Lanzarote Famara: Surf Lessons & Beach Day with Local Instructors

Summary

Famara’s wild beach breaks and surf lessons with locals in Lanzarote

You’ll start your day at Calima Surf school before heading down to Lanzarote’s wild Famara Beach for hands-on surf lessons with friendly local instructors. Expect sandy toes, plenty of laughs (and wipeouts), plus personal tips as you learn to ride Atlantic waves surrounded by volcanoes. All equipment and transport are sorted — just bring your curiosity.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the grit of black sand between my toes at Famara Beach — that and the wind, salty and restless, whipping my hair around as we shuffled down from Calima Surf school. Our instructor, Marta, had this easy smile and sunburnt nose; she handed me a wetsuit that still smelled faintly of neoprene and seaweed (not unpleasant, actually). I was nervous. There were volcanoes in the distance, their slopes faded under morning haze, and it felt like we’d landed somewhere halfway between Mars and a surfer’s daydream.

We started with warm-ups right on the sand. Marta showed us how to pop up on our boards — her Spanish mixed with English and lots of gestures. I almost toppled over just practicing on dry land (she laughed, said everyone does). The main keyword here is “surf lessons in Famara,” but honestly it didn’t feel like a lesson so much as joining a bunch of people who just wanted to see if they could catch a wave. When we finally got into the water, it was colder than I expected but not shocking. The Atlantic smacks you awake. At one point I swallowed half the ocean trying to stand up — Marta cheered anyway.

There was a break around noon. We sat in a huddle on our boards, eating snacks from our backpacks while gulls circled overhead. Someone tried to pronounce “Famara” properly; Li laughed when I tried to say it in Mandarin — probably butchered it. Afterward we did more stretches and then back into the water for round two. This time Marta gave us individual tips (“bend your knees more!”), which helped me finally ride a tiny wave for maybe three seconds — long enough to feel like a legend, short enough that no one else noticed.

I still think about that view from out past the break: volcanic cliffs behind us, clouds moving fast across the sky, everything smelling like salt and sunscreen. It wasn’t perfect — I wiped out more than I stood up — but something about that day stuck with me. If you want surf lessons in Famara that feel real and unfiltered (and yeah, all the gear is included so you don’t have to stress), this is it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Surf lessons at Famara beach

• Meet at Calima Surf school 09:15
• Warm-up and theory on beach
• Practice surfing in water
• Take break 12:00-12:30
• Warm-up and theory on beach again
• Practice surfing with personal correction
• Return to Calima Surf school 14:30

Top questions

How long are the surf lessons in Famara?

The lessons last about 4 hours, from 9:15am to 2:30pm including breaks.

Is transportation included for the surf class?

Yes, transportation between Calima Surf school and Famara Beach is included.

Do I need previous surfing experience?

No experience is needed; lessons are suitable for all levels.

What equipment is provided for surf lessons?

All surf equipment such as board and wetsuit are provided by the school.

Are there public transport options nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available close to Calima Surf school.

Is lunch included during the day trip?

No lunch is provided; there’s a break but bring your own snacks or food.

Is this activity suitable for pregnant travelers?

No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal injuries.

Will there be an instructor present during surfing?

Yes, qualified local instructors guide you throughout both theory and practice sessions.

What’s included

Your day includes all necessary surf equipment—board and wetsuit—plus transportation between Calima Surf school and Famara Beach. You’ll be guided by experienced local instructors who offer practical tips throughout both land-based theory sessions and hands-on practice in the water before returning together in the afternoon.