A Non-Beginner Surf Guide to La Santa, Lanzarote

Sean / April 2, 2026 / Updated on October 13, 2026
Sean / April 2, 2026
A surfer posing on the cliffs during a dawn patrol session.
Not for the faint of heart, La Santa offers the experienced surfer the opportunity to tackle El Quemao.

Surfing La Santa

La Santa hosts Lanzarote’s most famous surf reef El Quemao…which is a treacherous hollow left hander breaking over shallow lava slabs that has launched world champions while breaking boards and reputations. With almost the yearly competition, The Quemao classic, this remote fishing village delivers technical sessions at the pro slab at Quemao, backed by cliff miradors and authentic Canarian isolation. Its not really the beginner friendly location, as it only has to offer the heaviest of heavy.

A beautiful left taken by a surfer chargibg el Quemo.

A beautiful left taken by a surfer charging El Quemao.

Best Season to Surf La Santa

Winter Season — November to March: El Quemao is at its most formidable during the winter months and it is the reason serious surfers make the journey to La Santa. The North Atlantic swell season delivers its most powerful and consistent groundswells to the northwest coast of Lanzarote during this period, and El Quemao.

Summer Season — June to August: The North Atlantic quietens considerably during the summer months and El Quemao loses much of its teeth. The heavy, hollow barrels that define the wave at its best are largely absent during these months. The island is warm, the water is pleasant and La Santa retains its relaxed, sports-focused character throughout the summer regardless of the surf on offer.

Shoulder Seasons — March to May / September to November: The most compelling window for surfers who want the quality of El Quemao without the full ferocity of the peak winter season.

Surf Spots and Beaches in La Santa

El Quemao

Legendary keft hander accelerates across razor-sharp lava reef delivering hollow tubes and rippable walls, mid-high tide essential covering deadly slab while deep water takeoffs demand precision. Advanced only—shallow inside section punishes mistakes.

Not much to say about this wave, as the video speaks for itself.

Other Things to Do in La Santa

  • Quemao mirador: Cliff-top slab watching and pro surf viewing.
  • Teneguia beachbreak: Beginner rolling peaks 5min walk.
  • Famara access: 20min drive to 6km beachbreak paradise.
  • Mirador del Río: Northern cliff infinity viewpoint.
  • Fishing village tapas: Fresh calamari + papas arrugadas.

Conclusion on Surfing La Santa

La Santa delivers Lanzarote’s most prestigious reef break at El Quemao alongside accessible progression waves, cementing its status as Canaries hardcore surf frontier. Remote location ensures quality sessions for committed reef surfers.

FAQ: Surf Travel to La Santa

Quemao requirements?

Skill and experience.

Tide critical?

Mid-high essential covering deadly lava slab; low tide experts only.

Wetsuit/booties?

3/2mm fullsuit + booties year-round; sharp lava hazards.

Airport logistics?

Lanzarote Airport (ACE) 30min; Famara 20min surf circuit.

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.