When is the Best Time to Surf in Tenerife? [2026 Complete Guide]

Welcome to our surf school blog! If you are looking for the best time to surf in Tenerife, you have come to the right place. In this article, we will provide you with valuable information about the best times of the year to enjoy surfing in Tenerife, both in the south and in the north of the island. Read on to find out!

Do you want to know what is the best time to surf in Tenerife? Well, the truth is that this question has a relatively simple answer. Tenerife has a dry and warm subtropical climate all year round, which means that you can surf its beaches in any season. However, there are some months that are more conducive to surfing on the island.

South vs North: Where and When?

In the south of Tenerife, the best time to surf is during the winter months, from November to March. During this season, the southern beaches, such as Playa de Las Américas and Los Cristianos, receive swells from the north and west that generate consistent, quality waves for surfers. Temperatures are mild, with an average of 20-22 degrees Celsius, which makes surfing in the water a pleasant experience.

On the other hand, in the north of Tenerife, the best time for surfing is during the autumn and spring months, from September to May. During this season, the northern beaches, such as Playa del Socorro and Playa de Bajamar, receive swells from the Atlantic that generate powerful and challenging waves. Temperatures are a little cooler than in the south, averaging 18-20 degrees Celsius, but still ideal for surfing.

The surfing beaches in Tenerife are varied and offer different types of waves for surfers of all levels. In the south, the beaches of Las Américas and Los Cristianos are ideal for beginners, with gentle, easy-to-surf waves. In the north, Playa del Socorro and Playa de Bajamar are more suitable for more experienced surfers, with bigger and more powerful waves.

If you are looking for a unique surfing experience in Tenerife, we recommend visiting Alcalá, a small town on the west coast of the island. Alcalá is known for its black sand beaches and quality waves, making it a popular spot for surfers. Here you will find consistent and challenging waves for much of the year, making it an excellent choice for those looking for an exciting surfing experience.

In short, the best time to surf in Tenerife depends on the area of the island you choose and your surfing skills. In the south, the winter months are ideal, while in the north, the autumn and spring months offer the best conditions. Visiting Alcalá is also an excellent option for an exciting day of surfing. Always remember to check sea conditions and weather forecasts before venturing out to surf at any time of the year.

Learn with Kaizen Surf School

At our surf school, we care about providing you with accurate and useful information so that you can make the most of your surfing experience in Tenerife. Our expert instructors will guide you in learning and perfecting your surfing skills, regardless of your level of experience.

Surfing is one of the most popular sports in the world, and Tenerife is no exception. With perfect coastal conditions and a long coastline, Tenerife is the perfect place to catch a wave. If you’re looking to learn to surf, or just want to try it out, the best time to do it is during the winter. This is when the waves are the biggest and the conditions are the best. In the summer, the waves are smaller and the wind can be very strong. If you’re looking to learn to surf in Tenerife, be sure to check out our beginner’s guide to surfing in Tenerife. There you will find everything you need to know to get started.

More Than Just Surfing

Surfing in Tenerife is a great way to spend a day. It’s a beautiful place with crystal clear waters and perfect waves. The best time to surf in Tenerife is between January and March. The waves are bigger and the water warmer during this time, making it a great surfing experience. Be sure to check the conditions before you go surfing, as sometimes the waves can be smaller or not as good as they look.

If you are not a fan of surfing, there are other activities you can do in Tenerife, such as paragliding, hiking, swimming, sunbathing and kayaking. There are also many restaurants and bars located in the city that you can visit.

📅 Quick Visual Guide: Tenerife Surf Seasons

Seasons for surfing in Tenerife

The seasons of the year play an important role in determining the best time of year to surf in Tenerife. Each season has unique characteristics that affect sea conditions and wave quality. Below are the seasons of the year and what you can expect during each one:

• Winter (December to February): During the winter, Tenerife experiences an increase in wave size and swell intensity. This period is ideal for more experienced surfers looking for exciting challenges. The northern beaches of the island, such as El Socorro and Martiánez, are especially popular during this season.
• Spring (March to May): Spring is an excellent time to surf in Tenerife, as the waves are milder and the weather is pleasant. It is an ideal time for surfers of all levels, from beginners to advanced. The southern beaches, such as Las Américas and El Médano, offer favorable conditions to enjoy surfing in this season.
• Summer (June to August): Summer is a popular season for surfers who prefer smaller, calmer waves. The beaches in the south of Tenerife are perfect for beginners and those looking to learn to surf. It is important to note that during this time, the beaches can be more crowded due to the influx of tourists.
• Autumn (September to November): Autumn is considered by many to be the best time to surf in Tenerife. The waves are consistent and the weather remains warm. It is an ideal period for surfers of all levels, and the northern beaches, such as Playa Martiánez and Playa Jardín, offer excellent conditions during this season.

