What is paddle surfing (SUP)?

Paddle surfing means paddling while standing on a large, buoyant board using a hand-held paddle. It’s a very complete sport: you work on your balance, strengthen your whole body and, at the same time, enjoy the calm of the sea. Best of all, it suits everyone — from people looking for a gentle paddle along the coast to those who want to ride waves or go on longer trips.

Why is Lanzarote perfect for paddle surfing?

Lanzarote offers crystal-clear water, sheltered coves and a mild climate almost all year round, which creates ideal conditions for SUP. There are calm-water areas that are perfect for beginners and, when the sea allows it, spots with small waves for those who want to go a step further. Paddle surfing is also a great alternative on days when the wind isn’t right for other sports.

Where to paddle board on the island?

The sheltered bays and coves along the coast are the best place to start. If you’d like to get to know the area better, take a look at our guide to Famara beach.

Is paddle surfing hard to learn?

SUP is one of the easiest water sports to learn. Most beginners manage to stand up and paddle in their very first session, thanks to the stability of the boards. The key is to start in calm water and, if possible, with an instructor who teaches you the correct stance and paddling technique from the beginning.

How to get off to a good start

When choosing where to learn, check that the equipment (board, paddle and buoyancy vest) is included and in good condition, and that the lessons are adapted to your level. At Waterman Lanzarote we offer paddle surf lessons in Lanzarote for all levels, from complete beginners to those who want to improve their technique or try SUP in the waves.

Get on the board

Paddle surfing in Lanzarote is addictive: once you feel the calm of paddling across the water, you’ll want to do it again. If you’d like to discover other sports, have a look at our guides to wing foiling and kitesurfing. Ready to give it a try? Contact us and we’ll help you plan your first lesson. See you on the water!

La entrada Paddle surfing in Lanzarote: a beginner’s guide to SUP se publicó primero en Surf kite wingfoil Waterman Lanzarote.

The learning curve

Wingfoil is generally seen as more approachable at the start: there are no lines or bar to manage, you simply hold the wing in your hands, and you can let go of it at any time without risk. Kitesurfing, on the other hand, asks you to first understand how to fly the kite, with its lines and wind window, before you even step onto the board.

The gear

With wingfoil you’re working with an inflatable wing, a board fitted with a hydrofoil, and, optionally, waves to ride using the foil’s lift. Kitesurfing gear means a kite (with lines) and a twintip or directional board. It’s common for kitesurfers to pick up wingfoil as a complement, plenty of our own students do exactly that.

The feeling

There’s no real “better” here, they’re different experiences. Kitesurfing delivers more power and jumping; wingfoil gives you that sense of “flying” over the water, with more control and less physical demand per session. If you’re after something a little more relaxed but just as addictive, wingfoil usually wins.

Not sure which to pick?

You don’t need to decide before you arrive. Tell us about any previous experience (even none at all) and we’ll recommend where to start based on the day’s wind and your goals.

Learn more about our wing foil lessons in Lanzarote, or check out kitesurfing lessons too if you’d like to compare before deciding.

La entrada Wingfoil vs. kitesurfing: which should you choose in Lanzarote? se publicó primero en Surf kite wingfoil Waterman Lanzarote.

The trade winds: the backbone of it all

Lanzarote benefits from the trade winds, a steady breeze that blows for much of the year, especially between March and October. In those months you can count on reliable wind sessions almost daily, making it the best window if your priority is maximising time on the water.

What about winter?

You can still go. Unlike other wind sports that need strong gusts, wingfoil doesn’t require much wind to get going: moderate conditions are enough to fly on the foil. So even in the winter months, when the wind is a little more irregular, there are usually plenty of days good enough for a lesson.

The advantage of combining sports

Many of our students pair wingfoil with surfing or kitesurfing for exactly this reason: on days when conditions don’t suit their main sport, wingfoil becomes the perfect plan B, so no day on the water goes to waste.

