Fuerteventura, the second-largest island in Spain’s Canary Islands, is a haven for beach lovers, adventure seekers, and culture enthusiasts. Known for its golden sand dunes, crystal-clear waters, and year-round sunshine, this island offers something for everyone. If you’re into water sports, hiking, historical sites, or just relaxing on stunning beaches, Fuerteventura is an incredible destination.

Things to Do in Fuerteventura

1. Explore the Stunning Beaches

Fuerteventura is famous for its breathtaking beaches, each offering a unique experience:

• Corralejo Grandes Playas – A long stretch of pristine sand with turquoise waters, ideal for sunbathing and swimming.
• Cofete Beach – A remote and wild beach with dramatic landscapes, perfect for those who love untouched nature.
• Sotavento Beach – Known for its shallow lagoons, this beach is a hotspot for windsurfing and kiteboarding.
• Playa de la Concha – Located in El Cotillo, this beach is great for families thanks to its calm, crystal-clear waters.
• Ajuy Beach – A black sand beach near ancient sea caves, offering a unique contrast to the island’s golden dunes.

2. Visit Corralejo Natural Park

This breathtaking park features massive sand dunes stretching along the northeast coast. The Dunas de Corralejo create a mini-Sahara-like landscape, perfect for photography, hiking, or simply taking in the views. The beaches here are excellent for surfing and swimming.

3. Try Water Sports: Surfing, Windsurfing & Kitesurfing

Fuerteventura is a world-class destination for water sports, particularly surfing and windsurfing:

• El Cotillo and La Pared – Perfect for beginner and advanced surfers.
• Sotavento Beach – One of the best windsurfing and kitesurfing spots, hosting the annual World Windsurfing Championships.
• Flag Beach – Ideal for kitesurfing with steady winds and shallow waters.

4. Take a Trip to Lobos Island

Lobos Island, located just off the coast of Fuerteventura, is a protected nature reserve. Take a short boat ride from Corralejo and explore the island’s hiking trails, volcanic landscapes, and pristine beaches. Snorkeling and diving here offer encounters with vibrant marine life.

5. Explore Betancuria: Fuerteventura’s Historic Capital

Step back in time by visiting Betancuria, the island’s first capital:

• Santa María Church – A beautiful 17th-century church with impressive architecture.
• Archeological Museum – Discover artifacts from the island’s first inhabitants, the Guanches.
• Mirador Morro Velosa – A scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views of Fuerteventura.

6. Hike the Calderón Hondo Volcano

For a taste of Fuerteventura’s volcanic past, hike up Calderón Hondo, a well-preserved crater offering stunning views of the island’s rugged landscape. The hike is relatively easy and suitable for beginners.

7. Discover Ajuy Caves

Located near the village of Ajuy, these sea caves are millions of years old and are some of the oldest rock formations in the Canary Islands. The walk to the caves also offers incredible views of the Atlantic Ocean.

8. Visit Oasis Wildlife Park

This animal park in La Lajita is a great family-friendly attraction. It features a variety of exotic animals, from giraffes to lemurs, and also offers interactive experiences like camel rides and sea lion encounters.

9. Enjoy Local Canarian Cuisine

 

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Fuerteventura offers a delicious selection of traditional Canarian dishes:

• Papas arrugadas con mojo – Small salty potatoes served with red and green mojo sauces.
• Gofio – A flour made from roasted grains, often used in local dishes.
• Majorero Cheese – A famous local goat cheese that has won international awards.
• Fresh seafood – Try grilled fish, seafood paella, and octopus dishes at seaside restaurants.

10. Experience Fuerteventura’s Nightlife

While the island is more relaxed compared to Tenerife or Gran Canaria, there are plenty of nightlife spots to enjoy:

• Corralejo – The liveliest town for bars, pubs, and beachfront clubs.
• Puerto del Rosario – The capital city has a mix of traditional and modern nightlife.
• Caleta de Fuste – A resort town with cocktail bars and live music venues.

11. Go Whale and Dolphin Watching

Take a boat trip from Morro Jable or Corralejo to spot whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. These waters are home to various species, including pilot whales and bottlenose dolphins.

12. Explore Tindaya Mountain

Considered a sacred site by the island’s indigenous people, Montaña de Tindaya is known for its mysterious ancient engravings and stunning sunset views. It’s an easy hike with panoramic views of the island.

13. Go Shopping in Local Markets

For unique souvenirs and handmade crafts, visit:

• Corralejo Market – Held twice a week, offering local crafts, jewelry, and organic food.
• La Oliva Artisan Market – Showcasing traditional Canarian pottery and textiles.
• Puerto del Rosario Shopping District – Home to major shopping centers like Las Rotondas.

14. Take a Quad or Buggy Tour

For an adventurous way to explore Fuerteventura’s volcanic terrain and coastal landscapes, book a quad or buggy tour from Corralejo or Caleta de Fuste.

15. Relax in Costa Calma & Jandía Peninsula

These areas are known for their luxury resorts, stunning beaches, and laid-back vibe. They are perfect for travelers looking to unwind and enjoy high-end beachfront hotels.

Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Fuerteventura

1. What is Fuerteventura best known for?

Fuerteventura is best known for its beautiful beaches, sand dunes, water sports (surfing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing), and volcanic landscapes. It’s also famous for its relaxed atmosphere and traditional Canarian cuisine.

2. What are the best beaches to visit in Fuerteventura?

Some of the most stunning beaches include:

• Corralejo Grandes Playas – Turquoise waters and golden dunes.
• Cofete Beach – A remote, untouched paradise.
• Sotavento Beach – Ideal for windsurfing and kitesurfing.
• Playa de la Concha – Calm waters, great for families.
• Ajuy Beach – Unique black sand beach near sea caves.

3. What are the best outdoor activities in Fuerteventura?

Outdoor enthusiasts will love:

• Surfing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing at Sotavento, Flag Beach, or El Cotillo.
• Hiking Calderón Hondo volcano or Tindaya Mountain.
• Exploring Corralejo Natural Park’s sand dunes.
• Taking a boat trip to Lobos Island for snorkeling and wildlife spotting.
• Riding a quad or buggy through volcanic landscapes.

4. Is Fuerteventura good for families?

Yes! Fuerteventura has family-friendly beaches like Playa de la Concha, attractions like Oasis Wildlife Park, and boat tours for dolphin watching. Resorts in Costa Calma and Caleta de Fuste are great for kids.

5. Can you visit Lobos Island from Fuerteventura?

Yes! You can take a 15-minute ferry or boat tour from Corralejo to Lobos Island. Once there, you can explore hiking trails, relax on secluded beaches, and snorkel in clear waters.

6. What historical sites should I visit in Fuerteventura?

• Betancuria – The island’s first capital, with colonial architecture and a historic church.
• Ajuy Caves – Ancient sea caves with unique rock formations.
• Tindaya Mountain – Sacred to the island’s indigenous Guanche people, with prehistoric carvings.

7. What is the best time to visit Fuerteventura?

Fuerteventura has year-round sunshine, making it a great destination at any time. The best months for beach weather are April to October, while surfers prefer the winter months (November to March) for bigger waves.

8. What traditional foods should I try in Fuerteventura?

• Papas arrugadas con mojo – Small salty potatoes with mojo sauce.
• Majorero Cheese – A famous local goat cheese.
• Gofio – A roasted grain flour used in Canarian dishes.
• Fresh seafood – Try grilled fish, seafood paella, and octopus dishes.

Final Thoughts

Fuerteventura is an island full of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, a history buff, or someone looking to soak up the sun, this Canary Island has something for you.