Ketchup (Castillo del Romeral)

Ketchup (also known as Juan Grande) is a small, rugged spot on Gran Canaria’s southeast coast with trade-wind kitesurfing and windsurfing potential, plus a left reef break for surfers. Conditions are described as chop with small waves, and the beach/launch zone is stone/rock-based, which means launches and landings require careful handling. For wind sports, the strongest season is generally May through September, when the Alisios trades are most consistent and wind typically sits around 15–25 knots. The spot is primarily aligned for E to ENE side-shore riding, while NE can become offshore; multiple sources warn that offshore NE conditions are not recommended unless you are highly experienced, with limited/no rescue back to land. For surfing, the break is described as a fast, fun left reef wave with good-to-moderate wave power and a peeling shape. It’s reported to start working around roughly 1.0–1.5 meters and can hold larger swells, but it becomes more difficult as swell increases due to the rocky bottom. Wind can also affect face quality, with cleaner faces reported when winds are more from the NW/W. On safety, expect hazards from slippery boulders, reef sections, and sea urchins, plus weather-related risks like pollution runoff after heavy rain. Practical local guidance focuses on protecting feet with booties, parking for the shortest walk, and being careful with cars on the unpaved, stone-strewn access road.