Our recommendation

For the best possible conditions, aim for spring through autumn. But if that’s not when you can travel, don’t rule it out: we check the forecast day by day and adapt your spot and lesson time to what that day has to offer.

Got your travel dates? Book your wing foil lesson and we’ll confirm the best conditions for those days.

La entrada When is the best time for wingfoiling in Lanzarote? se publicó primero en Surf kite wingfoil Waterman Lanzarote.

La Santa Lagoon: the best spot for beginners

If it’s your first time on the wing, La Santa lagoon is where you want to start. Shallow, flat water with almost no waves means you can focus on the essentials, handling the wing and finding your balance on the board, without the added pressure of currents or chop. It’s the setting for our beginner wing foiling lessons for exactly this reason.

Famara: once you’re after more wind and waves

As your confidence grows, Famara is the natural next step: more wind, some swell, and a spectacular backdrop with the Famara cliffs behind you. It’s a spot that asks a bit more control of your gear, but rewards you with much more dynamic sessions.

Costa Teguise and other spots, depending on the day

Depending on wind direction and the day’s conditions, we also work other areas of the island. That’s part of what makes Lanzarote special: there’s almost always a spot with the right conditions for your level, whatever the season.

How we choose your spot

At Waterman Lanzarote, we don’t book a fixed location in advance: our instructors read the wind, the swell and your level on the day, and take you to the safest, most suitable spot to progress. Whether it’s your first lesson or you’re already flying on the foil, you’ll always be in the right place.

Want to try it yourself? Check out our wing foil lessons in Lanzarote, with small groups and all equipment included.

La entrada The best spots for wingfoiling in Lanzarote se publicó primero en Surf kite wingfoil Waterman Lanzarote.

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 surf, kite or wing foil lessons in advance — especially if you are planning to visit in summer.

La entrada Best time to visit Lanzarote for surfing and kitesurfing se publicó primero en Surf kite wingfoil Waterman Lanzarote.

Where is Famara beach?

Famara beach (Playa de Famara) is located on the north-west coast of Lanzarote, in the municipality of Teguise. The nearest village is Caleta de Famara, a small fishing village at the southern end of the beach with a handful of restaurants, surf shops, and accommodation. The beach faces the Atlantic Ocean and the tiny island of La Graciosa, which creates a striking backdrop. From Arrecife (the island’s capital), Famara is approximately 25 minutes by car.

What makes Famara special?

Famara is not your typical tourist beach. There are no beach bars, no sun lounger rentals, and no promenade. What it does have is raw, natural beauty and world-class conditions for water sports:

• Consistent waves — Atlantic swells arrive at Famara throughout the year, producing waves suitable for all levels from beginner to advanced.
• Reliable wind — The north-east Trade Winds funnel along the cliffs and across the bay, creating ideal conditions for kitesurfing, wing foiling, and windsurfing.
• Stunning scenery — The 671-metre Risco de Famara cliffs provide a dramatic backdrop and also shelter the beach from strong winds on certain days.
• Long beach — At nearly 6km, there is plenty of space for water sports and beach activities without overcrowding.
• Natural environment — Famara is part of a protected natural reserve (Chinijo Archipelago Natural Park), keeping it unspoilt and free from commercial development.

Water sports at Famara beach

Famara is home to a vibrant water sports community. Waterman Lanzarote is based here and offers lessons and rentals in the following disciplines:

• Surfing — Famara is Lanzarote’s most consistent surf spot, with waves suitable for beginners on the gentler south section and more powerful swells for intermediate and advanced surfers further north.
• Kitesurfing — The Trade Winds make Famara one of Spain’s top kite spots. The wide, open beach provides excellent safety margins for beginners and experts alike.
• Wing foiling — Wing foiling is growing rapidly at Famara, thanks to the consistent wind and the variety of water conditions available.
• SUP (Stand Up Paddleboarding) — On calmer days, Famara’s southern end offers beautiful flat-water SUP conditions with stunning cliff views.

