Things to do in Fuerteventura
Fuerteventura is a land of contrasts—a blend of sweeping sand dunes, secluded beaches, volcanic landscapes, and charming villages. In this list, I’ve put together a mix of the island’s must-see, iconic spots along with a few hidden gems that aren’t as well-known but are definitely worth a visit if you have the time.
The locations are sorted from north to south for easier planning, whether you’re looking to tick off the big attractions or take a detour for something a bit more off the beaten path, this guide has you covered.
🏝️ Isla de Lobos
If there’s one place you must see in Fuerteventura, it’s Isla de Lobos. This small island is perfect for a day of hiking and beach relaxation. The crystal-clear waters make it great for snorkeling, and the serene environment with limited services is a refreshing escape.
Getting there is half the fun. You can take a water taxi from the Corralejo harbor, which you can book online or purchase directly at the harbor. The ride itself is an experience—if you’re prone to seasickness, I’d recommend sitting at the back.
Don’t forget, you’ll need a permit to visit Lobos, which you can obtain here. While no one checked ours, it’s better to be safe than sorry. And make sure you’re on time for your return trip!
🏜️ Corralejo Natural Park
The Corralejo Natural Park is the most famous spot in the north of the island. With its long stretches of beaches, opportunities for water sports, and surfing, everyone can find their own slice of paradise here. The beaches offer stunning views of Lobos Island.
I recommend starting with the beaches near the hotels, but don’t hesitate to explore further south. There are fewer people, making it ideal for taking photos on the dunes and enjoying a more secluded experience.
🍿 Popcorn Beach
Just a short ride from Corralejo lies the unique Popcorn Beach. The beach gets its name from the white coral fragments that resemble popcorn—it’s quite a sight! Remember, you shouldn’t take anything from the beach. If everyone did, there’d be nothing left.
It’s a short ride on a dirt road from Corralejo. Keep in mind that your car rental insurance might not cover you on dirt roads in case anything happens. You should be fine, but if you want to be extra cautious, you can park your car in Corralejo here and walk—it’s not that far.
⚓ Playa El Majanicho
If you’re driving to Popcorn Beach, make sure to make a brief stop at Playa El Majanicho. This tranquil fishing village lets you enjoy the calm and watch windsurfers glide across the water.
It’s the true essence of Fuerteventura—a peaceful spot away from the crowds.
🏄 Surfing and Other Water Sports
Thanks to the Atlantic Ocean, Fuerteventura offers perfect conditions for water sports enthusiasts. Whether you’re into surfing, windsurfing, or kite surfing, you’ll find spots that cater to all skill levels. We found that Corralejo and El Cotillo on the northern coast are excellent starting points, with plenty of surf schools ready to get you on the waves.
If you venture to the lagoons near El Majanicho, you’ll discover a fantastic area for stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). The calm waters make it ideal for beginners and families. Even in the south of the island, there are numerous schools and rental shops, so you can enjoy water sports no matter where you stay.
Our family had an unforgettable time catching waves and soaking up the sun. The instructors were friendly and professional, making the experience both fun and safe. If you’re looking for excitement and a way to connect with nature, we highly recommend trying out the water sports here.
💦 Acua Water Park
For those who are really into water parks, Acua Water Park in Corralejo has you covered. It’s the only water park on the island.
While it’s not exactly my top pick—since we have much better water parks in mainland Europe—if you need to entertain your kids for a day, it’ll get the job done. It’s open only in summer.
🌋 Calderón Hondo and Volcán de Bayuyo
Calderón Hondo is an iconic hike that’s quintessential to Fuerteventura. It’s easily accessible via a rocky path, even suitable for smaller children. You can manage part of the way with a stroller. Along the route, you’re likely to encounter friendly chipmunks, which is always a hit with the kids.
Some years ago, it was quite confusing which paths are safe to use. But now, there is one official path and you aren’t allowed to go anywhere else which makes it much safer.
The hike starts from Lajares, where you can conveniently park at the beginning of the trail. The views from the top are absolutely worth the effort.
