What are the best surf spots in the Canary Islands?

With over 1,500 kilometers of coastline offering perfect spots for surfing, the Canary Islands abound in beaches where you can put your board down.

In the Canaries, there's no shortage of top-level surfing, windsurfing and kitesurfing competitions. The archipelago is a privileged location for these disciplines, and surfers can enjoy magnificent lefts and rights on numerous spots. Located off the coast of Morocco, the archipelago comprises seven islands. Thanks to their geographical location, they frequently receive waves from two to four meters in height, which are generally the best for both surfers and body surfers, as they are very regular waves that crash onto the shore in a linear fashion. Here are four of the best waves on the Canary Islands to set your board on (and find all the referenced spots on the Canary Islands at this address).

Playa de la Cantería on the island of Lanzarote

The left of San Juan 

On the northwest coast of the island of Lanzarote lies one of the best left-hand waves for surfing, not only for its quality but also for its excellent location. The San Juan left breaks over a volcanic reef. That's why the World Qualifying Series of the Professional Surfers Association championship is held here, as well as other local championships. Access is via a dirt road from the nearby village of Caleta de Famara, which leads to a small sandy beach overlooking the island of La Graciosa and the Famara cliffs. 

 
 
 
 
 
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The wave of Lloret 

Located in the town of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, on the northeast coast of Gran Canaria, Lloret is linked to the beach by a promenade. The Lloret wave breaks on a volcanic rock bottom and is considered one of the best straight waves on Gran Canaria. Medium-length, with a large face divided into sections, it can also break to the left in good conditions. The best conditions for Lloret are between October and May, at low tide, with S-SE-SW-E winds and a N-NE-NW-W swell.

The wave of Lobos 

On the southwest coast of Lobos, a small islet north of Fuerteventura, you'll find the longest wave on the Canary Islands. Los Lobos is an unusual wave, but when the ideal conditions converge, it becomes the perfect wave for its length, varied sections and quality. Chances of finding the best conditions increase between October and March, with S-SE-SW-E winds and a W-NW-N swell, with waves from 1 to 4 meters. 

 
 
 
 
 
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The Igueste wave 

The reputation of the Igueste left-hander is well established. On the northeast coast of the island of Tenerife, near the village of Igueste de San Andrés, lies one of the island's best left-hand waves for surfing. On a volcanic rock reef, it forms a long wave with large walls that allow radical maneuvers and powerful take-offs. It forms incredibly hollow sections with impeccable barrels. Conditions are most consistent from September to May.

 

 
 
 
 
 
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A publication shared by Simon Quinn (@_saquinn)