Alcalá

Although a few world-class windsurfing stars have gained attention with big-wave videos of 'Caleta' and 'Bajamar', Tenerife's inhospitable north shore is generally considered unrideable for windsports. The rugged west coast isn't much friendlier and south of Los Gigantes, a heavy shorebreak, huge wind-shadow and sharp volcanic shoreline still mean that even the bravest pro riders only stand a 50:50 chance of getting away from Alcalá in one piece. The often mast-high waves also break in pretty shallow water and you'll have to come to an arrangement with the local surfers. But the waters here are still worth a look, as this is one of Europe's best whale-watching areas.