Located in the beautiful Canary Islands off the coast of Spain, Fuerteventura is a must-visit destination. Fuerteventura is the second biggest of Spain’s famed Canary Islands, and it is wild, windy, and bordered by dazzling beaches.
It is a location where cinnamon-hued miradors maintain watch over crashing waters and is well-known for its Martian landscape. There are still seafood restaurants and lively pubs to be found among the quaint Spanish villages and resorts.
The more well-known Canary Islands of Tenerife and Gran Canaria tend to overshadow this beautiful island. Fuerteventura, on the other hand, has an exciting variety of exciting things to do in addition to its seemingly endless beaches and historical sites.
This island is perfect for each type of vacationer, whether you’re a beach lover seeking to relax on soft sands, an adrenaline seeker searching for the next big thrill, or a culture explorer ready to learn about the region’s rich history and customs.
Fuerteventura’s 300 sunny days per year make it a top destination for winter sun and beach lounging. In places like Caleta de Fuste and Morro Jable, where lively promenades lead to pristine beaches, you may relax outdoors. To get your blood pumping, you may go surfing in Corralejo, trekking in El Cardon, or scuba diving in the Atlantic Ocean in search of marine turtles.
Put on some sunblock and your explorer’s cap, for there’s a whole new world waiting to be discovered in this paradise in the Canary Islands. Fuerteventura, the second largest of the marvelous Canary Islands, is home to a wide variety of exciting activities and sights that can’t be found anywhere else.
Top 23 attractions in Fuerteventura, Spain
In this article, we’re going to dive into the must-see attractions and local secrets that will make your trip to Fuerteventura, Spain, one for the books.
- Lobos Island
- Morro Jable
- La Oliva
- Papagayo Beach
- El Cotillo
- Oasis Park
- Calderón Hondo
- Cofete Natural Park
- Playa de Cofete
- Corralejo Natural Park
- Costa Calma
- Caleta de Fuste
- Sotavento Beach
- Betancuria
- Salt Museum Salinas del Carmen
- Aqua Water Park
- Dolphin and Whale Watching
- Fuerteventura Botanical Garden
- Ajuy caves
- Museo del Queso Majorero (the cheese museum of Fuerteventura)
- Puertito de los Molinos
- Popcorn Beach Fuerteventura
- Villa Winter
1. Lobos Island
The boat voyage to the volcanic Lobos Island takes only 15 minutes from Corralejo. When you visit the islands, you can enjoy the stunning scenery, white sand beaches, and turquoise oceans.
The island’s lighthouse, a tiny volcano, and a lagoon frequented by migrating birds are all within walking distance if you’re feeling proactive. Take the late boat back to the mainland after visiting the sleepy fishing town of El Puertitio, where you may eat fresh seafood at the renowned Antonio’s Beach Bar.
The ferry fare includes a short-stay ticket, although only a certain number of tourists are permitted on the island at any given time. Lobos Island is one of Fuerteventura’s top attractions that you must visit on your trip to this magical island.
2. Morro Jable
Morro Jable, the bustling resort town, is located in Fuerteventura’s far south and is one of the island’s best attractions. Mornings are best spent on the vibrant promenade that stretches from the marina to the long, outstanding beaches of Playa Matorral. Amidst opulent mansions and swaying palm trees, it winds its way toward the heart of town.
In Morro Jable, you may choose from a wide variety of restaurants, from traditional Irish pubs providing full English breakfasts to gourmet burger restaurants serving hand-formed patties. Visit one of the European cafes along the promenade to watch the waves crash against the rocky shoreline and volcanic cliffs.
3. La Oliva
Located in the north-central part of Fuerteventura, the picturesque village of La Oliva is a great place to experience authentic Canarian culture. The narrow alleyways are lined with whitewashed houses that have wooden balconies that make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
The Iglesia de Nuestra Senora de Candelaria, a parish church from the 18th century, is the major attraction of this small town thanks to its iconic bell tower. You may go inside to look at the painted ceiling and elaborate wood carvings.
