Things to do in Fuerteventura
Fuerteventura is the beach island of the Canaries: long, wide sandy beaches, dunes running down to the sea and wind that makes it one of the best places in Europe to surf.
The west coast
Beaches on Fuerteventura can run for several kilometres. Photo: Michael Baccin / Unsplash
Fuerteventura: for beach lovers
Fuerteventura is the oldest of the Canary Islands and the closest to Africa. You can see it in the landscape: rounded brown mountains, dunes and beaches that go on as far as you can see. Here it is less about sights and more about finding your own stretch of sand.
The island is thinly populated compared with Gran Canaria and Tenerife, and even in high season it is easy to find a beach to yourself. The wind is part of the deal. It keeps the heat pleasant, and it has made Fuerteventura famous among surfers and kiters from all over Europe.
From Playa Blanca on Lanzarote the ferry takes you to Corralejo in no time, so the two islands pair well on one trip.
Corralejo
The dunes in the north are protected as a natural park. Photo: Sam Williams / Unsplash
The best things to do in Fuerteventura
The Corralejo dunes: a natural park of pale sand with turquoise water right next to it. Bring water, and go early or late.
Lobos: a small, uninhabited island a short boat ride from Corralejo, with a walking loop and lovely places to swim.
Sotavento: a long lagoon and beach on the south-east coast, known for kitesurfing and windsurfing.
Cofete: a wild, almost untouched beach on the west side of the Jandía peninsula, with mountains right behind. The road is gravel and the waves can be strong.
Betancuria: the old capital in the mountains, with whitewashed houses and a colonial-era church.
Surf lessons: the north coast around El Cotillo and Corralejo has surf schools for every level.
Sotavento also features in our list of the best beaches in the world.
The coast
Photo: Michal Mrozek / Unsplash
Where to stay in Fuerteventura
Corralejo: in the north, the liveliest base, with the dunes, Lobos and the ferry to Lanzarote.
Costa Calma: mid-way down the east coast, quiet and close to Sotavento.
Jandía and Morro Jable: in the far south, with long beaches and large hotels.
El Cotillo: a small fishing village for surfers and anyone who likes things simple.
The links to the hotels are partner links. If you book through them, Picolo may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Secrets Bahia Real, Corralejo
Photo: Hotels.com (Expedia Group)
Secrets Bahia Real: luxury looking out to Lobos
One of the island's best-known luxury hotels, in Corralejo with views across the strait to Lobos and Lanzarote. The dunes and the town's restaurants are close by.
Book your sun break: See rooms at Secrets Bahia Real
Paradisus by Meliá Fuerteventura: all inclusive by the beach
A large all-inclusive hotel in the Pájara area on the east coast, with pools and the beach just below. For when you want to think about nothing but the sun.
Book your sun break: See rooms at Paradisus by Meliá Fuerteventura
Paradisus by Meliá Fuerteventura
Photo: Hotels.com (Expedia Group)
Iberostar Waves Playa Gaviotas: for families in the south
An all-inclusive hotel on the Jandía peninsula in the far south, where the beaches are long and the water is often calmer. A practical choice for families.
Book your sun break: See rooms at Iberostar Waves Playa Gaviotas
When is the best time to visit Fuerteventura?
Fuerteventura has sunshine and mild weather all year. Winter is high season for northern Europeans, while summer is hottest and windiest, which is when the surfers arrive. The wind means it rarely feels too hot, but pack a jacket for the evenings.
Looking for more winter sun? See where is hot in January.
Frequently asked questions about Fuerteventura
Where should I stay in Fuerteventura?
Corralejo in the north has the most going on, plus the dunes and the boat to Lobos. Costa Calma suits those who want peace near Sotavento, while Jandía and Morro Jable in the south have long beaches and large family hotels.
What is Fuerteventura known for?
Long sandy beaches, the Corralejo dunes and great conditions for surfing, kitesurfing and windsurfing. The island is also known for its majorero goat's cheese.
Is Fuerteventura very windy?
Often, yes. The wind is why the island is popular with surfers, and it keeps the heat pleasant. Choose a sheltered beach, in the south or around Corralejo, if you want calmer conditions.
Can you travel between Fuerteventura and Lanzarote?
Yes. The ferry between Corralejo and Playa Blanca on Lanzarote runs several times a day and the crossing is short. It is easy to combine both islands on one trip.
Do I need a car in Fuerteventura?
It is a good idea if you want to see several beaches. Distances are long and buses run less often than on the bigger islands. The road to Cofete is gravel, so check your hire car terms.