If you’re wondering when is the best time to surf in Gran Canaria, the short answer is: almost all year round.

Thanks to its consistent swell, mild climate, and variety of surf spots, Gran Canaria is one of the best surf destinations in Europe — especially for beginners.

That said, not every month, tide, or time of day offers the same conditions. In this local guide, we’ll break down the best time to surf in Gran Canaria based on seasons, daily conditions, and skill level, so you can make the most of your surf trip.

Surfing Seasons in Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria offers surf year-round, but conditions vary depending on the season and your experience level.

Winter (November to March)

Winter is the main swell season in Gran Canaria.

• Bigger and more powerful waves
  
• More consistent Atlantic swells
  
• Best suited for intermediate and advanced surfers
  

Beginners can still surf in winter, but it’s highly recommended to do so with a local surf school that knows when and where conditions are safe.

Summer (April to October)

For most visitors, summer is the best time to surf in Gran Canaria, especially for beginners.

• Smaller, softer waves
  
• More predictable conditions
  
• Ideal for learning and improving technique
  

This is the perfect season for surf lessons in Gran Canaria, particularly in the south of the island where conditions are more sheltered.

👉 Tip: Summer waves may be smaller, but they’re perfect for progression.

Best Time of Day to Surf in Gran Canaria

Morning Surf Conditions

Early morning is usually the best time to surf.

• Lighter winds
  
• Cleaner, glassier waves
  
• Fewer people in the water
  

Morning sessions are ideal for both beginners and intermediate surfers, and they’re when most surf schools schedule their lessons.

Afternoon and Sunset Sessions

Afternoons can still work well, especially in summer.

• Trade winds may increase during the day
  
• Some spots clean up again near sunset
  

Local knowledge is key to knowing when afternoon sessions are worth it.

Best Surf Conditions for Beginners

If you’re learning to surf, timing is everything.

The best beginner conditions in Gran Canaria include:

• Wave height between 0.5 and 1.5 meters
  
• Sandy beach breaks
• Light or offshore winds
• mid to high tide

The south of Gran Canaria offers several beginner-friendly surf spots, making it a great place to start surfing safely.

Joining beginner surf lessons in Maspalomas ensures you’re in the right spot at the right time.

Best Time to Surf in Maspalomas & South Gran Canaria

The south of the island is known for its more stable conditions.

Why surfing in the south works so well:

• More protection from strong winds
  
• Warmer water and air temperatures
  
• Consistent conditions throughout the year
  

Because of this, Maspalomas and South Gran Canaria are some of the best areas to surf if you’re a beginner or visiting for a short stay.

So, When Is the Best Time to Surf in Gran Canaria?

Here’s the short version:

• Best season for beginners: April to October
  
• Best season for experienced surfers: November to March
  
• Best time of day: Early morning
  
• Best area for beginners: South Gran Canaria (Maspalomas area)
  

Gran Canaria truly offers something for every surfer, all year long.

FAQs About Surfing in Gran Canaria

Is Gran Canaria good for beginner surfers?

Yes. Gran Canaria is one of the best places in Europe to learn how to surf thanks to its sandy beaches, consistent waves, and mild climate.

Can you surf in Gran Canaria all year round?

Absolutely. Surfing is possible 12 months a year, with different conditions depending on the season.

What is the best month to surf in Gran Canaria?

For beginners, the best months are usually from May to September, when waves are smaller and more forgiving.

Do I need experience to take surf lessons?

No experience is needed. Most surf lessons in Gran Canaria are designed for complete beginners.

Final Thoughts

Knowing when is the best time to surf in Gran Canaria will help you enjoy better waves and progress faster. While conditions can be good all year, surfing with local knowledge makes a huge difference.

If you want to surf in the best conditions for your level and make the most of your time on the island, joining a local surf school is always a smart choice 🤙

👉 Book your lesson here www.southcoastsurfschool.com