Blake Walsh

20 Best Things to Do in Fuerteventura, Spain

  • Published 2020/10/11

Wild, breezy, and gorgeously edged with glistening waterfronts, Fuerteventura is legendary for its boondocks.

The second-largest among Spain’s famed Canary Islands, it is a terrain where amber-hued miradors keep a watch over the crashing tides.

Here, you will find charming villages that are full of life, Spanish hideaway towns, bumping bars, and taverns.

The beautiful days of bright sunshine in Fuerteventura make it quite the ace for winter warmth and beachfront merrymaking.

Between all the long stretches of sand and volcanic landscapes, you are sure to fall in love with this island.

With its alluring fiestas and many quirky attractions, visitors won’t be able to resist this sunlit island.

On that note, here are the best things to do in Fuerteventura, Spain:

Explore the Stunning Corralejo Natural Park

Corralejo Natural Park

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Extending to the island’s northeast coast, Corralejo Natural Park presents visitors with the opportunity to experience Fuerteventura in a completely different light.

It is rather interesting to note that this coastal zone has two divergent yet harmonious sides.

Towards its north, you will get to see the largest dune spread in all of the Canary Islands, which is doused by the waters of the Atlantic Ocean.

Meanwhile, you will see red and rugged volcanic landscapes as you head south.

To make the most out of your visit, you are welcome to explore the area on foot, relax on the beach, or even climb up Montaña Roja and witness picturesque nature views.

Make Your Way to the Virgin Sands of Playa de Cofete

Playa de Cofete

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Veiled in the windward division of the peninsula, Playa de Cofete is often thought of as one of the most desirable beaches in the Canary Islands.

Without a doubt, it is a place that you really can’t afford to miss when visiting Fuerteventura.

Boasting a well-preserved and thoroughly impressive 12-kilometer-long coastline, it is simply one of the most breathtaking spots that you’ll thank yourself over and over for visiting.

The first thing one will most likely note when they arrive is its spectacular landscape.

When you do visit Playa de Cofete, remember to be cautious, as the sea can be pretty fierce here.

At the same time, be warned as the peninsular mountain range’s abrupt drop on the same side of the beach, combined with its problematic access, renders Playa de Cofete quite difficult to get to.

However, joining a guided tour and hopping on a hired car can actually make the course of action a lot simpler.

Hike to the Top of the Calderon Hondo

Calderon Hondo

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On the track toward Lajares, the Calderon Hondo stands beautifully amid the several aligned volcanoes.

As one of the best-preserved volcanoes of its kind, its silhouette looms on the horizon.

The access to the Calderon Hondo is quite trouble-free and is fitting for everyone, and climbing to its summit is unquestionably a unique experience.

The highest point of the crater provides you with an incredible opportunity to witness a totally different side of Fuerteventura.

From here, one can also delight their eyes with the imposing view of other volcanoes, which renders this region rather distinctive.

All of this makes the impressive Calderon Hondo a popular tourist attraction.

Spend a Day at the Charming Town of Las Playitas

Las Playitas

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The quaint town of Las Playitas is a worthy spot to add to your itinerary, especially if you are going down the eastern coast.

It quite successfully upholds the spirit of Fuerteventura’s coastal towns.

Situated towards the southeast of the island, it sits on a steep cliffside and is marked by its narrow, winding streets.

If you are planning to turn your visit into an overnight stay, you can plan your day by the sea and book a room at any of the modern hotel complexes that are decked with laudable facilities.

In addition to that, the town also boasts an array of fun-filled activities, such as a fishing harbor and a range of sporting facilities.

Enjoy Scenic Views from Mirador Sicasumbre

Mirador Sicasumbre

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This gorgeous viewpoint very well deserves a visit if you are traversing on the inland road.

From Mirador Sicasumbre, one can see the whole of the island and observe the beauty of the ocean.

That being said, you will have to climb for five to 10 minutes to get to the top.

If you are visiting during the winter, it would be advisable to carry a jacket as you are likely to experience the harshest winds in Fuerteventura.

Despite this place not being a characteristic tourist destination, you are sure to enjoy your visit.

In addition, Mirador Sicasumbre is a remarkable station for astronomical observation.

One can bring their own telescopes and other pieces of equipment for the skyline images.

Tour Betancuria’s Cobblestone Streets

Betancuria

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With striking characteristics that make it a fantastic attraction, Betancuria is a wonderful option if you are looking for a pretty little place to visit in Fuerteventura.

This quaint, colonial town is nestled in the highlands of the island interior.

Although sparsely populated, Betancuria is known for its exquisite charm and stands as a mark of Fuerteventura’s history prior to its facelift.

You can very well stop over here while discovering the western outer reaches of the island.

