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Surfers’ Paradise: Explore the Best Surfing Spots in Tenerife

GVI

Posted: March 30, 2023

Tenerife, one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Canary Islands, is home to some of the best surfing spots in Europe. For those who are seeking a thrilling adventure on the waves, this island is the ultimate destination. With its warm waters, consistent waves and beautiful scenery, Tenerife is an ideal place to start your surfing journey. In this comprehensive guide, we will show you everything you need to know about surfing in Tenerife.

The Best Surfing Spots in Tenerife

If you are new to Tenerife, it’s important to know the best surfing spots. With its long stretch of coastline, the island offers a variety of beaches, each with its own unique characteristics. Playa de Las Americas, located in the south of Tenerife, is a great place to start. This long and sandy beach is ideal for beginners, with gentle waves and plenty of surf schools offering personalised lessons.

If you’re looking to move beyond the beginner stage, El Medano is an excellent choice. Located near the airport, this beach is known for its steady winds and challenging waves, making it a favourite among experienced surfers.

Another great surfing spot in Tenerife is La Fitenia. This beach is known for its consistent waves and clear waters, making it a popular spot for both beginners and advanced surfers. The beach is also surrounded by cliffs, providing a stunning backdrop for your surfing experience. If you’re looking for a quieter spot, try Playa del Socorro in the north of Tenerife. This black sand beach offers a more secluded surfing experience, with waves that are perfect for intermediate surfers.

How to Choose the Right Surfboard for Tenerife’s Waves

Choosing the right surfboard is crucial for your surfing experience in Tenerife. If you’re a beginner, we recommend starting with a longboard, as it offers better stability and buoyancy in the water. For intermediate to advanced surfers, a smaller and more maneuverable board, such as a shortboard, is recommended. Make sure to choose a board that matches your skill level and the conditions of the waves.

It’s also important to consider the type of wave you’ll be surfing in Tenerife. The island has a variety of breaks, from beach breaks to reef breaks, and each requires a different type of board. For example, if you’re planning to surf at El Medano, a popular beach break, a longboard or funboard would be suitable. However, if you’re heading to La Izquierda, a powerful left-hand reef break, a shortboard with a narrow tail would be more appropriate. Do your research and talk to local surf shops or experienced surfers to determine the best board for the waves you’ll be riding.

Safety Tips for Surfing in Tenerife

As with any sport, safety should always be a top priority. When surfing in Tenerife, it’s important to check the weather conditions and wave forecasts before heading out to the water. Additionally, always surf in designated areas and avoid overcrowded spots. Always wear a leash, and if you’re a beginner, stay in shallow waters until you have gained more experience. Lastly, be respectful of local surfers and follow the golden rule of surfing: “share the waves.”

The History of Surfing in Tenerife

The history of surfing in Tenerife dates back to the early 1960s when a group of surfers from California visited the island in search of new waves. However, long before that, the indigenous Guanches, who inhabited the island before the arrival of the Spanish, had a deep connection with the ocean and its waves. The Guanches were skilled seafarers and fishermen, and their traditional boats, made from local materials, were ideal for navigating the rough waters around the island. Although there is no evidence of the Guanches surfing in the way we understand it today, their close relationship with the ocean is an important part of Tenerife’s surfing heritage. In the 1970s, the first surf school was established in Tenerife, and since then, the island has become a popular destination for surfers from all over the world. Today, Tenerife hosts several international surfing competitions, and its surf culture continues to thrive.

The Benefits of Surfing for Your Physical and Mental Health

Surfing is a popular water sport that offers numerous physical and mental health benefits. Physically, surfing is a full-body workout that engages almost every muscle group, from the legs and core to the arms and shoulders. Paddling through the water and standing up on the board require strength, balance, and coordination, which can help improve your overall fitness level. Surfing also provides a great cardiovascular workout that can help lower your risk of heart disease, stroke and other health problems. Mentally, surfing can help reduce stress and anxiety by promoting mindfulness and a connection with nature. Being in the water and riding the waves can be an exhilarating and empowering experience that can boost your mood and self-confidence. Additionally, the social aspect of surfing can help create a sense of community and belonging. Overall, surfing is a fun and effective way to improve your physical and mental well-being while enjoying the beauty of the ocean.

