Sunshine on your skin, sand between your toes, and a salty breeze whispering “relax”… Fuerteventura is the kind of island that doesn’t just welcome you – it wraps you in a warm hug and hands you a cold drink. Dreaming of your ultimate island escape? Here’s your Fuerteventura travel guide.

A winding paved road runs through a desert landscape with sparse vegetation and distant mountains under a clear sky. Two cars are seen on the road.
Corralejo, Fuerteventura
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👋 I’m Hazel, a British travel blogger based near London, in England. I have visited most of the Canary Islands, and Fuerteventura is probably my favourite of the bunch.

Let’s dive into everything you need to plan the perfect Fuerteventura getaway.

So, where exactly is Fuerteventura? 🌍

Fuerteventura is part of Spain’s Canary Islands, chilling in the Atlantic just off the coast of Morocco. It’s the second largest of the archipelago (after Tenerife) and the one to beat when it comes to endless beaches and serious vitamin D.

It’s warm, wild, and windswept, with over 150km of sandy coastline, Martian-like landscapes, and a laid-back surfy vibe. Oh, and it’s a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, so you know it’s got the natural wow-factor.

Here’s a quick trip-planning scoop:

✈️ Flight time from London: Around 4.5 hours.
🕒 Time zone: GMT+0
💶 Currency: Euro (€)
🗣️ Language: Spanish (but English is spoken in touristy spots)
🔌 Plug type: Type C & F (two round pins)

    Map of Fuerteventura 🗺️

    This interactive Google Map shows all the key towns and areas mentioned in this guide – from beachy Corralejo to the quiet coves of El Cotillo. Click the blue pins to explore each spot in more detail, or hit the ⭐️ to save the map to your own Google account for easy access while travelling.

    The Landscape: Beaches, Volcanoes & Desert Vibes 🏜️

    Fuerteventura’s charm is raw and rugged. You’ve got ochre-toned hills, white-sand dunes, and beaches that go on forever. The volcanic origins give it a lunar edge, especially in the central highlands, while the coast is all turquoise waters and surf-ready swells.

    Top natural sights include:

    🏖️ Corralejo Dunes Natural Park – golden sand dunes rolling down to turquoise seas.
    🗿 Montaña de Tindaya – a sacred, flat-topped mountain with mystical status.
    🌊 Cofete Beach – remote, dramatic, wildly beautiful (not safe for swimming).
    🦎 Desert Wildlife – think squirrels, vultures, and geckos galore.

    Sandscape with yellow sand and small dues, cloudy sky with brown volcanic mountain on the horizon.

    Getting There & Getting Around ✈️

    Fly into Fuerteventura Airport (FUE), located just outside Puerto del Rosario. It’s well-connected to mainland Spain and major European cities, and once you land, getting around is easy if you know your options:

    🚌 Public Buses
    Local buses are affordable and link most major towns like Corralejo, Caleta de Fuste, and Costa Calma. That said, they don’t reach every beach or remote village, and schedules can be limited on weekends.

    🚕 Taxis & Shuttles
    Taxis are readily available outside the airport and in tourist hubs. Many hotels also offer shuttle transfers – a good stress-free option if you’re heading straight to your resort.

    🚘 Car Rental
    Renting a car is hands-down the best way to explore the island at your own pace. Roads are generally well-maintained, traffic is light, and the island’s compact size makes for easy day trips. I usually book with Discover Cars – it’s a great comparison site that helps you find good deals and user-reviewed companies.

    Top Things to Do in Fuerteventura 🎯

    Fuerteventura might be laid-back in pace, but it packs in some seriously unforgettable experiences.

    🏄‍♂️ Surf, Windsurf, or Kitesurf Your Heart Out
    This island is the real MVP of wind-powered sports. Beginners can book a lesson in Corralejo or El Cotillo, while the pros head south to Sotavento, a world-famous beach that hosts the Windsurfing & Kitesurfing World Cup every year.

    🚶‍♀️ Hike the Calderón Hondo Volcano
    One of the best short hikes on the island! Just outside Lajares, it’s a fairly easy loop with big views into the crater and across to Lanzarote on a clear day. Don’t forget snacks (the local squirrels love a photo op).

    ⛴️ Take a Boat Trip to Lobos Island
    This little uninhabited island just north of Corralejo is paradise for walkers, snorkelers, and solitude-seekers. You’ll need a permit (it’s free, just book ahead online), and then it’s just 15 minutes by boat. Once there: chill on Playa de la Concha, explore the old lighthouse, or climb the mini-volcano Montaña La Caldera.

    👉 Want more? See my Lobos Island Guide for everything you need to know.