The cobbled streets present you with a great opportunity to enjoy a scenic stroll.

After that, you can grab a quick snack at any of the cafes nearby.

When you are here, do not forget to see the main square and pay a visit to Iglesia de Santa María de Betancuria, the first church to be built on the island.

If you are planning to head north, the roofless San Buenaventura monastery is also worth a visit.

There’s a reason why the modest town is known to be quite “cheesy”—it is famed for its Majorero cheese, which is made with the milk of Canary Island goats.

If you are lucky, you might even get to witness the whole process of preparation from scratch.

Snap Photos of Fuerteventura’s Breathtaking Windmills

Fuerteventura Windmills

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You cannot finish your visit across Fuerteventura without catching sight of at least one windmill.

The most iconic ones on the island would have to be those in La Olivia, Tefia, and Antigua.

Standing the test of time, most of them have undergone recent renovations.

Visit the Morro Velosa Statues and Observatory

The Morro Velosa statues are not too far away from Mirador Las Peñitas.

Sculpted by Emiliano Hernandez, these striking statuettes overlook Fuerteventura and are believed to be the representation of the ancient kings of the island, Ayoze and Guize.

One can also hop on to Mirador de Morro Velosa observatory, which lets you catch a glimpse of half of the island.

After that, you can have a moment of respite and snack at the special bar inside the observatory.

These gorgeous statues also provide a conducive spot where one could briefly stop just to admire the landscape and panorama before gearing up to Betancuria or Pajara.

Allow Yourself to Be Enchanted by the Barranco de los Enamorados

Barranco De Los Enamorados

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The Barranco de los Enamorados is best described as one of Fuerteventura’s hidden gems.

In English, its name translates to “Ravine of the Enchanted”—and once you set foot here, you will find that it lives up to its name.

The ravine is made up of fossilized sand dunes and dates back over 100,000 years.

This breathtaking natural attraction is a great place to visit if you want to spend some time away from the shore.

Don’t forget to bring your cameras, as you’ll definitely want to snap photos of this breathtaking site.

Explore the Charming Town of Morro Jable

Morro Jable

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Situated in the southernmost part of Fuerteventura is the pulsating resort town of Morro Jable.

If you’re heading out in the morning, start your day at the buoyant esplanades that extend from the marina to the coastlands of Playa Matorral.

It stretches its way past several opulent villas and ultimately merges with the city center.

One will likely never run out of spots to enjoy in Morro Jable.

The Irish pubs serve sumptuous English breakfasts, and the burger joints here are to die for.

The cafes on the walkways are always a great place to observe the passersby and watch the waves crashing against the shore and nearby rock formations.

Have a Beach Day at Playa del Matorral

Playa del Matorral

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Hovering on the water’s edge by Morro del Jable, this beach is absolutely striking.

The Playa del Matorral is a protected natural space and is renowned for its salt marshes.

Several of the unique attractions here have to be its plant and animal life, specifically the Suaeda vera and Canarian houbara.

What makes Playa del Matorral an ideal travel destination is undoubtedly its picturesque tourist resorts.

Those, combined with an excellent array of bars, cafes, and restaurants, make it quite a catch.

Go Sunbathing at Sotavento Beach

Sotavento Beach

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With its turquoise waters and absolutely stunning seascape, Sotavento Beach is one of the island’s most famed stretches of land.

It’s a supreme favorite among Fuerteventura’s sunbathers and swimmers.

It is not without reason that this beach is among the most photographed stretches on the island.

After all, it boasts crystal clear water and golden sand and is set against jagged volcanic mountains.

Sotavento Beach stretches across four kilometers, stretching past tidal pools and not-so-deep swimming spots.

If you were to go a little south, you would see quite a number of people stripping in the act of “bathing au naturel.”

Enjoy the Safari Experience at Oasis Park Fuerteventura

Oasis Park Fuerteventura

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Easily reachable via the main highway, the Oasis Park Fuerteventura packs in a range of experiences that are sure to keep visitors entertained.

From multi-hued parrots to slithering beasts, this place is a must-visit.

The camelback safari expedition is undoubtedly enjoyable and usually has many people waiting in line.

Oasis Park Fuerteventura boasts some of the most scenic views in Fuerteventura.

Jardin Botanico sits just a stone’s throw away from the park, where the beautifully up-kept vegetation is sure to awe you.

You can also use this visit as an opportunity to educate yourself about Fuerteventura’s distinctive ecosystems.

Ride the Waves at El Cotillo

El Cotillo

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Formerly an untried fishing hamlet, El Cotillo brims with board rentals and surf camps.

Positioned on the northwestern coastline of Fuerteventura, this village is an enjoyable surfing hub.

If you’re a beginner surfer, you can head on to the beach breaks in the south.

