Welcome to the captivating world of surfing in Fuerteventura, a rugged and raw gem burrowed in the Canary Islands. This isle is a surfer's haven, gifted with a climate that stays relatively warm all year-round, and waves that will stir your soul. Here, you'll discover a wide variety of breaks, from gentle sandy shores to more challenging reef setups, catering to surfers of all skill levels. With its consistent swells, clear waters, and a laid-back surf community, Fuerteventura embodies the essence of wave-riding culture. This island's waves and stunning vistas make it an essential pilgrimage for surfers travelling Europe.

The winter months of October to April bring on the more consistent swells for all of Fuerteventura’s coastline. Throughout this time of year, the water averages temperatures between 19 to 23 degrees celsius, which is rather comfortable compared to the rest of Europe’s surf scene. In summer, waves still grace the shores of this Canary island, however are generally smaller and less consistent than in Winter. Below is a brief run down of the best surf spots to check out in Fuerteventura in 2023.

Beginning on the west side of the island, Spew Pits marks the coastline as one of the better waves on Fuerteventura. Mainly ridden by experienced surfers, it is an a-frame peak that breaks over shallow reef, and actually slabs up when the swell is bigger and more powerful. It is a consistent wave that works on any tide, and best on north-northwest swell and wind from the east.

Moving up the beach is the exposed beach break of El Cotillo. Also working on both high and low tides, this spot boasts several fun a-frame waves that cruise into mellow rollers with little barrel sections if you have the skills to tuck in and out fast enough. Preferring swell from the west and wind from the east-northeast, this break is an exceptionally fun ride that is loved by all levels of surfers.

North of El Cotillo is Yarro surf spot. This is a consistent reef break that enjoys north-northwest swell with offshore wind from the south. It is a loveable wave for regular-footers and is slightly more remote than the other spots mentioned. Thus, if you’re seeking solitude on powerful waves, this should definitely be on your list of waves to surf.

Towards the northern tip of the island lies El Hierro, also known as The Bubble. This is an a-frame wave with barrel potential on the bigger days. Walking over the sandy roads and a stretch of rocks to get into the water, it is a reefy break with fun and consistent wedges, and works to its full potential with north-northwest swells and southeast wind.

This break however, does not lie here alone. Scattered along the north of Fuerteventura are several surf spots, the best of which are known as Mechihonas, Generosa, and Suicides. Mechihonas is an exposed beach break with a-frames spread out along the beach, whilst Generosa is a fun reef wave for goofy footers, or for those looking to go backside. Both waves work on all tides, and pump in north-northwest swell and south wind. Meanwhile, Suicides is a consistent right hand reef break and prefers north-northwest swell with offshore winds from the south-southeast.

So whether you’re looking for sandy bottoms, barrel visions, or cruisy rollers, Fuerteventura absolutely has it all. The northern half of this island is glittered with magical waves that will enrich your spirit and elevate your skills in surfing - something that should definitely not be missed on your trip to Spain.

Written by Kayli Wouters

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