Don’t miss the Sunday market at the Plaza de Los Valles, where people offer their wares in the cool shade. Visit the Mirador Morro Velosa lookout to see the cactus-covered hills in their full majesty.
La Oliva is definitely worth a visit due to the tranquility it offers away from the beaches and the kindness of its residents, making it one of Fuerteventura’s most popular attractions.
4. Papagayo Beach
Many of the Papagayo Beach boat tours allow you to get up very close to the abundant marine life in the region. Spotting dolphins, turtles, and whales in their natural habitat is a highlight of every trip to Fuerteventura.
Spend four hours sailing along the Costa de Papagayo, the southwest coast of Lanzarote. Take it easy as you cruise by breathtaking coastline views. Enjoy the pristine seas and the best BBQ you’ve ever had while out on the lake.
5. El Cotillo
El Cotillo is a wonderful starting point for seeing Fuerteventura with kids if you’re planning a family vacation. Beautiful and serene, the beaches here in the northwest benefit from the low waves caused by the reef that protects the area.
La Concha Beach is the most well-known spot in Cotillo, and with good reason: the fine white sand, the horseshoe shape, and the ideal bottom for snorkeling make it the best beach in the area. The presence of a lifeguard station and many beach bars has made this a popular destination.
El Cotillo was once a sleepy fishing community, but now it’s teeming with surf shops, camps, and schools. The beach breakers to the south of the northern town of Corralejo on Fuerteventura are ideal for amateur surfers. A little distance further along the shore are some very challenging waves, perfect for intermediate and advanced surfers.
Nearer to the city center, La Concha awaits when you’re not out on the Atlantic. This beach is well-known for its pristine white sands and clear blue lagoons. There are a few beach bars and Canarian cafés thrown in for good measure, making it a great location to relax and unwind after a long day of surfing.
6. Oasis Park
Oasis Park Fuerteventura is the place to go if you want to see rare and unusual animals up close. Over 3,500 creatures call this 21-hectare floral park and wildlife refuge home.
The African Savannah, the Reptile House, and the Sea Lion Experience are just a few of the themed areas that can be found throughout the park. You may go on a camel safari and see giraffes and hippos up close.
Take a stroll through the park and see ring-tailed lemurs, pygmy hippos, ostriches, and crocodiles in their native habitats, which have been recreated with the help of expert designers.
Oasis Park provides a full day of family enjoyment and unforgettable wildlife encounters with its entertaining and informative animal presentations and exhibits, as well as its big play spaces and refreshing pools.
7. Calderón Hondo
Cardón, south-central Fuerteventura, is more Colorado than the Canaries, with its massive slab of volcanic rock towering far over the lowlands below. It seems like it was taken straight from a Clint Eastwood movie.
However, there are no lone gunmen lurking around here. Instead, there are trails that will lead you across scree fields and steep slopes to the peak, where the breathtaking vistas will leave you as breathless as the ascent itself. From there, you can see all the way to the uncharted west coast and the wild Jandia area.
The trailhead may be reached by a road that leaves the quaint town of El Cardon. Find your way to the Chapel of Tanquito by following the signage indicating the sacred route.
8. Cofete Natural Park
Those in search of excitement on their vacation should take a 4×4 Jeep Tour through the beautiful Cofete Nature Park.
The tour operator will pick you up and drop you off at your hotel for this thrilling day trip. After a quick introduction at the starting location, you’ll climb into a 4×4 jeep and speed across the difficult terrain of Cofete’s Natural Park.
You’ll take a break at first at a mountaintop lookout with fantastic views of the sea. Take pictures of the local cactus and keep an eye out for the mysterious German Villa Winter as you travel. There are many weird things here, and it’s all in honor of the Matos family.
If there is time, you may also go for a swim in a tranquil bay. Later, if you’d like, stop at the charming town of El Puertito for lunch at a traditional Canarian restaurant.
