What to see and do in Fuerteventura, 15 essential places

In this article we are going to share with you what to do and what to see in Fuerteventura, second largest Canary Island in the Canary archipelago. Beyond its dream beaches, this Canary island hides unique corners to visit. From solitary lighthouses, charming towns, viewpoints, volcanoes, markets, unique sunsets and, of course, its gastronomy. Of course, you must take into account two factors: it is an island very arid and windy. In fact, it is the paradise for windsurfing, kitesurfing and surfing in general. However, if you like hiking and nature, there are no forests here. Peeero, in terms of beaches, it has the best in the Canary Islands. Now, if you like, let's go with the list of places to visit in Fuerteventura. Join us!

Below, you can see the index of the contents that you will find in this article about Fuerteventura: what to see and do, restaurants and essential tips.

Tips to organize your trip to Fuerteventura

As we told you, Fuerteventura is the second largest Canary Island and therefore, We recommend at least 4 days to visit the essentials. Likewise, keep in mind that you will need rent a car, since to reach the most beautiful beaches in Fuerteventura You can only do it on dirt roads (which public transport does not reach). Also, if you want to make the most of your time, We recommend dividing your stay into several nights in the north and several nights in the south. If you like, to facilitate your tour of all the things to see in Fuerteventura, we have divided it into zones. We start in the north.

What to see and do in northern Fuerteventura

1. Dunes of Corralejo and Great Beaches of Corralejo

One of the essentials of Fuerteventura, is the Corralejo Dunes Natural Park. You have two ways to visit them, walking from the Great Beaches of Corralejo (next to the hotel RIU Oliva) or traveling along the road that passes between the dunes. If you decide on the Great Beaches, we recommend that you do not stay at the beginning, next to the RIUs. A top thing what to do in Corralejo is walking along this shore of this beach until you are practically alone surrounded by crystal clear waters, views of the dunes and Isla de Lobos. In fact, you will have more privacy If you want to do nudism, since it is one of the nudist beaches of Fuerteventura.

2. Town of Corralejo, what to see in Fuerteventura

Another things to do in Fuerteventura is to go through this small fishing village. Nowadays It has evolved, without losing its essence, into a place full of life and color. We highlight its pedestrian streets full of restaurants where you can taste the local gastronomy. You will also find small shops, especially surf brands. In addition to the Dunes that we mentioned before, you also have What to see in Corralejo, the coves of the town and the pier, ideal to cool off on the hottest days. Finally, you should know that this is one of the places where to party in Fuerteventura. Point the Waikiki Beach Club and La Platanera for drinks.

???? ️ Restaurants in Corralejo: Gregory the Fisherman with the best fresh fish. Try the spinach cookies, delicious! We recommend booking.

💡 One of the best areas to stay in northern Fuerteventura It is in Corralejo, due to the wide range of restaurants and things to do nearby. You can see all the offers for apartments, holiday homes and hotels below:

3. Excursion to Isla de Lobos, what to see in Fuerteventura and surroundings

From the same Corralejo dock You can either cross to Lanzarote or visit the paradisiacal island of Lobos, just 2 kilometers from Fuerteventura. This island, declared a Natural Park, is a haven of peace where we only find a lighthouse and the only business is a restaurant. This overnight stays are prohibited, so you can only go there for the day. You can see them ferry schedules to Isla de Lobos and book in advance at this page. There is also a excursion to Lobos Island with snorkeling with very good ratings. Once there, your Trails will take you to discover virgin beaches, salt flats and a varied ecosystem. In short, if you are looking What to see in Fuerteventura in 4 days or 5 days, visiting Lobos Island should be on your list.

4. El Cotillo Fuerteventura, what to do in the north

Another of the places to visit in Fuerteventura (northern zone) is the coastal town of El Cotillo. With a more relaxed atmosphere, virgin beaches and hidden coves. It is the perfect destination for those looking for more tranquility. It is also an ideal place to enjoy one of the best sunsets in Fuerteventura due to its orientation in the northwest of the island. The best-known Cotillo beaches are: The Lakes, La Concha and Piedra Playa, the latter ideal to make wind and kite surfing, as it is windier. Another thing what to see in El Cotillo is the market every friday in the afternoon from 18:00 p.m. to 22:00 p.m.

???? ️ Restaurants in El Cotillo: Los Pescadores Rock, we recommend you try the fresh fish on the back and octopus carpaccio with burgaos, spectacular! Better to book in advance. We also recommend Azurro Chill out to have a drink and watch the sunset.

