Bodyboarding at El Pico de La Laja

A popular local bodyboarding wave in Gran Canaria

El Pico de la Laja spot is on the east coast of Gran Canaria close to Las Palmas de Gran Canaria city. An explosive, powerful wave, it’s a favourite amongst local bodyboarders. Care is required if the waves are big because the break is shallow and it’s therefore an advanced wave. Parking close to the break is difficult but you can reach it by walking south along the Avenida Maritima walkway that connects La Laja beach to the city, or by walking north from the La Laja Mirador car park, via the beach.

A bodyboarding spot close to Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

The El Pico de La Laja wave is well defined and breaks both left and right. The right is short with a smaller tube, but the left much bigger with a fast, open tube running the length of the wave. The break is over a lava reef visible even at high tide. A consistent wave throughout the year and in all tides but at its best from October to May with waves from one to three metres during N-NW-W-SW winds and NE-E swell. Entry is simple via the reef but with big surf the currents can be strong.