Kitesurfing Tenerife — El Médano Spot Guide 2026
El Médano on Tenerife's south coast is a trade wind factory—we've been sending riders there for over 20 years. This guide tells you what kite sizes to pack, when to go, and why you'll be booking your return trip before you leave the beach.
El Médano works because of 12–25 knots of consistent trade wind, warm water year-round (18–22°C), and a long, flat beach that suits learners and pros alike. Pack a 9 m² or 12 m² kite depending on your weight and skill. Peak season is October to April, but summer wind is reliable and way less crowded.
01 — Wind & ConditionsTrade Winds Year-Round
The trade winds here are relentless. October through April you're looking at 15–25 knots most days, and even in summer the wind shows up by mid-morning and doesn't quit. Water temps sit at a very rideable 18–22°C year-round, so a 3/2 mm or 4/3 mm wetsuit keeps you comfortable.
The bay itself is protected from Atlantic swell by a breakwater, which means the water stays flat enough for freestyle and learning. If you want more swell, head to the exposed beaches nearby—but most riders come to El Médano for that glass-water playground.
02 — Choosing Your QuiverWhat Kite Sizes to Pack
A 12 m² kite is your sweet spot for El Médano if you weigh 65–85 kg and have a season or two under your belt. It'll handle the typical 15–20 knot days without complaint, and you'll launch and land it cleanly even when the wind dips. Lighter riders or beginners should go 9 m²—it's more forgiving in the gusty afternoon thermal wind and gives you real progression room.
If you're heavy (85+ kg) or prefer staying powered in lighter mornings, pack a 14 m² as a second quiver. In peak season when you get consistent 20+ knots, a 9 m² keeps you from over-sheeting. Most serious riders we've shipped to Médano take two kites—let the wind guide your pick.
03 — Our picksOur 4 In-Stock Picks
We stock Duotone across the full range because their SLS tech handles Médano's gusty afternoons and solid swell days without losing shape. Here are four that riders request most:
Prices and 2026 specs are pulled live from each product page. Confirm on the product page before checkout.
04 — MistakesThree mistakes we see every week
Ready to book Médano?
Check our Duotone and Cabrinha kite range to find the right sizes for your trip.
Frequently asked
October to April is peak—15–25 knots, no crowds, perfect water temps. May through September is lighter and hotter, but still rideable and quieter.
Yes. The flat water, long beach, and consistent 12–20 knot wind make it ideal for beginners. Rent a 12 m² kite locally or bring your own 9 m² if you're under 70 kg.
Water sits at 18–22°C, so a 3/2 mm is comfortable October–April. Summer you might go boardshort-only, but we always recommend a thin 2/2 mm for sun protection.
The bay is flat-water gold, but the exposed beach 10 minutes north catches Atlantic swell. If you want waves, it's a short drive; if you want flat, you've found paradise.
