Slow things down on a holiday to Fuerteventura – where long beaches, laidback resorts and year‑round sunshine make switching off feel easy.
A quieter side of the Canaries
Fuerteventura feels more low-key than some of its neighbours. Buildings are low-rise, the landscape is shaped by nature rather than big developments, and the overall pace is relaxed. That said, it’s far from sleepy – surfers and beachgoers make the most of the early mornings here, long before most of the island is fully awake.
Beaches, waves and wide-open spaces
Huge beaches are a big attraction in Fuerteventura. In the north, places like Dunas de Corralejo National Park combine long stretches of sand with rolling white dunes that feel almost desert like. Add in reliable sunshine and steady winds, and it’s a strong spot for watersports, especially windsurfing and kitesurfing. There’s plenty of space to spread out too, so even at busier times, it rarely feels crowded.
Best time to go to Fuerteventura
Temperatures are steady year-round in Fuerteventura, usually sitting around 20°C in winter and closer to 25°C in summer. August can climb towards 30°C, though the trade winds help keep things comfortable. Rain is minimal, with most of it falling in the north between October and March – and even then, it’s very light.
Best places to stay in Fuerteventura
Corralejo
This northern resort is a popular surf destination for its waves, and, thanks to Dunas de Corralejo National Park, untouched dunes go on for miles, so sunbathers love it too. There’s also plenty of action about the Old Town and harbour, with plenty of restaurants and bars.
Costa Caleta
This small, laidback resort on a marina has a horseshoe bay and sandy beach. It’s on the east coast, popular with kitesurfers, plus parks, minigolf courses and beachfront cafés are perfect for families.
Costa Calma
This resort is a popular choice for watersports – windsurfing and kiteboarding championships are held in the south, so the surf here is ideal. The name itself means ‘calm coast’, so expect a relaxed atmosphere. And at high tide, a shallow lagoon also forms, perfect for swimming.
Esquinzo
This small village in the south makes a good base for daytrips to Jandía Natural Park, Costa Calma and nearby beaches. It’s an insider tip among surfers – much quieter early morning or evening, with a wilder feel to the sandy shoreline.
Jandia
Also in the south, Jandia is a town, but also the name for the entire southern peninsula. The promenade is full of nightlife, plus there’s a charming Old Town and a big beach with plenty of watersports.
Nuevo Horizonte
For something a little different, this cliffside spot skips the beach altogether but keeps you close to the coast. Costa Caleta and Caleta de Fuste are just a five-minute drive, or around a 30-minute walk, with a handful of bars nearby for easy evenings with drinks and live music.
Top Fuerteventura holiday deals
Bungalows Castillo Club Lake
Caleta de Fuste, Fuerteventura, Canary Islands, Spain
92 reviews
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Your holiday: £218pp
Casthotels Fuertesol Bungalows
Caleta de Fuste, Fuerteventura, Canary Islands, Spain
1022 reviews
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Cotillo House
Cotillo, Fuerteventura, Canary Islands, Spain
166 reviews
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Maxorata Beach
Corralejo, Fuerteventura, Canary Islands, Spain
888 reviews
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Aparthotel Esquinzo & Monte del Mar
Playa de Esquinzo, Fuerteventura, Canary Islands, Spain
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Your holiday: £265pp
Tao El Cotillo
Cotillo, Fuerteventura, Canary Islands, Spain
54 reviews
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Elba Lucia Sport Suite Hotel
Nuevo Horizonte, Fuerteventura, Canary Islands, Spain
2740 reviews
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Las Casitas de Corralejo
Corralejo, Fuerteventura, Canary Islands, Spain
26 reviews
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Apartamentos Hesperia Bristol Playa
Corralejo, Fuerteventura, Canary Islands, Spain
3137 reviews
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Apartamentos Matorral
Morro Jable, Fuerteventura, Canary Islands, Spain
66 reviews
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Bahia Calma Beach
Costa Calma, Fuerteventura, Canary Islands, Spain
323 reviews
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Caybeach Caleta
Caleta de Fuste, Fuerteventura, Canary Islands, Spain
2595 reviews
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Costa Tropical
Nuevo Horizonte, Fuerteventura, Canary Islands, Spain
3550 reviews
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Your holiday: £306pp
Atlantic Garden Beach Mate
Corralejo, Fuerteventura, Canary Islands, Spain
1325 reviews
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Apartamentos Las Marismas Corralejo
Corralejo, Fuerteventura, Canary Islands, Spain
3242 reviews
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Fuerteventura highlights
WINTER SUN
Avoid the peak‑season crowds and enjoy some winter sun in Fuerteventura, with warm temperatures, long beaches and a slower pace that’s ideal for an easy escape.
