This Canary Island benefits from year-round sunshine due to its location just off the coast of North Africa. This provides the perfect conditions for making the most of the beautiful beaches in Fuerteventura.
You’ll find 125 miles of sandy shoreline, which varies from black to white and is lapped by crystal clear water.
But, to help you decide where to settle down and soak up the sun, here are the best beaches in Fuerteventura
1. Sotavento Beach
Why visit?
The most famous and longest beach on the island is considered among many to be the best. Here you’ll find unspoilt, soft powdery white sand and warm turquoise water that doesn’t dip below 21°C even during the winter months.
Sotavento Beach is split into several parts including Playa Risco del Paso and Playa Barca. It’s a surfer’s paradise due to the windy conditions, although this means those back on the beach will need to look for a sheltered spot, which is possible thanks to the dunes. This part of the sea attracts professionals who wish to ride the waves but it’s also perfect for novices – there are two René Egli surf centres, if you’d like to learn.
The shallow water is ideal for families with little ones although it’s worth noting that it’s also a popular beach with naturists.
Location
In Costa Calma on the southeast coast
How to get there
If you’re driving take exit KM-72 off the FV2. You can also travel by bus or walk, if you’re staying in Costa Calma.
Need to know
If you’re here in July, this beach hosts the Windsurfing and Kiteboarding World Cup.
2. Cofete Beach
Why visit?
This is the perfect place to escape the crowds for a moment of peace, as this 12-mile stretch of sand is one of the quieter and more isolated beaches. The Jandia Mountains, which reach heights of 800 metres, provide a beautiful backdrop to this wild and rugged part of the coastline, which has been named among the most beautiful in Europe. Lay down your towel and enjoy this idyllic setting as you take in the incredible scenery.
Location
South coast, in Cofete National Park on the Jandia Peninsula
How to get there
There is a 12-mile dirt track that you’ll need to travel down so you may need a four-wheel car to reach this isolated stretch of sand.
Need to know
This beach isn’t suitable for swimming because the waves are incredibly high and the current is very strong.
Where to stay
Eurostars Las Salinas: Just footsteps away from the sands of Costa Caleta sits this outstanding complex. The hotel is contemporary from head-to-toe with a luxurious pool area stretching the majority of the resort, a top-of-the-range spa complete with a list of treatments and sea views everywhere you turn.
The View Hotel Resort: Found in Corralejo’s surrounded by peace and tranquility, this escape-from-it-all stay will have you feeling relaxed in no time. When you’re not taking advantage of your villa style accommodation, head for the 9-hole golf course and unleash your competitive side.
Sentido H10 Playa Esmeralda Hotel: This is the perfect base if you’re seeking some time out from your busy work schedule. Design for relaxation with amazing views from all angles and the island’s natural assets keeping you company, we can’t recommend this stay enough. When you’re not lounging by the pool, you’ve got a choice of rooms options filled with comfortable fittings.
3. Corralejo Beach
Why visit?
Six miles of sand dunes in Corralejo back Playa Grande and form part of the national park. This stretch boasts views across the water to Isla de Lobos. The sand is particularly white here due to the fact it has blown across from the Sahara Desert.
The beach is split into several sections, the south is popular with nudists, while the north is much more family-friendly. The beach closest to the Corralejo is ideal for watersports, particularly windsurfing and kiteboarding.
Location
South of Corralejo – on the north coast
How to get there
It’s easy to reach this beach by bus or if you’re driving, you can access it via the FV-1 motorway and there is parking on the main road.
Need to know
From Corralejo, it’s 10 minutes on the ferry across to uninhabited Lobos Island – a protected nature reserve. Don’t forget your snorkel – there are brightly coloured fish to be seen in the water here. Back on land, it’ll only take a couple of hours to explore the isolated stretches of sand.
4. Gran Tarajal Beach
Why visit?
This Blue Flag beach boasts the darkest sand on the island, it’s worth a trip here to see that alone. The majority of people who spend the day on this beach are locals, which makes it great for an authentic experience too. The colourful buildings provide a beautiful backdrop to an already incredibly picturesque beach.
If you like seafood, this is the perfect place to sample it fresh because it’s caught just off the shoreline. After a day of building sandcastles and paddling in the turquoise waters, make your way up to the promenade where you’ll be able to try this delicious delicacy.
Location
Southeast of the island, half an hour from Costa Calma
How to get there
You can drive but you’ll have to park a short distance from the beach in the town.
Need to know
The sand can get very hot here due to its dark colour, so it’s advisable to keep flip flops on when walking around.
5. El Castillo Beach
Why visit?
Also known as ‘Shank’s Shark,’ this bay is 800 metres of golden sand and calm waters. It’s set up for pure relaxation and perfect for families, especially those travelling with youngsters. There’s an area in the water for swimming and a separate section for watersports. Jet skis, pedalos, kayaks and canoes are all waiting to entertain you.
There is also a windsurfing centre – ideal for professionals and those who want to give the sport a go.
Just off this beach there are two reefs, Salinas Reef and Castillo Reef, where you can snorkel or scuba dive to discover the brightly coloured world beneath the surface of the water.
Location
Caleta de Fuste, just 15 minutes from the capital, Puerto del Rosario
How to get there
This beach is only a short distance from the airport, making it the perfect place to head if you want to feel the sand between your toes as soon as you land, or before you have to leave. There is parking if you’re driving as well as bus and taxi stops, if you’re using public transport.
Need to know
In the marina you’ll find Oceanarium Explorer where you can see and swim with sea lions. You can also board a boat here, which will take you to see turtles, dolphins and whales.
They are all beautiful but don’t just take our word for it, during a holiday in Fuerteventura you can see them with your own eyes. You just need to decide which one to visit first.