Map of the hike and current information on Alltrails
If you’re looking for something a bit off the beaten path, consider hiking up Volcán de Bayuyo, which is nearby. During our ascent, I don’t recall seeing anyone else—it felt like we had the entire volcano to ourselves. The trail is more challenging and not suitable for children, so good hiking boots are a must. Looking back, I wouldn’t recommend what we did - going there unprepared with our small daughter and baby in a carrier, even though we managed to stay safe.
You can see Volcán de Bayuyo from many spots directly in Corralejo. After conquering it, you’ll be able to spend the rest of your vacation proudly pointing out, “I climbed up there!”
Map of the hike and current information on Alltrails
🪝 Faro de Tostón
The Faro de Tostón lighthouse on the northern tip of Fuerteventura is perfect for a short stop. It’s a simple yet magical place where you can feel the raw beauty of the island.
The lighthouse stands as a sentinel overlooking the sea, and the surrounding area offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
🐚 El Cotillo Beaches
The coves around El Cotillo offer something for everyone. The Playa de Marfolín, closest to El Cotillo, is great for children, including the very young ones. The bays are greatly affected by the tides, so before your visit, check if there won’t be a low tide. On the other hand, low tide brings more opportunities to explore marine life.
A bit further from El Cotillo is the iconic Playa La Concha, with easy parking and facilities. Here too, you can experience significant differences between high and low tide. Visiting La Concha is a decision you won’t regret.
🎨 Local Markets
Visiting local markets in Fuerteventura is a wonderful way to meet and support the locals while immersing yourself in the island’s culture. Every Thursday and Sunday, the El Campanario Shopping Centre (Link to Google Maps) in Corralejo hosts a vibrant market filled with art, crafts, and souvenirs. We strolled through the stalls, tasted delicious local cheeses, and enjoyed the pleasant atmosphere.
In El Cotillo, every Friday afternoon and early evening, there’s a charming craft market held in the little square on the main street to the harbor (Link to Google Maps). The artisans display their handmade goods, and sometimes there’s live music adding to the festive mood.
On Saturdays, the village of Lajares comes alive with its artisan market, often featuring music or other entertainment. We found unique souvenirs and even watched some dance lesson. (Link to Google Maps)
With so many options to choose from, you can easily fit a market visit into your itinerary. It’s a great way to pick up authentic gifts and chat with locals. Don’t miss out on these delightful markets—they truly showcase the heart of Fuerteventura.
🌅 Playa de la Escalera
If you head south from El Cotillo along the dirt road by the coast, you’ll come across Playa de la Escalera. As you might guess from the name, you’ll recognize it by the staircase that leads down to it. If you’re looking for the best place to watch the sunset or go for a romantic evening walk, Playa de la Escalera is the spot.
The beach has a unique vibe in the right weather conditions, something photos can hardly capture.
🏞️ Barranco de los Encantados
Near Playa de la Escalera, you can embark on about a two-hour walk through a dry riverbed (Barranco), where the water has left behind many interesting formations. Getting to the start of the trail requires a slightly longer journey on a rough dirt road, but it’s manageable. Parking is easy.
The walk takes around two hours. However, don’t underestimate the weather—bring enough water and protection from the sun, especially if you’re going with children. You can find the route here.
🍴 El Moral in Villaverde
El Moral is a beautiful little restaurant in the tranquil village of Villaverde, just a short drive from Corralejo. The service is amazing, the food is fantastic, and the atmosphere is everything you could hope for.
It’s a hidden gem that’s definitely worth a visit.
🏛️ Casa de los Coroneles in La Oliva
If you’re passing through La Oliva, make sure to stop by the Casa de los Coroneles. It won’t take much of your time, and you’ll soak up a bit of history.
Built in the second half of the 17th century and attributed to Ginés de Cabrera Bethencourt (1650–1722), this majestic building is a representation of power. It took the model of Canarian urban domestic housing of the Modern Age and has come down to us as one of the most significant architectural pieces of the Canary Islands’ artistic heritage.
