Famara: Beach, Surfing and Nature

Famara is defined by Playa de Famara and Risco de Famara. Playa de Famara is located in the Chinijo Archipelago Natural Park. It begins in the village of La Caleta de Famara and stretches for several kilometres to the foothills of the Risco of the same name. The coastline thus extends from the village to the cliff, bringing the beach, dunes and sea together in one continuous landscape. When choosing a destination, it is helpful to understand the difference between these areas: at Playa de Famara, sand, tides and water sports take centre stage; at the Risco, it is hiking, photography and views.

Beach, dunes and tides

The beach has fine, light brown sand. Large dunes lie behind it, formed by the prevailing trade winds and covered with sparse vegetation. At low tide, large, shallow pools of calm water form. At the same time, the wet sand can reflect the walls of the Risco like a vast natural mirror. The landscape therefore has two distinct effects: the trade winds shape the dunes, while low tide and wet sand create the calm pools and reflections.

Water sports and swimming conditions

Playa de Famara is suitable for learning and practising surfing, bodyboarding, kitesurfing and windfoiling. The beach is therefore a clear point of reference for travellers who want to include one of these water sports in their stay. However, take particular care when swimming: Playa de Famara has strong waves and strong ocean currents, and conditions vary from day to day. The calm pools at low tide are a feature of the landscape, not a general indication of swimming conditions.

Hiking, views and paragliding

At the Risco, the focus shifts from the beach to the cliff and its views. Risco de Famara is a volcanic cliff, suitable for hiking and photography. From there, you can enjoy views of the ocean and the island of La Graciosa. This means a different kind of stay from one at Playa de Famara: rather than sand and tides, the focus is on terrain, activity and photo opportunities. Paragliding flights are also offered above the cliffs and Famara beach by a specialist company.

Famara Total and the Vertical Nocturna

Famara Total adds a running event to the local leisure activities. This trail-running event takes place regularly in Caleta de Famara; the 2026 edition was the eleventh. At the tenth edition of Famara Total, the Vertical Nocturna took place at night on 14 August 2025, running from the Caleta de Famara pier to the Ermita de Las Nieves. The route covered 6.5 kilometres and 600 metres of elevation gain. For travel planning, it is worth noting the distinction: Famara Total is a recurring event, while the date and route details apply to this particular Vertical Nocturna.

Discover more destinations: Muñique, Teseguite, Oasis De Nazaret, Los Valles, Caleta De Sebo, Sóo, Guatiza, Tahiche

For the full travel overview: Teguise.