    Volcanic sandy landscape with brown stones and a volcano crater in the distance. Blue skies with white clouds.
    Trails on Lobos Island with the Caldera in the distance

    🌅 Watch the Sunset at Ajuy Caves
    Drive west to Ajuy for black volcanic sand, towering cliffs, and dramatic sea caves carved by centuries of Atlantic waves. Time your visit for golden hour – the light show as the sun dips below the horizon is next-level beautiful.

    🏘️ Wander the Streets of Betancuria
    Fuerteventura’s former capital is tiny, tranquil, and full of charm. Think cobbled streets, whitewashed houses, and sleepy squares framed by palm trees. Stop by the church of Santa María and grab a coffee in the main plaza.

    🏖️ Relax on the Endless Beaches
    Let’s be real, the beaches are the star here. Whether you want resort-style sands with sunbeds or wild, windswept shores where it’s just you and the breeze, there’s a beach with your name on it. I wrote a whole post on Fuerteventura’s beaches, but in the meantime, try:

    • Sotavento: long, dreamy, perfect for walks.
    • Playa del Matorral: near Morro Jable, with a lighthouse and calm swimming spots.
    • Playa de Esquinzo: lesser-known, super peaceful.
    • Playa del Castillo: great for families and watersports.
    Large beach, aerial view, turquoise sea with orange sands and tall mountains and dunes.
    El Cotillo Cliffs Fuerteventura, sandstone landscape with blue sky and white clouds

    🐬 Go Whale or Dolphin Spotting
    Boat tours run from several ports (Corralejo, Caleta de Fuste, Morro Jable) and offer the chance to see pilot whales, dolphins, or even sea turtles. Some include lunch, snorkelling, and a cheeky glass of cava.

    🛍️ Explore Local Markets
    Stock up on aloe vera products, handmade crafts, and local snacks at markets in Corralejo (Tues & Fri), Caleta de Fuste, and Lajares. Great for souvenirs and supporting small island businesses.

    Where to Stay in Fuerteventura 🏨

    Fuerteventura has a spot for every kind of traveller. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose your base:

    🌊 Corralejo (North)
    Best for: First-timers, beach lovers, nightlife, trips to Lobos.
    Corralejo is the island’s buzziest town, with a colourful mix of surf shops, beach bars, and tapas joints. It’s close to the Corralejo dunes and has ferries to Lobos and Lanzarote. Accommodation ranges from budget hostels and apartments to boutique hotels with ocean views.

    🏖️ Costa Calma & Sotavento (Southeast)
    Best for: Beachfront resorts, relaxation, watersports.
    This stretch is all about sun, sand, and serenity. Costa Calma has a mellow vibe with a few big hotels, while nearby Sotavento Beach is an epic kite and windsurfing spot. Great if you’re looking for space, sea, and spa time.

    🏄‍♂️ El Cotillo (Northwest)
    Best for: Surfing, sunsets, slow travel.
    Chilled out and charming, El Cotillo is a favourite among surfers and those who like their holidays low-key. There are beautiful lagoons, fantastic waves, and some seriously underrated seafood restaurants.

    🌲 Betancuria & Inland Villages
    Best for: Rural charm, hiking, peace and quiet.
    Staying inland is a whole different vibe. Think boutique fincas, starry skies, and a real sense of escape. Places like Betancuria or Villaverde make a great base for hikers or anyone craving a digital detox.

    🐢 Morro Jable (Southwest)
    Best for: Beach breaks, families, older travellers.
    Down in the south, Morro Jable offers calm seas, wide beaches, and a mix of local life and tourist comforts. It’s less wild than the north, and a good choice if you like things easy and walkable.

    ✈️ Caleta de Fuste (East coast, near the airport)
    Best for: Convenience, golf, short stays.
    Just 10 minutes from the airport, this resort area is popular with families and golfers. There’s a sandy beach, marina, and lots of all-inclusive hotels. Not the most “authentic” but very practical.

    👉 Top Tip: Renting a car gives you more flexibility, so don’t be afraid to stay in a quieter area (nothing is too far on this island).

    Aerial view of a single road snaking through a white sand landscape in Corralejo natural park

    Quick Tips for Visiting Fuerteventura ⚡

    A few handy bits to make your island trip as smooth as a fresh mojito:

    💨 Expect wind – lots of it. It’s part of the island’s charm (and why surfers love it), but bring a light jacket, lip balm, and maybe a buff or headband if you’re hiking or biking.

    👟 Beach shoes can be a lifesaver. While some beaches are sandy, others have pebbles or volcanic rock, especially around El Cotillo and Ajuy.

    🔐 It’s a very safe destination, even for solo travellers. Just keep an eye on valuables at the beach and use common sense in busy areas like Corralejo’s nightlife zones.

    🗺️ Download offline maps. Mobile signal is decent in towns but patchy inland or on Lobos Island – Google Maps offline mode can be a hero. 👉 More apps for travellers.

