10 Best Things to Do in Fuerteventura, Spain

Dreaming of a Canary Islands escape? Fuerteventura has it all: endless beaches, volcanic landscapes, and a vibe that’s both relaxed and lively. In this guide to the best things to do in Fuerteventura, I’ll take you through everything worth exploring—ready to dive in?

Fuerteventura might not always be the first Canary Island that comes to mind, but that’s part of its charm. More rugged and incredibly vast, it sits just off the coast of Africa, giving you that desert-meets-sea vibe from the moment you step onto its shores. It’s only the second-largest of the Canary Islands, but it has this wide-open, limitless feel to it, like you’ve stumbled upon a place that the crowds forgot.

Here nature still runs the show. The wind is constant, sweeping across endless dunes, volcanic rock formations, and beaches that seem to stretch forever. It’s the kind of island where you’ll want to take your time—whether you’re into water sports, hiking, or just kicking back and soaking up the view.

Here’s my take on the best things to do on this windswept, sun-soaked island.

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1. Parque Natural de Corralejo: A Desert by the Sea

If you’ve seen any photos of Fuerteventura, there’s a good chance they were taken at Parque Natural de Corralejo. It’s the classic postcard spot. Imagine miles and miles of golden dunes with the Atlantic’s blue waves crashing just off in the distance. It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to wander barefoot, letting the wind guide you. It’s easy to lose track of time here, especially with the backdrop of volcanic hills far off on the horizon.

Most people come here just to enjoy the views, but if you’re feeling adventurous, grab a sandboard and ride the dunes or head to one of the nearby beaches like Playa del Moro. You’ll find plenty of kite surfers catching the wind—it’s pretty hypnotic to watch them sail through the air.

For a quieter experience, go early or stay late. As the sun starts to dip, the dunes glow in a way that’ll make you pull out your camera, even if you swore you wouldn’t.

2. Betancuria: A Peek Into the Past

Once you make your way inland, you’ll find Betancuria, a tiny village that feels frozen in time. Once the capital of the island, Betancuria’s cobbled streets and whitewashed buildings give it this old-world charm that’s hard to resist.

The village is centred around the Iglesia de Santa María, a centuries-old church that’s worth a quick visit, but honestly, Betancuria is best explored slowly. Wander through the streets, maybe stop for a coffee at a local café, and just soak in the history. The vibe here is peaceful, with none of the hustle you might find elsewhere on the island.

3. Betancuria Rural Park: Nature’s Playground

Just outside the village, Betancuria Rural Park takes over. This rugged landscape is perfect for hiking, with its steep cliffs, deep ravines, and vast open spaces. If you’re up for a bit of adventure, the Arco de las Peñitas is a must-see. It’s a natural stone arch that looks like it’s been carved by giants—trust me, the hike to get there is worth it.

The park feels remote, untouched even, and it’s the kind of place where you can really get away from it all. As you wander through, you’ll see why Fuerteventura is so special—it’s not polished or perfect, but it’s real and raw in the best possible way.

4. Playa Sotavento: For the Windsurfers

If you’re into windsurfing or kitesurfing, Playa Sotavento is the place to be. The water here is crystal clear, and the wind is almost constant, making it a playground for surfers and wind enthusiasts. 

Not into sports? No worries. The beach is also perfect for taking long walks, letting the wind whip through your hair while you take it all in. The landscape stretches for what seems like miles, with shallow lagoons and sandbars forming as the tide shifts. It’s a bit like watching nature paint and erase the landscape, all in real time.

5. Playa de la Escalera: Quiet and Untouched

If you’re looking for a beach that’s a little more off the beaten path, Playa de la Escalera is your spot. Hidden at the bottom of a steep set of stone stairs, this beach is often nearly empty, even on weekends. The waves can be a bit rough, so it’s more of a place to relax and take in the view rather than swim, but the dramatic cliffs and golden sand make it one of Fuerteventura’s most photogenic spots.

It’s not the easiest beach to find, but once you get there, you’ll be glad you made the effort. Pack a lunch, bring a good book, and settle in for a peaceful afternoon away from the crowds.

