Fuerteventura: What to See + 30 Most Beautiful Places

Last Updated on 7.2.2026 by Pája

Are you heading on holiday to the Canary Islands? Every year we go to one island, and this year it was Fuerteventura. It completely blew us away and was one of the most beautiful islands we’ve ever visited. If you love sand, volcanoes, and wind in your hair, you’ll enjoy it just as much as we did. We drove across the island from one end to the other and we have loads of tips for you on what to see in Fuerteventura, what you can do here, and which places we loved the most. Fuerteventura – what to see and what not to miss?

Why Fuerteventura (Spain)

Fuerteventura is a place of endless beaches, fine sand, and beautifully clear water. If you’re into water sports, you’ll find ideal conditions for surfing, kiting, and windsurfing thanks to the constant wind. If you prefer trips and sightseeing, you’ll enjoy volcanoes, sand dunes, and views that are truly worth it. And when you’ve had enough, you can hide away in a quiet little village, have some great food, and realize that life here is simply easy-going and calm. 

Fuerteventura – what to see: 30 places you shouldn’t miss

We’ve picked out for you pretty much all the interesting places—from beaches to mountains, from volcanoes to villages and lighthouses—and we’ve also included accommodation on Fuerteventura, so we believe everyone will find what tempts them the most. Our absolute favorites were the entire Corralejo area in the north, Cofete Beach, the hike to the highest mountain Pico de la Zarza, and Popcorn Beach along with the beaches in the south. And also our rooftop hot tub, which we had for free as part of the accommodation we’ll share with you below.

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Playa de Cofete – a beach at the end of the world

Number one is definitely Cofete Beach. It’s hard to describe in words, but imagine a beach stretching 12 km, surrounded by majestic mountains. A beach where wild Atlantic waves constantly crash onto the shore and where, aside from sand and an old cemetery, you won’t find any civilization. According to many surveys, Playa de Cofete ranks among the most beautiful beaches not only in Europe, but in the world. It’s a place where you feel like you’re at the end of the world—beyond nine mountains and nine volcanoes. It’s not ideal for swimming because of strong currents, but the drive and the beach itself are absolutely worth it.

🏠 ACCOMMODATION TIP: Looking for a place to stay near Cofete? We really liked the area of Playa Jandía, with a gorgeous beach and plenty of peace and quiet.

How to get to Playa de Cofete?

Getting to Cofete is an adventure in itself. Dusty roads lead here across the Jandía mountains and a 4×4 is often recommended, but the roads are straight and in really good condition—so we even saw plenty of tiny Fiats and cars that a typical off-road route wouldn’t handle (anyone who’s been to Albania knows). If you don’t feel confident, there’s also a bus, although it’s quite expensive. The moment the view opens up to that endless beach and wild ocean, you’ll see why this place feels magical.

Las Peñitas Gorge

Las Peñitas Gorge in the central part of the island is a beautiful valley with a stream that forms small pools among the rocks. A marked hiking trail runs through it, perfect for an easy nature walk. We were surprised that the little pools have a toxic green color, as if Shrek had been bathing in them. Either way, it’s a great shorter hike. You can walk all the way to beautiful rock formations through an oasis. Fuerteventura – what to see and what else not to miss?

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Playa de Sotavento – the European Caribbean

If you’re looking for calmer swimming, Playa de Sotavento is like a European Caribbean. Imagine miles of vast sandy flats and turquoise sea, which at high tide turn into huge lagoons with shallow, bright blue water. It’s a place where you can swim in peace, sunbathe on soft sand, and admire the stunning palette of colors.

TIP: If you’re looking for a calmer area for surfing or kitesurfing, you’ll find plenty of surf schools here, because this area is ideal for beginners.

Kilometers of white sand at Playa de Corralejo

In the north of the island lies Playa de Corralejo, another gem among Fuerteventura’s beaches. In the distance, the silhouette of Lobos Island rises majestically, and you can take a boat trip there. This beach is ideal for long walks, sunbathing, and swimming. Here you can watch kitesurfing live, and there are also lots of surfers. The sea is a bit wilder, so it’s better suited to more experienced swimmers and riders.

TIP: Do you surf but didn’t bring your board? No worries— in Corralejo you can rent one along with a wetsuit for 15 EUR per day (it’s much more expensive on the beach where surf lessons happen).