After lunch, you’ll visit the island’s southernmost point, Punta Jandia, where a historic lighthouse stands, and then go up the “Hill of Love” for spectacular views. The day ends on a high note as you explore the beautiful Jandia peninsula before being driven back to your accommodation.
9. Playa de Cofete
Playa de Cofete is now widely regarded as one of the nicest beaches in the Canaries and a must-see for every traveler to Fuerteventura.
It’s one of the most stunning places on the island, thanks to its pristine condition and the sheer magnitude of its shoreline. Despite the potentially dangerous waves, a day trip here is definitely worth it.
The roads aren’t great, so if you’re planning on renting a car, be prepared for some challenges. It’s not completely impossible, but it’s also not the best idea. Join one of the 4×4 trips leaving from Morro Jable if you can.
10. Corralejo Natural Park
Located in the northeast of Fuerteventura, the Corralejo Natural Park is one of the island’s most well-known natural attractions. This protected region is a must-see for anybody interested in the diverse landscapes of the Canary Islands and is especially well-known for its beautiful, enormous sand dunes that spread for kilometers.
When set against the Atlantic’s turquoise waves, the fine, white sands are sometimes compared to those of the Sahara Desert. In addition to the sand dunes, the natural vegetation and wildlife of Corralejo Natural Park are quite diverse.
Water activities like kitesurfing, windsurfing, and paddleboarding are common along the coast due to the consistent winds that blow across the dunes. Sunbathing, picnicking, and long, relaxed strolls while taking in the park’s scenic majesty are all excellent ways to spend time there.
The Corralejo Natural Park is a great place to get away from it all and enjoy nature. The park is conveniently located near the popular vacation spot of Corralejo.
11. Costa Calma
Situated on Fuerteventura’s southern shore, the Costa Calma is indeed a “calm coast,” ideal for lounging and water activities alike. Both Playa Esmeralda Norte and Playa Sotevento, located along this length of coast, are well-known for their fine, golden sand.
The beaches are safe and nice for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities since they are sheltered from strong waves. The neighborhood also serves as an entryway to the Jandia Peninsula, giving it a convenient jumping-off point for excursions to the Jandia Natural Park and other Fuerteventura attractions.
12. Caleta de Fuste
Caleta de Fuste, or Castillo as it is sometimes referred to, is a popular resort town on Fuerteventura’s eastern coast. The town’s horseshoe-shaped beach has calm, shallow seas perfect for swimming and a variety of water activities like windsurfing and diving, while the town itself is known for its family-friendly vibe.
Caleta de Fuste’s Castillo de El Castillo, a tower constructed to stave off pirate invasions, is a popular tourist destination. The marina in town is another must-see because of all the boat and Yacht excursions and fishing trips that depart from there. It’s the jumping-off point for excursions in the surrounding seas, such as whale and dolphin-watching tours.
The Castillo, a tower constructed to defend the island from pirate raids, can be found beside the marina. The famed Fuerteventura Golf Club is conveniently located outside of town for all those golfers out there.
13. Sotavento Beach
Playa de Sotavento de Janda, also known as Sotavento Beach, stretches along the east coast of Fuerteventura and is known for its pink sand and lovely lagoons. One of the most photographed coastlines in the Canaries is found here. Swimmers and sunbathers both like it a lot.
A background of craggy volcanic mountains stands in stark contrast to the sparkling white powder that will welcome you. Over its four kilometers in length, Sotavento passes several excellent swimming holes and tidal pools. Kitesurfers flock to the waters around Costa Calma. Bathing suits and bikinis become less common as you go south.
14. Betancuria
Incredible as it may seem, Jean de Bethencourt, a daring Norman adventurer, created tiny Betancuria in 1404. Because of this, it may claim the title of being Fuerteventura’s oldest town as well as being one of the island’s top attractions.