    ☀️ Pack sun protection. The UV index stays high year-round, and the breeze can trick you into forgetting just how strong the sun is.

    ⛺ Wild camping is not allowed, but there are scenic campgrounds with proper facilities if you fancy a night under the stars.

    🗣️ Learn a few Spanish basics. Even just hola, gracias, and una cerveza, por favor will earn you a smile – locals are patient and appreciate the effort.

    Top Hotels in Fuerteventura 🏨

    Not sure where to stay? Here’s a quick, curated list of great spots to rest your head.

    🌊 Corralejo (North)

    🏄‍♂️ El Cotillo (Northwest)

    • Cotillo Lagos – Right on the sand, with charming rooms and a sunset-ready setting.
    • Cotillo Sunset – Cosy and affordable, just steps from the shore.

    🏖️ Costa Calma (Southeast)

    • H10 Tindaya – Stylish resort right on the beach, with pools and palm-lined paths.
    • Labranda Golden Beach – Simple, cheerful, and great for surfers or couples on a budget.

    ✈️ Caleta de Fuste (East Coast)

    👉 See all hotels on Booking.com

    Foodie Fuerteventura: What to Eat & Drink 🍴

    Fuerteventura might be known for its beaches, but its culinary scene is quietly impressive: fresh, local, and full of Canarian flair. Expect simple, hearty dishes made with sun-drenched ingredients and a strong connection to the island’s rural roots.

    🧀 Majorero cheese (local goat cheese).
    🐟 Fresh seafood (vieja, pulpo, cherne).
    🥔 Papas arrugadas with mojo.
    🍮 Frangollo & bienmesabe.
    🍷 Volcanic wines & ron miel.

    Best Tours in Fuerteventura 🚐

    Want to add a bit of adventure (or convenience) to your trip? A tour can be a great way to explore the island’s hidden corners, hop over to nearby islets, or try something totally new, all without the stress of planning.

    Here are some top picks worth checking out:

    🏝️ Island Highlights Tour
    Short on time? This full-day tour covers some of Fuerteventura’s best bits. Think volcanic craters, quaint villages, dramatic beaches, and cheese tastings (yes, really). Great for first-timers.

    ⛴️ Lobos Island Boat Trip
    Hop aboard from Corralejo and sail to Isla de Lobos. Most tours include snorkelling stops, time to hike or relax on the island, and sometimes even lunch on board. It’s a peaceful mini escape. See all Fuerteventura boat tours here.

    🚙 Off-Road Jeep Safari
    Buckle up for a bumpy ride through lava fields, remote beaches, and lunar-like landscapes. These tours take you well off the beaten path, and the views are seriously worth it. See all jeep safaris here.

    ⛵Catamaran Cruise
    For a more chilled-out day on the water, hop on a catamaran and glide along Fuerteventura’s coast. Expect swimming stops, open bar vibes, and golden-hour views that slap. See all Fuerteventura boat tours here.

    🏄‍♂️ Surf or Kitesurf Lesson
    Never surfed before? No problem. Fuerteventura is one of the best places in Europe to learn. Book a beginner-friendly session in Corralejo or El Cotillo and ride those beginner-friendly waves. Try this Surf Class in Corralejo, or see all surfing lessons here.

    🐪Camel Ride in the Dunes
    Yes, really. Near Corralejo’s dunes, you can take a slow, slightly wobbly ride on a camel. It’s touristy, but fun, especially if you’re travelling with kids.

    🍷 Local Food & Wine Tours
    Sample Fuerteventura’s homegrown flavours, from goat cheese and Canarian potatoes to local wines and sweet ron miel. These tours often include stops at farms or small bodegas.

    Booking tip: Most tours can be reserved online (Viator and GetYourGuide are great), but some local operators only take bookings in person. If you’re already on the island, check with your hotel or local tourist info offices for last-minute deals.

    The most popular tours in Fuerteventura are:

    A beach in Fuerteventura with turquoise water, lined with palm trees. People are scattered along the sandy shoreline, with buildings and a lighthouse visible in the background. The sky is clear and blue.
    Morro Jable beach

    Sustainable Travel in Fuerteventura 🌱

    With a few mindful choices, you can help keep Fuerteventura wild, clean, and wonderful for future visitors (and its resident goats).

    Here’s how to travel more sustainably on your trip:

    🚮 Leave No Trace
    Whether you’re hiking volcanic trails or lounging on remote beaches, always take your rubbish with you. Bin access can be limited in natural areas, so bring a small bag for any waste.

    💧 Bring a Reusable Water Bottle
    Tap water is safe to drink, so skip the plastic and refill as you go. Many hotels and restaurants are happy to top you up.

