Surf spot guide · Lanzarote

The harbour wave

Wave directionRights & leftsSurfers levelAdvanced to proType of waveReef break

Another world-class barrel

The harbour wave breaks over the shallow volcanic reef, lefts, and rights

Works best on bigger North swells, especially when San Juan starts maxing out. On smaller days you can jump off the rocks, on bigger days you should paddle out from the harbour. The harbour wave breaks between El Cagao and El Codito. This hollow, fast, barreling wave is very popular among local surfers. Avoid crowded days and low tide.

Staying a week in Famara? Our surf camp in Lanzarote includes lessons, board and wetsuit and a private room in a Surf House — from €229.

Board recommendation

The harbour wave is a very fast and powerful wave, so you want to surf it on a skinny pin, or round tail board, probably with some nose rocker for the vertical take-off. Local surf shops in Caleta de Famara offer a wide range of rental boards. If you rent a surfboard for surfing The harbour wave, we always recommend, that you start on the edge of the crowd. Don’t paddle straight to the peak, take it slow, and your time will come. Otherwise, it might just never happen.

Surrounding Spots

Next to The harbour wave, you will find more quality waves such as El Codito, the Boat Wave, Playa Famara , El Cagao, and San Juan.

Details about the surf spot: The Harbour Wave
Wave direction	Rights & lefts
Surfers level	Advanced to pro
Bottom	Sharp volcanic rocks
Type of wave	Reef break
Surfable tides	All tides
Best tide	High
Best wind	SW–SE
Swell window	NW–NE
Required swell size	2m–4m
Shore facing	N
Crowd factor	Ultra high
Atmosphere	Wary / tense
Hazards	Powerful wave, sharp lava reef, sea urchins, hidden rocks, strong rips
Parking	Easy
Access	Beach, harbour

Eat & Sleep in the harbour wave area

The harbour wave breaks in front of the heart of the village Caleta de Famara, its ancient harbour. From here it’s only a few minutes walk to the restaurant El Risco, or simple tapas bars. Surf house, and holiday flats available. Best offers are found at local surf camps.

Surf Schools

El Barco is not suitable for beginner surf lessons, as it’s too far out from the shore. Surf schools are located on the main street in Famara. They offer board rental, surf courses, and accommodation.

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