El Médano is a coastal gem in Tenerife South that attracts a different kind of resident – one who values authenticity, nature, and a strong sense of community over flashy resort life. Known as the island’s windsurfing and kitesurfing capital, El Médano blends relaxed beach vibes with a bohemian spirit. It has grown from a quiet fishing village into a thriving residential town with its own identity, far removed from the polished luxury of nearby Costa Adeje. Those who choose to live here are often drawn by its charm, the lifestyle centered around the ocean, and a feeling of belonging that can be hard to find in more tourist-oriented parts of the island. 

Housing prices in El Médano are more accessible than in the high-end coastal zones like El Duque or Playa del Duque, although demand has risen in recent years. A small one-bedroom apartment near the center or beach might range from €180,000 to €250,000 depending on condition and location, while larger two- or three-bedroom homes typically fall between €250,000 and €450,000. Properties with sea views or direct beach access are understandably priced higher. Detached homes or duplexes are rare in the core area but can be found in the surrounding neighborhoods, often from €500,000 upwards. While still affordable compared to northern European markets, El Médano has experienced growing interest from both locals and foreigners looking for a more laid-back lifestyle near the sea, which has gradually driven up prices.

The IBI (property tax) in El Médano is in line with other areas in the municipality of Granadilla de Abona, and remains relatively low. A typical apartment might incur an annual IBI of €250–€400, while a standalone house might see costs slightly above that. Community fees vary depending on the complex, but are generally moderate – ranging from €40 to €100 per month for apartment blocks with shared facilities like elevators, garages, or pools. Unlike tourist complexes with extensive amenities, most residences in El Médano are simpler and more residential in character. This means lower ongoing costs for owners, though without luxury extras. For buyers looking to avoid large monthly expenses while still owning close to the beach, El Médano is an attractive option.

Residential options in El Médano range from compact seaside apartments to modern developments further inland. Complexes like Los Martines, La Tejita Residencial, and Vista Roja are among the more modern and well-maintained, offering amenities like underground parking, shared pools, and walking access to beaches. Sotavento Suites and La Tejita Luxury Apartments, located slightly outside the center near the stunning La Tejita Beach, provide a more upscale and quiet alternative for those seeking more space and ocean views, while still remaining close to El Médano’s core. The town center itself offers older buildings with a lot of charm and unbeatable access to the seafront promenade and local cafés, though often without lifts or parking. Choosing between central authenticity and the newer outlying developments depends on lifestyle preferences – whether you value being in the heart of local life or prefer modern comfort and tranquility.

Living in El Médano means living right on the sea. The town is bordered by wide, sandy beaches and protected natural reserves. Playa del Médano and Playa de La Tejita are favorites for wind and watersports, and the long beachfront promenade is perfect for running, strolling, or enjoying a coffee with a sea breeze. While the waves and wind can be strong at times – especially during the afternoon – they are part of the area’s charm and rhythm of life. You won’t find beach clubs or flashy beach bars here, but you will find surf schools, local restaurants, small music events, and a thriving outdoor café culture. Everything is within walking distance, from supermarkets to medical centers, and there’s a strong focus on sustainability and healthy living. That said, it’s not the place for luxury shopping or late-night nightlife – this is a town that quiets down in the evening and rises with the sun and the swell.

The weather in El Médano is typical of the southern coast of Tenerife, with sunshine nearly all year round and average temperatures between 22°C and 28°C. Winters are warm and dry, while summers remain comfortable due to the coastal breeze. However, El Médano is also known for its wind – a defining feature of the local climate. This makes it paradise for windsurfing and kitesurfing, but may not appeal to everyone. On especially windy days, beach lounging can be less comfortable, though the town has many sheltered spots and locals are well accustomed to it. Rain is rare, and the proximity to natural spaces like Montaña Roja gives residents quick access to hiking trails and panoramic viewpoints, offering a balance between ocean and desert landscapes.

The community in El Médano is one of its biggest draws. The town has a strong Canarian identity, with a tight-knit local population, but also welcomes a steady stream of international residents – especially from Italy, Germany, France, and Scandinavia. Many expats here are surfers, freelancers, digital nomads, or retirees seeking simplicity and sea air over big city life. There’s a warm, small-town feel: people greet each other in the street, local shopkeepers remember your name, and cultural events (like the famous kite festival) bring everyone together. Spanish is the primary language in daily life, but many residents speak some English, and there’s an openness to newcomers. If you’re looking for a community where integration is possible, El Médano offers that – but it also asks that you participate, contribute, and adapt to its rhythm.

El Médano isn’t for everyone – and that’s what makes it special. It’s not the most polished or luxurious place to live in Tenerife, and the wind can be challenging for those who prefer stillness. But for people who value authenticity, access to nature, and a slower, surf-inspired way of life, it offers something unique. You can walk barefoot to the beach, eat fresh fish in a family-run restaurant, and spend your days under a sun that rarely leaves. With a growing property market, manageable costs, and a lifestyle rooted in simplicity and the sea, El Médano continues to attract residents who see beauty in the breeze.