Playa de las Américas is the surf capital of the south of Tenerife. The resort area sits on a stretch of coast where the Atlantic swell reaches reefs and sandy bays, and the waves are friendly for learners, especially on the smaller days. A group lesson, usually lasting around two and a half hours, covers the basics on the beach, how to paddle, pop up and stay balanced, then takes you into the water with an instructor who watches over each person and pushes you into the waves. Boards and wetsuits are generally provided, and no experience is required. The lessons are popular and well reviewed, with a good reputation for friendly instructors and small groups, and many people stand up on their first day. The coast also offers lessons for improvers and for children, and the surf culture is relaxed. It is an easy way to try a new sport on a beach holiday, and a lesson is a good use of a morning while the resort wakes up.
How it works
The lesson begins on the beach with a safety talk and practice on the sand, where the instructor shows how to lie on the board, paddle and pop up. Then the group goes into the water, with the instructor helping you catch the whites and the smaller waves. The lesson lasts about two and a half hours in total, and the equipment, usually a board and a wetsuit, is included. Group sizes are kept small so that the instructors can give each person attention.
What to expect
Surfing is more tiring than it looks, and your arms will feel it the next day. The conditions vary with the swell, which is larger in the winter and smaller in the summer, and the instructor chooses the beach and the spot to suit the group. You need to be able to swim and be comfortable in the sea.
The water is cooler than many visitors expect, which is why the wetsuit helps, and the sun is strong, so use sunscreen that is kind to the ocean. Lessons can be moved if the sea is too rough or too flat.
Making the most of it
Book early in your stay so you can take a second lesson if you enjoy it, bring a towel, a swimsuit, water and a rash vest if you have one, and eat lightly beforehand. If you want to keep surfing, there are board rentals in the resort and lessons for improvers. Pair the lesson with a relaxed afternoon on the beach, and if you want a quieter water experience, the kayak and snorkel safari is a gentler choice, while those who want a bigger thrill may prefer paragliding.
What to expect
The experience
A small-group beginner surf lesson with beach practice and water time with an instructor at Playa de las Américas.
Best time
Morning, when winds are usually lighter; the size of the waves varies with the season.
How long
About two and a half hours including the beach briefing.
Tips
You must swim confidently; bring a towel and reef-safe sunscreen, eat lightly beforehand and expect tired arms.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Beginners who want to try surfing in warm, friendly conditions with an instructor.
- Families
- A fun activity for teenagers and active children who swim well; check the minimum age.
- Couples
- A playful shared activity that can be followed by a beach afternoon.
- Pair with
- Siam Park or a kayak and snorkel safari for a full water-themed trip.
- Time needed
- A morning.
Good questions
Do I need experience to take a surf lesson?+
No, the group lesson is designed for beginners and starts with practice on the sand before you go into the water.
Is equipment included?+
Boards and wetsuits are generally provided, but confirm the inclusions when you book.
How long is the lesson?+
About two and a half hours, including the briefing on the beach and time in the water.
Can I surf in winter?+
Yes, the waves are usually larger in winter and smaller in summer, and the instructor chooses the spot to suit the group and the conditions.
What should I bring?+
A swimsuit, a towel, water and sunscreen that is kind to the ocean. A rash vest is useful if you have one.
