Surfing in Tenerife: Where Wild Waves Meet Vibrant Island Life
Surfing in Tenerife has been a dream of mine ever since I first stood on a surfboard in Portugal. The island’s wild, volcanic shores and legendary waves always called to me, promising adventure and growth. After 8 unforgettable days at The Point Surf Club in Playa de las Américas, surfing in Tenerife has reshaped how I see both the sport and my future surf adventures.
Surfing in Tenerife: My Experience
Arrival & Accommodation: A Central Spot with a Nightlife Twist
In July 2024 I stayed right in the bustling heart of Playa de las Américas. The hostel-style accommodation was comfortable and well-equipped, featuring a kitchen to prepare meals. However, being on a busy street meant the nights were loud. From karaoke to live bands and club music, I experienced it all. Earplugs weren’t enough to block it out, so I ended up using earphones with sleep meditation to get any rest. So, where to stay for surfing in Tenerife? Well, if you are a party animal, the Point Surf Club might be ideal for you. If, on the other hand, your focus is on peaceful nights, I’d recommend looking for an accommodation a little outside the central party area. Neighborhoods like Costa Adeje and Los Cristianos offer quieter options while still being close to excellent surf spots.
Food Finds: Fresh Bowls & Morning Treats
Tenerife’s food scene became a favorite part of my days. I often grabbed a poke bowl from Poke Hut Las Américas — fresh, healthy, and packed with flavor. And almost every morning, I treated myself to a coffee and pistachio croissant at Big Wave. Not the healthiest, but definitely one of the best croissants I’ve had! These local spots are part of the Playa de las Américas surf guide every visitor should know to fuel up right for a day on the waves.
Mornings on the Water: Embracing Tenerife’s Rocky Waves
Every morning kicked off with surf lessons led by great instructors who balanced encouragement with expert guidance. But Tenerife’s volcanic coast came with a challenge: sharp, rocky shores. We had to wear protective shoes to avoid cuts. Plus, surfing towards the rocks added a thrilling (and sometimes nerve-wracking) edge to every wave.
Still, these rocky waves made the experience unique. Learning to surf in Tenerife means learning to respect the power of nature in a different way. It also pushed me to become more careful and confident in the water.
Adventures Beyond Surfing: Paddleboarding, Stargazing & Whale Watching
The surf camp was about more than just catching waves. I tried surf SUP for the first time — a calm, playful contrast to the intensity of surfing, and a whole new way to connect with the water.
One evening, we headed up to El Teide for a stargazing trip, and the drive alone was worth it. We literally rose above the clouds, winding through volcanic landscapes until we reached a lookout point with a stunning panoramic view. It felt like we were on another planet. Later we took turns walking up to the large telescopes to marvel at the night sky. It was one of those rare moments where everything just feels right.
Another highlight was a trip to Los Gigantes natural pool, followed by a whale watching tour. Seeing those gentle giants in their natural habitat was breathtaking and reminded me how incredible Tenerife’s marine life truly is.
Surfing in Tenerife: General Information
Best Surf Spots
La Playa de Las Américas is, without a doubt, the most popular surf spot in Tenerife. One of the reasons is its variety — you’ll find great surf breaks for all skill levels, from mellow waves for beginners to faster reef breaks for more advanced surfers. It’s also home to several named spots like El Medio, Las Palmeras, El Bunker, and La Derecha del Cartel, all within walking distance of each other.
In general, the south of Tenerife is more popular for surfing than the north, especially for visiting surfers. That’s because the south offers more consistent sunshine, warmer weather, and slightly calmer ocean conditions, particularly in summer. The north coast tends to receive stronger swell but is more exposed to wind and frequent rain, which can be a challenge if you’re looking for reliable daily sessions.
Another advantage of the south is the convenient infrastructure — plenty of surf schools, gear rentals, beachfront cafés, and accommodation close to the surf spots. This makes it a great base for both beginners and travelers who want to combine surfing with other island activities.
If you’re looking for a detailed overview of all the top surf locations across the island, including both north and south, check out this in-depth guide to surfing in Tenerife.
Best Seasons
Wondering when to plan your trip? One of Tenerife’s biggest advantages is that surfing is generally possible throughout the year. When exactly the waves are best depends largely on your skill level. The rule of thumb for surfing in Tenerife is: summer is best for beginners to intermediate surfers, while winter works best for intermediate to advanced surfers. The small waves in summer make it easier for beginners to successfully paddle out and practice a solid pop-up. Advanced surfers will most likely enjoy the big swells in winter more.
When it comes to the best time of day to surf, the answer is not quite as straightforward. We usually went surfing in the morning; however, the best time of day can vary depending on the tide and surf conditions. If you are an advanced surfer, I would recommend using a surf forecast app. If you are like me and still a bit overwhelmed, the best thing to do is to ask locals, for example, the employees at a rental shop.
How Surfing Tenerife Changed My Perspective
Before this trip, surfing Tenerife was a dream I held lightly — just one of many places I wanted to visit. But after 8 days immersed in its waves, nature, and culture, I’m truly in love. That said, my perspective has shifted: I realize now I want to explore other areas of Tenerife with different surf conditions, quieter beaches, and less rocky shores. The island’s diversity means there’s so much more to discover beyond Playa de las Américas, and I’m excited to dive deeper into those areas and find the best surf spots in Tenerife.
Surfing Tenerife gave me a fresh respect for the ocean’s power, a deeper appreciation for nature’s beauty, and a new sense of what I want in my surf experiences — all of which I’ll carry with me on every wave I ride from here on out.
Would I Recommend Surfing Tenerife?
Absolutely. If you’re looking for a vibrant surf scene combined with incredible natural adventures, Tenerife is a fantastic choice. Just be prepared for the rocky waves and noisy nights if you stay in the center — and pack your sense of adventure!
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, surfing in Tenerife offers something special: a chance to grow, explore, and be humbled by the ocean’s wild beauty.
Ready to catch your own Tenerife wave? Grab your board, pack your earplugs (and earphones), and get ready for a surf adventure that might just change your perspective forever.
