Surf lessons with the University Surf School take place on Playa de Las Canteras, the long urban beach that runs along the northern side of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria on Gran Canaria in Spain's Canary Islands. The school operates from the La Cícer end of the beach, on Calle Secretario Padilla, and lessons are held directly in front of the promenade. The format is a group class of roughly two hours that combines a short land briefing on safety, wave reading and the pop-up technique with water time on a soft or foam board suited to beginners. Private lessons are also listed for those who want one-to-one attention.
No previous surfing experience is required, which makes the activity suitable for first-timers. Participants should be comfortable in the sea and able to swim, and a basic level of fitness helps because paddling and repeatedly standing up is tiring. Age limits vary by school and should be confirmed when booking; younger children are generally better served by a private session. Board and wetsuit are normally included in the lesson price, so visitors usually need to bring only swimwear, a towel, sun protection and a rash vest or similar layer if they feel the cold.
Las Canteras is well suited to learning because the natural reef known as La Barra shelters much of the central beach, and surf schools tend to use the areas where waves break gently over sand. Instructors work in the water alongside students, and the beach has a lifeguard presence in season, which adds a layer of rescue cover. The surf break can change quickly with tide and swell, so the instructors decide where to run the class on the day and may relocate or cancel if conditions are unsafe.
Swell is most consistent from September to April, when winter Atlantic swells bring larger waves that suit more experienced surfers, while summer conditions are generally smaller and gentler for beginners. Water temperature stays mild all year by Atlantic standards, with a thin wetsuit adequate for most of the year. Conditions to avoid are large winter swells and strong onshore wind, which make the water crowded and difficult for novices. Group lessons are listed from about EUR 45-65 for two hours and private lessons at about EUR 105, though prices should be checked directly with the school.
| Price | Group lessons listed from about EUR 45-65 (about USD 52-75) for 2 hours; private about EUR 105 (about USD 120) |
|---|---|
| Duration | About 2 hours |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Season | September to April for swell; summer for beginners |
| Address | Calle Secretario Padilla 168, 35010 Las Palmas de Gran Canaria |
Activity facts
- Where
- La Cícer, Las Canteras
Equipment
Board and wetsuit are normally included in lesson prices
Location
Calle Secretario Padilla 168, 35010 Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
28.1296, -15.4455 View on map
Highlights
- Learn on Playa de Las Canteras, one of Spain's best-known urban surf beaches
- Two-hour group lessons with land briefing and in-water coaching
- Board and wetsuit normally included in the lesson price
- Private lessons available for one-to-one instruction
- Beach is backed by a promenade with cafes and showers
Tips for visiting
- Book ahead in July, August and school holidays, when classes fill quickly.
- Wear swimwear under the wetsuit and bring a towel and a change of clothes.
- Apply reef-safe, water-resistant sun cream; the Canary sun is strong even in winter.
- Ask the school before booking whether photos or a GoPro are permitted during the class.
- Check the cancellation policy, as lessons can be postponed when swell or wind is unsafe.
When to visit
Summer mornings offer the gentlest conditions for beginners, while September to April brings bigger swell for more experienced surfers.
Accessibility
Access is via the flat beachfront promenade, but entering the water over soft sand and surfing require good mobility. Visitors with mobility needs should contact the school in advance.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need surfing experience for the lessons?
No. The group lessons are designed for beginners and start with a land briefing on safety and technique. Participants should be able to swim comfortably.
Is equipment included?
Board and wetsuit are normally included in the lesson price. Visitors usually bring only swimwear, a towel and sun protection.
How long is a lesson and what does it cost?
Group lessons last about two hours and are listed from roughly EUR 45-65. Private lessons are listed at about EUR 105; confirm current prices with the school.
When is the best time to learn?
Summer usually offers smaller, gentler waves for beginners, while September to April brings stronger swell better suited to improvers.