A classic longboard wave
El Barco breaks over a deep outer reef, between El Muelle and El Codito.
It’s located in front of the centre of the village Caleta de Famara. El Barco received its name from a ship wreck, which still sticks out of the water on lower tides. You can paddle out from Codito, or the harbour of Famara. This mellow right hander is suitable for intermediate surfers, long boarders, SUP and Foil surfers. Rarely gets crowded, due to a longer paddle.
Board recommendation for El Barco
El Barco is quite a fat wave, so you should go fo a bigger board. Longboards and SUP surf boards are perfect for this wave. A board rental for two weeks will cost you the same, or less, as bringing your own stuff. And last but not least, it’s much more comfortable to travel without surf boards. A couple of minutes walk from El Barco you will get to the main road of Caleta de Famara with all the surf shops.
- Wave direction: rights
- Surfers Level: advanced to pro
- Bottom: sand and rocks
- Type of wave: sandy reef
- Best Tide: All tides
- Best wind: SW-SE
- Swell window: North West to North East
- Required swell size: 2m-6m
- Shore facing: N
- Crowd factor: low
- Atmosphere: friendly
- Hazards: powerful wave, breaks far from shore, strong rips on bigger swells
- Parking: easy
- Access: beach, harbour
Eat & Sleep in El Barco area
El Barco breaks just in front of the village Caleta de Famara, which is a paradise for food lovers. From Michelin restaurants, to simple tapas bars. Loads of accommodation options available. Check out local surf camps.
Surf Schools in Famara
El Barco is not suitable for beginner surf lessons, as it’s too far out from the shore. Surf schools are locates on the main street in Famara. They offer board rental, surf courses, and accommodation.