BIG BEACHES
Fuerteventura holidays are known for some of the biggest and best beaches in the Canaries, like La Concha and Corralejo.
TOP SURFING
Consistent swells attract surfers’ year-round, and the island plays host to windsurfing and kitesurfing competitions, too.
DRAMATIC SCENERY
From the sand dunes of Dunas de Corralejo to Jandia Natural Park and Isla de Lobos, the scenery is rugged and easy to explore.
Your guide to Fuerteventura
Popular attractions
There’s plenty to do in Fuerteventura if you fancy more than just the sand.
Acua Water Park – Fuerteventura’s only waterpark and a top place for families. It's got everything from big waterslides to a wave pool and a lazy river, plus there’s a dedicated children’s area with smaller slides and splash pools. Handy extras like restaurants, bars and sunloungers mean you can easily make a day of it.
Dune buggy tours – These guided tours typically start from hubs like Corralejo or Caleta de Fuste, and then they’ll take you off-road through volcanic terrains, ancient lava fields and the golden sands of Corralejo Natural Park. You get views as you pass picturesque villages, and you can even catch the coastlines of Lanzarote and Isla de Lobos in the distance.
The Museum of Salt – This spot, in Salinas del Carmen, showcases Fuerteventura’s rich history of salt production. You can explore indoor exhibits and outdoor salt pans to learn about the traditional salt harvesting.
Beaches
Island life in Fuerteventura tends to revolve around relaxed days by the sea, and the beaches here are well-suited to sunbathing and surfing. They’re also pretty easy on the eye.
Playa de Sotavento – On Fuerteventura’s southeast coast, this is one of the island’s most iconic beaches. It stretches for miles and is known for its golden sands, shallow lagoons and turquoise waters. It’s a favourite for windsurfers and kitesurfers, thanks to the consistent winds, and international championships are often held here. The lagoons appear at low tide, so families and those looking for a relaxing dip should try to time a visit around then.
Corralejo Grandes Playas – Near Corralejo Natural Park, this is a series of breathtaking beaches backed by golden sand dunes. They’ve got all you want – calm, shallow waters for swimming, loads of watersports and quieter spots for sunbathing, too.
Cofete Beach – On the remote Jandia Peninsula, this beach is renowned for its wild, untouched beauty – it’s set against the dramatic backdrop of rugged mountains. The strong currents don’t make it the best place for swimming, and you have to get a 4x4 to reach it, but Cofete is perfect for a peaceful escape, some top photography and seeing a wilder side to Fuerteventura.
Outdoor activities
Since the weather’s ideal all year round, holidays to Fuerteventura are ideal for an outdoor adventure.
Corralejo Natural Park – A protected area on the northeast coast of Fuerteventura. It’s famous for its golden sand dunes, pristine beaches and volcanic landscapes. Head here for sunbathing, swimming and walks through the dunes. The area also has views of Isla de Lobos and Lanzarote in the distance that photographers and nature fans will love.
Calderon Hondo – A well-preserved volcanic crater near the village of Lajares. This natural feature has hiking trails that lead right up to the rim for panoramic views of the island. The walk is doable for most fitness levels – just don’t forget to watch out for local wildlife, like ground squirrels.