(Link to Google Maps, Official website)
🌾 Molino de Tefía
The old mill at Tefía is a charming reminder of Fuerteventura’s rich history. We stumbled upon it during our journey across the island, and it’s an ideal spot for a quick 10-minute stop if you’re passing by. The mill stands proudly against the rugged landscape, offering a glimpse into the island’s agricultural past.
We couldn’t resist taking a few photos; the structure is beautifully preserved and makes for a picturesque scene. If you’re in the area, it’s definitely worth a brief visit to soak in a bit of local heritage.
🏚️ La Florida
When we heard the name La Florida, we immediately thought of the U.S. state. However, in Spanish, “La Florida” means “the flowering” or “the land of flowers,” which is a bit ironic given its current state. Today, it’s an abandoned village in the middle of nowhere, surrounded by a barren desert landscape.
Exploring the mysterious ruins of this once-blooming village was both eerie and fascinating. There’s not much parking near the main road, but it seems hardly anyone visits, so it wasn’t an issue for us. Walking through the crumbling structures, we felt like time travelers uncovering secrets of the past.
🦆 Puertito de Los Molinos
Puertito de Los Molinos is a small traditional village that’s become one of our favorite spots on the island. It’s unique because it’s one of the few places in Fuerteventura where you can see a freshwater “river”—as much as a river as you can find here!
We planned our visit according to the tides. Behind the restaurant Las Bohemias, we climbed down to discover small lagoons perfect for a refreshing swim or simply watching crabs and little fish dart around. Heading south, it’s supposed to be possible to reach some caves during low tide, but we haven’t been lucky enough to see them yet. If you try, be cautious—the sea can be unpredictable.
Birdwatchers will also enjoy the variety of birds in the area. It’s a peaceful place where you can truly appreciate the natural beauty of Fuerteventura.
🏙️ Puerto del Rosario
Most reviews we read discouraged us from visiting Puerto del Rosario, the island’s capital, so we didn’t expect much. But to our pleasant surprise, it turned out to be a delightful experience. If you don’t mind a bit of walking, we recommend parking south of Playa Blanca and strolling along the coastline northwards to Playa de los Pozos or Playa Chica.
Playa Chica is a small beach, but it’s very well organized with a lifeguard, toilets, showers, and even a volleyball court. The promenade is lined with interesting sculptures and offers lovely views of the sea. Puerto del Rosario definitely made a good impression on us, and we’re glad we didn’t skip it.
🐐 Finca Pepe
If you’re curious about traditional goat cheese production, Finca Pepe is a must-visit. Located close to Betancuria, this goat farm offers an authentic glimpse into the island’s dairy heritage. We wandered around the farm and watched how the goats are milked—and the best part? The entrance is free!
Apart from goats, you’ll also encounter friendly donkeys eager for some attention. We couldn’t resist purchasing some of their homemade goat cheese—it was delicious and made for a perfect picnic snack later in the day. It’s a charming place that showcases the rural side of Fuerteventura, and we highly recommend stopping by.
🏰 Betancuria
Betancuria is undoubtedly one of the top attractions on Fuerteventura. As the island’s former capital, it brims with history and picturesque charm. We reached it via winding roads, but the journey was not too difficult and offered stunning views along the way.
On our way to Betancuria, we made a stop at the iconic Mirador de Guise y Ayose. This viewpoint, named after two aboriginal kings from the 15th century, features impressive 4-meter-high bronze statues and offers breathtaking panoramas of the island.
Strolling through Betancuria’s cobblestone streets, we felt like we’d stepped back in time. Don’t miss the Convento de San Buenaventura, the ruins of a Franciscan monastery. It’s a unique and very photogenic spot that left a lasting impression on us.
🥾 Barranco de Las Peñitas
If you’re looking for a longer hike, Barranco de Las Peñitas is one of the most popular trails on the island. The path takes you around the old, dried-up Peñitas Dam to the small chapel Ermita de la Peña, which is truly an interesting sight.
We found the walk to the chapel manageable even with our younger kids. For those seeking the perfect Instagram shot, you can venture a bit further up to the Arco de las Peñitas, a natural stone arch you’ve probably seen in photos. However, we didn’t dare to go that far with the children.