Sand dunes and Dunas de Corralejo

Have you ever been to a desert? In Parque Natural de Corralejo you can try walking across sand dunes, roll in the sand from head to toe, or simply admire the simplicity and beauty. The dunes are just a short distance from the popular Grandes Playas Corralejo beach, which you definitely won’t miss. It’s stunning here at sunset.

🏠 ACCOMMODATION TIP: In Corralejo we stayed in a great rooftop Falco 3 apartment, which—besides excellent facilities—also had a luxurious rooftop hot tub that we could use during our stay.

Surfer’s paradise El Cotillo

El Cotillo is a charming little town in the northwest, famous for its surfer vibe and beautiful beaches such as Playa Chica, Playa la Barra, Playa de Marfolin, or Playa los Lagos. You’ll find both wild beaches with big waves and calm lagoons with white sand and turquoise water. The Faro del Tostón lighthouse, with views towards Lanzarote, is also worth a visit. 

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The town and area of Corralejo

Corralejo is probably the liveliest town on the northern tip of the island, which never sleeps (unlike other parts of the island, which are very quiet). There are plenty of charming restaurants and spots, and above all a surfer community that adds a wilder vibe to it all. It’s also the starting point for visiting the stunning sand dunes of Corralejo Natural Park and for trips to the nearby island of Lobos.

TIP: In the north of the island we also recommend visiting Mirador Morro Velosa, designed by the famous architect  César Manrique, where you can enjoy the views.

Playa de El Castillo

In the resort town of Caleta de Fuste you’ll find Playa de El Castillo, a popular beach with fine white sand and calm, shallow water. It’s a bay where the waves only gently roll in and where you can swim peacefully or simply float on the surface. So if you prefer calm seas, this is the place to go.

Popcorn Beach – Playa del Bajo de la Burra

One of the most popular places you must not miss on Fuerteventura is the so-called Popcorn Beach (officially Playa del Bajo de la Burra). It’s a truly unique beach in the northern part of the island, covered with white pebbles shaped like popcorn. In reality, these are remnants of red calcareous algae called rhodoliths, which after dying become coated with calcium and, under the influence of the ocean, start to pale and harden. Over long periods of water and sand action, these fragile, porous formations become rounded and take on the popcorn-like shape. 

It takes hundreds to thousands of years, and they are now part of the local ecosystem, so collecting them is forbidden (in case you wanted to take a piece home).

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The fishing town of Morro Jable 

Morro Jable lies on the southernmost tip of the island and will charm you with its blend of an old fishing town and a modern resort. Stroll through the picturesque lanes of the old part and then let yourself be carried away by the beauty of the several-kilometer-long Playa de Matorral beach with crystal-clear water. At the end of the promenade you’ll be greeted by the majestic Faro de Morro Jable lighthouse.

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The former capital La Oliva

La Oliva, the former capital of the island, is now a quiet inland town with a rich history. You can visit museums and galleries that bring you closer to Fuerteventura’s traditions and history, and see the local church. The surrounding landscape is dotted with traditional windmills. So if you’re passing by, it’s a nice place to stop for a coffee.

TIP: Do you love small off-the-beaten-path towns full of history? Then you’ll also like the town of Betancuria.

The resort of Costa Calma 

Costa Calma is a sprawling resort area with many hotels and resorts. Its unique location on the edge of the desert that splits the island gives it an exotic feel. On one side you have sandy beaches, on the other the mountains rise—hiding the famous Cofete beach behind them. If you don’t want to move around too much during your trip, this is a convenient base with relatively short distances to most places.

The village of Ajuy

The small village of Ajuy will surprise you with its magical black volcanic sand beach, a silent witness to ancient volcanic activity. Besides the beach, you can explore coastal caves and soak up the atmosphere of the wild west coast.

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Trip to Lobos Island (nature reserve)

The small island of Lobos, located north of Fuerteventura, is a protected nature reserve with beautiful beaches, crystal-clear water, and rich marine life. It’s ideal for hiking, snorkeling, and diving. You can get here on regular boat services from the port in Corralejo. A boat trip can also be combined with dolphin spotting or sunset.

TIP: You can book the trip online via GetYourGuide, where we often book ourselves and can absolutely recommend it. 

The resort of Gran Tarajal

Gran Tarajal is a smaller, quieter resort on the east coast. Its picturesque village of white and colorful houses lies in a bay beneath dark volcanic cliffs. Right in town you’ll find a black-sand beach, typical for most of the Canary Islands.

