The best time to visit Fuerteventura for kitesurfing and surfing

Fuerteventura, with its realiable winds, warm climate, and incredible spots, is one of the top destinations in Europe for both kitesurfing and surfing. But when is the best time to visit Fuerteventura for your water sports adventure? Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, knowing the best conditions for kitesurfing and surfing can help you make the most of your trip. In this guide, we’ll explore the best times of the year to visit Fuerteventura for both kitesurfing and surfing and why the island is perfect for these sports all year round.

Kitesurfing in Fuerteventura: When to Go

Fuerteventura’s southern coastline, particularly around Sotavento Lagoon, is known for its reliable winds, making it a prime spot for kitesurfing. The island experiences stronger winds, especially during the summer months, but there are great conditions year-round. Here’s a breakdown of the best times to visit for kitesurfing:

Summer (June to September):
During summer, Fuerteventura is hit by the Trade Winds (Alisios), driven by the Azores High. These steady northeast winds are strongest from June to September, creating ideal conditions for kitesurfing. At Sotavento beach you will find shallow water inside the lagoon, ideally for beginners, while in the ocean, kickers and waves offer exciting conditions for more experienced riders. If you are seeking reliable winds, summer is the best time to visit. Wind statistics show over 90% chance of wind.

Spring (April to May):
Spring marks the beginning of the trade wind season in Fuerteventura. As we move
closer to May, the winds gradually pick up and become much more reliable, with the
island entering the full swing of wind season. The warm weather and quieter
atmosphere make it a perfect time for kitesurfing.

Autumn (October to November):
Autumn marks the end of the trade wind season, with winds gradually becoming less
reliable as we move into November. However, on average, there is still a 50-60%
chance of wind, providing plenty of opportunities for kitesurfing. While the winds
may not be as strong or consistent as in the summer, the island is much quieter,
offering a more relaxed atmosphere. It‘s a great time for both beginners and
intermediate riders to continue learning and progressing, with still favorable
conditions for those seeking to improve their skills. Still, Fuerteventura is one of the
best travel options within Europe during this time of the year to be able to kite in
warm weather.

Winter (December to February):
Winter is outside of the trade wind season, and the winds tend to be much lighter and less reliable. However, Fuerteventura remains one of the few European kitesurfing destinations with warm weather, making it a great winter sun escape. The beaches and spots are quieter. Winter is perfect for those who want to escape the colder weather in mainland Europe. The island‘s mild temperatures and comfortable water conditions offer a pleasant kitesurfing experience even during the winter months.

Surfing in Fuerteventura: When to Go

Fuerteventura is also renowned for its surf spots, offering a variety of waves that cater to all levels of surfers. From beginner-friendly breaks to challenging reef breaks for advanced surfers, there’s a wave for everyone. The best time for surfing on the island depends on the type of waves you’re looking for and the overall conditions. Here’s when to plan your surf trip:

Winter (December to February):
Winter is the peak surfing season in Fuerteventura, with swells rolling in and offering
fantastic conditions for wave riders. This is when the island experiences the best and
most consistent waves, especially on the north and west coasts. Whenever we get hit by big swells on the west coast, beginners will find more manageable waves on the east coast. The winter months provide the unique opportunity to choose between different beaches depending on the conditions, offering more variety for surfers. The winter time provides us with the best surfing conditions.

Summer (June to August):
Summer sees much smaller waves, especially on the west coast, which makes it a less intense time for surfers. This season is perfect for beginners or those looking to
progress in smaller, more manageable surf. While the waves are not as big as in
winter, summer still offers good conditions, though the trade winds make it leass
suitable for advanced surfers.

Kitesurfing and Surfing together: The best time for both

Fuerteventura is one of the few places where you can enjoy both surfing and kitesurfing, and Surfers Island offers the perfect combination of both activities. Whether you want to learn to surf on a calm day or catch the wind with your kite, Fuerteventura provides a variety of spots that cater to both sports.

Spring and Autumn (April to November):
These seasons offer the best balance for both surfing and kitesurfing. The winds are
still strong enough for kitesurfing, while the waves are manageable for beginners and
intermediates to enjoy surfing. With consistent but not overwhelming conditions, you
can easily alternate between kitesurfing and surfing, making the most of your time on the water.

Summer (June to September):
Summer is ideal for kitesurfing but can be hit or miss for surfing on a more advanced
level. If you’re planning to focus on kitesurfing, this is the best time to visit. However,
for a well-rounded experience, it’s still great for beginner surfers.

Weather and other considerations

Wind Conditions: Fuerteventura is known for its reliable wind conditions, particularly in the southern and eastern parts of the island. While the winds are strongest in the summer, they’re still consistent year-round, with the southern spots like Sotavento offering perfect conditions for both kitesurfing and surfing.

Water Temperature: The water temperature in Fuerteventura is relatively mild all year round. During the winter months, it can get a little cooler, so it’s a good idea to bring a wetsuit (we provide one at Surfers Island). In the summer, the water remains warm and comfortable for long surf and kitesurf sessions.

Air Temperature: Fuerteventura enjoys a mild and pleasant climate throughout the year. It’s never too hot or too cold, making it an ideal destination for outdoor activities. In the summer, the trade winds help cool down the heat, keeping temperatures between 24-28°C, creating a comfortable environment. During the winter, the winds are usually milder, allowing the sun to warm everything nicely, ensuring pleasant temperatures for surfing, relaxation, and exploration.

Conclusion: Ultimately, the best time to visit Fuerteventura for kitesurfing and surfing depends on your skill level and preferences. If you’re an experienced kitesurfer looking for reliable winds, summer is your best bet. For surfers, the whole year around works great for surfing with reliable waves. However, the summer months are less favourible for advanced surfers due to the trade winds.

At Surfers Island, we are dedicated to helping you make the most of your time on the water, no matter the season. Our expert instructors will guide you through every lesson, ensuring a safe and exciting experience no matter when you visit. Book your lesson today and get ready to ride the waves or catch the wind in beautiful Fuerteventura!