24 Dec
Travel Tips

Surfing in Fuerteventura, Spain – Travel Dudes

Where the wind and swell may take you surfing in Fuerteventura, is still unknown. Martian-like dreamscapes of blue barrels and jagged volcanic wilderness is a killer set for an epic surf odyssey, yet to be had.      

Check out our guide to the Canary Islands in Spain.

Surfing in Fuerteventura can be: unique, fun, scary and disappointing; depending how you go about it. The waves can be small or gigantic, always with a few volcanic rocks about somewhere, so maybe bring reef boots, helmet and plasters.

Here are a few more tips on how to prepare and execute a surf trip to Fuerteventura. 

Check out these top surf camps in Fuerteventura!

“And if you’re going up against a heavy weight, you would want to do the training and preparations for that.”

Tom Perry, Fuerteventura surf coach and islander of 23 years.

What to expect when going surfing in Fuerteventura

Tom goes on to say, “surfing seems to be the one sport where people don’t do any training for it…if you want to surf here you have to be a good swimmer”.

Understanding the ocean, its rips and tidal forces are key here. At the start of a lesson Tom runs through surf safety and etiquette with his students, on shore, before heading out.

“Its also a good idea to watch what the surf is doing for 10-15mins; look at what the locals are doing”.

The knowledge of how to get in and out of reef break surf, and where you are at all times, according to where the waves are breaking is crucial to staying safe. Tom recalls recently of having to rescue a student from another surf school after they were dragged away unaware, in a rip.   

Related read: Best Destinations for Surfing Holidays Around the World

The swell that hits the island, forms on the reef and can cause some of the most powerful, dangerous and fun waves mother nature has to offer. It’s not uncommon to see excellent long barrels forming here. That being said, surfing the world over it is a limited resource, and one that is perhaps being abused for profit like gains by corporate ideology. 

Tom runs a small surf school here on the island and has decided to keep it real and provide excellent safe and attentive surf coaching, whilst respecting the surfing culture, locals and families that also surf here. “Under the radar” that’s how I operate, says Tom.   

How to get to the best surf spots in Fuerteventura

The sense of adventure is still very much alive here if one wants it. Volcanos, dirt tracks, nudists and crashing blue waves form a picture one wants to get immersed in. 

Hire cars can be cheaply rented at the airport but be prepared for limited availability and long waits at the airport for a car. It’s advisable if taking surf boards that soft roof racks are used as the police have introduced heavy fines for people carrying equipment inside the cabin of vehicles. Many of the surf breaks are at the ends of dirt roads, so the more rugged of vehicle, the better.     

Where to stay in Fuerteventura

Accommodations vary on the island a standard 1 bed apartment costs on average £50 per night. Tom runs a 9-bed group/family house that is connected to his surf school which is ideal for an inclusive surfing holiday.

Other options include:

Rocky Point and Lobos across the channel
Rocky Point and Lobos across the channel.

When to go surfing in Fuerteventura

The surf season runs from October through to March for ideal conditions. Summer wet suits are generally worn all year round as the wind can cut through the heat. Rash guards and board shorts can be worn though in hotter months. Wet suits can be more protection from the reef beneath though. Wearing sunscreen and zinc on the face is a good idea too (or a hat).  

When you arrive here it can be a dilemma of where to surf depending on conditions (wind and swell direction). This is an art that can take years to practice and is cut short by drawing on a guide’s knowledge of where to surf on which days. They will share knowledge of well-known spots only and here are a few of these and a link to local surf cams and maps.

Where to go surfing in Fuerteventura

Here’s where to go for the best surf spots in Fuerteventura.

See also: Windsurfing & Kitesurfing in Tarifa, Spain

Rocky Point

This break situated in Corralejo, northeast of the island, has a long paddle out to a perfect right barrel, when working in north directed swell. Surfing here is joined in with amazing views of Lobos, the neighbouring island and ferries that pass by you in the channel. There are different sections of this break with the outer back being the biggest.

You will know when you have paddled out enough by being able to see around the harbour wall at the distant headland. Duck diving these monsters is difficult so using the channel to manoeuvre is key. Seeing these walls of water moving towards you in the shipping lanes is an experience that causes the tingles still to rumble down the vertebrae. 

Find the location here.

