El Médano, Tenerife: Beach, Montaña Roja and Useful Tips

Updated in 2026. El Médano is one of the places with the most personality in southern Tenerife: beach, wind, surfing, kitesurfing, seafront terraces, a local atmosphere, and the reddish outline of Montaña Roja defining the landscape.

But this guide is not going to paint a postcard without context. In 2026, swimming in the Leocadio Machado area was temporarily prohibited because of the presence of E. coli. The closure was ordered on 7 July and lifted on 9 July following new tests. Therefore, as well as telling you what to see, here is a basic reminder: before swimming, check the flag, municipal notices, and the health report if you have any doubts.

What makes El Médano special

El Médano is unlike other areas in the south. It has tourism, yes, but also the life of a coastal village, athletes, families, surf schools, residents, lively squares, and a seafront promenade that invites you to stay longer than planned.

WebTenerife highlights its fine grey sand, the view of Montaña Roja, and the promenade’s cosmopolitan atmosphere, with surf shops, restaurants, and cafés. It is a beach for swimming when conditions are suitable, but also for watching the sea, having something to eat or drink, and seeing kitesurfing kites in the sky.

El Médano Beach and Leocadio Machado

The area closest to the village is usually the most family-friendly. As you continue towards Leocadio Machado and Montaña Roja, wind and water sports become more prominent. If you are going with children, stay in the more sheltered section and always check the flag.

Important update: Granadilla Town Council temporarily closed Leocadio Machado Beach in 2026 because of high E. coli levels. The beach reopened for swimming in 2026. Even so, it is responsible to check the water quality status and flags on the day of your visit.

Montaña Roja

Montaña Roja is El Médano’s natural icon. WebTenerife describes the Special Nature Reserve as a 166-hectare area with inorganic sands, wetlands, and protected birds such as the Kentish plover. The volcanic cone reaches approximately 171 metres in height and forms one of the most recognisable profiles in southern Tenerife.

If you climb it, do so respectfully: stay on the trails, do not disturb birds, leave no litter, and avoid the hottest hours of the day. The climb is not extremely long, but the wind and sun can make it tougher.

La Tejita Beach

On the other side of Montaña Roja is La Tejita, a large, natural, and very beautiful beach for walking. It is less urban than El Médano and usually feels more open. It can also be windy and have waves, so do not treat it like a swimming pool.

If you only have one morning, you can walk around El Médano, approach Montaña Roja, and finish at La Tejita to see the contrast between the village, reserve, and natural beach.

Parking and how to get there

By car, El Médano is close to Tenerife South Airport and is easily reached from Costa Adeje, Los Cristianos, or Santa Cruz via the southern motorway. The problem is usually not getting there, but parking on days with good strong winds, at weekends, or during events.

Go early if you want the beach. If you are only going for dinner or a walk, accept that you may need to walk a little from less central areas. Driving right up to the main square at peak time is an extreme sport, but not one that earns you a medal.

Things to do in El Médano

• Swim in the urban area: if the flag and conditions allow it.
• Try surfing, windsurfing, or kitesurfing: with a school and according to your ability.
• Walk towards Montaña Roja: one of the most beautiful walks in the south.
• Eat or have a drink by the sea: the atmosphere is part of the experience.
• Watch the sunset: especially if the wind drops and the sky clears.
• Check Sansofé 2026: Granadilla’s summer cultural programme includes activities in El Médano and Los Abrigos.

Vanessa’s tips for a trouble-free visit

• Take a light layer even when it is warm.
• If you are going with children, look for the village’s most sheltered area.
• Do not underestimate the sun: the wind is deceptive, and you can still burn.
• Check health notices and the flag before swimming.
• Book a table if you are going at the weekend and want dinner by the sea.

Frequently asked questions about El Médano

Where is El Médano?

El Médano is in the municipality of Granadilla de Abona, in southern Tenerife, close to Tenerife South Airport.

Is it a good beach for children?

Yes, especially the area closest to the village when conditions are calm. If there is strong wind, waves, or an unfavourable flag, it is better to stay on the promenade or look for a more sheltered beach.

Can you climb Montaña Roja?

Yes, there are trails in the Special Nature Reserve. You must respect the protected area, stay on the path, and avoid the hottest hours of the day.

Is the beach open for swimming?

The Leocadio Machado area reopened in 2026 after a temporary closure. Even so, always check the flag, municipal notices, and the health report on the day of your visit.

Sources consulted for this update: WebTenerife, Granadilla de Abona Town Council, RTVC, the Government of the Canary Islands, and TenerifeON.

To complete the day without jumping from one search to another, save our guide to the best beaches in Tenerife and, if you fancy a more volcanic route, our selection of Tenerife’s black-sand beaches.