Best conditions at Famara

Famara works in different ways depending on the season and wind direction:

• Spring and summer (April–September) — The Trade Winds are at their strongest and most consistent. Best for kitesurfing and wing foiling. Waves are present but tend to be smaller and cleaner.
• Autumn and winter (October–March) — Atlantic low-pressure systems bring larger swells and more powerful surf. Best for intermediate and advanced surfers. Winds can be variable.
• Year-round — There are very few completely flat days at Famara, making it an almost guaranteed destination for watersports any time of year.

Practical information: visiting Famara beach

There are a few things to keep in mind when visiting Famara:

• Rip currents — Like all Atlantic beaches, Famara can have strong rip currents. Only swim when the beach is supervised, and always take surf lessons with a qualified instructor if you are a beginner.
• Parking — There is a free car park at Caleta de Famara. Arrive early in summer to secure a space.
• Facilities — The village has several good restaurants serving fresh fish and local dishes.
• Getting there — Famara is easily reached by rental car. There is limited public transport, so a car is recommended.

Book your water sports at Famara

Waterman Lanzarote has been operating at Famara beach since 2013. We offer surf lessons, kite lessons, wing foil lessons, and SUP sessions at the beach, led by certified, English-speaking instructors. Whether you are a complete beginner or an experienced rider looking to improve, we have a session for you. Contact us or book online to secure your spot at one of Europe’s most beautiful beaches.

La entrada Famara beach Lanzarote: the complete guide for water sports se publicó primero en Surf kite wingfoil Waterman Lanzarote.

What is wing foiling?

Wing foiling (also called wing surfing or winging) involves standing on a foil board — a board with a hydrofoil fin beneath it — while holding an inflatable wing that catches the wind. As you gain speed, the hydrofoil lifts the board out of the water and you glide silently above the surface. It combines elements of windsurfing, kitesurfing, and surfing into one exciting discipline. The wing is not attached to your body, which makes it much safer and easier to learn than kitesurfing for many people.

Why learn wing foiling in Lanzarote?

Lanzarote’s climate and geography make it ideal for wing foiling year-round:

• Reliable wind — The Trade Winds provide consistent side-shore and cross-shore winds, ideal for learning to wing.
• Multiple spots — Depending on wind direction, we teach at Famara (north-west facing), Costa Teguise (east facing), and La Santa (north-west facing) — so there is almost always a suitable location open.
• Flat water options — Beginners benefit from flatter water, and Lanzarote has sheltered lagoons and bays that are perfect for early sessions.
• Warm conditions — Year-round mild temperatures make learning comfortable and enjoyable.

What happens in a first wing foil session?

Your first session will focus on building confidence and basic skills before worrying about foiling. Here is the typical progression:

• Wing handling on the beach — You will learn how to inflate, hold, and control the wing in the wind. This includes understanding the wind window and how to de-power the wing quickly.
• Wing handling on the water (on your knees) — We start you on a large, stable board in shallow water, kneeling first to find your balance and get used to the wing’s pull.
• Standing up and riding — Once you are comfortable kneeling, we progress to standing. Most beginners achieve their first rides on the board without foiling in the first session.
• Introduction to foiling — In subsequent sessions, we introduce the foil and help you feel the lift for the first time. This is the most exciting milestone and most students feel it within 6–9 hours total.

How many sessions do I need?

Wing foiling has a steep but rewarding learning curve. Most beginners need around 6–9 hours to achieve consistent foiling, though this varies depending on your background in board sports. If you have experience in kitesurfing, windsurfing, or surfing, you may progress faster. We recommend booking a 3-session package to give yourself enough time to build skills and muscle memory without rushing.

Wing foil lesson prices

All wing foil lessons include a full equipment kit (foil board, wing, wetsuit, helmet) and certified instruction. We keep group sizes small so every student gets quality coaching time.

• 2,5-hour introductory session — from €100 per person
• 5-hour beginner package (2 sessions) — from €200 per person
• Private lessons — from €150 per person

We recommend booking in advance as wing foil lessons are in high demand, particularly from April to October.

