Introduction
Known as the "Island of Eternal Spring," Tenerife is a jewel of the Canary Islands, forged by volcanic fire and sculpted by the relentless Atlantic. While many are drawn to its sun-soaked beaches and the towering Mount Teide, a dedicated tribe of adventurers knows Tenerife for its true power: its incredible wind and waves. This is a world-class destination for both surfers and kitesurfers, offering a rugged and diverse coastline that promises unforgettable sessions year-round.
The Tenerife Advantage: Why Here?
Tenerife's magic lies in its unique geography. The island's volcanic origins have created a dramatic underwater topography of reefs that shape perfect waves. Simultaneously, its position in the Atlantic exposes it to consistent swells and channels the reliable northeasterly trade winds, known locally as the "alisios." This, combined with a warm climate, creates a water sports paradise just a few hours' flight from mainland Europe.
A Surfer's Guide to Tenerife's Coastline
Tenerife's surf scene is primarily concentrated in the south, but the wilder north holds gems for the more experienced.
The Southern Hub: Playa de las Américas: This is the epicenter. A series of reef breaks, accessible via a bustling promenade, offer incredible consistency. The most famous is "La Izquierda," or The Spanish Left, a long, high-performance wave. Nearby, you'll find other spots like "El Dedo" and "La Fitenia," offering variety for different skill levels.
The Northern Challenge: Punta del Hidalgo & Bajamar: The north coast is a different beast. It's more exposed to powerful North Atlantic groundswells, creating bigger, heavier waves. Spots around Punta del Hidalgo are for confident, experienced surfers looking for a raw, untamed ocean experience. The scenery here is breathtakingly rugged.
A Kitesurfer's Paradise: The Winds of El Médano
For kitesurfers, one town stands above all: El Médano. This is arguably one of the best and most consistent wind spots in Europe.
The Wind: The cross-onshore trade winds are incredibly reliable, especially in the summer months (May-September), but blow consistently year-round.
The Bay: The main bay is a kiter's dream. The southern part offers small waves and chop for bump-and-jump or wave riding. Further north, towards the harbor wall, the water flattens out, creating a perfect playground for freestyle tricks and learning. The town itself has a wonderfully bohemian, wind-swept vibe, with countless cafes and gear shops.
Beyond the Water: Exploring the Island
When the wind drops or the swell fades, Tenerife's interior offers adventures of a different kind. A trip to Teide National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is essential. Driving above the clouds to witness the volcanic crater of Mount Teide is an otherworldly experience. For a taste of history, explore the colonial architecture of San Cristóbal de La Laguna, or enjoy the local cuisine—don't leave without trying papas arrugadas con mojo.
Practical Information
Getting There: Tenerife has two airports. Tenerife South (TFS) is closer to the main surf and kitesurf spots.
Getting Around: Renting a car is highly recommended to explore the diverse coastline and access different spots based on conditions.
Gear: For surfing, a 3/2mm wetsuit is perfect for winter, while you can get by with a shorty or boardshorts in summer. For kiting, kite sizes typically range from 7m to 12m, depending on the season and rider weight.
Tenerife is a true multi-sport paradise, an island of contrasts that delivers raw adventure in a stunningly beautiful European setting.