Place to be: Tenerife - a year-round destination with character

The constant trade winds make the largest of the Canary Islands a real hotspot for board sports. Surfers, windsurfers, kitesurfers and stand-up paddlers find conditions here that are unrivalled in Europe. The south-east coast around El Médano in particular has established itself as an international centre for windsurfing and kitesurfing. Here, a relaxed, sporty atmosphere meets reliable wind - one reason why professionals and ambitious amateurs gather here year after year to train, compete or simply relax. While powerful waves roll in at El Cabezo beach and make the spot a place for experienced wave riders, the bay off El Médano is a playground for freeriders, racers and intermediates. The conditions here are moderate and there is a wide range of surf centres and shops.

But classic surfers also get their money's worth. The most powerful breaks can be found in the north and north-west of the island, where the open Atlantic Ocean provides energetic swells. These spots are particularly interesting for experienced surfers looking for challenging conditions. In the south and south-west, on the other hand, the waves are often more moderate - ideal for beginners or relaxed sessions. The conditions vary depending on the time of year, meaning that Tenerife offers a variety of surfing experiences all year round. A special highlight in the international surfing calendar is the Las Américas Pro surf festival, which takes place every year between the end of November and the beginning of December. This is when the famous "Spanish Left", one of Spain's best-known waves, is created at Playa de las Américas. For a fortnight, everything revolves around surfing at the highest level, accompanied by cultural events, environmental initiatives and a lively community. The event is organised in collaboration with European and Spanish surfing associations and attracts participants from all over the world.

Tenerife is also one of the most important stages in Europe for windsurfers: the Windsurf Grand Slam in El Médano is back on the tour calendar and is an important step on the way to the world title. The combination of constant wind, reliable conditions and an international field of participants makes the event a must on the scene's calendar.

Away from the waves, Tenerife's coastline is just as diverse. Black volcanic beaches, golden sandy bays and natural seawater pools characterise the island - impressive backdrops that accompany every surf session. Spots like El Médano epitomise the combination of nature, sport and relaxed lifestyle that makes Tenerife so special.

The marine ecosystem also adds to the fascination: Bottlenose dolphins and pilot whales live permanently off the south coast. In the protected area between Teno and Rasca - Europe's first whale sanctuary - these animals can be observed with respect. For many water sports enthusiasts, this natural experience is just as much a part of the island experience as the perfect wave.

Tenerife combines everything that makes a modern surfing destination: good conditions, diverse spots, international events and impressive nature. Whether you're a beginner or a pro - if you get on a board here, you'll not only find waves, but also a year-round area with character.

You can find more information about Tenerife on webtenerife.com or on the social media channels of Turismo de Tenerife:

• Instagram: @visit_tenerife
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