What to bring

We provide all technical equipment. Just bring a swimsuit or rash guard, sun cream, water, and a sense of adventure. A light wetsuit is provided if you need one, or bring your own if you prefer.

Book wing foil lessons in Lanzarote

Whether you are completely new to board sports or an experienced water-sports enthusiast looking for the next challenge, wing foiling at Waterman Lanzarote is an experience you will not forget. See all wing foil courses and prices and contact us to check availability. We can’t wait to introduce you to the world of wing foiling.

La entrada Your first wing foil session in Lanzarote: what to expect se publicó primero en Surf kite wingfoil Waterman Lanzarote.

Why Lanzarote is perfect for learning to kitesurf

Not all beaches are created equal when it comes to kitesurfing. Famara beach in Lanzarote ticks every box:

• Consistent Trade Winds — The north-east Trade Winds blow reliably from spring through to autumn, giving you predictable conditions to learn in.
• Flat water and waves — Depending on wind direction, Famara offers both flat-water sections for beginners and wave sections for those progressing.
• Warm climate — With average air temperatures of 22°C and water temperatures of 18–23°C, you can learn in comfort year-round.
• Space — Famara is a long, wide beach with plenty of room to fly a kite safely away from crowds.
• Experienced instructors — Our IKO-certified, English-speaking instructors have taught hundreds of beginners at this very beach.

What happens in a beginner kite lesson?

Our beginner kite lessons follow the IKO (International Kiteboarding Organisation) curriculum, which is the global standard for safe, structured kite instruction. Here is what to expect:

• Theory and safety briefing — We start on the beach with wind theory, kite zones, right-of-way rules, and how to use the safety release system.
• Trainer kite — You start with a small 3–4m trainer kite to learn how to steer, feel the wind window, and build muscle memory before moving to a full-size kite.
• Body dragging — Once you are comfortable with the kite, you enter the water and use the kite’s power to drag yourself through the water — a key skill for self-rescue.
• Board introduction — In later sessions, we introduce the kiteboard and help you combine kite control with board riding.

How many lessons do I need?

Most beginners need between 9 and 12 hours of instruction to reach an independent riding level. This is why we recommend our kite course packages rather than single lessons. Our most popular option is the 9-hour beginner course, which can be spread over 3 days. By the end, most students are riding upwind or are very close to it. Progress depends on your fitness, coordination, and the wind conditions on the day.

Kite lesson prices at Waterman Lanzarote

All lessons include full equipment (kite, board, harness, wetsuit, helmet) and IKO-certified instruction. Group sizes are kept small to ensure you get maximum water time and personal attention.

• 3-hour introductory lesson — from €120 per person
• 9-hour beginner course (3 days) — from €360 per person
• Private lessons — available on request for faster progression

Prices are subject to seasonal availability. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (July–September).

What to bring to your kite lesson

We provide all technical equipment, so you do not need to bring your own kite or board. However, we recommend bringing: a swimsuit or rash guard, sun cream (reef-safe preferred), a bottle of water, and a light snack. If you have your own wetsuit, you are welcome to bring it — otherwise we provide one.

Book your kite lessons in Lanzarote

Ready to get started? Our kite lessons run throughout the year at Famara beach. Whether you are a complete beginner or returning to the sport after a break, our instructors will tailor the session to your level. See all kite courses and prices and contact us to check availability. We look forward to seeing you on the water.

La entrada Learning to kitesurf in Famara: a beginner’s guide se publicó primero en Surf kite wingfoil Waterman Lanzarote.

Why learn to surf in Lanzarote?

Lanzarote offers conditions that are hard to match anywhere else in Europe:

• Waves all year round — Atlantic swell reaches Famara throughout the year, so there are very few days without surf.
• Mild water — Sea temperatures range from around 18°C in winter to 23°C in late summer.
• A safe beach to learn on — Famara is a 6 km sandy beach with no rocks, giving beginners plenty of space in the whitewater.
• Small groups — A maximum of 8 adults or 4 children per instructor, and private lessons if you prefer one-to-one coaching.
• Qualified instructors — Every lesson is taught by a certified surf instructor, in English, Spanish or Slovenian.