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Boat trip to Lanzarote and Timanfaya National Park

A trip from Fuerteventura to neighboring Lanzarote, specifically to Timanfaya National Park, is an unforgettable experience that will show you a completely different world in a single day. From the port of Corralejo it’s a 30-minute ferry to Playa Blanca, from where you continue towards a volcanic landscape full of lava fields, craters, and geothermal phenomena.

Entry to Timanfaya Park is only possible as part of an organized tour ride, which takes you through the most breathtaking spots and shows what it looks like when the planet is boiling under the surface (the ground here is still very hot, which is why you can’t access it except by bus—still, it’s absolutely worth it).

TIP: You can also book a full-day trip from Fuerteventura to Lanzarote with GetYourGuide and not worry about anything 🙂

The American Star shipwreck

The waves off Fuerteventura’s west coast hide the remains of the once-famous ship SS America, which met its fate on a dramatic stretch near Playa de Garcey. This huge ship, originally built for the U.S. Navy, was supposed to be moved in 1994 (not 1944) to Thailand, where it would become a luxury floating hotel. But fate had other plans—during transport it was caught in a violent storm, broke free from the tow, and without a crew crashed into the rocks along the coast. The impact split it in two, and within a few years it gradually fell apart.

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Punta Jandía Lighthouse

Punta Jandía Lighthouse is one of the oldest in the Canary Islands and stands at the southernmost point of Fuerteventura. It offers beautiful views of the open sea and the Jandía mountains. Locals call it El Faro de la Lola.

Ruta del Pico de la Zarza – the hike to the island’s highest mountain

Do you like hiking? Then go for Fuerteventura’s highest mountain, Pico de la Zarza (807 m). The route starts from the resort of Morro Jable in the south, specifically near the Barcelo hotel—there you’ll also find the marked trailhead. The route is 7.5 km long (and the same back), with an elevation gain of over 700 meters. You’ll walk on a maintained mountain trail, so nothing technically difficult. It took us about 1.5 hours up, and slightly less on the way down. From the top of Pico de la Zarza you’ll have a beautiful view of the whole island and you can even see Cofete Beach from above.

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Cuchillos De Vigán Nature Reserve

This extensive nature reserve stretches through the central part of the island and is named after its distinctive peaks that resemble knives. In the north there is the old Majorero settlement, and in the south the Cap Punta de la Entallada lighthouse. The reserve is easily accessible by car via various roads. If you love nature and hiking, you can set off to explore.

Bayuyo Volcano

What would a trip to Fuerte be if you didn’t climb at least one volcano? The area around Bayuyo Volcano north of Corralejo is a remnant of the island’s most recent volcanic eruptions. You can see lava fields and craters that shaped the northern part of Fuerteventura. The area is easily reachable by car from Corralejo. 

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The capital: Puerto del Rosario

Puerto del Rosario is the capital of Fuerteventura and the island’s industrial, commercial, and transport center. You’ll find the airport, port, shops, and restaurants here. The city has a modern feel and offers a glimpse into everyday island life. Puerto del Rosario is easily accessible from anywhere on the island thanks to good transport infrastructure.

If you’re passing through, you can stop by local markets or grab something tasty. Nearby there is also the beautiful Playa de El Castillo beach with fine white sand and calm, shallow water. It’s a bay with peaceful water and surroundings.

Oasis Park Fuerteventura

Oasis Park is the largest zoo and botanical park in the Canary Islands. You can see thousands of animals from around the world and explore a vast botanical garden full of cacti. The park also offers various shows and activities. So if you’re on Fuerteventura with kids and want a break from the sea and beaches, it’s a good stop.

The cave village of Los Molinos

The village of Los Molinos on the west of the island will charm you with its typical architecture of white houses. South of the beach you’ll find the interesting coastal caves Cuevas de Los Molinos, which you can reach at low tide.

Playa de Esquinzo

If you’re in the southern part of the island, we highly recommend Playa de Esquinzo. It’s long, with white sand, and the sea here is calm—plus you’ll see lots of lava rocks that people stack into wind shields. Surf lessons take place here, so it’s a great spot for beginners. And you’ll also catch beautiful sunrises here.

Faro del Tostón Lighthouse

Faro del Tostón lighthouse, standing north of El Cotillo, is one of the few working lighthouses on the island. Besides the historic building itself, you’ll find a maritime and fisheries museum and a small café. From the lighthouse tower you get beautiful views of the surrounding coastline and, in good weather, even of Lanzarote.