However, if you are into hardcore surfing, you will have to move further along the coast.

When you are not surfing, it would be an excellent plan to visit La Concha, another beach in Fuerteventura that is well-known for its spotless lagoons and impeccable white sands.

It will surely be relieving to chill and unwind after a strenuous surf session.

You can always grab a quick drink at any of the beach bars and snack at the Canarian cafes.

Head to the Bustling Market at La Oliva

La Oliva

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A pastoral farming village that takes a seat beneath the gaze of antique clinker cones, La Oliva tenders a foretaste of the Fuerteventura of old.

What makes it quite a favorite among visitors is its tranquillity—it is undeniably a far cry from the larger towns’ hustle and bustle.

Situated towards the south of the bustling Corralejo, you will find here a plethora of Gothic-styled walls and imposing colonial architectures.

Besides that, the palm-lined parks and the dominating landscape of the surrounding volcanoes are equally astounding.

Visitors are highly encouraged to pay a visit to the La Oliva Market that occupies the town’s street sides and avenues if given a chance.

Always buzzing with the hullabaloo of chitchatting locals, this marketplace comprises scores of farm-to-table shops.

This is also the perfect place to hunt for keepsakes and gifts.

There is plenty of stuff to splurge your money on, from hot mojo sauces to shell jewelry.

Learn about the Simple Village Life at La Alcogida Ecomuseum

In the village of Tefia, you’ll find the peculiar La Alcogida Ecomuseum, which gives visitors a peek into peasant life in Fuerteventura.

This unique museum is considered a living museum, as you’ll find many artisans and artists in action and may even interact with them.

The ecomuseum features varied architectural styles, as exhibited in the different houses it comprises, from rustic homes known for their minimalism to intricate mansion-styled ones.

One can also learn about the local domestic livestock and the long-established irrigation system, among many other interesting facts about the lives of Fuerteventura’s local farmers.

Head to the Fascinating Del Carmen Saltworks Museum

Del Carmen Saltworks Museum

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Situated in the very heart of the island, the alluring Del Carmen Saltworks Museum is as charming as it gets.

As it is the only operational saltworks in Fuerteventura, there is plenty to observe and learn here.

It is located very close to the oceanfront and has lovely views of the beach.

At the fascinating Del Carmen Saltworks Museum, you can learn in great depth about the traditional method employed for salt extraction.

The museum’s in-house exhibit showcases how vital salt production is to the island of Fuerteventura.

Immerse Yourself in History at the Montaña de Tindaya

Sacred Mountain of Tindaya

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This solitary mountain, standing at a height of 400 meters, is located in the northeastern part of the island.

What makes the Montaña de Tindaya quite prominent is its history; early aboriginal residents considered this space to be sacred and believed it to have possessed miraculous properties.

At the base of the mountain, there are over 300 engravings shaped like human feet, which are of distinguished archaeological significance.

In the mountain’s southwestern area, you’ll find a trail from which you can witness some of the most breathtaking scenes.

Nearby, you will find a chain of stores and eateries—the perfect spot to catch your breath and grab a drink after exploring.

Visit the Age-Old Cuevas de Ajuy

Cuevas de Ajuy

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Cuevas de Ajuy is an excellent option if you want to see something different.

These caves are certainly worth visiting, as they are home to the oldest rocks in the Canary Islands.

It is indeed an authentic gem that is a refreshing sight, to say the least.

Upon entering the caves, you will experience a blast from the past like no other—especially given that its genesis predates the island, which is said to have been formed 30 million years ago.

That alone makes it quite the ideal place for geology and history enthusiasts.

Ajuy Beach, believed to have been fossilized millions of years ago, is another superb standout in the vicinity.

It is nothing but a basalt composite that materialized at some stage in Fuerteventura’s formation.

Entry to this time-honored relic is absolutely free, so don’t miss the opportunity to visit it.

Other Things to Do Nearby

Enjoy a Day Trip to Lobos Island

Lobos Island

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Located just off the coastline of Fuerteventura, Lobos Island is a breathtaking haven of protected species.

It is home to rare plant and bird species, of particular note being the herring gull, the bustard, and Cory’s shearwater.

The isle itself is sheltered, and entry to it is commissioned only if you have a permit.

The isle can be reached by means of a ferry from the port of Corralejo.

With astonishing beaches that boast white sand and crystal clear water, Lobos Island is a division of the Corralejo Dunes Natural Park.

Prepare to be taken aback as you witness its undeniable rustic allure.

This ecological retreat is an excellent option if you are looking for a beautiful place to have a short yet enjoyable day trip.

Lobos Island is unoccupied for the most part, promising visitors a peaceful visit.

You can hop on a catamaran to explore the area and even enjoy some snorkeling.

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