Surfing in Playa de las Américas

Verified content· Updated 27 June 2026

Playa de las Américas2 hours

Left wave spot over volcanic rock bottomOne of the longest waves in the Canary Islands (~200 m)Best season: winter (November-March), NW/N swells

The area of La Izquierda (also known as Spanish Left or Las Palmeras) in Playa de las Américas is one of the most well-known surf spots in Tenerife, a long left wave that breaks over a rocky and volcanic reef bottom. With good northwest or north swells, it forms long walls and tubular sections, with one of the longest rides on the islands (around 200 meters). The best conditions occur in winter, approximately from November to March, and due to its exposure, it works consistently from autumn to spring.

The take-off is vertical and the wave is powerful, so it is recommended for intermediate-advanced level surfers; beginners usually learn in gentler nearby areas (such as El Medio), where local surf schools operate.

Gallery

Surfers and surf students at Playa de las Américas, looking towards Playa del Duque and La Caleta, in southern Tenerife. — Tuxyso (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Aerial view of a surf spot on the southwest coast of Tenerife, with La Gomera in the background. — dronepicr (CC BY 2.0)

A surfer catching a wave at sunset on the south coast of Tenerife. — Jony De Leon (CC BY 3.0)

Essential information

Accessibility

It is next to the promenade of Playa de las Américas (Adeje), with showers, equipment rental, and parking in the surroundings, about 20 km from Tenerife South Airport.

Risk Level

It is a powerful wave that breaks over rock and shallow reef and is usually very crowded, so it is recommended only for experienced surfers and to respect the peak rules.