The landscape is rugged and dramatic, offering a different side of Fuerteventura’s beauty. Remember to bring plenty of water and wear good walking shoes.
🐿️ El Pinar Barbecue
Tucked away off the beaten path, El Pinar Barbecue is a hidden gem that you’ll likely have all to yourself. This public BBQ area comes equipped with running water, grills, all necessary facilities, and a lovely children’s playground.
The site used to be surrounded by pine trees, forming the island’s only “forest,” but sadly, they’ve dried up. Despite this, the area still holds a unique charm. A word of caution—watch out for chipmunks! If you’ve grown fond of these little creatures, you’ll find plenty here, but they can be quite cheeky when it comes to food.
The road to El Pinar is a bit rough and dusty, but it’s not far from the main road. We took it slow and managed just fine. It’s a perfect spot for a family picnic or a quiet afternoon away from the crowds.
🦇 Ajuy
Ajuy is one of the top attractions on the island and a place that truly captivated us. This small fishing village boasts a black sand beach that is both dramatic and incredibly photogenic. We spent hours just soaking in the unique atmosphere.
A highlight of Ajuy is the deep and dramatic caves carved into the softer parts of the limestone cliffs by the relentless ocean waves during winter storms. Walking along the coastal path to the caves was an adventure in itself. We recommend wearing sturdy shoes as the path can be a bit uneven.
After exploring, we treated ourselves to a delightful meal at La Pescadora, a local restaurant known for its excellent seafood. The fresh catch of the day was simply delicious.
Parking is easy at the entrance of the village, making it convenient for families. If you’ve already seen the caves and want to avoid the crowds, consider taking a peaceful walk along the coast to the south. There’s nothing “spectacular” there—just the sea, tranquility, and the Fuerteventuran wilderness we love so much.
🌊 Faro de la Entallada
If you want to feel like you’re on top of the world, Faro de la Entallada is the place to go. This lighthouse sits atop a cliff with deep drop-offs and nothing but the vast ocean ahead. The panoramic views from the Mirador de La Entallada are simply breathtaking.
We believe watching the sunrise from here must be magical. The road leading up to the lighthouse is narrow, steep, and winding. If you’re a bit nervous about driving, you might want to reconsider. However, we found it wasn’t as bad as we feared—the sections are straightforward, and the views are worth it.
🔭 Mirador Astronómico de Sicasumbre
While traveling around the island, we made a stop at the Mirador Astronómico de Sicasumbre and hiked up to the viewpoint. It’s a fantastic spot for stargazing or night photography, thanks to Fuerteventura’s clear skies and low light pollution.
If you plan to visit at night, remember to dress warmly—the temperatures can drop significantly after sunset. The viewpoint is equipped with informational panels about astronomy, making it both an educational and inspiring experience.
🦥 Oasis Park
Oasis Park is, without a doubt, the most beautiful zoo we’ve ever visited. The lush botanical gardens and diverse animal exhibits make it a fantastic day out for the whole family. We were particularly impressed with the live shows and the opportunity to feed giraffes.
Although the entrance fee is on the higher side, it’s definitely worth it. The admission also includes access to the botanical garden, which is a serene oasis of exotic plants and flowers. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Fuerteventura.
💎 Playa de Esquinzo
Some tips I almost hesitate to share, but Playa de Esquinzo is my favorite beach on the entire island—and believe me, I’ve visited quite a few. Maybe it’s because it’s located in the warmer south, or because it’s narrow and sheltered from the wind.
The cliffs warm up during the day and radiate heat, making it feel extra cozy. The beach is clean, with beautiful sand and fantastic waves. It’s easily accessible yet somewhat off the beaten path, so it’s less crowded than other beaches. Absolutely fantastic.
Note: Be careful not to confuse this with the other, more famous Esquinzo beach in the north—this one is located south of Sotavento.
📸 Mirador del Salmo (Sotavento)
If you’re looking for a quick stop with breathtaking views, Mirador del Salmo is the perfect spot—especially before visiting Sotavento Beach. This viewpoint offers stunning panoramas and is a fantastic opportunity for beautiful photos. We paused here briefly and were captivated by the expansive vistas of the coastline and the shimmering Atlantic Ocean.
