El Médano is a small village in the south of Tenerife and has a lot to offer. It is known for its strong winds, making it a must-see destination for wind and kite surfers. But even if you’re not a surfer, you’ll get your fun. Explore the Top 10 Things to do in El Médano!
The charming seaside town is known for its laid-back vibe and natural beauty. Its golden sandy beaches attract windsurfers and kitesurfers thanks to steady winds and warm waters all year around. The town also offers a relaxed atmosphere with cozy cafés, local markets, and stunning views of Montaña Roja, making it a favorite spot for both adventure seekers and those looking to unwind. The name “El Médano” comes from a Spanish word for “sand dune”, which reflects the raw beauty of the area, full of open spaces.
1. Try windsurfing or kitesurfing
When you ask anyone what they think of when they hear “El Médano”, most people will bring up windsurfing. The weather here is warm all year round, with mostly sunny days. The winds are strong, and the beaches are wide, making it easy to access water. If you want to book a class, just take a stroll down the promenade towards playa del Médano. On your way you will pass multiple surfing schools and rentals. Just pick one that suits you best, and you won’t regret it. Our recommendations: Godzilla Surf Shop and Sunset Kitecenter.
2. Try wave surfing
Once you have tried windsurfing or/and kitesurfing, you may as well try another water sport popular in El Médano, which is wave surfing. We have plenty of surfing schools that will show you how to stand on your own two feet (literally), and successfully catch the wave. Once you feel secure enough in your abilities, these places also offer gear rental.
3. Hike up Montaña Roja
Montaña Roja is a 171-meter mountain located on the outskirts of town. It is the most characteristic landmark of El Médano visible from many of its places. The area is a nature reserve, full of unique fauna and flora. One of the best ways to appreciate it, is from the top of the mountain. It is a short hike to get there, but certainly not disappointing. Very important: Don’t leave the bath because the nature is very fragile and needs to be respected and protected. Once on top, you will witness some stunning views of El Médano, the ocean, as well as the neighboring beach La Tejita. One thing to consider before you head out, is that it may get super windy on top, so make sure to check the weather beforehand.
4. Go to the Artisan market on Saturdays in El Médano
One thing El Médano is known for: It attracts creative people. So, if you appreciate artistry and craftsmanship, you should definitely check out its Artisan Market. It takes place in the city center, on Plaza El Médano every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Once there, you could find handmade clothes, jewelry, home decor, and many more.
5. Practice yoga on the beach with Yoga Tenerife
There is no better way to start your day, but with yoga. If there is no wind (and yes, we have these magical wind still days as well), we practise yoga right at the beach in El Médano.
Yoga Tenerife offers hour long yoga classes hosted on Playa del Cabezo. People with all levels of advancement are welcome to join our yoga classes. If you don’t have your own yoga mat – don’t worry, everything is provided.
6. Enjoy a delicious breakfast
After a morning yoga class in El Médano you can stay for a delicious breakfast. It has a number of wonderful food places with ocean views. What we recommend for you to do, is to enjoy a nice breakfast in one of El Médano’s coffee places. Of which, there are many to choose from. You could go to Manfred’s Soul Café to have a coffee with a view on Montaña Roja. Other choices worth mentioning are Ubuntu, Lille, and Bliss Cafés. They all have a selection of delicious vegetarian options.
7. Go on a biking trip
Bike Point Tenerife, located on Av. José Miguel Galván Bello, is one of the biggest and most popular bike rentals in the south of Tenerife. Not only can you rent a bike for your trip, you could also repair your own, or buy one if you are in a need. For more information, you can check out their website, bikepointtenerife.com.
8. Take a walk on the promenade
A usually busy wooden promenade goes through a big part of El Médano. Thanks to the promenade, it is easy to take a walk along the shore, and enjoy beautiful views. On one side, you will see the ocean, and on the other numerous shops, restaurants and rentals. Make sure to not miss out on it.
9. Discover the hidden beauty of Pelada Beach
El Médano is divided into 5 centers: El Médano- the city center, Arenas del Mar, El Topo, El Cabezo, and Pelada. The last one is a calmer, more suburban part of town. It is located right next to Montaña Pelada – a small volcanic hill. Right next to it, you can find a small, less popular beach of the same name. Because it is far from the center, and a bit hidden behind a hill, it usually attracts fewer people. That being said, before you go make sure to check the weather forecast – winds tend to be very strong in Pelada. The beach is much more enjoyable on calm days.
10. Watch the sunset from Puerto del Médano
What a better way to finish your trip than with a stunning sunset view? If that’s what you are interested in, you should consider going on an evening walk to Puerto del Médano. Located in the city center, it is a popular spot for meetups. Once you see the setting sun reflect in the ocean waters, you will understand why.
A short list to summarize:
– Try windsurfing
– Try wave surfing
– Hike up Montaña Roja
– Go to the Artisan market
– Practice yoga on the beach with Yoga Tenerife
– Enjoy a delicious breakfast
– Go on a biking trip
– Take a walk on the promenade
– Discover the hidden beauty of Pelada Beach
– Watch the sunset from Puerto del Médano
We wish you a wonderful trip to El Médano!