Fuerteventura is an island for beach lovers. With miles of coastline and less tourism than the other Canary Islands like Tenerife or Gran Canaria, you might find yourself almost entirely alone on a tranquil stretch of sand.
If you’re into lush green vegetation or lots of nightlife and action, this isn’t the right island for you. But if you’re looking to relax, surf, or simply enjoy beautiful beaches, Fuerteventura is your spot.
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Fuerteventura has one airport (FUE) and you can fly there from many capital European cities and Spanish spots like Madrid and Barcelona. You can check flight times and rates into Fuerteventura right here. Remember to have some Euros on hand just in case.
While Fuerteventura has year-round mild and sunny weather, it’s also very windy. This is why surfers of all kinds flock to the island. If you don’t love a nice (or sometimes very strong) breeze, this island may not be your favorite destination. That being said, if you want to give windsurfing a go, there’s no better place to try it out.
Public transportation is almost non-existent, so you’ll want to rent a car for exploring. Note that most rental companies won’t cover damages if you take the car off-road.
Winetraveler Pro Tip: Take a highly-rated small-group sailing tour from Fuerteventura. It includes lunch, an open bar, and more while you explore the beaches and bays of the Canary Islands by catamaran.
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Fuerteventura is extremely long, and lapping it from top to bottom can take a few hours. This particular itinerary starts in the south and ends in the north, so you’ll be able to see many sights and stay in different areas depending on your interests. That being said, for a more restful island experience, it may be best to pick a section of the island and just stay there so you won’t waste so much time driving each day.
Large hotel brands like H10, Riu, and Barcelo have a large presence on the island in both the south and the north. There are home and apartment rentals available at very affordable prices throughout the island, too. Some of the most popular resort areas to stay in are Corralejo in the north, and Jandia or Costa Calma in the south. There is one Marriott property, the Sheraton Fuerteventura, located in the middle of the island (Caleta de Fuste), but just note that this area isn’t quite as beautiful as some of the other resort towns, though it is close to the airport.
Start your trip heading south by exploring the Costa Calma. Sotavento Beach is really a collection of a few beaches that ebb and flow based on the tide. At certain times of day, the beaches form lagoons. The white sands are backed by craggy rocks and hills, so you can walk and explore at low tide. The lagoons are perfect spots to learn the art of windsurfing, and then you can graduate to the sea beyond once ready. You can also hire a private driver with Kalitravel to take you around the area to see all the best spots in the south.
Families will love the flora and fauna of the Oasis Wildlife Park, which features things likes safari, sea lion, and botanic experiences. If you’d prefer something a little more natural, visit Fuerteventura’s most beautiful village, Betancuria. Located in the valley of the Betancuria Natural Park, this tiny whitewashed town has a lot of history. It was actually the first capital of the island in the 15th century.
Take a stroll to this active lighthouse backed by fine sands and turquoise water. This beach area at the southern tip of Fuerteventura is a great place for exercise (it features a walking path and many volleyball courts and outdoor gyms) or simply relaxing, swimming, or hanging out. Plenty of shops, amenities, and restaurants are nearby.
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Known as one of the wildest and most beautiful beaches in all of the Canary Islands, Cofete is truly a hidden gem. It can only be reached by driving off-road through the Cofete Natural Park for about 30 minutes. Pack everything you need, including snacks and lunch, because there isn’t much around except for mountains, volcanic remnants, golden sands, and azure waters.
Swapping directions, head north to Flag Beach, a long stretch of windy sands known as one of the best spots for kitesurfing on the island. Take a lesson, rent equipment, or simply admire all the advanced kite surfers doing cool tricks while you relax on the beach.
Today’s base is the resort town of Corralejo. From there, many tour operators offer trips to the nearby Isla de Los Lobos. You’ll take a 10-15 minute speedboat right to the tiny islet, complete with snorkel gear to check out all the underwater life. Later, join in on a quad trip off-roading through the island’s interior: volcanic craters and desert paths. Hiking tours are also a popular option through these unique landscapes.
Spend your last day at the very northern tip of the island checking out El Cotillo Beach. The white sands contrasting with the dark lava rock make this beach a special space for relaxing and exploring. Then, enjoy the sunset at the upstairs terrace of nearby bar and restaurant La Vaca Azul. We recommend reservations if you want to get a table with prime sea views.
