Famara beach in Lanzarote: the island's surf and kitesurf spot

On Lanzarote's north-west coast, Famara beach is the island's best-known surf and kitesurf spot, set beneath the imposing Famara cliff. This guide adds to our page on Lanzarote's beaches with practical information for surfing, staying nearby and enjoying the village of Caleta de Famara.

In a nutshell

  • A beach several kilometres long, set beneath the Famara cliff (Risco de Famara).
  • A renowned surf and kitesurf spot, with schools based in Caleta de Famara.
  • Swimming isn't recommended: strong currents and powerful waves.
  • Wind is almost constant, with conditions varying by season.

Why Famara is Lanzarote's must-visit surf spot

Playa de Famara stretches several kilometres of sand facing the Atlantic, overlooked by the Famara cliff, which rises above 600 metres in places. The scenery is dramatic, but swimming isn't recommended: strong currents, powerful waves and a very exposed beach.

Famara is above all a playground for surfers and kitesurfers of every level, with wind that's almost constant and keeps riders happy. A little further on, the village of La Santa is well known among athletes for its international training centre, used by top-level competitors.

Surf and kitesurf: schools and conditions

Several surf and kitesurf schools are based in the village of Caleta de Famara, offering lessons and equipment hire for every level, from beginner to expert. Conditions vary considerably by season and weather: it's worth checking locally or with a school before you come, particularly for kitesurfing, which depends more heavily on the wind.

Caleta de Famara: the village beneath the beach

Caleta de Famara remains a small, laid-back fishing village, popular with surfers for its simple accommodation and fish restaurants. It's a good base for combining surfing, walks along the beach and trips to the Mirador del Río, not far to the north.

For a stay organised around Famara, head to our page on accommodation in Lanzarote for places to stay nearby.

To go further, explore our Lanzarote guide or head back to the Canary Islands guide to compare the islands.

Frequently asked questions

Can you swim at Famara beach?

Swimming isn't recommended due to the strong currents and powerful waves: Famara is above all a surf and kitesurf spot.

Where can you learn to surf at Famara?

Several schools are based in the village of Caleta de Famara, offering lessons and equipment hire for every level.

Is Famara suitable for surfing beginners?

Local schools cater to both beginners and experienced surfers, but conditions (wind, swell) vary by season — it's worth checking before booking.

What is La Santa, near Famara?

A neighbouring village known for its international sports training centre, used by top-level athletes.