6. El Cotillo: Sunset Vibes and Fresh Seafood

If I had to pick one place on the island that really captures the laid-back vibe of Fuerteventura, it would be El Cotillo. This little fishing village on the northwest coast feels like the perfect mix of rustic charm and beachy relaxation. The streets are narrow, the buildings are whitewashed, and the vibe is all about slowing down.

The beaches here are some of the best on the island. Playa La Concha is great for swimming, with its calm, shallow waters, while Playa del Castillo is more for the surfers. But honestly, the best part of El Cotillo is the sunset. Grab a spot on the beach as the sky turns shades of pink and orange, and then head to one of the local seafood joints for a fresh, grilled dinner. You won’t regret it.

7. Playa del Cofete: Untouched Wilderness

If you’re looking for a beach that feels truly wild, Playa del Cofete is the place. Located on the island’s remote southern tip, this beach stretches for miles, with towering cliffs behind and rough waves crashing in front. The road to get there is rough—definitely bring a 4×4—but the reward is worth the effort. It’s the kind of place where you can walk for hours without seeing another soul, and there’s a sense of solitude here that’s hard to find elsewhere.

Oh, and there’s a bit of mystery, too—Villa Winter, a mansion perched on the cliffs, has been the source of plenty of wild rumours. Whatever its true history, it adds a bit of intrigue to an already unforgettable place.

8. Calderón Hondo: Hiking a Volcano

For a taste of Fuerteventura’s volcanic landscape, Calderón Hondo is a must. Located near the village of Lajares, this dormant volcano offers an easy-to-moderate hike that rewards you with panoramic views of the island’s northern coast.

The hike itself is relatively easy, suitable for all levels of preparation, and can be completed in about 2 hours. Once you reach the top at 278 metres you’ll find yourself peering directly down into the crater, which feels like something out of a sci-fi movie. The views in every direction are incredible, and it’s the kind of spot that makes you appreciate the raw, geological power that shaped the island.

9. Lobos Island: A Day Trip to a Tiny Paradise

Just a short ferry ride from Corralejo, Lobos Island is an uninhabited islet that feels like a little piece of paradise. The ferry ride to get there only takes about 15 minutes, but once you step off the boat, you’re in another world.

Lobos is small enough to explore in a day, with hiking trails that wind through volcanic landscapes and along quiet beaches. Playa de la Concha is the perfect spot for a swim, and a short hike up Montaña La Caldera gives you sweeping views of both Fuerteventura and Lanzarote.

You can buy tickets for the ferry ride direcly on the Lobos Island ferry company website. 

10. Cuevas de Ajuy: Fuerteventura’s Hidden Caves

If you’re in the mood for something a bit different, head to the west coast and check out the Cuevas de Ajuy. These ancient sea caves are some of the oldest geological formations in the Canary Islands, and exploring them feels like stepping into another era.

The caves are located just outside the small fishing village of Ajuy, and getting there involves a short, scenic walk along the cliffs. As you walk, you’ll have sweeping views of the Atlantic crashing against the rocky shore. The caves themselves are huge, with dark, jagged walls that have been carved by centuries of wave action.

It’s a humbling experience, standing inside these towering natural formations, listening to the echo of the sea outside. After your visit wander back into Ajuy and grab a bite to eat at one of the local restaurants. A plate of freshly grilled fish, served with Canarian wrinkled potatoes, is the perfect end to a day of exploring.

Practical Tips for Getting to and Exploring Fuerteventura

Getting to Fuerteventura is pretty straightforward, with direct flights from many major European cities, especially during the high season. Most flights land at Fuerteventura Airport near Puerto del Rosario, the island’s capital.

Once you’re on the ground, renting a car is your best bet. Fuerteventura’s public transport can be a bit limited, and having your own wheels gives you the freedom to explore all those out-of-the-way spots like Cofete and Playa de la Escalera. The island’s roads are easy to navigate, though if you’re planning to head to the more remote areas (like Cofete, for example), a 4×4 will make your life a whole lot easier.

As for timing, Fuerteventura’s mild climate means you can visit year-round, but the winds are strongest from April to September, which is great for water sports. If you prefer things a bit calmer, aim for the off-season.

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