Majanicho

Here you could stay in one of the small basic fisherman houses that are situated on the shore for around £50/night. Waking up early to catch the surf whilst is quiet is sometimes crucial. Off to the right on big days bombs can be seen going off and hell-bent surf crews with jet skis, making the most out of “Acid Drop”.

A little way back on the headland amongst the volcanic debris pilgrims park up or sometimes camp in vans waiting for the conditions to be right. Then walking over the rocks to a small key of water will lead you out to the breaks which work at all tides but better and forming more at med to high. 

You can find the location here.

German Right

German right works best at low tide that is a little past Majanicho heading west on the north coast. Parking can be tricky and again it does get busy. The long paddle out through a groove in the rocks and sling shot around will lead you to a great right that works great in the right conditions.

Watching from the shore can be fun too. Here you can capture good photos of people shooting off big waves again and again as the blue tubes crash into the black volcanic claws that are forever traying to grasp you. Defying its clutches and finding your way back in is a wild ride.

You can find the location here.

Flag Beach

Flag Beach is a beginners beach and you will find the local surf schools making good use of it most days. There are still rocks to be mindful of. There are lifeguards that work this beach also. The swell is more gentle here than other beaches so if your surfing for the first time here is a good place to start that journey.

You can find the location here.

There are obviously many more breaks around all four corners of the island, and it really is about own personal discovery and unique experience. Who you meet and get surfing with is all part of your narrative. North, south, east, west; it’s all out there like a giant playground which you can dune buggy around like mad max on holiday, if you want.

Surf breaks to be mindful of

Hierro right and lobos can be known for there “territorial nature” and it is advisable for extra mindfulness to be taken when surfing here. 

Things to do when the sun goes down or the waves go flat

  • Dune buggy around the the islands dunes.
  • Trek up one of the many volcanos on the island at dawn or dusk for spectacular view, or to check where the waves are. 
  • The island has many great restaurants to discover that are local and authentic. 
  • Check out the surf shops and local businesses of Lajares in La Olivia. 
  • If wind surfing is more your thing, then this island is well known for its windsurfing and specialist schools. 


23 Dec
Travel Tips

A Guide to Surfing in Byron Bay, Australia

Surfers worldwide know Byron Bay as a surfing hotspot. If you’re interested in surfing in Byron Bay, you’ve found the perfect guide.

From the best surf beaches in Byron Bay to the biggest cliches around surfing in the area – here’s your guide to surfing in Byron Bay in Australia.

See also: Your Ultimate Byron Bay Travel Guide

Best surf beaches in Byron Bay

The beaches Belongil Beach, Main Beach and Clark Beach are perfect for beginners.

The most famous is The Pass, but it is not recommended for your first surf session.

If you are already experienced and looking for a challenge, but you don’t want to miss the colorful magic of the place, we can recommend Tallow Beach. Due to its very strong current, the beach can be dangerous for beginners, but a welcome adrenaline rush for professionals! You might even catch a glimpse of some dolphins!

Belongil

The furthest north beach of Byron Bay, Belongil might become your favourite. It’s usually much less crowded than other beaches. A short 10 minute walk up from Main Beach.

Fun beach break with numerous peaks. Usually a solid right-hand bank which often barrels.

The Wreck

One of the most popular areas in Byron is due to a ship wreck poking out of the water. It’s also great for snorkelling!

Super recognizable by the rudder sticking out of the water. On the right swell, you’ll see a super hollow left off the rudder, or a punchy right hander off the submerged boilers.

Main Beach

The beautiful Main Beach of Byron Bay is the perfect place to take a refreshing dip! With its lifeguard patrol, it’s definitely the safest spot for swimming and surfing.

This section of beach has loads of peaks, which are perfect for all levels on a smaller swell. However, when the swell gets bigger, these peaks can become really hollow and challenging, especially during cyclone swells.

Wategos

Wategos is a sand-bottomed surf spot loved by loggers for its fun right-handers that are great for all levels. When a bigger swell rolls in, the outer banks start to break as well.

The Pass

The most popular section of the beach in Byron is due to the right hand point break. The lookout rock is also a great spot to watch the waves and whale migration too.

The most celebrated surf spot is definitely the one that offers a lengthy, curling right-hand point break over a sandy bottom. When swells are smaller, it’s great for all levels of surfers – even beginners. But when conditions are more treacherous, be on the lookout for dangerous rip currents. Also be prepared for large crowds, as this spot gets super busy!