    🦎 Respect Wildlife and Natural Spaces
    Keep a respectful distance from wild animals (yes, even the cute ground squirrels), stay on marked trails, and avoid stepping on delicate dunes or vegetation. In protected areas like Isla de Lobos, follow all posted rules – permits are required for a reason!

    🚲 Rethink Your Transport
    If you’re not venturing too far, consider exploring by foot, bike, or using local buses. Renting a car? Choose the smallest and most fuel-efficient option that works for your trip.

    🛍️ Shop and Eat Local
    Support small businesses by buying handmade souvenirs and eating at locally run restaurants. You’ll often find better quality (and friendlier service) than the big chains.

    🏨 Choose Eco-Conscious Stays
    Many hotels now have sustainability certifications or eco-friendly practices like solar power, water-saving systems, or plastic-free amenities. Look out for these when booking.

    🌊 Respect the Sea
    If you’re snorkelling or swimming, use reef-safe sunscreen (some ingredients harm marine life), and never touch or collect sea creatures or shells.

    Fuerteventura Travel FAQs 💡

    Frequently asked questions about visiting the island of Fuerteventura.

    Where is Fuerteventura?

    Fuerteventura is one of Spain’s Canary Islands, floating in the Atlantic just off the northwest coast of Africa. It’s the second-largest island in the archipelago and famous for its beaches and windswept beauty.

    What’s the best time to visit?

    You can visit year-round! Fuerteventura has a warm, dry climate and more sunshine than almost anywhere else in Europe. Spring and autumn are ideal for fewer crowds and pleasant temps, while summer is peak beach season.

    ✈️ How do I get to Fuerteventura?

    Fly into Fuerteventura Airport (FUE), near Caleta de Fuste. There are direct flights from many major European cities. From the airport, it’s easy to reach resorts via taxi, transfer, or rental car.

    Should I rent a car?

    It’s highly recommended if you want to explore beyond your hotel – especially beaches, inland villages, and remote viewpoints. Roads are in good condition, and the island is easy to drive around. I usually book with Discover Cars – it’s a great comparison site that helps you find good deals and user-reviewed companies.

    What currency is used?

    Fuerteventura uses the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but bring a bit of cash for small shops or rural cafés.

    Do I need to speak Spanish?

    Not necessarily. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but learning a few basics like hola (hello) or gracias (thank you) is always appreciated.

    Does Fuerteventura have sandy beaches?

    Yes – loads of them. From the giant dunes at Corralejo to golden stretches in Costa Calma and wild coves near El Cotillo, you’ll be spoiled for choice.

    What should I pack?

    Light layers, swimwear, good walking shoes, sun protection (the wind hides how strong the sun is!), and maybe a light jacket for cooler evenings or mountain breezes.

    s Fuerteventura safe?

    Yes, very safe for tourists, including solo travellers. Just use common sense, especially with valuables on the beach or in busy areas.

    Is there good Wi-Fi?

    Yes, especially in towns and hotels. Signal can be weaker in rural spots, so download offline maps if you’re road tripping.

    Can I visit Isla de Lobos anytime?

    You’ll need a permit (free, book online) and a ferry ticket from Corralejo. Only a limited number of people can visit daily to protect the island’s ecosystem.

    Can you drink the tap water in Fuerteventura?

    Yes, the tap water is technically safe to drink, though many locals and visitors prefer bottled or filtered water due to the taste (it can be slightly salty). If you’re unsure, refill a reusable bottle with filtered water from your hotel.

    ⭐ Are there any 5 star hotels in Fuerteventura?

    Yes, Fuerteventura has several five-star hotels that cater to luxury travellers.
    1. Secrets Bahía Real Resort & Spa Adults Only (Corralejo)
    2. Iberostar Selection Fuerteventura Palace (Jandia)
    3. Sheraton Fuerteventura Beach, Golf & Spa Resort (Caleta de Fuste)
    4. Elba Palace Golf Boutique Hotel (Caleta de Fuste)
    5. Hotel Villa El Descanso (Corralejo)

    Fuerteventura Welcome Sign with a Canarian goat sculpture. Blue sky and brown/red mountainous landscape in the background.

    Below are some related posts for this Fuerteventura travel guide.

    🏝️ Lobos Island Fuerteventura: Ultimate Guide to Visiting Isla Lobos.
    🌊 10 Best Things to do in Corralejo, Fuerteventura.
    🌞 12 Wonderful Things to do in Fuerteventura.
    🏖️ Which Canary Island is best for your trip? A guide to all 8 Islands in 2025.
    🌋 Lanzarote Travel Guide: Beaches, Volcanoes & Sunshine
    🏝️ The 14 Best Beaches in Fuerteventura (And Why You’ll Fall in Love With Each One)

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