Updated
In January 2018 the filmmaker Gia Ventura flew a drone along Famara for us, and it changed how many of our guests pictured the place before they arrived. The footage is from another decade, but the view has not changed. This is what you see from the air — and how to check the waves yourself before you book.
The cliffs and the natural park
From above, the first thing you notice is the Risco de Famara: a wall of cliffs several hundred metres high that runs along the north-west coast and drops almost straight into the sand. It is part of the Chinijo Archipelago natural park, which also includes the island of La Graciosa, clearly visible across the strait. The cliffs are why the beach feels so wild — no hotels, no promenade, just sand, sea and rock — and why the sunsets here are some of the best on the island.
Six kilometres of sandy beach
The beach itself is a long curve of golden sand facing the North Atlantic. From the air you can see the sandbanks that make it such a good place to learn: lines of whitewater rolling in over shallow sand, with softer green waves further out. The part in front of the village and in the middle of the beach is where most surf lessons happen; the far end, beyond the Famara Bungalows, is the only area where kitesurfing is allowed. The currents here are real, so if you are not surfing, stay in shallow water and ask the school about the conditions. More detail in our Famara surf spot guide.
The village: Caleta de Famara
At the south-western end, the fishing village of Caleta de Famara sits right on the water: low white houses, sandy streets, a few restaurants and surf shops, and our school a short walk from the beach. It is a quiet place where life follows the tide and the wind. If you want to stay here rather than commute from the resorts, see our accommodation in Caleta de Famara or a surf camp package with lessons included.
See it live
The drone footage is a memory; the Famara webcam is live. It is the easiest way to see the size of the waves, the wind on the water and how busy the beach is before you come. And when you are ready to be in the picture yourself, our beginner surf lessons start at 10:00 in the morning, and the team confirms the exact time by WhatsApp.
Thank you, Gia
Thanks again to Gia Ventura and team for flying with us. If you want to explore more of the island from the ground, start with why Famara is one of Europe’s best surf destinations and things to do in Lanzarote.
Famara — FAQ
Where is Famara in Lanzarote?
On the north-west coast, in the municipality of Teguise, about 25–35 minutes by car from the airport. The beach lies below the Risco de Famara cliffs, inside the Chinijo Archipelago natural park.
Can you swim at Famara beach?
Famara is a surf beach with strong currents. If you are not surfing, stay in shallow water, never swim alone and ask the surf school about the day’s conditions.
Is there a webcam at Famara?
Yes. Our Famara webcam shows the beach and the waves live, so you can check the conditions before you go.
