Windsurfing

As you´d expect from an island located in the Atlantic and in the path of the Trade Winds Lanzarote offers the ideal conditions for windsurfing. As a result it has become something of a mecca for enthusiasts from across Europe, particularly during the peak months of May to September when the wind is blowing at a rate of up to 6 Beauforts. Little wonder then that the Professional Windsurfing Association stages one of its tour heats here every June.

All Natural Environment

As a UNESCO protected biosphere and an island that boasts a great deal of amazing scenery Lanzarote naturally lends itself to windsurfing. Year round sunshine also provides a pleasant environment for both riders and spectators alike. Whilst there are loads of good quality places to stay and plenty to do and see too – making the island just perfect for anyone seeking to combine an active break with some sightseeing and sunbathing thrown in.

Windsurfing in Costa Teguise

The beach of Playa Cucharas, which is located in the popular tourist resort of Costa Teguise, is the main hub for windsurfing on the island. Here windsurf equipment hire and schools cater to beginners and experienced riders alike.

Part of the beach is cordoned off from swimmers and it shelves gently into the water, making this an ideal access spot for first timers especially. The wind conditions are also excellent and the waters are reasonably well protected – creating an ideal glassy surface, whilst a little further out lies a reef which provides a bit more action for the more experienced enthusiast.

Other Sweet Spots

More proficient riders on the search for something a little more radical will find that there are plenty of other decent spots along the south eastern shoreline of Lanzarote. The premier spot is located just offshore by the Jameos del Agua, about a ten to fifteen minute drive north of Costa Teguise in the direction of Orzola.

Windsurfing - A Potted History

Who invented the windsurf? Opinions differ and the plaudits are usually divided between Pete Chilvers, a resident of Hayling Island who is said to have created his board as far back as 1958 and by Jim Drake, who along with his partner Hoyle Schweitzer successfully secured the first patent in 1970.

Surprisingly however it was a multinational company – DuPont – who won wider acclaim for this nascent sport. As their product polyethylene proved to be the ideal material for the production of the boards, leading to an explosion in popularity during the 1980´s.