5. Tostón Lighthouse and Los Charcos Beach

A few minutes by car from the town of Cotillo, you can visit the Tostón lighthouse. Next to this are the natural pools of Los Charcos, ideal for a dip and snorkeling. Apparently it is a nudist area too, or at least we saw quite a few people doing nudism. To get here you have to drive a bit on dirt roads. If you stay until the end of the day, you can enjoy a magical sunset.

6. La Escalera and Esquinzo beach, what to see in the north of Fuerteventura

If you are looking for an Wilder and less crowded beaches to visit in Fuerteventura, point out La Escalera beach, as well as Esquinzo beach (note that there is another one to the south of the island with this name). These beaches are totally virgin (without services), in fact to get there you must do it through a dirt road heading south from El Cotillo. They are ideal for days when it is very windy, since their cliffs will protect you more. One of the things to do in Fuerteventura is take surf lessons and in La Escalera we saw several schools. If the sea is rough, you We recommend bathing on one of its sides, because here the waves are weaker. Be very careful!

💡 If you are looking for a good local atmosphere and less tourism, we believe that the best area to stay in Fuerteventura is El Cotillo. Furthermore, as you have read, there are many things to do in El Cotillo. You can see all the offers and availability for your dates below:

7. Majanicho and Las Palomitas Beach, Fuerteventura

About 10-15 minutes away, between Corralejo and El Cotillo, you can visit Majanicho, a picturesque fishing town what to see in the north of Fuerteventura. Few tourists come here, because it is not surrounded by bars, resorts and restaurants. You can combine it with the famous Pop Corn Beach from Fuerteventura (Las Palomitas beach). They call it that because of the small corals (rhodoliths) that look like popcorn.

These beaches with rhodoliths are beaches of El Hierro and Bajo de la Burra (Mejillón beach on Google). That is, 15 minutes by car from Majanicho by a dirt road. Note that We find these rhodoliths in different areas of Fuerteventura. For example, in the beach view Lobos de Corralejo. That is, you don't need to come here for the photo.

8. Los Lajares, a stop foodie and shopping to do in Fuerteventura

To go from Corralejo to El Cotillo and vice versa you will pass through Lajares. A small inland town full of restaurants and cafes Known for its Saturday market. For breakfast, aim The Panateca y My friend. For eat goat meat, something very typical of Fuerteventura, you have The Pinches. If you crave citizen, we recommend you Kuma. If you are looking for good pizza visit The Cancela. About 10.000 Italians live on the island, so you will find very good Italian cuisine. Finally, another of the things to do in Fuerteventura is visit the artisan market de The Lajares, ideal for buying original souvenirs from the island. The hours are from 10 a.m. to 14 p.m. and there is usually live music.

Before continuing with more places to visit in Fuerteventura (central area), we would like to leave you more gastronomic recommendations in the area that the community has given us. They are a restaurant The oven y Marcos Houseboth in Villaverde. And, if you come here, be sure to come and photograph the Villaverde mills, one of the symbols of Fuerteventura. As well as visiting the famous House of the Colonels.

What to see and do in Fuerteventura, central area

9. Majorero Cheese Museum, places to visit in Fuerteventura

If there is a Canary Island that can boast of cheese, this is Fuerteventura, with numerous awards worldwide such as cured Maxorata cheese. The island is full of Majorera goats, native species of Fuerteventura. You will see them yourself as you tour the island, since they are part of the landscape. Therefore, if you want to know more about the cheese-making tradition of the island and discover the history of the famous Majorero cheese, this stop is a must. In addition to the visit, we recommend Book the commented tasting from Tuesday to Saturday at 12:00 p.m., which costs €5. Places are limited, but you can reserve by calling 928878041. You have more information at on the web.

The Majorero cheese museum is in the town of La Antigua, about 10 minutes from the next stop that we propose in this route through Fuerteventura.

10. Betancuria, towns to see in Fuerteventura

Betancuria It was the first capital of Fuerteventura, founded in 1404. This charming town preserves beautiful corners: from their cobbled streets to its traditional white houses. highlights the Iglesia de Santa Maria, an emblem of Canarian architecture. The town is small, so in about half an hour you will walk through its main streets, although you can also visit the Archaeological Museum. Another place what to see in Betancuria just a few minutes away is the Guise and Ayose viewpoint (sculptures of aboriginal giants), with panoramic views of the Betancuria Valley. César Manrique's is also close: Morro Velosa Viewpoint. In short, note these places of interest in Fuerteventura if you want to know the most authentic side of the island.

We already have lists 10 places to visit in Fuerteventura, we continue with the route!

