waves and never too crowded and various spot suitable to all levels. The beach extends on the edge of the Dune Natural Park. It is a protected area where huge stretches of golden sand alternate with sections of black lava. Here the vegetation is resistant to wind and drought. The contrast between desert and ocean create a unique and spectacular landscape. That permits to offer every day fiery sunsets and moments of pure connection with nature.
Corralejo is the perfect place for those who seek adventure, freedom and a lifestyle in contact with the environment.
3. El Médano
Moving to the island of Tenerife, more precisely on the south – east coast, we find Playa El Mudano, one of the most iconic beaches for lovers of surfing, windsurfing and kitesurfing, thanks to its constant winds. The small village retains a relaxed and authentic atmosphere away from big resorts. It is surrounded by a unique natural environment: the Montaña Roja, an ancient volcanic peak that dominates the landscape, and a coastal nature reserve that hosts several species of plants and animal.
Here surfing is lived in harmony with nature, between wide beaches, constant sun and a simple and sustainable pace of life.
4. Puerto De la Cruz
Puerto De la Cruz, located on the north coast of Tenerife, is perfect por expert surfers thanks to its powerful and natural waves. The beach, surrounded by cliffs and lush green vegetation, overlooks a unique volcanic landscape. The nearby Rotava Natural Park offers natural trails. Here the invasion of mass tourism has begun to affect the tranquility of the place with new infraestructure and an increase in seasonal tourism. But surfing here still allows you to enjoy the authentic beauty of Puerto De la Cruz.
5. Las Américas
Playa Las Américas, on the south – west coast of the island of Tenerife, is another spot where to surf. It’s one of the most known spot in the Canaries for surfing, especially thanks to its “Spanish Left”: one of the waves most appreciated by experienced surfers. The sea conditions here are often ideal, with powerful and well-formed waves. However, Las Americas is located in one of the most touristic areas of the island. Here mass tourism has left its mark: large hotel complexes, traffic and excessive urbanisation have partly damaged the natural landscape. Despite this, the sea still retains its strength and beauty and the ocean continues to offer moments of connection with nature.
6. Playa de Famara
Playa the Famara, located on the north coast of the island of Lanzarote, is a true paradise for surfers. It has perfect waves for every level, from beginners to experts. The beach extends for kilometres, offering plenty of space to enjoy the sea and its waves without crowds. It is surrounded by a surreal landscape, with the majestic cliffs of Famara dominating the view. The nearby Timanfaya National Park, enriches the experience with its unique landscape.
Here surfing blends with the wild nature, away from the tourist chaos and offering an authentic experience.
From the powerful waves of Tenerife to the vast expanses of Fuerteventura, to the lunar landscapes of Lanzarote, the Canaries are much more than just a surfing destination: they’re a perfect mix of wilderness, adventure and freedom.
But if we want to continue living them like this – authentic, beautiful and alive – we need a little more attention. Travelling consciously makes the difference: we choose facilities that respect the environment, support the local community and reduce their impact.
After all, this is also part of the surf spirit: getting in touch with nature, respecting it… and leave it a little better than we found it.
