Learning to Surf in Fuerteventura

Are you thinking about surfing in Fuerteventura? Fuerteventura is known as Europe's surf mecca. Here, you'll find not only summer temperatures and amazing beaches year-round but also great surf spots, good waves, and numerous surf schools.

"Being one with the ocean, gazing at the beach, standing effortlessly on the board, riding the wave, and experiencing that incredible feeling of joy."

That's how I imagined it. Surfing. How hard could it be? After all, countless beach boys and girls with their sun-bleached long hair and year-round tanned bodies stand on their boards at the world's most beautiful beaches.

I quickly learned otherwise when I first ventured into the waves with Planet Surf Camps in the north of the island, near the lovely town of Corralejo.

After our incredibly friendly surf instructors Gala and Marco familiarized us with our gear - a soft surfboard that is large enough to float well in the water, a leash to keep the board from getting lost, and a wetsuit to stay warm even after a long time in the water - we proceeded to the first dry land exercises.

We were thoroughly explained how the surfboard reacts and what the correct technique for paddling and standing up is. On the beach, it seems like child's play. I can hardly wait to jump from the hot sand into the water.

What follows is a week of surf school. A week filled with sore muscles, countless attempts to stand up, and involuntary falls. But also a week full of indescribable moments of joy while surfing, packed ambition, and more fun than I've had in a long time.

Together with 15 other surf enthusiasts from all over Europe, the surf school has a multi-hour surf excursion scheduled daily in two groups. The surf instructors take us to the suitable spots, not far from our accommodation.

Depending on the tide, classes are either early in the morning or in the afternoon - which leaves plenty of time for relaxation, city strolls, and sightseeing in Fuerteventura.

What I like about the surf course is that the necessary theory is taught on the beach. The surf instructors are very attentive to ensure we apply the correct techniques, and after that, we can try everything in the water. There's no shortage of necessary corrections and tips; all without it being stressful or annoying.

While beginners are making their first standing and riding attempts on dream-like sandy beaches and paddling like crazy to catch the waves, more advanced surfers are having a great time at the reef.

One thing we all have in common by evening: We are happy, satisfied, and above all, completely exhausted!

However, since surfing in Fuerteventura is known to be only half the fun, the accompanying lifestyle cannot be missed: Almost daily after class, we stop at a small surf town and enjoy fresh pastries, delicious coffee, or ice cream. In the cozy surf house in Corralejo, we grill together, cook, do yoga, play billiards, or simply relax on the large terrace.

And of course, there should also be the occasional surfer party in the evening along with typical Spanish tapas.

The week with Planet Surf Camps went by faster than I would have liked. But I can say that I experienced so much during this week that I would love to fly back to the sunny island immediately. The combination of adventure, sport, and relaxation makes a surf camp the perfect vacation for me.

More tips and information

Planet Surf Camps offers not only camps in Fuerteventura but also on the Spanish mainland and in France. However, especially in the fall, there's probably no better destination to catch some last rays of sun than the Canaries.

As the islands are situated at the same latitude as Africa, temperatures remain above 30 degrees Celsius even in October and November. At this time, surfers can even do without a wetsuit. Fuerteventura always has a moderate wind, making the heat feel very pleasant.

A week of surf school in Fuerteventura, including lessons, transportation to surf, and accommodations, can be had starting from €190.

You can reach the sunny island in the Canaries from the United States in just four hours by plane. Flights cost around $300 per person year-round for round trips.

BOOK FLIGHTS ✈️ We always look for cheap flights at Kayak. Here are my tips for booking cheap flights. Make sure you specify checked luggage because basic fares only include carry-on. This initially distorts the price, making it look cheaper.

Fuerteventura always has good waves. Each season offers different spots that provide the best waves. If you can already surf better and want to surf the reefs in Fuerteventura, the best time for a surf trip is from October to April. The strongest winds for kitesurfers and windsurfers occur between July and August, which is usually of less interest to surfers.

On the island itself, temperature fluctuations are minimal. The trade winds and occasionally the Scirocco (a hot wind coming from North Africa) have a significant impact on the climate. This can suddenly cause temperatures to rise by more than 10°C.

Otherwise, it remains pleasantly warm throughout the year. Regular vacationers tend to avoid the island mainly between July and August because the winds can be bothersome for a beach vacation during that time.

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