11. Ajuy beach and caves

The small town of Ajuy is famous for its caves formed by sea erosion more than 70 million years ago.. These caves can be visited by a short trail with panoramic views along the cliffs. In addition, Ajuy beach, with its volcanic sand, is one of the black sand beaches of Fuerteventura to see. This stop is about 40 minutes by car from Betancuria. Therefore, we only recommend it only if you are looking for what to see in Fuerteventura in 7 days or more. If you want to do hiking in Fuerteventura, you can tour the coast from the Caves to the Jury Arch or Peña Hordada. That is, a great Basalt rock with a hole in the middle. You can also get there by car along a dirt road of about 3 kilometers.

In this central part there are more places to see in Fuerteventura, for example, Caleta de Fuste (very touristy) or the capital, Port of Rosario. However, we do not believe that they are essential. Of course, if you are looking for what to see in Fuerteventura in a week, you can spend more time in this area. But I would give preference to more authentic areas such as natural pools of Aguas Verdes and Valley beach, about 30 minutes by car from Betancuria.

What to see in the south of Fuerteventura

12. Playa Esmeralda and the Palmita Pepe and Antonia beach bar

Located near the tourist area of Costa Calma, Playa Esmeralda is a small cove that stands out for its waters with an emerald tone that hypnotizes. It is one of the areas where to snorkel in Fuerteventura, so don't forget your glasses. She is also one of the nudist beaches of Fuerteventura to take into account, ideal to relax and enjoy the Canarian sun.

On the other hand, another of the things to do in Costa Calma and surroundings, just a few steps from this cove is the Palmita Pepe and Antonia Chiringuito. Here we enjoyed some dips while we ate, since there are stairs directly to the sea. We recommend the Fresh local fish like La Vieja and their homemade desserts. Although the beach bar is a bit fancy (sandwiches, paella and sangria, etc.), it is worth coming to enjoy. Your owner (Pepe) was very attentive throughout the meal, we send you greetings!

If you are looking for an what to do in Fuerteventura with children, a visit to keep in mind is the Oasis Wildlife Fuerteventura where you can see species such as giraffes, elephants and zebras. It is on the outskirts of the town of La Lajita, very close to Costa Calma. However, think carefully before contributing to animal exploitation.

13. Sotavento Beach, beaches to see in Fuerteventura

Sotavento is one of the best beaches in Fuerteventura and, at the same time, has been awarded as one of the most beautiful in Spain according to media such as Condé Nast Traveler. Stands out for its long stretch of golden sand and turquoise waters. It is also the perfect place to practice water sports, especially windsurfing and kitesurfing. Therefore, keep in mind that it can be windy. The lagoon that forms at low tide is a spectacle.

The hotels are also here Meliá Fuerteventura (formerly Meliá Gorriones) and Innside by Meliá Adults Only, possibly the best place to stay in Fuerteventura. They are just the complexes that you see on the left of the following photo surrounded by a unique landscape.

14. La Pared and Old King beach, the best sunsets in Fuerteventura

The Wall, an area named after the historic wall that once divided the island, is another of the places of tourist interest in Fuerteventura. Here is the Old King Beach. With almost a kilometer of extension, this sandy area is not only one of the best Fuerteventura beaches for surfing, if not also a refuge for those looking for a space for naturism. Be careful when bathing, as the waves can be strong. And for those looking for the best sunsets wherever they travel, this is one of the best places to visit in Fuerteventura for his orientation.

15. Playa del Matorral or Jandía beach, essential beaches in Fuerteventura

Another of the essential things to see in southern Fuerteventura is Matorral Beach, Also known as Jandia beach, the Solana or the Saladar. It begins at Morro Jable and extends throughout more than 4 kilometers. Therefore, it is an ideal stop if you like to walk by the sea. Although we don't see it in the next photo, its Waters are also crystal clear and turquoise. Here is also the Morro Jable Lighthouse, one of the most mythical on the island. As you may have noticed, there are many things to do in Fuerteventura for free, since its main attractions are its beaches.

The name of the beach is possibly due to the bushes next to it, a protected natural space that is the habitat of various species. Also if you look closely you will see some squirrel, an invasive species that already resides throughout Fuerteventura.

If you are designing your itinerary on What to see in Fuerteventura in 5 or 6 days, the list goes on for you, keep reading!

16. Cofete Beach, what to do in the south of Fuerteventura

Within the Jandía Natural Park, away from the usual tourist routes, is located Cofete Beach, with more than 12 km of golden sand and mountains that protect it. It is one of the virgin beaches of Fuerteventura most beautiful, a true paradise for those looking for disconnection. However, keep in mind that There are no services of any kind here. The only building you will see It is the Winter House when you arrive. Despite the proximity from Morro Jable (22 kilometers), access by car only possible on a dirt road for about 1 hour. Therefore, if you are planning what to see in Fuerteventura in 3 days, this beach is better left for another occasion.

