Windsurfing and Kitesurfing at El Médano: Tenerife's Wind Spot
On the island's south-east coast, windsurfing at El Médano and kitesurfing have found their temple: thanks to a near-constant wind, this bohemian village is Tenerife's watersports capital. Riders, beginner or expert, gather here year-round, between renowned schools and a stretch of water covered in sails. We haven't ridden here yet; this guide gathers the essentials, verified and up to date, and complements our page on activities in Tenerife.
The essentials at a glance
- Where: at El Médano, on the south-east coast, near Tenerife South airport.
- Specialities: kitesurfing and windsurfing, thanks to a near-constant wind year-round.
- Schools: several centres offer lessons and hire for all levels.
- Also: surfing depending on conditions; a relaxed village vibe facing Montaña Roja.
Our approach: verified research, not first-hand experience (yet)
- We haven't done these activities in Tenerife ourselves yet. This guide is built from thorough research — local sources and up-to-date data — to help you plan your outings transparently.
- We'll enrich it with our own experience after our next visit. Until then, spots, prices and conditions are indicative: check the weather, required levels and operators before booking.
Why ride at El Médano?
This spot enjoys the island's best wind conditions. It's renowned across the Canaries, with steady trade winds blowing much of the year and a vast stretch of water where kitesurfers and windsurfers mingle.
Beyond the riding, El Médano charms with its bohemian vibe and natural setting, dominated by the Montaña Roja volcano. The village lives to the rhythm of the sea, with bars, restaurants and gear shops right by the beach.
Windsurf, kitesurf and levels
El Médano suits everyone, but each zone has its specifics. Kitesurfing at El Médano works both on the more sheltered main beach and on the more exposed spots, reserved for experienced riders when the wind picks up.
El Médano's schools and lessons
Several surf schools at El Médano and wind-sports centres offer lessons for all levels, from a first kite flight to independent riding. They provide the gear and adapt sessions to the day's conditions.
Book ahead in high season and check the weather: the wind, an asset, can also make some days more technical. Learning with an instructor is strongly advised for kitesurfing.
Combining riding and beach
Between sessions, El Médano also works as a laid-back beach resort. See our page on El Médano beach for everything about the spot, swimming and the surroundings.
Car hire in Tenerife makes access easy from the other southern resorts. To plan the rest of your stay, head to our Canary Islands guide.
Frequently asked questions
Why is El Médano famous for watersports?
For its near-constant wind, which makes it Tenerife's windsurfing and kitesurfing capital, with several schools and a very busy stretch of water.
Can you learn to kitesurf at El Médano?
Yes, several schools offer lessons for all levels, from beginner to expert, with gear provided. Learning with an instructor is strongly advised.
Is El Médano suitable for beginners?
Yes: some more sheltered zones and supervised lessons allow you to start, while the more exposed spots are for experienced riders.
Where is El Médano?
On the south-east coast of Tenerife, a few minutes from Tenerife South airport, at the foot of the Montaña Roja volcano.
Can you also surf at El Médano?
Yes, depending on conditions, the spot also suits surfing. Wind remains the great speciality here, for windsurfing and kitesurfing.