Playa de Famara Surf Guide

Surf spot guide

Ideal Surf Conditions

Swell Direction

NW, N

Wind

S, SE

Surf Height

Waist high to overhead.

Tide

All tides

Playa de Famara Surf Guide

This huge arc of dark, volcanic sand is a real wave magnet, facing north by the village of Famara, then bends away for over six kilometres to face northwest. The middle of the bay really Hoovers up North Atlantic swell, but is smaller toward the village where the beginners and surf schools tend to congregate. When small there are numerous fun peaks to enjoy, but gets heavy as the size increases. Busy, but loads of room to spread out. Super popular tourist destination. Winds coming off the Sahara can be brutal!

Ability Level

Beginner - Intermediate

BegIntAdv

Peaks close to the village are popular with the many surf schools, surf camps and beginners, best for experienced surfers when bigger due to power and rips.

Local Vibe

Doable

WelcomingIntimidating

Compared to many breaks on the island the welcome is positively glowing. Having said that, there is still a strong and competitive local crew.

Crowd Factor

Moderate

MellowHeavy

Busy peak season.

Spot Rating

Fun

PoorPerfect

Huge beach break that is home to some excellent banks, can be fun and rippable or heavy and hollow. A beach break alternative on an island of epic reefs.

Shoulder Burn

Medium

LightExhausting

Not too bad when smaller, heavy rips can form as the size ramps up.

Water Quality

Clean

CleanDirty

Good

Hazards

Powerful waves when big, rips, rocks near village. vicious wind and sand combo.

Bring Your

Shortboard, Funboard, Fish, Longboard, SUP, Bodyboard

Access

Loads of parking at the beach.

Bottom

Sand with a shelf of reef near town.

Best Season

Works year round but a super popular winter spot - December to February.

Do you have local knowledge about Playa de Famara?

If you have any insights or information to add to this spot guide, drop us a note at [email protected]