Surfing season and lanzarote weather

Weathering the Waves: Lanzarote's Surf Climate

Lanzarote benefits from a semi-arid subtropical climate, characterized by minimal rainfall and consistently warm temperatures throughout the year.

Best Surfing Seasons

Experienced surfers generally favor the winter months, from September to March or April, as this period brings solid ground swells originating from the north to west, resulting in larger waves that can reach heights of 1.5 to 4 meters. During this season, renowned spots like La Santa and El Quemao experience their optimal conditions.

In contrast, the summer months, from May to September, are typically marked by wind swells and smaller, more manageable waves, particularly at Famara beach. This makes summer an ideal time for beginners and intermediate surfers. The east coast can also see some enjoyable wave activity during the summer due to the prevailing north-east winds.

The autumn season, spanning from September to December, is often considered a favorite among surfers. It typically features less wind and warmer water temperatures, offering a mix of small to medium swells with the occasional larger swell at Famara.

Air and Water Temperatures

Air temperatures on Lanzarote average around 21°C in January and can reach approximately 28°C in August. Water temperatures are also relatively stable, ranging from 17-21°C during the winter months to 23-26°C in the summer.Most surfers will find a 3mm full wetsuit comfortable during the winter, while board shorts or a spring suit are usually sufficient in the summer.

Wind Conditions

The island experiences predominant north-east trade winds, which are particularly noticeable during the summer. These winds can influence surf conditions on the north and west coasts but can also generate favorable waves on the east coast. South-east winds are generally beneficial for surfing at Famara.Stronger winds, which can occur between November and March, can contribute to the generation of larger waves. It's also worth noting the occasional occurrence of 'La Calima', a weather phenomenon involving strong east-south winds that bring dust from the Sahara Desert.

Swell Patterns

During the winter, Lanzarote typically receives solid ground swells from the north to west. In the summer, wind swells are more common. Northwest swells are often ideal for renowned surf spots like Famara and El Quemao.

Lanzarote's consistently pleasant climate and the availability of waves throughout the year make it a dependable surf destination regardless of the season. While the winter months offer the largest and most powerful waves, the summer still provides surfable conditions, especially for those at the beginner and intermediate levels. This extended surfing season makes Lanzarote a versatile choice for surf travelers. Understanding the typical wind patterns and swell directions is essential for surfers to select the most suitable surf spot on any given day. The east coast of the island can offer a more sheltered alternative when the north and west coasts are experiencing excessively windy conditions or large swells.