Jandia Natural Park – A vast and remote protected area on the southern tip of Fuerteventura. It has diverse landscapes, with wild, unspoiled beaches like Cofete to rugged mountains. Explore hiking trails, take in the views from Pico de la Zarza – the island’s highest peak – or just relax on some of the quietest beaches in the Canaries.
Jandia Golf Course – In the south of Fuerteventura, near Morro Jable, this course is designed by renowned architect Ron Kirby. It’s your classic 18-hole course, but it works its way through a picturesque valley, featuring four lakes and several dry riverbeds. It’s also within the Jandia Natural Park, so the views are great, too.
Daytrips
Fuerteventura might be one of the biggest Canary Islands, but it’s still straightforward to daytrip along the different coasts.
Visit Isla de Lobos – Just a short ferry ride from Corralejo will take you to this wild, uninhabited island just off the northern coast of Fuerteventura. It’s a natural paradise with hiking trails through volcanic landscapes, secluded beaches for sunbathing and crystal-clear waters for snorkelling.
Betancuria – Fuerteventura’s historic former capital is nestled in a picturesque valley, where you can explore charming, whitewashed buildings, the beautiful Church of Santa María and the Museum of Sacred Art. It’s a must-visit for history lovers and to learn about traditional Canarian culture.
Morro Jable – On Fuerteventura’s southern coast, this place combines beaches, local culture and access to beautiful natural attractions. Playa del Matorral, with its soft sands and turquoise waters, is ideal for sunbathing, swimming and beachfront dining at the town’s cafés and restaurants. The promenade also features boutique shops and local markets, plus Morro Jable has easy access to the wild beauty of Cofete Beach and Jandia Natural Park’s hiking trails.
Shopping
Expect a mix of big malls, souvenir spots and local markets.
Corralejo Market – A lively open-air market held twice a week in the lively town of Corralejo. It’s ideal for anyone looking for local crafts, handmade goods and authentic Canarian souvenirs. You’ll also find fresh produce, street performers and live music.
Las Rotondas Shopping Centre, Puerto del Rosario – A retail hub spread over multiple floors with high-street brands, Spanish retailers and local boutiques. As with most malls, you’ve also got a range of dining options for a quick break, and even family-friendly entertainment like kids’ play areas.
Caleta de Fuste – A popular resort town on Fuerteventura’s east coast. The marina area is dotted with shops, bars and waterfront restaurants, perfect for a laidback shopping spree and bite to eat. It’s also known for its variety of markets and local craft stores, so it’s a great place to buy souvenirs.
Traditional dishes
If you love Spanish tapas, the Canary Islands put their own spin on the classics.
Gofio Amasado – A traditional Canarian dish made from roasted grains mixed with potatoes, wine and honey, creating a thick, pâté-like texture.
Papas Arrugadas – Salted ‘wrinkled potatoes’ served with classic mojo sauces, usually red or green.
Bienmesabe – A rich almond dessert with honey, cinnamon and egg yolks, often served with ice cream or cake.
Queso Majorero – A well‑known cheese made from the milk of local Majorera goats, with a nutty flavour similar to Manchego. It’s often coated in paprika for extra depth and pairs well with wine or as a simple snack.
Local drinks
Ron miel – A classic Canarian liqueur made from dark rum and honey, with a smooth, sweet finish. Enjoy it before or after a meal or take a bottle home as a local souvenir.
Malvasía wine – A local white made from volcanic‑grown grapes, typically fresh, citrusy and easy to drink.
Barraquito – A layered coffee with condensed milk and espresso, sometimes finished with cinnamon or a splash of liqueur.
Nightlife
You can go as lively or as low‑key as you like in Fuerteventura, with a mix of late‑night spots and easy‑going bars.