🏖️ Sotavento Beach
Sotavento Beach is a pristine stretch of sand that’s nothing short of spectacular. Known for its shallow lagoons that fill during high tide, it’s a unique beach where you can witness the fascinating interplay between the tides and the sandbars. For families with children, it’s best to plan your visit during low tide when the waters are calm and safe. Our kids loved wading through the knee-deep water, but do keep an eye out—there are deeper spots that aren’t immediately obvious.
The constant winds make Sotavento a hotspot for windsurfing and kitesurfing. It’s thrilling to watch the colorful kites dot the sky and surfers glide across the water. We spent an entire day here, basking in the sun and enjoying the serene environment.
🌴 Morro Jable
As the tourist hub of the south, Morro Jable has its own charm that many visitors adore. While I’m personally more of a “team Corralejo” fan, I must admit that Morro Jable is worth a visit. The beachfront promenade is lined with restaurants where you can enjoy delicious local cuisine with a view of the sea.
We took a leisurely stroll along the promenade, soaking up the lively atmosphere. The combination of beach proximity and dining options adds a special touch to the experience. It’s a great place to explore if you’re looking to immerse yourself in the more bustling side of Fuerteventura.
🦜 Playa del Matorral
Starting from Morro Jable, Playa del Matorral stretches northward and eventually becomes Playa de Jandía. These beautiful beaches do tend to have more people due to their accessibility, but they’re long enough that you can always find a comfortable spot.
The water here is crystal clear, and the expansive shoreline offers plenty of space for everyone. On our way to the beach, we were delighted to spot chipmunks scurrying around and even saw some parrots in the palm trees. Parking is easy and relatively close to the main road, which is a bonus if you’re traveling with kids.
🤩 Playa de Cofete
Many places on Fuerteventura are beautiful and worth visiting, but Playa de Cofete is truly exceptional. Often considered one of the most beautiful and wildest beaches in the Canary Islands, Cofete spans over 12 kilometers of fine golden sand and is backed by the imposing Jandía mountain range, creating a breathtaking scene.
Its uniqueness is heightened by its seclusion—the road to Cofete is notoriously difficult, which keeps the crowds away. The sea here is wild, with strong waves and currents, and help is far away, so swimming is strongly discouraged. We found the journey to Cofete to be an adventure in itself.
The road is narrow and in poor condition, heavily dependent on the weather in preceding days. It’s more suitable for 4x4 vehicles, and rental cars are often not insured for this route, so any mishap could be costly. It might be wise to opt for an organized excursion. The beach is so extraordinary that I highly recommend visiting, even if you have to hike there—provided you’re fit enough.
I ventured to the northern part, which is completely deserted—I didn’t meet a single person the entire time. There’s no cell signal along the way, so maximum caution is needed. Bring plenty of water and, ideally, a satellite communicator like a Garmin inReach.
⛰️ Pico de la Zarza
The hike from Morro Jable to Pico de la Zarza, the highest point in Fuerteventura, is one of the most popular treks on the island. The round trip takes about 4 to 6 hours and isn’t overly demanding. The trail is well-marked and offers stunning views as you ascend.
At the summit, you’re rewarded with panoramic vistas that are truly breathtaking. However, it’s crucial to plan your hike carefully, considering the weather and cloud cover to ensure you actually get to enjoy the views. We picked a clear day, and the sight of the island stretching out below us was unforgettable.
Remember to wear good hiking shoes, bring sufficient water, and maybe pack a picnic to enjoy at the top. It’s experiences like this that make Fuerteventura such a special place to explore.
Jan Onesork
I discovered Fuerteventura in 2019 and immediately fell in love with its open landscape and tranquility. Since then, we regularly visit the island with my family and share tips on interesting places and activities. I enjoy hiking, trail running, and road cycling – and Fuerteventura and the entire Canary Islands are perfect for that. I work as a freelance internet marketing consultant.