Situated 100 kilometres off the coast of Morocco, the Canary Islands are closer to Africa than they are to their governing country of Spain. This volcanic archipelago, which is geologically active, is also geographically diverse, with some regions boasting lush, verdant forests while others are sparse and barren, often compared to the moon. Colonial towns and cities dot the islands, their historic architecture and cobblestone streets standing in contrast to the endless blue of the surrounding sea that delivers some of the regions best waves.
While the Canary Islands consists of eight main islands, most surfers head to one of the "big four” - Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura and Lanzarote. Here, you'll find both beginner-friendly breaks and challenging waves that will appeal to the most seasoned surfers. The accessibility of these larger, more populated islands is an added bonus, with well-connected transportation networks and an inspiring choice of sustainable accommodation.
In this article, discover the best places to surf in the Canary Islands + eco-friendly places to stay in Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote and Tenerife.
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Fuerteventura
Best place to learn to surf in the Canary Islands
Fuerteventura is a true paradise for beach lovers, boasting some of the most sublime stretches of sand in the Canary Islands. With dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waters, its no wonder sun-seekers from around the world flock here. Thanks to its accessibility and abundance of beginner-friendly waves, Fuerteventura has rightfully earned its reputation as the surfing capital of the Canaries.
The lively town of Corralejo serves as the epicentre of the island's surfing scene, home to a thriving community of surf schools and camps that cater to wave riders of all skill levels. From the blustery conditions of Flag Beach (a favourite among kitesurfers) to the more mellow breaks of El Cotillo, Fuerteventura offers a diverse array of spots to suit every surfer's needs. Advanced surfers should head to treacherous Spew Pits with its jagged reefs, which provide a playground reserved only for the island's most daring.
Eco-friendly hotels in Fuerteventura
Best eco-friendly surf hostel in Fuerteventura
Offering both private and shared rooms, this eco-friendly surf house in Corralejo is located just steps from the beach and has easy access to some of the island’s best waves. It’s taking strides when it comes to sustainability and reducing its carbon footprint, with a portion of all profits going to support environmental initiatives. Aside from offering yoga classes and surf programs for all levels, Dreamsea also runs regular beach cleanups.
“Perfect place to stay: away from the city buzz and nearby the beach.” - Juan (read more reviews here)
Best eco-friendly apartments in Fuerteventura
Dubbing itself a “nohotel”, this trend-setting property is instantly recognisable thanks to the mustard sunloungers that fringe its centrepiece pool. From reducing plastics to using locally sourced products wherever possible, Buendia Corralejo is striving to be the most eco-friendly hotel in Fuerteventura. The spacious apartments come with fully-equipped kitchens so you can prepare your own meals while the private patios are the ideal spot to kick back.
“The hotel itself is just very cool and nicely designed, the location is amazing.” - Aleksandra (read more reviews here)
Best places to surf in the Canary Islands
Gran Canaria
Best place for surf and culture in the Canary Islands
Surfing in Gran Canaria revolves primarily around the island's bustling capital, Las Palmas, which serves as the hub for the island’s dynamic wave landscape. At the heart of this surf scene is the iconic break known as La Cicer, a mellow wave that has welcomed more beginner surfers than you could count. While it may be a bit of a "kook fest" at times, La Cicer's user-friendly nature and consistent swell make it an immensely fun and rewarding wave to surf, especially when the winds are clean off-shore.
If you’re an experienced surfer, Gran Canaria also offers a wealth of more challenging options. The reefs at La Barra and the rocky-bottomed breaks of La Guancha provide a sterner test for intermediate and advanced surfers, adding technical complexity and power to the mix. Venturing further down the island's east coast, surfers can discover lazy, forgiving wedges at Playa del Hombre, perfect for intermediate surfers looking to hone their skills. And for those seeking the ultimate challenge, the monstrous wave at El Frontón promises to put even the most seasoned veterans to the test.
Eco-friendly hotels in Gran Canaria
Best eco-friendly boutique hotel in Gran Canaria
This boutique hotel in Las Palmas has sustainability at the fore, with renewable energy sources utilised and waste minimised throughout its operations. Local, organic produce is showcased at the in-house restaurant while the rooftop jacuzzi is the perfect place to relax in between surfs. This eco-friendly hotel in Gran Canaria also boasts a well-equipped fitness centre and inspiring vertical gardens that contribute to its sustainability goals.
"The rooftop bar was the best place to hang out and work from in the evenings.” - Aaron (read more reviews here)
Best eco-friendly surf house in Gran Canaria
Directly across from Playa de Las Canteras, this eco-friendly surf hostel in Las Palmas is set across three floors, with your choice of dorm or private room. There are lots of communal areas where you can meet other surfers and you can check the waves each morning from the breezy terrace. Guests always comment about how clean this Gran Canaria surf hostel is and the amazing views on offer.
“The place is amazing and really deserves the 5 stars!” - Anthony (read more reviews here)
Eco-friendly hotels in the Canary Islands
Lanzarote
Best place for big wave surfing in the Canary Islands
With its stark, otherworldly landscapes, Lanzarote has firmly established itself as one of the premier surf destinations in the Canary Islands. In fact, it's reputation is such that many refer to it as the “European Hawaii”. Located in the far northeast of the archipelago, it is ideally situated to capture the powerful swells rolling in from the Atlantic Ocean.
