Spot Update: El Médano - Stations and shops in Tenerife's windsurfing capital

Back in the early 1990s, El Médano in the south-east of the island hosted the big surf magazine test and scrutinised all categories, from beginner boards to wave boards. This shows just how diverse the area is. El Médano offers two very different spots: In the sheltered south bay, freeriders, racers and intermediates get their money's worth. The conditions are moderate and larger Atlantic waves are kept outside. Only experienced surfers should go outside the bay. Close to the beach and in the direction of El Médano, the spot is also suitable for beginners and beginner lessons are organised when there is less wind. A small, good-natured wave awaits at the harbour pier. However, windsurfers share the spot with many kiters.

Playa del Cabezo to the north-east of the town centre is a completely different story: it really gets down to business here. Powerful waves with a diagonal onshore wind make this World Cup spot a playground for jumps and wave rides for experienced surfers. However, Cabezo is unsuitable for beginners - not least because of the notorious "Godzilla" rock.

• El Medano, El Cabezo and co: the best windsurfing spots on Tenerife

Tenerife offers constant conditions and good infrastructure

Although the north-east trade wind is not as reliable during the winter months as it is in midsummer, it is still more than good compared to many other European spots. The conditions have remained constant, while the windsurfing infrastructure around the spots is constantly changing. Since the modern Severne centre "Surfhub" in Cabezo has closed its doors, the southern bay of Médano has become the centre of operations. There you will find several well-equipped rental centres with the latest equipment. There are numerous bars, restaurants and shops in the village. It can get crowded here, especially during the holiday season. There are a few hotels, such as the new "Playa Surf" at the southern end of the bay, but overall there are significantly more flats, some with space for storing equipment. The German windsurfer Jochen Stolz organises numerous accommodations in a wide range of price categories at www.medano4you.com. Flights to Tenerife are available, for example, from Condor from many German airports for less than 100.00 euros.

In the south bay you will find several well-equipped rental centres with the latest equipment."

Tenerife Windsurf Solutions (TWS)

TWS is a central contact point for windsurfers of all levels and offers flexible hire packages (including slalom and freeride) with high-quality equipment. Windsurfing equipment from numerous manufacturers awaits you right on the beach. Combined with training, clinics spread throughout the year with stars such as Antoine Albeau or Dieter Van der Eyken and personalised advice, TWS is very popular with ambitious windsurfers who want to rent flexibly or work specifically on their technique. Info under tws-windsurf.com

• Behind the scenes at TWS slalom training in Tenerife

Duotone Pro Centre

Here, Duotone fans will find the latest range, from extensions and accessories to the latest wave or freeride boards, also just a few metres from the water's edge. There is also a lounge and chill area and an action photo service. The rescue service always keeps an eye on the bay. Info under dpc-tenerife.com

Red Rock Surf Academy

Right next to the Duotone Pro Centre is the narrow entrance to the small Red Rock Surf Academy. Not only surfers are trained here, but windsurfers will also find a wide range of courses on offer. Equipment hire is also available. Info under redrocksurf.com

Wind Centre Playa Surf

In the newly opened wind centre right next to the "Playa Surf" hotel in the very south of the bay, Dany Bruch, among others, is working with Break boards and sailing at home. The centre is also the main sponsor of the PWA World Cupswhich makes a guest appearance in El Médano in the summer. In addition to equipment hire and individual or group lessons for beginners and intermediates, private lessons are also offered for advanced skiers with worldcupper Tim van Dam. Info under windcenterplayasurf.com

Godzilla Surf Shop

A windsurfing shop in the centre of Médano - not only do you shop here, but advanced surfers can also hire wave equipment from Quatro and Goya for the waves of Cabezo. "Feel like it's your own equipment" is the slogan. In contrast to the centres, the equipment here is not ready and waiting on the beach, but has to be transported and rigged yourself - wherever and whenever, just like with your own equipment. The Godzilla Shop also offers training for all skill levels. Info under godzillasurfshop.es

TWS Shop

The shop is part of the Tenerife Windsurf Solution network and serves as a local point of contact for windsurfers who want to buy equipment or accessories locally and are looking for expert advice. The shop is just a few steps away from the famous El Cabezo spot. Info under tws-windsurf.com/shop

Wet Watersports

Anyone looking for branded accessories or surf-style clothing should stop by WET. And if you happen to come across the Godzilla rock, the shop's repair service is also a direct point of contact at the spot. Info at wet-watersports.com