Broken Head

Broken Head is another delightful beach within ten minutes driving distance from town. It’s well worth a visit when heading up to Byron or down the coast.

Tallows

If you’re looking for a more low-key beach experience, Tallows is the perfect spot. With less people around, you can enjoy the peace and quiet or even head to the nudist section down to the right!

On the other side of the Cape, Tallows Beach is a much wilder beach and absolutely amazing. Not suitable for beginners, beware of rips, heavy hold downs and the men in grey suits!

Surf conditions in Byron Bay

The general surfing conditions during the seasons are:

The hottest sea temperatures in Byron Bay peak around February 5 and lowest around August 16, in the range of 18 to 21 ° C (64 to 70 ° F).

Throughout the year, warm sea temperatures in Byron Bay climb to their highest at the beginning of February. Even then, a rash vest and boardshorts should be good for surfing at any time of the year.

The lowest water temperatures in mid-August require something like a 3/2 mm long wetsuit.

Byron Bay has a mild temperate climate with warm summers and mild winters. Winters are not cold with daily maximums usually reaching a comfortable 19.4° C and a minimum of 11° C.

Summer can be hot, with a daily average of 27 ºC. Summer evenings can be wet, cooling the day so for a comfortable night temperature.

Clichés about surfing in Byron Bay and what is true

About surfing in Byron Bay, you may have heard some discouraging clichés like “it’s supposed to be full with sharks, with brutal locals and extremely crowded lineups.”

But what’s the real deal? Can you still have a relaxed time?

Cliché number 1: There are many shark attacks in Byron Bay

Not true! Although Australia is the habitat of many shark species, statistics show that most attacks occur in the state of New South Wales – with only 122 being recorded between 1990 and 2016.

What’s more, Byron Bay accounts for 12 of these incidents over 26 years, making the risk very low. Much more likely are car accidents or being struck by lightning.

Locals don’t worry about sharks at all, but criticize shark repellent measures installed at busy surf spots such as drumlines and nets – as they endanger many marine life forms.

Instead it’s all about the “Blue Bottles” – relatively harmless small jellyfish that can sting quite a bit.

Cliché number 2: The surf spots in Byron Bay are overcrowded

The Pass is definitely one of the most popular surf spots on the East Coast of Australia because the waves are fantastic and it’s easily accessible. There’s always a lot going on there and on weekends the crowds can get pretty big.

But usually this is the only spot in Byron Bay that’s really crowded. If you venture away from the pass, you’ll find that the lineups get a lot quieter! Check out some of the other spots on the list above and ask locals (for example, in surf shops) for tips.

Cliché number 3: The locals in Byron Bay are brutal

Unfortunately, this is partly true! Aggressive locals can sometimes be found at the pass who do not shy away from “full contact”!

Even locals warn to avoid this spot themselves. The sobering realization, “Surf Rage” really exists.

“Rage surfers” also exist at the Wreck. Be careful on the Outside and aware that you are taking a risk despite knowing surf etiquette. At all other Byron Bay spots the vibe is much friendlier.


09 Aug
Travel Tips

Best Destinations for Surfing Holidays Around the World

There are plenty of ways to enjoy a beach vacation, with surfing being one of them. There’s nothing quite like paddling out to catch the perfect wave. Which is why surfing holidays are so popular among active travelers – from beginners to the pros. If you are just learning how to surf, then you’ll want to find the best places to learn to surf before booking your surfing holiday.

Picking the right place to learn to surf makes all the difference. Not all beaches are great for surfing, and not all surfing beaches are great for beginners. While you’ll want the surfing town atmosphere (complete with surf camps and surf shops), you don’t want to be thrown out amongst the pros in the big waves while still figuring this surfing thing out. You’ll want small, manageable waves, along with a fairly long beach that will give you time to get up on the board as well as excellent surf schools in the area.

Here are some of the best places to learn to surf around the world – which also all make great destinations for surfing holidays for those who are already in love with the sport.

Grab your surfboards, let’s hit the water!

Where to go for epic surfing holidays

Bali, Indonesia

Bali is full of expert waves, but luckily for beginners there are also a few surf spots in Bali that are suitable for beginners too. One such spot is the shallow waters of Kuta Beach. Kuta Beach is five-miles long and separated by three areas – Kuta Beach, Legian Beach and Seminyak Beach. The waves here are smaller and the bottom of the water is sandy, compared to the rockier sections at the other beaches. Kuta is also the main tourist area of Bali, so it’s packed with bargain hostels and has a lively club scene.