While the long, inviting stretch of sand at Caleta is a magnet for beginner and intermediate surfers, the true standouts of Lanzarote's surf scene lie elsewhere. The pros and thrill-seekers make a beeline for the hollow waves of El Quemao at a spot also known as "The Slab" or head down the coast to the resort town of La Santa. Along the island's eastern shores, a number of point breaks north of Costa Teguise provide excellent surfing opportunities, though they see less traffic than the showpiece waves elsewhere.
Eco-friendly places to stay on Lanzarote
Best eco-friendly village resort in Lanzarote
With its solar-powered pool and low-impact yurts, this eco-friendly accommodation in Lanzarote is a poster child of sustainable tourism. It’s eclectically designed and suitable for solo surfers, couples and families while being within easy reach of the surf breaks along the northeast coast. Aside from the yurts, there’s an Eco Surf Shack that combines Moroccan and Balinese design influences.
"The entire concept of sustainability, recycling, and environmental stewardship embraced by this place is nothing short of admirable. It's heartwarming to see a space that not only offers a nice retreat but also actively contributes to the well-being of our planet.” - Nath (read more reviews here)
Best eco-friendly hotel in Lanzarote for adults-only
Tucked away from the crowds, this adults-only hotel on Lanzarote utilises renewable energies and water-saving technologies to keep its environmental footprint to a minimum. It occupies a beautifully restored farmhouse within the most tranquil setting, not far from the beaches along Lanzarote’s southeast coast. A stay at this eco-friendly Lanzarote hotel is all about connecting with the rural culture of the Canary Islands (and enjoying a kid-free experience!)
“Pure 10 out of 10. It's traditional, it's rural, it's beautifully designed and arranged. It's comfortable, peaceful and so charming.” - Rogla (read more reviews here)
Eco-friendly hotels in the Canary Islands
Tenerife
Best place to surf in the Canary Islands for nightlife
As the most developed of the Canary Islands, Tenerife offers a unique surf scene that blends the thrill of riding waves with the lively energy of its coastal communities. The island's shoreline is dotted with seaside promenades that teem with the familiar trappings of resort towns, from fast food chains to sunset bars that cater to the après-surf crowd. Yet amidst this atmosphere, Tenerife also boasts some truly awe-inspiring natural wonders that draw surfers in search of world-class waves.
The colossal sea cliffs of Los Gigantes tower over the crashing surf, providing a dramatic backdrop for the powerful breakers that roll in along this stretch of coastline. Further south, the resort town of Playa de las Américas offers a mix of beginner-friendly reef breaks as well as more challenging spots that require the skills of seasoned pros on the right swell. Those seeking a more secluded surf experience should head to the island's wilder north, such as Punta del Hidalgo, which harbours hidden gems such as the volcanic reef breaks of El Roquete. And for those willing to brave ding-inducing rock formations, Benijos Beach also presents some incredible opportunities.
Eco-friendly hotels in Tenerife
Best eco-friendly health retreat in Tenerife
Nestled just inland from Tenerife’s southeast coast is this Insta-worthy hotel, which lies in the historic village of Arico El Nuevo. It epitomises minimalist luxury and eco-conscious living, with the property having the atmosphere of a holistic health retreat. With each booking, you’re helping to remove 200 plastic bottles from the sea thanks to this eco-friendly Tenerife hotel’s partnership with Gravity Wave.
"The hotel is absolutely incredible, the owners curated the most thoughtful space. It's the perfect place to unwind and find some peace.” - Constance (read more reviews here)
Best eco-friendly resort in Tenerife for families
Just a stone’s throw from the breaks of Playa de las Americas, this Tenerife eco-resort features spacious one and two-bedroom villas that are popular with families. Its green credentials include the elimination of single-use plastics and non-biodegradable cleaning products, with the addition of energy-saving lightbulbs and an electric vehicle charging station. The onsite wellness facilities include a Turkish bath and a jacuzzi, plus a menu of massages and body treatments.
"Great choice for a chilled week in the sun.” - Shonagh (read more reviews here)
Sustainable surf vacation in the Canary Islands
Best time to surf in the Canary Islands
September to March is the peak surfing season in the Canary Islands, when the dominant north to northwest swell direction combines with the typically offshore winds to produce some of Europe's most ideal surfing conditions. You can expect generally warm, sunny days, making the archipelago a popular winter escape for surfers based further north. That being said, bring a 3/2 or 2mm wetsuit if you’re hitting the waves during these cool months.
The summer months of April through August bring a different dynamic to the islands' surf scene. It's true that things get smaller and less consistent overall, but there are still plenty of surfable days across the archipelago. Surfers will need to rely more on wind swell during this period, rather than the long-period groundswells of winter. These smaller conditions are perfect for beginners to practice their skills or for more experienced surfers wanting to enjoy a casual surf session as part of their summer holiday.
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