The trade winds that blow across Fuerteventura make it one of the best places in Europe to learn a wind sport. In the north, Corralejo is the usual base, with a string of flat spots and Flag Beach a few minutes away. In the south, the Sotavento beach near Costa Calma is famous for its lagoon, which fills at high tide and gives calm, shallow water to train in, and it hosts the world cup events. The lesson linked here is a windsurf class from Corralejo that lasts about four and a half hours, takes up to five people and includes the board, sail, wetsuit and booties, with pickup from accommodation in the north or a meeting point at the lagoon where most lessons run. Beginners spend the first part learning balance, steering and getting up on the board, and the afternoon wind is what carries you along. Kitesurfing is taught by schools at Flag Beach and Sotavento, usually in multi-day courses.
Choosing your spot
The north is moderate and spread out, with hire stations at Flag Beach and in Corralejo, and it suits learners who want steady wind. The south has much stronger wind, often 30 to 40 knots in summer, and Sotavento is better for people who already have some skill, although the lagoon is a good training ground at high tide. The Paradisus hotel in Playa Barca includes introductory windsurf classes at the René Egli centre across the road in some stays, which is worth knowing if you are choosing where to sleep.
Wind in November
The season of the strongest, most reliable wind is summer, while November is a transition month when the wind strengthens and shifts, so some days are glassy and others are too gusty for a beginner. Instructors decide on the day, and a good school will move or reschedule your lesson rather than send you out in poor conditions. The sea is about 21 degrees, so a wetsuit is a sensible choice, and the class includes one. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before on this class.
Making the most of it
Book a lesson early in your trip so you can practise again, and wear a swimsuit, sunscreen and a hat for the walk. If you want to kitesurf, contact a school directly for a multi-day beginner course, as a single lesson is rarely enough to ride. The international kite festival held around Corralejo in November is a good way to see the sport before you try it. Always follow your instructor’s safety rules, and stay clear of swimmers and other watersports users.
What to expect
The experience
A small-group windsurf class of up to five people, with equipment and a wetsuit included and pickup in the north of the island.
Best time
Choose a morning or early afternoon lesson and expect your instructor to adjust the plan to the wind on the day.
How long
About four and a half hours, including setting up, practice on the water and a break.
Tips
Book early in your stay to leave time to practise, wear a swimsuit with sunscreen, and ask a kite school directly for a multi-day course if you prefer kitesurfing.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Active visitors who want to try the sport the island is famous for in a safe, small group.
- Families
- Teenagers and active older children can join if they can swim and are comfortable in the water, but check the minimum age with the school.
- Couples
- A shared lesson is a fun morning, followed by lunch in Corralejo and a walk on the dunes.
- Pair with
- The Corralejo dunes and a surf lesson on another day for a full watersports week.
- Time needed
- A half day, including travel and the lesson itself.
Good questions
Is the windsurf class suitable for beginners?+
Yes, the class covers the basics in a small group of up to five, and the equipment is included. Your instructor will adapt the session to your level and to the wind.
What is included in the price?+
The board, sail, wetsuit and booties are included, together with pickup from accommodation in the north of the island or a meeting point at the lagoon. Check the booking details for your exact meeting point.
Where is the best place to kitesurf?+
Flag Beach near Corralejo suits moderate wind, and Sotavento in the south has stronger wind and a lagoon at high tide. Kite schools at both places sell their own courses.
How windy is it in November?+
November is a transition month, with the wind strengthening and varying from day to day, so some days are calm and some are gusty. Instructors decide on the day and can reschedule you.
Can I cancel the lesson?+
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time. A good school will also move your lesson if the wind is unsuitable.