Remember that sea conditions can vary and it is important to check local surf reports before planning your surf session. Also, consider your own skills and level of experience when choosing the best time to enjoy surfing in Tenerife.

Water and air temperature

Water and air temperature play a crucial role in the surfing experience in Tenerife. The island enjoys a warm climate all year round due to its location near the tropics. Here is some information about the water and air temperatures in Tenerife during different times of the year:

• Summer: During the summer months, which run from June through August, the water temperatures range from 22°C to 25°C. The water is pleasantly warm, making it possible to enjoy surfing sessions without the need for wetsuits. Air temperatures average around 28°C, creating an ideal climate for long surfing sessions in the sun.
• Winter: During the winter months, which run from December to February, water temperatures can drop to around 18°C (64°F). Although the water is cooler compared to summer, many surfers can still enjoy surfing without thick wetsuits. Air temperatures during the winter hover around 20°C, which is still quite mild compared to other regions.

It is important to note that temperatures may vary slightly depending on the exact location of the beach on the island and the specific weather conditions each year. It is always advisable to check weather reports and weather forecasts before heading out to surf to make sure you have the right equipment and make the most of your experience in the water. Taking into account the water and air temperature is essential to ensure your comfort and safety while surfing, so don’t forget to check the conditions before heading to Tenerife’s stunning beaches in search of the best waves!

Swells and Ocean Swell

Swell and swell are crucial elements in determining the quality of the waves and the surfing experience in Tenerife. The island offers ideal conditions for surfing all year round. Here is some information about swells and swell in Tenerife:

• Swells: Tenerife is affected by swells from both the north and the south. These swells generate quality waves and offer a variety of options for surfers. North swells tend to be more frequent during the winter months, when the North Atlantic winds generate larger and more powerful waves. These conditions attract experienced surfers looking for exciting challenges. On the other hand, southerly swells are more common during the summer months, creating gentler waves suitable for beginners and intermediates.
• Atlantic Swell: Tenerife benefits from the Atlantic swell, which provides a constant flow of waves along the coast. During the winter, when the swell is more consistent, waves can reach considerable heights and offer exciting surfing opportunities. The North Atlantic swell is especially appreciated by more experienced surfers looking for exciting challenges. During the summer, the swell tends to be milder and the waves are more suitable for beginners and intermediate surfers.

It is important to note that swell conditions can vary depending on the exact location of the beach in Tenerife. Some beaches are more conducive to surfing in certain conditions, so it is advisable to check local surf reports and talk to local surfers for up to date information. Tenerife is a surfing paradise thanks to its swells and Atlantic swell. Be prepared to brave the swells and make the most of the swell as you explore Tenerife’s beaches!

Favorable Winds

Winds play a crucial role in the quality of the waves and the surfing experience in Tenerife. Favorable winds can create ideal conditions for surfing, while unfavorable winds can affect wave formation and quality.

• Trade winds (Vientos Alisios): Trade winds are the prevailing winds in Tenerife and blow constantly from the northeast. These winds are favorable for surfing, as they generate clean and well-formed waves on the south and west coast of the island. During most of the year, the trade winds blow with moderate intensity, which creates excellent surfing conditions.
• Summer Winds: During the summer months, the trade winds tend to soften in Tenerife. This creates a calmer atmosphere on the southern beaches of the island, which is ideal for beginners and surfers who prefer gentler waves. However, it is important to note that the sea breeze can generate crosswinds on some beaches, which can affect the quality of the waves.

It is essential to consult local weather reports and pay attention to wind forecasts before heading out to surf in Tenerife. Tenerife, with its trade winds and favorable weather conditions, offers a year-round surfing environment.

Best Places to Surf in Tenerife

We leave you here a link to see in more depth the best spots for surfing in Tenerife: Best spots Tenerife. Tenerife has a great variety of beaches and breaks that offer exciting opportunities for surf lovers. Here are some of the most outstanding beaches and breaks:

• Playa de Las Américas (Tenerife South): One of the most famous Tenerife surfing spots, it offers multiple surf breaks for all levels. Whether you are a beginner looking for surf lessons or an advanced surfer chasing perfect waves, this is the place to be.
• El Médano: Known for its strong winds, El Médano is a top spot for surfing Tenerife South and is also popular for windsurfing and kitesurfing.
• El Socorro (Tenerife North): If you’re looking for powerful waves and an authentic Tenerife surf experience, El Socorro is the perfect place. Best for intermediate and advanced surfers.
• Igueste de San Andrés: A hidden gem in the Tenerife surf scene, Igueste offers long left-hand waves and works well in the winter months.
• Bajamar & Punta del Hidalgo: Located in Tenerife North, these spots provide some of the island’s best reef breaks, attracting experienced surfers from around the world.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)