Fuerteventura: What to See – 30 Places Not to Miss

Last updated 5.11.2026

Planning a holiday in the Canary Islands? Every year we pick one island to explore, and this time it was Fuerteventura. It completely swept us off our feet and turned out to be one of the most beautiful islands we’ve ever set foot on. If you love sand, volcanoes and wind in your hair, you’ll enjoy it just as much as we did. We criss-crossed the island from top to bottom, so we’ve got plenty of tips on what to see in Fuerteventura, what there is to do and which spots we loved the most. So, what to see in Fuerteventura and what should you not miss?

Why Fuerteventura (Spain)

Fuerteventura is a place of endless beaches, powder-soft sand and beautifully clear water. If you’re into watersports, you’ll find ideal conditions for surfing, kiting and windsurfing thanks to the steady wind. And if you’d rather explore, there are volcanoes, sand dunes and views that genuinely stop you in your tracks. When you’ve had your fill of all that, you can retreat to a quiet little village, tuck into a good meal and realise that life here simply runs at an easier, calmer pace. 

Fuerteventura: What to See – 30 Places Not to Miss

We’ve rounded up just about every spot worth your time, from beaches and mountains to volcanoes, villages and lighthouses, along with a few tips on where to stay on Fuerteventura, so we’re confident everyone will find something that speaks to them. Our own favourites were the whole Corralejo area in the north, Cofete beach, the trek up the island’s highest peak Pico de la Zarza, and Popcorn Beach along with the beaches in the south. Oh, and our rooftop hot tub, which came free as part of the accommodation we’ll tell you about below.

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Playa de Cofete, the Beach at the End of the World

Number one is, without a doubt, Playa de Cofete. Words can barely do it justice, but picture a beach stretching for 12 km, hemmed in by towering mountains. A beach where the wild Atlantic waves crash endlessly onto the shore, and where the only signs of anything beyond sand are an old cemetery — no civilisation to speak of. By many accounts, Playa de Cofete ranks among the most beautiful beaches not just in Europe but in the world. It’s a place where you feel like you’ve reached the very end of the world, beyond nine mountains and nine volcanoes. The strong currents mean it’s not one for swimming, but the journey and the beach itself are absolutely worth it.

🏠 WHERE TO STAY: Looking for a base near Cofete? We loved staying in Playa Jandía, with its gorgeous beach and real peace and quiet.

How to get to Playa de Cofete?

Getting to Cofete is an adventure in its own right. The route follows dusty tracks over the Jandía mountains and a 4×4 is usually recommended, but the roads are level and in genuinely good condition, so we spotted plenty of tiny Fiats and cars there that would never handle proper off-roading (anyone who’s driven in Albania knows exactly what we mean). If you’d rather not risk it, there’s a bus that runs out here too, though it’s fairly pricey. The moment that endless beach and the wild ocean open up in front of you, you’ll see just how magical this place is.

The Las Peñitas Gorge

The Las Peñitas gorge in the central part of the island is a lovely valley with a stream that forms little rock pools. A waymarked walking trail runs through it, perfect for an easy stroll in nature. We were surprised to find that the little pools are a vivid, almost radioactive green, as if Shrek himself had been for a dip. Either way, it’s a brilliant shorter hike. You can walk all the way to some beautiful rock formations through an oasis. What else is worth seeing in Fuerteventura? Read on.

Playa de Sotavento, Europe’s Own Caribbean

If it’s calmer swimming you’re after, Playa de Sotavento is a little slice of the Caribbean in Europe. Picture kilometres of vast sandy flats and turquoise sea that, at high tide, turn into enormous lagoons of shallow, dazzling blue water. It’s the sort of place where you can swim in peace, soak up the sun on the fine sand and simply take in that gorgeous palette of colours.

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

Kilometres of White Sand at Playa de Corralejo

In the north of the island lies Playa de Corralejo, another jewel among Fuerteventura’s beaches. In the distance, the silhouette of Lobos island rises majestically, and you can head over there on a boat trip. This beach is perfect for long walks, sunbathing and swimming. You’ll catch kitesurfing live in action here, along with plenty of surfers. The sea is a touch wilder here, so it’s better suited to more confident, experienced swimmers.

