El Médano is the world capital of kitesurfing and windsurfing. Thanks to the constant wind that sweeps the southeast coast of Tenerife, the famous "trade winds", the town hosts several PWA world competitions every year. But El Médano is also the most authentic village in the south: small streets, relaxed beach bars, craft market and a long golden sand beach with no concrete. A breath of fresh air in the touristic south.
To know: The wind is strong and almost constant (30-40 km/h). Perfect if you like water sports or a "beach shack" atmosphere. Less suitable for families looking for calm waters.
The wind comes from the northeast, classic trade winds. Montaña Roja channels and accelerates it right onto the bay. So it's constant, predictable, not like elsewhere where it blows for two days and then nothing. Schools say it's one of the best spots in Europe for learning or progressing, whether you're into kiting or windsurfing.
South side of the main beach, flat sea, sheltered, perfect for beginners. Towards Cabezo, near the mountain, waves and stronger wind, that's for those who already have some level. PWA World Tour competitions stop there regularly, entry is free from the beach.
The tip: If you don't kite, set up early on the east side. The wind picks up slowly, you enjoy the calm before it becomes a pro spot.
In July-August, the streets are overflowing, parking lots full by 9 a.m. From October through May, the village becomes what it really is: 5,000 residents who live here year-round. The beachfront bars close earlier, but those in the center stay open for locals who come for coffee or a beer after work.
The Sunday morning market in the plaza attracts local people, fruits and vegetables from nearby farms, no tourist stalls. You run into the same faces, you chat, you recognize surfers who've lived there for ten years. The restaurants that stay open serve what they serve to village people, not tourist menus.
The tip: Come between November and April. You'll see El Médano without the vacation mask, just a village that breathes. The wind is there anyway.
[Source: pwaworldtour.com and local observations 2025-2026]