You can feel the history as you walk along the cobblestone streets and gaze up at the white bell tower of the beautiful Santa Maria church. The island’s pre-colonial history is documented at an archaeological museum and the ruins of a 13th-century monastery.
You’ll want to pull out your camera at every turn as you travel through the picturesque landscape around Betancuria. At Mirador Morro Velosa, you may gaze out over the west coast, craggy volcanic plugs, and majestic mountain ranges from vantage points that rise more than 600 meters into the air.
15. Salt Museum Salinas del Carmen
Fuerteventura’s Salt Museum and the nearby Salinas del Carmen are also worth seeing. This fascinating museum complex, found on the island’s eastern coast in the town of Caleta de Fuste, sheds light on the longstanding practice of salt mining, which was formerly one of the island’s primary sources of revenue.
Starting with the evaporation ponds and ending with the finished product, a guided tour provides an in-depth look at the salt-making process. The Salinas del Carmen continues to operate as a working salt flat, as they have for centuries. The museum itself is full of interesting artifacts, displays, and images from the past.
The Salt Museum and Salinas del Carmen are excellent destinations for getting in touch with the island’s history and discovering the amazing simplicity of the salt-making process.
16. Aqua Water Park
Corralejo AquaLava Water Park is a great place to spend the day if you appreciate water slides and getting wet. This amazing water park has more than a dozen fantastic slides and activities and is located close to Corralejo Beach.
Try your luck on the AquaRacer, the Grand Canyon, or the Adventure River, and prepare to get wet. Relax on the sandy beach or refuel at one of the park’s eateries when you need a break.
AquaLava Water Park is a fantastic place to take the kids on vacation, and it sure is one of Fuerteventura’s best things to do since it has rides and pools for people of all ages to enjoy.
17. Dolphin and Whale Watching
From Morro Jable in Fuerteventura, set sail on a whale and dolphin-watching excursion you won’t soon forget. Beginning at a prearranged location in the Morro Jable harbor, your trip will get started. From there, you’ll take a thrilling speedboat ride down the stunning coastline to the Jandia peninsula.
Amazing scenery may be seen on both the shore and the rough highlands. Look out for the local dolphins and whales; they’ll likely make an appearance. During your travels, you may possibly see a flying fish or a marine turtle.
After the tour is over, you will be returned to the port of Morro Jable and transferred back to your starting point. Witnessing whales and dolphins in their habitat is one of Fuerteventura’s top attractions.
18. Fuerteventura Botanical Garden
The Fuerteventura Botanical Gardens is a verdant sanctuary in the interior of the island, not far from La Lajita. There is a bigger wildlife park that the gardens are a part of called Oasis.
Explore the vast and stunning gardens and learn about the approximately 500 plant species that can survive in the dry environment of Fuerteventura. The tall, magnificent cacti are a sight to behold, and the fragrant herbs and colorful flowers are a welcome bonus.
The Wizard Plant, which appears to move on its own, is the most well-known resident of the garden. Take a stroll through a tropical greenhouse full of exotic plants, a palm grove, and a variety of fruit orchards.
The Fuerteventura Botanical Garden is a great site to learn about the flora of the island since it has many twisting paths to get lost in and provides ample cover from the sun. This magnificent garden is surely one of Fuerteventura’s best attractions.
19. Ajuy caves
Fuerteventura’s rugged west coast is home to the breathtaking Cuevas de Ajuy (Ajuy Caves). The mighty ocean waves carved the caverns and grottoes into the sheer rock faces, creating an impressive spectacle of nature’s might.
The massive Cueva de la Canada Verde, with its 100-meter-high ceilings, may be accessed through a stairway leading down to a black sand beach. Cueva de la Guitarra is nearby; its name refers to the guitar-shaped hole in the ceiling that lets light pour inside.
Although these natural marvels are difficult to fully experience, they may be seen from afar using elevated observation decks. And if you’re up for some serious exploration, kayak trips will take you deep within the caves. If you ever find yourself on this enchanted island, be sure to stop by the Ajuy Caves.