TIP: Fancy a surf but didn’t bring a board? No problem, in the town of Corralejo you can hire one along with a wetsuit for €15 a day (it’s much dearer at the beaches where surf lessons take place).

The Sand Dunes of Dunas de Corralejo

Ever been to a desert? In the Parque Natural de Corralejo you can wander across the sand dunes, roll around in the sand from head to toe or simply drink in the sheer simplicity and beauty of it all. The dunes sit right next to the much-loved Grandes Playas Corralejo, which you really can’t miss. It’s an absolute stunner, especially at sunset.

🏠 WHERE TO STAY: In Corralejo we stayed in a fantastic rooftop apartment, Falco 3, which, on top of great facilities, also had a luxurious rooftop hot tub we could use throughout our stay.

El Cotillo, a Surfer’s Paradise

El Cotillo is a charming little town in the north-west, famous for its laid-back surfer vibe and gorgeous beaches such as Playa Chica, Playa la Barra, Playa de Marfolín and Playa los Lagos. You’ll find both wild beaches with big waves and calm lagoons of white sand and turquoise water. The Faro del Tostón lighthouse, with its views across to Lanzarote, is well worth a visit too. 

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The Town and Area of Corralejo

Corralejo is probably the liveliest town on the northern tip of the island, a place that never sleeps (unlike other parts of the island, which are wonderfully quiet). It’s packed with pretty restaurants and bars and, above all, a surfer community that gives the whole place a slightly wilder edge. It’s also the launch pad for visiting the beautiful sand dunes of the Corralejo national park and for trips to nearby Lobos island.

TIP: In the north of the island we also recommend a drive up to the Mirador Morro Velosa, designed by the celebrated architect César Manrique, where you can soak up the views.

Playa de El Castillo

In the resort of Caleta de Fuste you’ll find Playa de El Castillo, a much-loved 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 in peace or simply float on the surface. So if you prefer a calmer sea, this is the place to head.

Popcorn Beach, Playa del Bajo de la Burra

One of the most popular places to see in Fuerteventura that you mustn’t miss is the so-called Popcorn Beach (officially Playa del Bajo de la Burra). It’s a wholly unique beach in the north of the island, covered in white pebbles shaped just like popcorn. They’re actually the remains of red marine algae called rhodoliths, which, once they die off, become coated in calcium and, under the ocean’s influence, gradually pale and harden. Over time the water and sand round off these fragile, porous fragments until they take on that distinctive popcorn shape. 

It takes hundreds or even thousands of years, and they’re now part of the local ecosystem, so collecting them is forbidden (just in case you fancied taking a piece home).

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The Fishing Town of Morro Jable 

Morro Jable sits on the southernmost tip of the island and charms you with its blend of old fishing town and modern resort. Wander the pretty lanes of the old quarter, then let yourself be swept away by the beauty of the miles-long Playa de Matorral with its crystal-clear water. At the end of the promenade you’re greeted by the majestic Faro de Morro Jable lighthouse.

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La Oliva, the Former Capital

La Oliva, once the capital of the island, is today a quiet inland town with a rich history. You can visit museums and galleries that bring Fuerteventura’s traditions and history to life, and take a look at the local church. The surrounding landscape is dotted with traditional windmills. So if you happen to be passing, it’s worth stopping for a coffee.

TIP: Drawn to little tucked-away towns steeped in history? Then you’ll love the town of Betancuria too.

The Resort of Costa Calma 

Costa Calma is a sprawling resort with plenty of hotels and holiday complexes. Its unique position on the edge of the desert that splits the island in two gives it an exotic feel. On one side stretch sandy beaches, on the other rise the mountains that hide the famous Cofete beach behind them. If you’d rather not move around too much during your trip, from here you’ll have pretty much everything within easy reach.

The Village of Ajuy

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

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A Trip to Lobos Island (Nature Reserve)

The tiny Lobos island, lying just north of Fuerteventura, is a protected nature reserve with beautiful beaches, crystal-clear water and rich marine life. It’s ideal for hiking, snorkelling and diving. You can get there on regular boat services from the harbour in Corralejo. The boat trip can even be combined with dolphin watching or a sunset cruise.

