Fuerteventura, the second largest island of the Canary Islands, is a true paradise for those who love the sea and nature. Miguel de Unamuno described it as ‘a piece of the Sahara in the middle of the Atlantic’, and he was right: here you will find 150 km of coastline with beaches of golden or black volcanic sand, desert-like dunes and crystal-clear turquoise waters. It is an ideal destination for families with children as well as couples in search of unforgettable landscapes and nautical experiences. Here are the unique natural attractions you can’t miss in Fuerteventura and the top water activities to make the most of the island.
Must-see natural attractions in Fuerteventura
The island offers a variety of spectacular landscapes: extensive unspoilt beaches, areas of volcanic origin with surprising shapes and hidden corners that will make you feel like you’re in another world. Here we summarise what to see in Fuerteventura in terms of nature, so that no memorable place is left out of your itinerary.
Paradisiacal beaches with crystal-clear, clean waters
Fuerteventura is known worldwide for its spectacular beaches, true coastal paradises that fascinate all types of travellers. Some of the most emblematic are:
- Cofete Beach (Jandía Peninsula): an out-of-this-world setting in the far south. This unspoilt beach, surrounded by the mountains of the Jandía massif, offers more than 12 km of golden sand bathed by the Atlantic. It is not easy to access, but that is precisely why it maintains a wild and secluded character. Although bathing here is not very safe because of the waves, the excursion is worthwhile because of the beauty and the remote atmosphere of the place.
- Playa de Sotavento (Costa Calma): also located to the south, it is famous for its fine clear sand and shallow, crystal-clear waters, ideal for children and for water sports. At low tide, a huge natural lagoon is formed, separated from the sea by a sand bar, creating calm pools that are a pleasure to swim in. Thanks to the constant wind, Sotavento is the scene of the world kitesurfing and windsurfing championships every summer, a spectacle worth seeing.
- Beaches of El Cotillo (La Oliva): In the northwest of Fuerteventura, near the fishing village of El Cotillo, different beaches await you. Here you will find white sandy coves protected by rock formations that form natural swimming pool-like lagoons. They are ideal for families, as the rocks hold back the waves and create pools of calm, clear water. It is also a perfect place to enjoy an unforgettable sunset.
- Great beaches of Corralejo (La Oliva): in the north of the island, next to the natural park of the Corralejo Dunes, there are several kilometres of golden sandy beaches and deep blue waters. They are the longest beaches on Fuerteventura, with spectacular views of the nearby island of Lobos and Lanzarote in the background.
- Playa de las Palomitas (Popcorn Beach): between Corralejo and Majanicho, in the north, there is an unusual spot that has become famous on social networks. Its official name is Playa del Bajo de la Burra, but everyone knows it as Popcorn Beach because of the curious white pebbles that cover the coast in the shape of popcorn.
- Playa de la Pared: located on the west coast of the south of the island, this beach is a paradise for surfers and sunset lovers. It is known for its strong waves and golden sand, as well as being an excellent spot to disconnect and enjoy the wild landscape of Fuerteventura.
- Esquinzo-Butihondo beach: a hidden gem in the south of Fuerteventura, near Morro Jable. With crystal clear waters and golden sand, it is ideal for those seeking tranquillity without going too far away from the tourist areas. Here you can snorkel and relax in a paradisiacal setting.
Volcanic landscapes and amazing natural sites
In addition to beaches, Fuerteventura is home to volcanic and inland landscapes of great beauty and geological interest. Some of the most impressive places are:
- Parque natural de las Dunas de Corralejo: this vast field of dunes offers a unique desert landscape by the sea. There are about 26 km² of white sand dunes that are constantly moved by the wind.
- Calderón Hondo Volcano (Lajares): one of the most accessible and best preserved volcanic cones on the island. You can reach the top after an easy hike, ideal for families. From the top you can enjoy a 360º panorama of the north of Fuerteventura.
- Cuevas de Ajuy (Pájara): on the west coast, near the quiet fishing village of Ajuy, are these impressive caves formed by volcanic and marine action over millions of years.
- Sicasumbre viewpoint: a spectacular place in the south of the island, ideal for stargazing due to the low light pollution. During the day, it offers breathtaking views of Fuerteventura’s volcanic and mountainous landscape.
Outstanding nautical activities in Fuerteventura
Fuerteventura is a paradise for water sports, with options for all levels. Some of the most outstanding activities are:
- Surfing: The island is one of the best surfing destinations in Europe, with spots for all levels. In the north and south there are surf schools with lessons for beginners.
- Snorkelling: Fuerteventura offers several excellent spots for snorkelling, thanks to its transparent waters and varied marine life. Any spot on the island is one of the best places to explore the seabed.
- Paddle surfing: a relaxing and accessible activity for everyone. The quieter beaches of Costa Calma and Jandía are perfect for paddling over crystal clear waters.
- Whale and dolphin watching: in the south of Fuerteventura, especially on the Jandía peninsula, it is possible to go on boat trips to see dolphins and whales in their natural habitat.
Sail in Fuerteventura with Magic & Sailing: an unforgettable experience
To end your trip with an unforgettable memory, nothing better than to experience the sea to live the sea of Fuerteventura on board of a boat.. In the south of the island, Magic & Sailing offers some of the best nautical excursions designed for families, couples and groups of friends. You can choose between sailing on a luxury catamaran, feel the adrenaline of a whale watching speed boat or enjoy a sunset on a wooden schooner.
There is no better way to discover the coast of Fuerteventura than from the sea. Come and live a unique experience with Magic & Sailing, where the sea breeze, the sound of the waves and the beauty of the ocean will make your trip truly unforgettable.
Una de las cualidades que más destacaría sobre mí es el amor por el trabajo en equipo. Reconozco y trabajo incansablemente para que la colaboración y la cooperación sigan siendo fundamentales para el éxito de nuestra empresa, especialmente en el ámbito de la navegación.
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