If Playa de las Américas is Tenerife’s party hub, then El Médano is its surf soul. With golden beaches, steady winds, and a laid-back vibe, it’s the island’s hotspot for surfing, kitesurfing, and windsurfing. Even if you’ve never stepped on a board before, this is the place to give it a try.
Here’s why El Médano is a must-do for water sports fans and casual beach lovers alike.
Here’s why El Médano is a must-do for water sports fans and casual beach lovers alike.
Why El Médano?
The town has a reputation as Tenerife’s surf capital, thanks to its natural bay, consistent Atlantic swells, and reliable winds. It’s also a hub for international kitesurfing competitions.
- Beginner surfers love the gentle waves near Playa Sur.
- Advanced riders head to Playa El Cabezo, famous for world-class windsurfing.
Why Go:
Perfect mix of reliable waves, casual surf schools, and a chill beach-town vibe.
Try:
A beginner’s surf lesson - 2 hours with all gear provided
Good For:
First-time surfers, water sports lovers, backpackers.
Learn to Surf
There are plenty of surf schools and rental shops right on the beachfront. Popular options include:
Most lessons are €35–50, including wetsuit and board.
- Red Rock Surf School – friendly lessons for beginners.
- Surf Center Playa Sur – long-established and right on the beach.
- Kitesurf 313 – ideal for kitesurf and windsurf classes.
Most lessons are €35–50, including wetsuit and board.
Why Go:
It’s one of the cheapest and safest places to learn surfing in Europe.
Try:
Book a 3-day surf camp for quicker progress.
Good For:
Solo travellers, young groups, adventure-seeking couples.
Beyond Surfing
El Médano isn’t just about the waves. The beach promenade is full of cafés, juice bars, and tapas spots - perfect for post-surf fuel. Don’t miss:
- Playa La Tejita – a quieter, wide golden-sand beach backed by the Montaña Roja volcano.
- Montaña Roja hike – a short climb with panoramic views of the coast.
Why Go:
Even non-surfers will love the town’s relaxed vibe and scenery.
Try:
A sunset cocktail at one of the beachfront bars.
Good For:
Couples, families with teens, non-surfers.
Whether you’re catching your first wave, watching kites fly across the bay, or hiking Montaña Roja at sunset, El Médano delivers Tenerife’s coolest mix of surf culture and beach-town charm. And the best part? It’s only 15 minutes from the airport.
While this list is based on personal visits, we’re open to featuring more great spots.
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📌 Winds are strongest in the afternoons - beginners should book lessons in the morning.
📌 Bring reef-safe sunscreen - you’ll spend hours in the sun.
📌 Even if you don’t surf, El Médano makes a great day trip for relaxed beach vibes.
📌 Bring reef-safe sunscreen - you’ll spend hours in the sun.
📌 Even if you don’t surf, El Médano makes a great day trip for relaxed beach vibes.
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