Learning to windsurf in Fuerteventura can be a fantastic experience due to the island’s consistent trade winds, warm temperatures, and excellent conditions for water sports. Here are some steps to help you get started with windsurfing in Fuerteventura:
1. Choose the Right Season:
- Windsurfing is possible in Fuerteventura throughout the year, but the summer months (May to September) are generally considered the best due to the consistent trade winds.
2. Select a Suitable Beach:
- Choose a beach with conditions suitable for beginners. Popular spots for learning to windsurf in Fuerteventura include:
- Corralejo – Flag Beach
- Corralejo – Glass Beach
- Sotavento Beach
- El Cotillo – La Concha
- Caleta de Fuste
3. Take Windsurfing Lessons:
- Consider taking lessons from a certified windsurfing school. Professional instructors can provide guidance on equipment, techniques, and safety.
- Lessons typically cover the basics such as balance, steering, turning, and rigging the sail.
4. Rent Suitable Equipment:
- Once you have some basic skills, you can start renting windsurfing equipment. Rental centers at popular beaches offer a range of boards and sails suitable for different skill levels.
5. Practice Balance and Steering:
- Spend time practicing your balance on the board without the sail. Get comfortable with the sensation of standing on the board and maintaining stability.
6. Learn to Rig the Sail:
- Rigging the sail involves setting it up correctly for windsurfing. Your instructor will guide you through this process, and it’s an essential skill to learn.
7. Practice Tacking and Gybing:
- Tacking is a maneuver where you turn the board into the wind, and gybing involves turning the board away from the wind. These maneuvers are fundamental to windsurfing and require practice.
8. Understand Wind Awareness:
- Develop a sense of wind direction and how it affects your sailing. Learning to harness the power of the wind is key to efficient windsurfing.
9. Safety Considerations:
- Always wear a life jacket and a harness.
- Know the beach rules and any specific regulations related to windsurfing at the chosen location.
- Be aware of weather conditions, and avoid strong winds if you are a beginner.
10. Join a Windsurfing Community:
- Connect with other windsurfers and join local communities or clubs. This can provide valuable tips, support, and opportunities to share experiences.
11. Enjoy the Experience:
- Windsurfing is not only a skill but also a fun and exhilarating experience. Enjoy the feeling of gliding across the water and the freedom of harnessing the wind.
Remember that progress in windsurfing comes with practice and patience. Fuerteventura’s windsurfing community is vibrant, and the island offers a variety of conditions suitable for all levels, from beginners to advanced riders.
Learning to windsurf in Fuerteventura
Windsurfing Schools:-
Fuerteventura, known for its excellent windsurfing conditions, offers various options for windsurf lessons. Many professional schools and instructors are available to help beginners get started and assist more experienced riders in improving their skills. Here are some popular windsurf schools in Fuerteventura:
- Rene Egli Fuerteventura:
- Location: Sotavento Beach, near Costa Calma.
- Details: Rene Egli is one of the most renowned windsurf schools in Fuerteventura, offering lessons for all levels. They have experienced instructors, high-quality equipment, and facilities. The school is located in the windsurfing hotspot of Sotavento, providing ideal conditions for learning and improving.
- Flag Beach Windsurf & Kitesurf Center:
- Location: Corralejo, Flag Beach.
- Details: Flag Beach is a popular spot for windsurfing and kitesurfing, and the center provides lessons for beginners and advanced riders. They offer group and private lessons, and their instructors are certified by the International Windsurfing Organization (IWS).
- ProWind Fuerteventura:
- Location: Corralejo.
- Details: ProWind offers windsurf lessons for all levels, from beginners to advanced riders. They provide courses with certified instructors, and their equipment is suitable for different skill levels. Private lessons and group courses are available.
- Club Mistral Fuerteventura:
- Location: Risco del Paso, Sotavento.
- Details: Club Mistral is located in the Sotavento area, known for its consistent winds. They offer windsurf courses for all skill levels, and their team of instructors is experienced. The school provides high-quality equipment and a friendly learning environment.
- WindSurfYoga:
- Location: El Cotillo.
- Details: WindSurfYoga offers windsurfing courses and yoga retreats. They cater to various skill levels and focus on combining windsurfing with yoga for a holistic experience. Private and group lessons are available.
- Magma Kitesurf & Windsurf School:
- Location: Corralejo.
- Details: Magma School provides windsurf lessons for beginners and intermediate riders. They offer personalized coaching and have a team of experienced instructors. The school is well-equipped with the latest gear.
- Azul Kiteboarding:
- Location: Corralejo.
- Details: While primarily a kiteboarding school, Azul Kiteboarding also offers windsurfing lessons. They provide courses for all levels and focus on personalized instruction.
Before booking lessons, it’s recommended to check with the school regarding available courses, lesson durations, and prices. Many schools offer packages that include equipment rental along with lessons. Additionally, it’s advisable to book in advance, especially during peak seasons. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to enhance your skills, Fuerteventura’s windsurfing schools have something for everyone.