Beginners will find a few local surf schools that offer good deals on surfing lessons – you’ll find both group, partner or private lessons. If you feel confident enough after your lessons, then head out to join the pros at Dreamland. The waves there are powerful though, so be warned. Surfing is just one of the water activities in Bali, so make sure you’re ready to spend a lot of time in the water!

Surfing in Kuta Beach, Bali
Surfing in Kuta Beach, Bali

Arugam Bay, Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a famous surfing destination that caters to all experience levels. The country has different seasonal patterns on each side of the island; when one coast is choppy, the other is calm. The best time to visit the Eastern side of the island, where Arugam Bay is located, is during the months between May and October.

You’ll find a few surf schools in this quiet surfing town, all stocked with beginner surfboards which are great for first-timers on the board. The best places to learn to surf in Arugam Bay are Baby Point (from July onwards), Elephant Rock, Whiskey Point and Peanut Farm. You’ll generally find a few surf schools that make use of these spots – often changing spots depending on the time of day or month.

Byron Bay, Australia

Byron Bay is one of the most popular surfing spots in Australia, featuring a range of breaks for surfers of all levels. One of the great beginner surfer spots here is The Pass – not only does the wave break slowly, but the run out is super long which makes it easier to stand up.

Aside from surfing, the town is packed with great restaurants and awesome coffee spots. The golden sand beaches are lined with locals with guitars and VW vans with dreadlocked drivers – all adding to its cool surfing town vibe. Oh, and dolphins. What more could you want really?

Surfing holidays in Byron Bay, Australia
Surfing holidays in Byron Bay, Australia

Jeffrey’s Bay, South Africa

Jeffrey’s Bay (or J-Bay as the locals call it) is one of the most popular surfing spots in the world amongst the pros. The main surfing beach, Supertubes, is renowned as being one of the most challenging surf spots in the world. Jeffrey’s Bay is also packed with surf shops (including some factory shops with great deals) and is a buzzing tourist destination during the summer months. It’s a great vibe to get into the surfing holiday spirit.

Beginner surfers can learn the basics on the beautiful Dolphin Beach – a Blue flag beach in Jeffreys Bay that is perfect for learning to surf with no major currents or rocks. There are loads of surf schools offering beginner to advanced surf lessons, as well as companies that offer surfing holidays.

Tamarindo, Costa Rica

With its multitude of surf spots, Costa Rica is a popular destination for surfing holidays for all levels. For beginners, there are several beaches with gentle waves offering ideal conditions for learning to surf. Playa Tamarindo however, is one of the most popular beaches to learn to surf in Costa Rica.

The beach is long and lined with rental surf shops and surf schools, meaning that you won’t have to look too hard to set up your surf lessons. The whole vibe of the town will draw you in, making you feel like a proper surfer in no time. Though, be ready to expect crowds as it is a popular spot.

While you’re there, check out these spots for snorkeling in Costa Rica.

Top Things to Do in Tamarindo Costa Rica
Tamarindo, Costa Rica

Surfer’s Point, Barbados

Surfer’s Point, located on the south east coast of Barbados, is a favorite surfing spot amongst locals and tourists. There are a few surf schools set up on the beach offering surfboard rentals and surf lessons.

The popular surfing school Zed’s Surfing Adventures is run by former competitive surfer local Zed Layson. The school offers two-hour lessons and have easy-to-ride foam surfboards. The beach is also popular for windsurfing, kitesurfing, boogie boarding, SUP and kayaking – just incase the surf lessons don’t go too well.

Taghazoute, Morocco

Morocco has been a popular winter destination for European surfers since the 1970s. You’ll find convoys of VW campervans lining the beaches – mostly where the long, righthand point breaks are located. There are a variety of surf schools in Morocco, catering for beginners to the more advanced.

Taghazoute, in the south, has plenty of surf schools to choose from (almost more than surf spots!) so you won’t struggle with finding one to suit your needs and budget. The best waves for learners are around Agadir, otherwise the chilled port town of Essaouira is just three hours north and has some good beginner waves. Beginners should also head there in early autumn as the waves are smaller, with the big swells coming in from November to February.

Surfing holidays in Morocco
Surfing holidays in Morocco