Surfing in Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife: Surf Camps, Lessons, and Travel Guide

Sean / April 2, 2026 / Updated on April 2, 2026
Sean / April 2, 2026

Introduction to Surfing Puerto de la Cruz

Puerto de la Cruz serves as Tenerife North’s vibrant surf hub with consistent Atlantic beach/reef breaks protected by harbor walls, perfect for intermediate progression and surf town lifestyle. This historic resort combines quality north shore waves with Loro Parque, black sand beaches, and quick access to Bajamar reefs and Socorro beachbreaks.

Puerto de la Cruz delivers authentic Tenerife north coast surf culture contrasting south resort zones.


Best Season to Surf Puerto de la Cruz

October to April: North/NW Atlantic swells power Martianez reef peaks up to double overhead.

May to September: Smaller cleaner waves suit lessons and longboarding.


Surf Spots and Beaches in Puerto de la Cruz

Playa de La Barranquera

Barranquera reef break in nearby Valle de Guerra delivers quality right handers breaking over volcanic rock, handling north swells effectively with mid tide optimal for peaky takeoffs. Less crowded alternative to central Martianez while remaining accessible from Puerto base.

Combine with Martianez beach/reef (central spot with harbor protection) and Playa Jardín for versatile north shore sessions.


Surf Camps and Lessons

Puerto de la Cruz hosts established beachfront surf schools.

Surf Skate BMP

Surf Skate BMP offers lessons, surfskate sessions, and progression coaching across Puerto de la Cruz breaks including Martianez reef, serving all levels with north Tenerife wave knowledge.


Other Things to Do in Puerto de la Cruz

  • Loro Parque: World-famous zoo/orca shows minutes from waves.
  • Lago Martianez: César Manrique saltwater lagoon complex.
  • Black sand beaches: Playa Jardín palm-lined surf zone.
  • Teide volcano: Day trips to Spain’s highest peak.
  • Canarian cuisine: Papas arrugadas + mojo beachfront.

Conclusion on Surfing Puerto de la Cruz

Puerto de la Cruz delivers Tenerife North’s premier urban reef/beachbreak combo with Martianez peaks, Barranquera rights, and authentic surf town infrastructure. Perfect north shore base accessing Bajamar, Socorro while enjoying resort amenities.

Surf Skate BMP provides local coaching maximizing protected north coast consistency.


FAQ: Surf Travel to Puerto de la Cruz

Compared to south coast?

Bigger more powerful winter waves; surf culture vs resort vibe.

Beginner options?

Playa Jardín rollers + Martianez inside sections; multiple schools.

Wetsuit requirements?

3/2mm fullsuit north swells; spring suit summer smaller days.

Airport distance?

Tenerife North Airport 30min; South Airport 1hr 15min drive.

Key nearby breaks?

Bajamar reef (15min), Socorro beachbreak (20min), Los Patos experts.

Are there other locations to do a Surf Camp or take a lesson in the Canary Islands?

Check out our Surfing in the Canary Islands Travel Guide if you’re interested in checking out other surfing locations.