TIP: You can book the trip online through GetYourGuide, which is where we often book ourselves, and we can only recommend it. 

The Resort of Gran Tarajal

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

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A Boat Trip to Lanzarote and Timanfaya National Park

A trip from Fuerteventura to neighbouring Lanzarote, and specifically to Timanfaya National Park, is an unforgettable experience that shows you a completely different world in a single day. From the harbour in Corralejo it’s a 30-minute ferry to Playa Blanca, and from there you carry on towards a volcanic landscape full of lava fields, craters and geothermal wonders.

Entry to Timanfaya park is only possible on an organised coach tour, which takes you through the most breathtaking spots and shows you what it looks like when the planet is truly boiling beneath the surface (the ground here is still extremely hot, which is why you can’t get in any other way than by bus, but it’s well worth it).

TIP: You can also book the full-day trip from Fuerteventura to Lanzarote through GetYourGuide and not have to worry about a thing 🙂

The American Star Shipwreck

The waves off Fuerteventura’s west coast hide the remains of the once-famous ship SS America, which met its end on a dramatic stretch by Playa de Garcey. This giant vessel, originally built for the American navy, was due to be moved to Thailand in 1994 (not 1944) to become a floating luxury hotel. Fate had other plans, though – during the tow it was caught in a fierce storm, broke free of its lines and, crewless, ran aground on the rocks near the coast. The impact split it in two, and over the following years it gradually fell apart.

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The Punta Jandía Lighthouse

The Punta Jandía lighthouse is one of the oldest in the Canary Islands and stands on the southernmost point of Fuerteventura. It offers beautiful views out over the open sea and the Jandía mountains. The locals call it El Faro de la Lola.

Ruta del Pico de la Zarza, the Hike up the Island’s Highest Peak

Fond of a good mountain walk? Then hike up Fuerteventura’s highest peak, Pico de la Zarza (807 m). The route starts from the resort of Morro Jable in the south, right by the Barceló hotel — that’s where you’ll find the waymarked trailhead. The trail is 7.5 km long (and then the same again on the way back), with over 700 metres of ascent. It follows a well-maintained mountain path, so nothing technically demanding. It took us 1.5 hours up and a little less on the way down. At the summit of Pico de la Zarza you’re rewarded with a beautiful view over the whole island, and you can even see Cofete beach from above.

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The Cuchillos de Vigán Nature Reserve

This vast nature reserve runs through the central part of the island and takes its name from its distinctive peaks, which resemble knives. To the north lies the old settlement of Majorero, and to the south the Cap Punta de la Entallada lighthouse. The reserve is easily accessible by car along various roads. If you love nature and hiking, you can set off to explore.

The Bayuyo Volcano

What would a trip to Fuerteventura be without hiking at least one volcano? The area around the Bayuyo volcano, north of Corralejo, is a remnant of the island’s most recent volcanic eruptions. Here you can see lava fields and craters that shaped the northern part of Fuerteventura. The area is easily reached 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 hub. Here you’ll find the airport, the port, shops and restaurants. The town has a modern feel and offers a glimpse into everyday island life. Puerto del Rosario is easy to reach from anywhere on the island thanks to its good transport links.

If you’re passing through, it’s worth stopping at the local markets or for a bite to eat. Nearby you’ll also find the lovely Playa de El Castillo, with its fine white sand and calm, shallow water. It’s a bay with a peaceful sea and equally peaceful surroundings.

Oasis Park Fuerteventura

Oasis Park is the largest zoo and botanical park in the Canary Islands. Here you can see thousands of animals from all over the world and explore an extensive botanical garden full of cacti. The park also puts on various shows and activities. So if you’re on Fuerteventura with children and want a break from the sea and the beaches, this is a great place to stop.

The Cave Village of Los Molinos

The village of Los Molinos on the west of the island will charm you with its classic white-house architecture. Just south of the beach lie the intriguing coastal caves, Cuevas de Los Molinos, which you can reach at low tide.

Playa de Esquinzo

If you find yourself in the south of the island, we really recommend the beach at Playa de Esquinzo. It’s long and white-sanded, the sea here is calm, and you’ll also see plenty of lava stones that people use to build little windbreaks. It’s a spot where people learn to surf, so it’s great for beginners. You’ll catch some gorgeous sunrises here too.

