Autumn Surfing: Why October and November Are the True Golden Months in the Canaries

While the rest of Europe is pulling out winter coats and 5mm thick wetsuits, in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, we are living our "magic season." October and November are the most highly anticipated months for local surfers. If you're thinking about learning to surf or getting back into the water, there is no better time of year than right now.

Forget the stress of crowded August beaches. Autumn at La Cícer offers conditions straight out of a travel catalog.

3 Reasons to Start Surfing (or Get Back in the Water) This Autumn

1. The Atlantic is at Its Warmest

Unlike spring, when the ocean has been cooling all winter, in October, the sea has been absorbing heat all summer long. The water sits around a balmy 23ºC to 24ºC (73ºF-75ºF). A shorty or a 2mm wetsuit is more than enough to spend hours in the water without feeling cold.

2. Light Winds and "Glassy" Conditions

The intense trade winds of July and August disappear in autumn. This means the ocean stops being choppy, and mornings often dawn without a drop of wind (glassy). The waves break cleanly, slowly, and beautifully organized, creating the perfect and safe scenario for beginners.

3. More Space for You in the Line-up

With schools back in session and summer vacations over for most, the beach breathes again. There is less traffic from surf schools and swimmers, which means you will catch three times as many waves per session and your learning curve will skyrocket.

Beat the Time Change in the Water

At the end of October, the clocks go back and it gets dark earlier. Don't let the autumn routine lock you inside your house or the gym. Keeping in touch with the ocean, the sun, and the saltwater is the best remedy against the autumn blues.

Frequently Asked Questions About Surfing in Autumn in the Canaries

Are there good waves for beginners in October and November at Las Canteras?
Yes, it is absolutely the best time of year. With little to no wind, the whitewater waves for beginners are much more stable and easier to ride than in the summer, making balancing and the take-off much easier.

What wetsuit thickness do I need to surf in autumn in Gran Canaria?
The water is very pleasant. A spring suit (shorty) or a thin 2mm or 3/2mm full wetsuit is perfect. Even on the sunniest days in October, many locals still surf in boardshorts or bikinis.

Is the weather still good for hanging out at the beach after lessons?
Of course! Outside temperatures in October in Las Palmas usually range between 24ºC and 28ºC (75ºF-82ºF). It is the perfect weather to sunbathe after your surf session without the suffocating heat of mid-August.

Do I need to book packages or lessons in advance during this season?
Although there are fewer massive tourist crowds, local European surfers and digital nomads know this is the "magic season." We recommend booking in advance, especially for monthly packages, to guarantee your spot at the best times.

Keep your summer alive this autumn. At Oceanside, we offer Monthly Lesson Packages so you can integrate surfing into your weekly routine. Come and take advantage of the warm water magic season with us.