Surfing in Puerto del Carmen, Lanzarote: Surf Camps and Travel Guide
Introduction to Surfing Puerto del Carmen
Puerto del Carmen is not Lanzarote’s most obvious surf destination, but it deserves more credit than it typically receives. Sitting on the island’s southeast coast, sheltered from the full force of the North Atlantic by the island’s own geography, it operates on different terms to the exposed breaks of Famara and the northwest.
The surf here is gentler, more accessible and far more forgiving, and for a certain type of surfer, that is precisely the point. The town itself is Lanzarote’s most developed resort, with a long seafront promenade, a wide sandy beach and an energy that is lively without being overwhelming. Surf schools are well established here, the water is warm year-round, and the conditions on the right day offer genuinely enjoyable waves for those early in their surfing journey.
Best Season to Surf Puerto del Carmen Area
- Winter Season – December to February: Swells that reach the southeast coast during winter are typically reduced in size and power, having wrapped around the island from the northwest. What arrives is generally clean and manageable, ideal for beginners working on their fundamentals and improvers building confidence, although waves are rare.
Summer Season – June to August: Summer brings lighter swell and warmer conditions, with the Atlantic trade winds providing a steady breeze that keeps the heat comfortable. Wave activity is at its most modest during these months, but the consistency of what does arrive makes it a dependable season for absolute beginners and surf school participants. But far and few waves are to be found. The beach is at its busiest during summer, and the relaxed, holiday atmosphere of Puerto del Carmen is well suited to those combining their first surf experiences with a wider Lanzarote holiday.
A lineup of surf learners getting their on-shore practice with surf school School3S at Famara Beach.
Surf Spots and Beaches in Puerto del Carmen
Famara Beach
Although not exactly in Puerto del Carmen, Famara beach stands directly across the island and is a short drive away. The long stretch of beach offers fantastic opportunities to surf as well as dedicated surf schools, such as School3S, to provide fun surf lessons.
A surf lesson being given by School3S in Famara beach.
Puerto del Carmen
If the swell lines up from the SW then Puerto Del Carmen can certainly have some waves.
A fantastic video showing the waves at Puerto Del Carmen.
Surf Camps and Lessons
With a mission to help people connect with the ocean, the family-run surf school based in Puerto del Carmen guides students of all levels to improve their skills and confidence in the water by transferring students from the beloved Puerto del Carmen, and giving them lessons at Farmara Beach. Through the school, owners Barbara and Diego personally promote a holistic approach to the island lifestyle and getting into the water.
By combining surfing with yoga and SUPing, they offer more than just catching a wave, such as mindfulness, breathing, and body awareness. Thereby, making them more than just a typical surf school, but also something that creates authentic experiences and memorable sessions that combine sport, nature, wellbeing, and the unique spirit of Lanzarote.
A beautiful drone shot of School3S lining up at Famara Beach and getting ready to hit the water.
Other Things to Do in Puerto del Carmen
- Famara surf safaris: School shuttles to north coast mecca.
- Matagorda beach: Local whitewash rolling 10min walk.
- Volcano hikes: Timanfaya National Park day trips.
- Marina Lanzarote: Yacht watching and beachfront dining.
- César Manrique caves: Jameos del Agua cultural visits.
Conclusion on Surfing Puerto del Carmen
Puerto del Carmen will never be the first name on a serious surfer’s Lanzarote itinerary, while that distinction belongs to Famara and the island’s more exposed northwest coastline. But to dismiss it entirely is to misread what it does well.
For families, beginners and those for whom surfing is one part of a broader holiday rather than the sole reason for the trip, Puerto del Carmen is one of the most practical and enjoyable surf bases in the Canary Islands. It may lack the raw, windswept drama of Famara just up the coast, but it offers something equally valuable, a place where the ocean feels welcoming rather than demanding, and where the first experience of catching a wave is almost always a good one. Alongside, its only a short distance away from other waves, making it a perfect base for sessions all around!
FAQ: Surf Travel to Puerto del Carmen
Local waves reliable?
Not really. Famara transport daily from School3S is better.
Famara distance?
45min school shuttle; €25-35 roundtrip typical.
Beginner suitability?
Matagorda whitewash + Famara instruction perfect combo.
Wetsuit requirements?
Boardshorts/springsuit; Lanzarote warm waters.
Airport convenience?
Lanzarote Airport (ACE) 10min; surf same day arrival.
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.