Mirador Astronómico de Sicasumbre

For everyone who loves the night sky, this viewpoint inland is an absolute treasure. Far from the city’s light pollution, you’ll get an incredible view of the stars, and if you’re lucky, you’ll even see our Milky Way in all its glory.

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Punta Entallada Lighthouse

On the easternmost tip of Fuerteventura stands this unique lighthouse from 1955, whose Moorish-style architecture will catch your eye at first glance. Besides the beauty of the building itself, you can enjoy stunning ocean views from here—and, above all, an unforgettable sunrise.

The village of Tefía

If you’re driving through the inland areas of the northern part of the island, stop in the small village of Tefía. Its calm atmosphere and traditional windmills rising above the landscape will remind you of old times and make a pleasant coffee stop.

Flag Beach: kitesurfing and windsurfing

Tempted by water sports? This is the place for kitesurfing and windsurfing—Flag Beach near Corralejo is an absolute paradise. Steady wind and a wide sandy beach create ideal conditions for these adrenaline activities, as well as for relaxed chilling and watching the waves.

Playa Esmeralda

If you’re looking for a beautiful beach with calm, emerald-colored water and convenience near hotels, Playa Esmeralda is a great tip. It’s an ideal spot for lounging in the sun and carefree swimming.

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West coast – Aguas Verdes (and Playa de las Muertes)

For those who prefer rougher beauty and wild waves, Fuerteventura’s west coast with the Aguas Verdes area and Playa de las Muertes is the right choice. It’s a surfers’ paradise and a place with an untamed natural atmosphere, ideal for long walks along the shoreline.

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Travel tips for Fuerteventura

Before you go, we recommend keeping an eye out for cheap flights (we got ours for 1,500 CZK round trip with a direct flight), arranging a rental car in advance, and most importantly accommodation—because we booked ours at the last minute and it was a bit of a pain.

Fuerteventura flights – when is the best time to buy?

From Prague or Vienna, you can get to Fuerteventura easily either by a direct flight or. The flight takes about 5 hours, and you won’t have to deal with any major jet lag. The best flight prices are often found from Vienna, where you can get round-trip tickets from around 1,500 CZK (price as of December 2024, which is what we managed to snag). 

Flight prices throughout the year:

• High season (July–August): 6,000 – 10,000 CZK round trip
• Shoulder season (May, June, September): 3,000 – 6,000 CZK round trip
• Off season (October–April): from 1,500 to 4,000 CZK

Fuerteventura weather – when to go?

The island offers pleasant weather year-round with minimal fluctuations, so you can travel to Fuerteventura practically anytime. In our opinion, the best periods are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November), when there are fewer tourists than in summer or around Christmas.

Just keep in mind that it’s almost always windy on the island. That’s great because it cools you down pleasantly on hot days, but for those who want complete calm on the beach, it can be a downside. The wind also often whips up sand, so it’s good to count on that.

The best accommodation in Fuerteventura

Even though we sorted out accommodation in Fuerteventura quite late, we managed to find absolutely amazing accommodation with a rooftop hot tub included for a great price in the Corralejo area. As they say: those who search, find. We split our trip—half in the north in Corralejo and half in the south in the Jandía area. Thanks to that, we comfortably explored the whole island. What accommodation can we recommend?

• Great stay at Falco 3 in Corralejo with a hot tub

Car rental in Fuerteventura

There is public transport on Fuerteventura, of course, but it doesn’t run very often, so if you don’t want to spend a long time waiting for a bus that may or may not arrive, we recommend renting a car. We rented through Sixt and everything went smoothly, and when returning it we simply parked at the designated spot at the airport, dropped the keys in the box, and that was it.

Where it’s least windy on Fuerteventura

Fuerteventura is windy, but it’s a bit calmer in autumn. Where is it the least windy?

• Caleta de Fuste – a sheltered bay, ideal for kids.
• Playa del Jablito – a quiet beach south of Corralejo.
• Corralejo – parts of the town are sheltered from the wind.
• Costa Calma & Sotavento – popular, less windy areas.

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Trips in Fuerteventura and what not to forget

Trips on Fuerteventura can be really varied and everyone will find something that interests them. Wherever you go, don’t forget that the sun really hits hard here—even in December. So make sure to bring sunscreen and water so you don’t get burned.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)