One of the most common questions we get at Waterman Lanzarote is: “When is the best time to come?” The honest answer is that Lanzarote is a year-round destination for water sports — but different seasons suit different disciplines and different ability levels. In this guide, we break down the conditions month by month to help you plan the perfect trip.

Why Lanzarote Works Year-Round

Unlike most of mainland Europe, Lanzarote’s position in the eastern Atlantic — just off the coast of West Africa — gives it a remarkably stable climate. Average air temperatures range from around 18°C in January to 28°C in August. Water temperatures follow a similar pattern, staying between 18°C and 23°C throughout the year. This means you can surf or kite in Lanzarote in any month, with only minor adjustments to wetsuit thickness required in winter.

Spring: April to June

Spring is one of the most enjoyable times to visit Lanzarote for water sports. The Trade Winds begin to pick up in April and build through May and June, making this a great period for kitesurfing and wing foiling. Surf swells are still present from the Atlantic, though they tend to be more manageable than winter. Crowds are relatively light compared to summer, and prices are generally lower. Water temperature is warming up from its winter low of around 18–19°C.

  • Surfing: Good — consistent moderate swells, good for all levels
  • Kitesurfing: Very good — Trade Winds building, side-shore conditions
  • Wing Foiling: Very good — wind reliable and not too strong for beginners
  • SUP: Good — calmer days available

Summer: July to September

Summer is peak season for kitesurfing and wing foiling at Famara. The Trade Winds are at their most consistent and strongest, often blowing 18–25 knots side-shore every day for weeks at a time. This is the best time of year for kitesurfers and wing foilers who want guaranteed sessions. However, the strong winds also mean that surf can be choppy and conditions can be challenging for beginners on a surfboard. The beach and village are at their busiest in August, so book accommodation and lessons well in advance.

  • Surfing: Moderate — wind chop can make it messy; best on mornings before wind builds
  • Kitesurfing: Excellent — the best kite conditions of the year
  • Wing Foiling: Excellent — consistent wind, plenty of choice of spots
  • SUP: Challenging — too windy for flatwater paddling on most days

Autumn: October to November

Autumn is arguably the most balanced time to visit Lanzarote if you want to surf and kite in the same trip. The Trade Winds begin to ease off in October and November, while the Atlantic starts sending larger swells towards the island. Surf conditions improve significantly, with cleaner, more powerful waves that reward intermediate and advanced surfers. Wind is still enough for kiting on most days. Crowds are much lower than summer and prices drop noticeably. This is the “secret season” — locals’ favourite time of year.

  • Surfing: Excellent — bigger, cleaner swells, less wind chop
  • Kitesurfing: Good — less consistent wind than summer but still plenty of sessions
  • Wing Foiling: Good — great variety of conditions
  • SUP: Good — calmer spells return

Winter: December to March

Winter brings the best surf of the year to Lanzarote. Atlantic low-pressure systems generate large, powerful swells that light up Famara and other spots around the island. This is when experienced surfers visit — the waves can reach 2–3 metres or more at Famara, and the overall atmosphere is raw and exciting. Wind is more variable in winter, with periods of calm and periods of strong westerly and north-westerly storms. For beginners, winter can still be great for surf lessons on smaller days, but it requires flexibility. Kitesurfing is possible on windy days but the wind is less consistent than in summer.

  • Surfing: Excellent for intermediate/advanced — biggest swells of the year
  • Kitesurfing: Variable — great on windy days, but not as consistent
  • Wing Foiling: Variable — good on the right days
  • SUP: Best on sheltered days; east-facing spots like Costa Teguise can be calm

Summary: Best Time by Activity

  • Best time to surf in Lanzarote: October to March for experienced surfers; April to June for beginners
  • Best time to kitesurf in Lanzarote: June to September for maximum consistency
  • Best time for wing foiling in Lanzarote: April to October
  • Best all-round visit: May or October — surf, kite, and wind all available

Plan Your Trip with Waterman Lanzarote

No matter when you visit, our team at Waterman Lanzarote will help you make the most of the conditions. We monitor forecasts daily and adjust lesson locations and timing to find the best possible conditions for our students. Contact us to discuss the best time for your trip and to book your lessons in advance — especially if you are planning to visit in summer.