Kitesurf in Gran Canaria : all you need to know
Gran Canaria, is the windiest island of the Canaries, which is mainly aimed at a public of wave riders.
The best season, like in the rest of the archipelago, extends from May to September.
The most renowned spots are Vargas and Pozo.
High Season
Required level
Best suited for
Budget
Spots
Other activities
Why kitesurfing in Gran Canaria is a good choice ?
Gran Canaria is part of the Canary Islands (along with Fuerteventura, Tenerife, Lanzarote…) off the Moroccan coast.
It is the windiest island of the archipelago but the spots are quite difficult (waves, difficult to access…). Therefore, it is not really a destination for beginners or intermediates who are looking to progress easily. The advantage is that once you have sailed in these conditions, you are ready for anything. Vueling and XL Airways operate direct flights from Paris.
Gran Canaria airport is located on the East coast, not far from the main spots.
Once there, it is better to rent a car to get around, it is much more convenient.
Best period and spots to kite in Gran Canaria
The kite spots are mainly located in the East of the island, which is the most developed side along with the North. The most well-known spot is undoubtedly Vargas.
Unlike Tenerife, Gran Canaria is a special kite destination that attracts a lot of kiters (with a good level). However, the place is probably not the most ideal for a family trip. (the Vargas spot for example is not the nicest to bring your whole little colony).
Best season for kiting: from May to September.
Discover the kite spots in Gran Canaria
Vargas
What we love most
Drawbacks
- Consistent wind
- Good value for money
- Kite atmosphere
- Not many sandy beaches
- Localism in some places
Our best advices to travelers
How to get there ?
Travel time: From 5:30 for the best flights, including a stopover (Madrid or Barcelona).
Direct flight: no
Time difference: UTC+1
Airlines: Air Europa, Air France, KLM, Vueling, XL Airways, Iberia
Main airports: Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (LPA)
Flight price: Between 150 and 400€
Formalities
- Mandatory vaccines: No specific vaccines required for entry
- Visa requirements: Not required for stays up to 90 days for Americans and Britons
- Electrical adapter: Type F electrical adapter needed
- Official language: Spanish
- Currency: Euro (EUR)
Additional tips
Vueling and XL Airways operate direct flights from Paris.
Gran Canaria airport is located on the East coast, not far from the main spots.
Once there, it is better to rent a car to get around, it is much more convenient.
What are the best non kitesurfing activities ?
Outside of kiteboarding, in Gran Canaria, there are quite a few things to see.
You can start by strolling through the historic district of Las Palmas, which features some pretty cool colonial architecture.
Then, there are the Maspalomas dunes which are a must-see excursion in Gran Canaria, just like the Agaete valley with its lush landscapes, contrasting with the idea one might have of the Canary Islands.
Otherwise, there are plenty of beautiful beaches to discover all around the island, and it will be the perfect opportunity to try surfing if you haven’t already.