17. Punta de Jandía and its lighthouse, hidden places to see in Fuerteventura

The southernmost point of Fuerteventura, Punta de Jandía, is an area of ​​great ecological value. Not only does it offer incredible panoramic views of the ocean, but it is also home to numerous endemic species. Unlike Cofete, here we do find some restaurants, all next to the town of fishermen of Puertito. However, To get there it also has to be on a dirt road for almost an hour. If you continue a few minutes by car from Puertito beach, you will come across another lighthouse to visit in Fuerteventura, the Punta Jandía Lighthouse. From this area we highlight the Eyes beach, If you've already come this far, don't miss it!

And here ends our list of things to visit in Fuerteventura. We hope it has been helpful to you and, if you want to share any recommendations, we will read them in the comments.

Video with the places to see in Fuerteventura in 3, 4, 5 or 7 days

Next we leave you with a video summary of the places to see in Fuerteventura in 4 days, although we also mention several places to visit if you had more time. We are waiting for you in our YouTube Channel with more videos about the Canary Islands and other places in the world to travel.

Activities to do in Fuerteventura, the best rated!

Another way to enjoy the island is with activities what to do and see in Fuerteventura like the ones we propose below. All with more than an 8,5 score according to the experience of other travelers.

• See dolphins in Fuerteventura with speed boat and, with luck, whales too!
• Sailing trip with whale watching, from Morro Jable
• Fuerteventura buggy tour, one of the best-rated things to do in Corralejo
• Surf course in Fuerteventura, Caleta de Fuste area and north of the island
• Hiking on Lobos Island, north of Fuerteventura
• Excursion to Corralejo, El Cotillo and Ajuy, for those who are in the south of the island
• Excursion to La Oliva, Betancuria and Corralejo Dunes, leaving from the north
• Excursion to Timanfaya National Park, an express visit to Lanzarote

What is the best area to stay in Fuerteventura?

As we said at the beginning, the island is large and long, it takes about 2 hours to travel from one end to the other on the highway. If we add to this the trips by land to the virgin beaches, all the more reason to Save time and distribute your stay in Fuerteventura by area. We recommend either El Cotillo or Corralejo in the north. On the other hand, in the southern part take a look at the hotels in Jandía and Costa Calma, although these two areas of Fuerteventura where to sleep are much more touristy. Keep in mind that many times the best place to stay in Fuerteventura It can be a wonderful private villa, it doesn't have to be an all-inclusive resort.

How to get to Fuerteventura

To get to Fuerteventura, you can Do it by plane from the Peninsula and many European cities, but also from other Canary Islands, in case you want to combine several Canary Islands. You can too arrive by ferry from Gran Canaria (about two hours) and from Lanzarote (less than an hour). If you are not going to rent a car and/or need a transfer from the airport to your hotel, you can see the prices and opinions of other travelers at this page.

More about traveling to the Canary Islands

If you want to visit other Canary Islands, we recommend you take a look at our post about which is the best island in the Canary Islands, since this will depend on what you are looking for. For example, in this post you will have seen that Fuerteventura is a 90% sun and beach destination. On the other hand, we also have specific guides for other islands that you can consult below.

• What to see in Gran Canaria. This is where we live, so we have lots of tips.
• What to see in Tenerife. We usually visit it often given the proximity and everything it offers.
• What to see in La Gomera. We go every year, because my mother is from here.
• What to see in El Hierro. We have been several times, we love it!

5% discount on your travel insurance

Travel insurance is just that, insurance in case something happens. Nobody wants anything to happen, until it happens... And we're not just talking about medical expenses, also loss or damage to your luggage, accidents during adventure activities, delays in your flight, etc We always travel with IATI and we have a 5% off for all destinations in the world and types of policy. We just hope you don't have to use it.

And now yes, our digital guide to all the places is over. things to see in Fuerteventura. Remember that if you have any questions, you can leave a comment. These doubts may be common to other travelers, so we read you in the comments!

Ruth González

Hello! I am Ruth, Canarian with a traveling soul. With training and experience in the tourism and digital marketing sector. In this blog I tell you all the tips you need to get to know the most authentic side of Gran Canaria on your own. I also share my travel guides to all the places in the world that I am visiting so that you can discover the destinations like a local and save time planning. In addition to traveling, I love gastronomy and sports. I run and hike in the mountains with my “dog-children” (Silver and Plata). In all these adventures my partner accompanies me, Jorge, which you will also see a lot on this blog.