What happens in your first surf lesson?

A surf lesson lasts about two hours. Lessons usually start around 10:00, but the exact time depends on the tide and the conditions of the day — we always choose the best window for beginners.

1. On the sand — A warm-up, an introduction to the ocean (waves, currents and how to stay safe) and the basics: how to lie on the board, how to paddle and how to pop up to your feet.
2. In the water — After the warm-up and the exercises on the sand, we head into the water to surf. You practise in the whitewater close to the shore, with your instructor next to you helping you time each wave. Most beginners stand up for the first time during this first session.
3. Debrief — A few minutes on the beach to go over what went well and what to focus on next time.

Don’t worry about fitness or experience: if you can swim and are comfortable in the water, you can take a beginner surf lesson.

How many surf lessons do you need?

It depends on your goals:

• 1 day — A taster to see if you like surfing. You learn the basic skills and, most importantly, how to move safely in the water.
• 3 days — Enough to build real confidence. You work on paddling, standing up and safety, and start to choose your own waves.
• 5 days — The best way to become more independent. We focus on wave selection, correcting your mistakes (often with video analysis), surf etiquette, first turns and how to read waves, wind and weather.

If you are in Lanzarote for a week, a 3- or 5-day course gives you by far the biggest progress for your time.

What equipment is included?

Everything you need for the lesson is included:

• A surfboard adapted to your level and height — soft-top and epoxy boards from 5’10” to 9’0″
• Wetsuit
• Accident insurance
• A qualified instructor

Want to take home photos and videos of your first waves? GoPro footage is available on request for €30 per person per session.

What to bring to your surf lesson

• Swimsuit or bikini to wear under the wetsuit
• Towel
• Sunscreen (water-resistant)
• Water and a small snack
• A hair tie if you have long hair

Leave valuables at home or in your car — you’ll be in the water for most of the session.

How much do surf lessons cost?

• 1-day surf lesson (2 hours) — €60 per person
• 3-day surf course — €150 per person
• 5-day surf course — €250 per person (best value)
• Private lesson 1:1 (2 hours) — €100
• Private lesson for 2 people (2 hours) — €150

All prices include IGIC. The full list of options is on our surf lessons page.

Is Famara safe for beginners?

Yes — with an instructor. Famara is a long sandy beach without rocks, which makes it one of the best places on the island to learn. Like any open Atlantic beach, though, it has tides and currents that change during the day. That is why we plan every lesson around the tide, pick the safest part of the beach for the conditions and keep beginners in the whitewater close to the shore. If conditions are not right for a lesson, we’ll tell you honestly and reschedule.

When is the best time to learn to surf in Lanzarote?

Lanzarote is a year-round surf destination. The most consistent swell season runs from October to March, while summer (June–August) usually brings smaller waves, which can be ideal for absolute beginners. Read more in our guide to the best time to surf in Lanzarote.

Surfboard and wetsuit rental after your lessons

Caught the bug? After your course you can keep practising on your own with our rental boards: a soft-top surfboard costs €20 per day or €90 per week, and a wetsuit €8 per day or €30 per week. See all surfboard and wetsuit rental prices.

Where is Famara beach?

Famara beach is on the north-west coast of Lanzarote, about 20 minutes from Arrecife and 25 minutes from Costa Teguise. Find out more in our guide to Famara beach.

Book your first surf lesson

Ready to catch your first wave? Check our surf lesson options and prices, then contact us or send us a message on WhatsApp — we’ll find the best day and time for you based on the forecast.

La entrada Your first surf lesson in Famara: what to expect & what to bring se publicó primero en Surf kite wingfoil Waterman Lanzarote.

La entrada The Lanzarote effect se publicó primero en Surf kite wingfoil Waterman Lanzarote.