The Faro del Tostón Lighthouse

The Faro del Tostón lighthouse, standing just north of El Cotillo, is one of the few working lighthouses on the island. Beyond the historic building itself, you’ll find a maritime and fishing museum and a little café. From the tower there’s a beautiful view over the surrounding coast and, in good weather, across to Lanzarote.

Mirador Astronómico de Sicasumbre

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

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The Punta Entallada Lighthouse

On the easternmost tip of Fuerteventura rises this unique lighthouse from 1955, whose Moorish-style architecture catches your eye at first glance. Beyond the beauty of the building itself, you can enjoy gorgeous views out over the ocean and, above all, an unforgettable sunrise.

The Village of Tefía

If you’re driving through the interior of the northern part of the island, stop off in the little village of Tefía. Its peaceful atmosphere and traditional windmills, rising above the landscape, will take you back to older times and make a lovely spot for a coffee break.

Flag Beach, Kitesurfing and Windsurfing

Tempted by watersports? This is the place, especially for kitesurfing and windsurfing, for which Flag Beach near Corralejo is an absolute paradise. The steady wind and the vast sandy beach create ideal conditions for these adrenaline-fuelled activities, but also for peaceful relaxation and watching the waves roll in.

Playa Esmeralda

If you’re after a beautiful beach with calm, emerald-tinted water and the comfort of hotels close by, Playa Esmeralda is a great shout. It’s the ideal place for lazing in the sun and carefree swimming.

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The West Coast – Aguas Verdes (and Playa de las Muertes)

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

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Travel Tips for Fuerteventura

Before you set off, we’d recommend keeping an eye out for cheap flights (we bagged returns on a direct flight for a real bargain), sorting your car hire in advance and, above all, your accommodation, because we left that until the last minute and it was a bit of a pain.

Flights to Fuerteventura – when is it cheapest to book?

Fuerteventura is easy to reach from the UK on a direct flight. The flight takes around 4 to 4.5 hours, and there’s no serious jet lag to contend with. The best fares tend to turn up outside the school holidays, when you can sometimes snap up return flights for very little (that’s exactly what we managed to do). 

Flight prices through the year:

• Peak season (July–August): around £250–400 return
• Shoulder season (May, June, September): around £120–250 return
• Off-season (October–April): from around £60 to £170

Fuerteventura weather – when to go?

The island enjoys pleasant weather all year round with minimal fluctuation, so you can visit Fuerteventura pretty much whenever you like. The best times, in our view, are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November), when there are fewer tourists than in summer or over Christmas.

Do bear in mind, though, that the wind almost never stops blowing on the island. That’s a plus, as it cools you down nicely on hot days, but for anyone longing for perfect stillness on the beach, it can be a downside. The wind also often whips up the sand, so it’s worth factoring that in.

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The Best Accommodation on Fuerteventura

Even though we sorted our accommodation on Fuerteventura fairly late, we managed to land a genuinely luxurious place with a rooftop hot tub for a song, in the Corralejo area. So, as they say, seek and you shall find. We split our trip in two, spending half in the north in Corralejo and half in the south in the Jandía area. That way we comfortably covered the whole island. So which places can we recommend?

• Falco 3, a superb place to stay in Corralejo with a hot tub

Car Hire on Fuerteventura

There is, of course, some public transport on Fuerteventura, but it doesn’t run all that often, so unless you fancy spending ages waiting for a bus that may or may not turn up, we’d recommend hiring a car. We hired ours through Sixt, where everything went without a hitch, and when we returned it we simply parked in the designated spot at the airport, dropped the keys in the box and that was that.

Where the Wind Blows Least on Fuerteventura

Fuerteventura is windy, but it’s a touch calmer in autumn. So where does the wind blow least?

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

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Trips on Fuerteventura and What Not to Forget

Trips on Fuerteventura can be wonderfully varied, and everyone will find something to suit them. Wherever you head, just remember that the sun really beats down here, even in December. So above all, pack your sun cream and plenty of water so you don’t get burnt.

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