When the Baltic turns unpleasant, the Canaries are perhaps the most practical warm destination: only about four and a half hours by plane, T-shirt weather, and with the trade wind almost daily wind. No long-haul flight, no jet lag, and yet plenty of sun. We show you which island suits you.
Why the wind stands here in winter
The Canaries lie in the Atlantic off West Africa, and so right in the belt of the northeast trade wind. It blows strongest above all in summer, but is surprisingly reliable in winter too, especially in the south of the islands. Add to that a mild climate all year round. That makes the islands the best winter warm destination in Europe that you can reach without a long flight. Anyone who wants to escape the grey in January is in the right place here.
Fuerteventura, Lanzarote, Gran Canaria
Three islands stand at the forefront for kiters. Fuerteventura is the classic, above all the huge flat-water lagoon of Sotavento in the south, which at low tide turns into a beginner’s and freestyle dream. Lanzarote offers a beginner-friendly flat-water spot with the Costa Teguise and a wave side with Famara. Gran Canaria, finally, is a true mecca for pros with Pozo Izquierdo, gusty and powerful, rather not for the start.
Who each island is worth it for
Which island is the right one depends on your ability. As a beginner you are best placed on Fuerteventura or at the Costa Teguise on Lanzarote, where the water is flat and the wind clean. Anyone who already rides confidently and is looking for the wave will find suitable spots on all the islands. And the aces make their pilgrimage to Pozo. There are schools and rental everywhere; with the VDWS licence you rent without any fuss.
The Canaries are the short way to reliable winter wind: sun, trade wind, and the right island for every level, all within four and a half hours by plane. Pack the neoprene, the Atlantic is fresher than the Red Sea, but you are there quickly. We are happy to help you choose your island.