20. Museo del Queso Majorero (the cheese museum of Fuerteventura)
Among the various attractions of Fuerteventura, a visit to the museum where you can learn about the production of Majorero cheese—a specialty of the island—is not to be missed.
There is an area in the Majorero Cheese Museum dedicated to Fuerteventura, its volcanic origin, and its flora and fauna, and there is also a room dedicated to the Majorera goat, whose grazing and milk are used to manufacture the cheese.
The Museum of Majorero Cheese is widely regarded as one of Fuerteventura’s finest attractions. Fuerteventura’s Majorero Cheese Museum is a lot of fun even when it’s not sunny outside.
After gaining some background on Majorero cheese’s place in Fuerteventura’s culinary history, you’ll get to try some for yourself. You can even purchase the cheese to take home with you and enjoy it long after your stay is over.
This museum is a great stop on a culinary tour of Fuerteventura, the best way to sample the local cuisine and learn about the island’s history.
21. Puertito de los Molinos
Located on the western coast of Fuerteventura, Puertito de los Molinos is a little-known treasure commonly referred to as Los Molinos. This little fishing community is known for its peaceful environment and is far from the hustle and bustle of the main tourist areas.
It is known for its stunning tiny sandy cove, perfect for sunbathing and swimming. At low tide, you may explore a network of fascinating caverns that are normally inaccessible.
Las Bohemias del Amor and Casa Pon are just two of the wonderful restaurants in the hamlet where you can enjoy Canarian cuisine and fresh seafood while taking in the sunset.
22. Popcorn Beach Fuerteventura
Popcorn Beach, so named for the look of the algae that covers the region, has been called one of the secrets of the Canary Islands (although perhaps not so much these days).
Popcorn Beach isn’t the kind of beach you’d expect to see in a resort. Algae fossils littering the shore are white and look like popcorn.
Located west of Corralejo on the north coast of Fuerteventura is the popular Popcorn Beach. Walking to the beach takes around an hour because of the distance.
Popcorn Beach is becoming increasingly popular; therefore, there is a preservation effort working to keep it that way. You can stroll on the beach, but you have to leave the ‘popcorn’ where it is. This pristine and unique beach is, without a doubt, one of Fuerteventura’s most popular attractions.
23. Villa Winter
One of the most intriguing attractions in all of Fuerteventura is the Villa Winter, which can be found on Cofete Beach. This house is surrounded by legends about the Nazis.
One generally held theory is that it served as a hub for the supply of the German submarine fleet during WWII. There are rumors that following the fall of the Third Reich, Nazi commanders who underwent plastic surgery in order to hide their identities in South America threw parties.
Most likely, though, Villa Winter is the retirement home that Gustav Winter purchased. This affluent German engineer moved to Fuerteventura in the 1920s, when it was still known as the Janda Peninsula, and quickly became dictator.
He fortified the perimeter of the peninsula, letting in only workmen from the rest of Fuerteventura. In addition, it helped boost local economies by encouraging the construction of high-end hotels catering specifically to German visitors.
The formerly grand Villa Winter now appears rundown and deserted. There is an eviction notice for occupancy, yet Pedro Fumero and his family continue to reside there anyhow. Without a doubt, this is one of the most unusual attractions on the island of Fuerteventura.
Conclusion
Fuerteventura is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and the second biggest of the Canary Islands. Some of the best beaches in the Canary Islands, as well as a variety of stunning volcanic scenery and delectable cuisine, can be found here. Fuerteventura is an ideal getaway because of its picture-perfect beaches, peaceful communities, and pleasant climate all year round. Its many beaches, both big and tiny, make for an easy beach vacation in which to unwind and recharge yourself for the rest of the year. Beyond its beautiful beaches, though, lies an exciting array of pursuits, from water sports to exploring sunken ships. Fuerteventura is home to a wide variety of exciting activities, so we’ve compiled a list of the top ones to help you organize your vacation.
