El Quemao
El Quemao is the "Pipeline of Europe"—a thick, square-barreling left that breaks over ultra-sharp volcanic lava reef in La Santa, Lanzarote. The wave produces some of the heaviest tubes in the Atlantic, with a reputation for serious consequences over the brutal reef. Localism is extreme and deeply ingrained. The Canary Island setting offers warm water and consistent winter swells, but earning respect at El Quemao takes time and commitment. This is European barrel surfing at its most intense.
El Quemao surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- NW (315°)
- Direction range
- 280° - 350°
- Size range
- 1.8m - 6.1m
- Ideal size
- 3.7m - 5m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 14s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SE (135°)
- Offshore range
- 90° - 180°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- high
Water temp
20°C
Wetsuit
3/2mm fullsuit
Difficulty
8/10
Crowd level
5/10
Access: Paddle
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at El Quemao?
The El Quemao profile favors high tide. Compare this preference with the forecast tide and local conditions before choosing a session.
What wind direction is offshore at El Quemao?
The El Quemao profile uses wind from SE (135°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 90° to 180°. Wind speed matters too: light winds outside that range can still produce surfable conditions, while strong offshore winds can make takeoffs difficult.
What swell size and direction work best at El Quemao?
The El Quemao scoring profile favors swell from NW (280° to 350°), a swell-height range of 1.8m to 6.1m, and a reference period of 14s. These are model inputs, not guaranteed breaking-wave heights or a promise that the surf will suit every ability.
When is the best time of year to surf El Quemao?
The main season at El Quemao is Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar. Winter (Oct-Mar). Needs NW swells.
How do I get to El Quemao?
The spot profile lists ACE as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 20 minutes. Paddle
What kind of wave is El Quemao?
El Quemao is a reef break, a left-hander. Difficulty is rated 8/10.
Best Season
Peak: Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
Winter (Oct-Mar). Needs NW swells.
Getting There
Nearby Spots
La Santa Right
🏋️ La Santa sports hub • Lanzarote quality • Dawn patrol essential
Famara
🏔️ 6km beach break • Cliff backdrop • Lanzarote's surf hub
Ghost Town
👻 Abandoned development • Radical left barrels • El Quemao's neighbor
San Juan
⬅️ La Santa zone left • Consistent hollow • Technical paddle-out
Chickens
🐔 La Santa option • Hollow but forgiving • Named for farm chickens
Los Lobos
🐺 Canaries' longest wave • 500m rides • Boat access island
Plan a trip around El Quemao
Compare this break with other destinations in these surf guides.