Glass Beach
Glass Beach: El Burro
The Playa de Glass Beach, also known as “El Burro”, is a renowned surfing spot located on the east coast of Fuerteventura, next to the Dunes of Corralejo, immediately the Grades Playas proceeding from North to South.
It is not only a picturesque beach that attracts tourists and locals, but El Burro also fascinates surfing and windsurfing enthusiasts.
The ideal seasons for surfing here are spring and summer, when the swells arrive from the northeast and the trade winds blow.
The Glass Beach Spot is a famous reef-break that produces waves both left and right.
When there is no wind, these waves have a glass-smooth surface, making surfing a real pleasure.
Usually, the wind picks up in the afternoon and calms down at sunset, so mornings and evenings are the best times to surf, while afternoons are ideal for windsurfing.
Located not far from Corralejo, it is a less crowded place than other beaches on the island, offering ample space to explore the surrounding nature and enjoy the sea in peace.
The name “Glass Beach” comes from its distinctive, clear, well-formed waves that resemble moving glass.
How to Get There
To get to Glass Beach, you need a vehicle, preferably a car.
Unless you want to take the bus from Corralejo to reach Grandes Playas.
Then proceed south of the two Hotel Riu.
From Corralejo, the coastal road offers spectacular views, and once you arrive, you can park quite close to the beach and access the sand directly.
There aren’t many amenities nearby, so it’s advisable to bring everything you need for the day.
Although south of the second Riu they have currently opened a Ciringuito on the beach and you can rent sunbeds and umbrellas.
Surfing at Glass Beach
Glass Beach is particularly popular with surfersdue to its consistent conditions and powerful waves.
The waves form on a volcanic rock bottom, creating perfect surf for technical maneuvers and spectacular planes.
It is an ideal spot especially in summer, when northeasterly winds create waves up to a height of one and a half meters or more.
The main wave is short but intense, perfect for dynamic surf sessions.
The beach is suitable for surfers of all levels, but access to the waves requires attention, especially when the currents are strong.
Wind Waves and Tides: Glass Beach
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Wind, Waves and Tides by Season
Wind, wave, and tide conditions at Glass Beach vary with different seasons, affecting the surfing experience and beach activities.
Spring (March – May)
Wind: Spring winds at Glass Beach are generally moderate, with speeds ranging between 10 and 20 knots.
This period is ideal for intermediate surfers who are looking for well-formed but not overly challenging waves.
Waves: The waves in spring are medium in size, ideal for regular surf sessions.
The conditions are optimal for those who want to perfect their skills without facing too powerful waves.
Tides: Tides in spring are regular, with modest variations between high and low tide, allowing for surf sessions at different times of the day.
Summer (June – August)
Wind: Summer is the ideal season for surfing at Glass Beach.
Northeasterly winds blow constantly, often exceeding 20 knots, creating perfect waves for experienced and intermediate surfers.
Waves: During the summer, the waves reach heights of 1-1.5 meters, with ideal conditions for aerial maneuvers and technical surfing.
It is the best time to enjoy long and well-defined waves.
Tides: Summer tides can vary significantly, with more marked differences between high and low tides, affecting the strength and size of the waves.
Autumn (September – November)
Wind: In autumn, the winds begin to decrease, making the conditions less demanding but still ideal for surfing.
The days of constant wind provide excellent opportunities for long surf sessions.
Waves: Autumn waves tend to grow in size, reaching 2 meters and above, creating exciting challenges for more experienced surfers.
Tides: The tides in autumn are similar to those in spring, with variations offering different conditions throughout the day, ideal for variable surf sessions.
Winter (December – February)
Wind: During the winter, the winds at Glass Beach are less intense, but winter swells bring bigger waves, ideal for experienced surfers looking for a challenge.
Waves: Winter waves can exceed 2 meters, with powerful and tubing sections.
This is the ideal time for those looking for challenging surfing conditions.
Tides: Winter tides can vary greatly, with significant heights during high tide, but waves are generally more consistent during low tide.
