Most common Types of Waves to Surf

Surfing is not only about skill and technique but also about understanding waves and knowing how to make the most of them. Waves are not all the same, and each one offers a unique experience. At Oceanside, we ensure that our surfers, from beginners to advanced, understand the differences and make the most out of every wave they encounter during each session.

Discover Some of the Waves You’ll Encounter While Surfing

Below, we explore a classification of wave types that surfers should know.

Hollow Waves

Hollow waves form a cavity as they break, allowing surfers to slide inside the tube. They are fast and thrilling but require great precision.

• Characteristics: Fast, with an internal cavity, offering the possibility to surf inside the tube.
• Level: Advanced.

Tubular Waves

Similar to hollow waves, tubular waves are distinguished by their closed, rounded tube, ideal for surfers seeking the ultimate adrenaline experience inside a tube.

• Characteristics: Rounded and closed tube, short but very intense waves.
• Level: Advanced.
• Example in the Canary Islands: Playa del Confital, known for its perfect tubular waves.

Closing-Out Waves

Closing-out waves are those that rise very quickly, forming an abrupt peak and breaking forcefully in a sudden motion. They tend to be unpredictable, often appearing to form well but closing out abruptly. These waves are dangerous for beginners but can be thrilling for experienced surfers. This type of wave often dominates in sandy-bottom spots, where the conditions change depending on tides, currents, and the sea's power.

• Characteristics: Fast and abrupt, breaking suddenly. Difficult to surf due to their speed.
• Level: Intermediate/advanced.
• Example in the Canary Islands: Playa de las Canteras (La Cicer), known for fast and challenging closing-out waves when the sea is strong.

Bar Waves

Bar waves break in a uniform line and tend to extend over a long distance. They are fast and powerful, breaking simultaneously along a sandbar or reef. Surfing this type of wave requires experience, as they can close out quickly.

• Characteristics: Fast waves that break along a uniform line. Can close out suddenly.
• Level: Intermediate/advanced.
• Example in the Canary Islands: El Quemao, in Lanzarote, offers very powerful bar waves, reserved for the most experienced surfers.

How to Make the Most of Each Wave According to Your Level

For beginner surfers, soft and gentle waves provide the ideal environment to learn the basics of surfing. As skills improve, hollow, tubular, and closing-out waves allow surfers to take their practice to the next level, offering speed and adrenaline. Bar waves and shore breaks are perfect for those seeking a technical challenge and full control over their board.

Oceanside: Where You Learn to Master All Types of Waves

At our surf school Oceanside, we offer surf lessons tailored to all levels, helping our students identify and surf different types of waves. Whether you’re a beginner or advanced surfer, our team of qualified instructors will guide you to enjoy and make the most of each session. With our accommodation options and equipment rentals, you can enjoy a complete surfing experience in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.

No matter the type of wave you want to surf, at Oceanside, we are here to accompany you every step of the way.