How to Book a Surfing Lesson in Tenerife

If you’re looking to book a surfing lesson in Tenerife, you’re in luck! The island is home to several surf schools that offer lessons for surfers of all levels, from beginners to advanced. The easiest way to book a lesson is to do it online – most surf schools have websites where you can see their schedules, prices, and availability. You can also check out reviews from other surfers to help you choose the right school for you. Once you’ve found a school that you like, you can usually book a lesson by filling out a form on their website or by calling them directly. Most surf schools will provide all the equipment you need, including a board, wetsuit, and leash, but it’s always a good idea to double-check before you book. So if you’re ready to hit the waves and learn how to surf in Tenerife, just do a quick online search and you’ll be on your way to catching some awesome waves in no time!

The Best Time of Year to Visit Tenerife for Surfing

If you’re planning a surfing trip to Tenerife, the best time to go is during the winter months, from October to March. During this time, the island experiences consistent swells from the North Atlantic, which create great waves for surfing. The water temperature during these months is around 20°C (68°F), which is perfect for surfing in a wetsuit. The weather during the winter months is usually mild and sunny, with average temperatures around 20°C (68°F) during the day and around 15°C (59°F) at night. However, it’s important to note that the water and air temperatures can be a bit cooler during the winter, so make sure to bring a wetsuit and some warm clothes for after your surf session. During the summer months, from April to September, the waves are smaller and less consistent, but the water temperature is warmer and more pleasant for swimming and water activities. So if you’re looking for the best time to visit Tenerife for surfing, plan your trip during the winter months when the waves are at their best!

Exploring Tenerife Beyond the Waves

If you’re a surfer planning a trip to Tenerife, you’ll be happy to know that the island has plenty of activities to offer beyond just surfing. One of the top attractions on the island is Teide National Park, which is home to the tallest mountain in Spain, Mount Teide. You can take a cable car to the summit for some breathtaking views of the island. Another popular attraction is the Masca Valley, a beautiful area with stunning hiking trails and traditional Canarian villages. If you’re interested in history and culture, check out the town of La Laguna, which has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its beautiful architecture and historical significance. The island also has plenty of beaches and coastal areas to explore, including the black-sand beaches of Los Gigantes and the crystal-clear waters of the Anaga Rural Park. You can also indulge in some delicious Canarian cuisine and local wine, or hit up some of the island’s nightlife hotspots. So, when you’re taking a break from surfing, make sure to explore all that Tenerife has to offer!

The Future of Surfing in Tenerife: Environmental Challenges and Sustainable Solutions

As a popular surfing destination, Tenerife is facing several environmental challenges that could potentially harm the sport in the future. Rising sea levels, ocean acidification and plastic pollution are among the key concerns that could threaten the marine ecosystem and impact the quality of waves. However, there is hope for the future of surfing in Tenerife. Sustainable solutions such as beach cleanups, eco-friendly surfboard manufacturing, and the implementation of renewable energy sources can help mitigate these challenges and preserve the island’s natural resources for future generations. By promoting environmentally conscious practices, surfers and other stakeholders can work together to ensure a sustainable and thriving surfing industry in Tenerife.

Surfing in Tenerife is an experience unlike any other. From the warm waters to the consistent waves, this island has everything a surfer could want. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, there’s something for everyone in Tenerife. So, pack your bags, grab your surfboard, and get ready to experience the thrill of surfing in one of Europe’s most beautiful destinations.

If you’re interested in volunteering or interning abroad, you might want to check out GVI’s programs in Tenerife. GVI’s programs in Tenerife focus on dolphin and whale conservation, citizen science and more. Plus, when you’re not working, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to surf and explore the island! Tenerife has some of the best surf spots in the Canary Islands, with consistent waves and warm water year-round. So, if you’re looking for a meaningful and rewarding way to spend your time abroad while also getting to surf in your free time, GVI’s programs in Tenerife might be just what you’re looking for!

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