El Paso 1 (Moya)

El Paso 1 is a powerful, advanced right-hand reef break on Gran Canaria’s rugged north coast. The wave is described as hollow/barreling and can be extremely heavy when size builds, especially in the tow-in range. Entry and exit involve difficult, slippery volcanic rocks and boulders, and the reef environment includes sharp hazards such as sea urchins, so this spot is inherently high-risk. The break is best when the swell comes from the North, Northwest, and West (with optimal swell directions reported as N, NW, and also West). It works across all tides. For wind, South and Southwest winds are generally offshore and groom the wave, producing the best shape; North winds are onshore and can ruin the wave. Wind windows are comparatively narrow and reliability is reported as low for wind sports, reflecting how strongly conditions depend on alignment between swell and wind. Safety and local etiquette are central here: localism is described as very strong, and strict respect for the lineup and priority rules is mandatory. The spot is additionally associated with strong currents/rip and heavy local conditions on larger swells. The recommended approach emphasizes waiting your turn, avoiding paddling for every wave, and using appropriate boards for bigger sets (such as a gun or tow board depending on size). Booties are recommended for protection during the walk out. Seasonally, the water temperatures vary roughly from the high teens Celsius in winter to the low twenties in late summer/early autumn. Winter/early spring and autumn are highlighted as windows for more consistent North swell and offshore-wind setups; best months for the spot are reported as October through February (with October especially noted as a best month in the surf-guide data). Overall, this is a serious, low-profile big-wave venue designed for advanced surfers who can manage reef hazards, currents, and a highly demanding local lineup.