Corralejo – Fuerteventura’s nightlife hub. The main street and surrounding areas have lively bars, beachside clubs and pubs with live music. Popular spots include Rock Island Bar, which hosts live performances, while clubs like Flicks Karaoke & Disco Bar are a bit more high-energy.
Caleta de Fuste – This resort town offers a more laidback scene, ideal for families. There are cosy spots like The Dog and Duck Pub and live music venues. Some of the beachfront bars have beautiful sunset views for a drink in the evening, too.
Morro Jable – Expect beachside drinks and low-key nightlife. The waterfront promenade has a selection of bars and cafés where you can enjoy cocktails or local wines.
Car hire
Renting a car offers the most freedom to explore Fuerteventura at your own pace. It’s useful for reaching remote spots like Cofete Beach, Calderón Hondo or Jandia Natural Park, where there’s no public transport. Plus, the island has a good road network, and car rentals are relatively affordable.
Bus
Known locally as ‘guaguas’ – the island’s public bus system is operated by Tiadhe and is a reliable and affordable option. The routes connect major towns like Corralejo, Puerto del Rosario and Morro Jable, but they don’t cover many rural or remote attractions.
Taxi
Taxis are widely available in most towns and can be a quick and comfortable option for short distances. They’re metered, with regulated fares, and offer a stress-free way to get around without driving yourself. However, costs can add up for longer distances or multiple journeys.
Why we love Fuerteventura
Here are some top tips from our team
Expert recommendation
“Waikiki Restaurant Snack Bar Grill in Morro Jable’s a nice place for a meal right on the beachfront in the evening – classic holiday atmosphere with a good cocktail menu and seafood. It’s also a nice place to walk along the promenade and soak up the buzz before or after your meal, too. Or, Atalaya Beach Bar on Playa Esquinzo is literally on the sand with a surfer, laidback feel.” – Daisy Colley
Non-touristy activities
Instead of Morro Velosa, check out the views from Mirador Sicasumbre. Both are beautiful, but Sicasumbre is in a more remote area in the south of the island, between Pájara and La Pared. Fewer people make the effort to come here, but it’s a great stargazing spot to see the Milky Way. Just make sure you take a torch to get back.
Free things to do
Sunrise and sunset are always free, and luckily, Fuerteventura has some great places to catch them. Get up early to watch first light in Costa Calma – Playa Esmeralda is a popular spot, and then you can grab a coffee in town. In the evenings, you can see it go all the way over the horizon from La Pared’s Viejo Reyes Beach on the west coast.
Popular holiday types
All Inclusive holidays to Fuerteventura
Holidays to Fuerteventura are ideal for both summer and winter sun escapes, and having your food and drink already paid for makes things even more straightforward. Choose one with beach access, and you’ll barely have to leave the resort.
Family holidays to Fuerteventura
Fuerteventura lines up loads of watersports to keep the whole family happy. From beginner surf lessons to snorkelling and swimming in shallow lagoons, little ones are covered. The hotels here also have entertainment programmes and kids’ clubs to do some of the work for you.
Last-minute holidays to Fuerteventura
Fuerteventura holidays are a top choice all year round so you can be flexible with when you go. They’re also known for being good for your budget, and a lot of the time, it pays to wait for a last-minute deal.
Luxury holidays to Fuerteventura
When an island’s known for being a good budget destination, that also means its luxury hotels can be more reasonable, too. There are some great five-star resorts here with All Inclusive options, plus with a little extra spend you can upgrade your room and book yourself into a spa.
Fuerteventura FAQs
Fuerteventura’s got popular beaches, like Playa de Sotavento, as well as adventurous activities, like surfing, hiking and dune buggy tours. Then, there are its unique cultural experiences, including traditional markets, historic sites like Betancuria and authentic Canarian cuisine. There’s a bit of everything, and it’s a big hit with families.
Renting a car is the most flexible option, letting you explore at your own pace. Taxis and buses are available, but they don’t always reach less-touristy spots, like Cofete Beach. For short distances in towns like Corralejo, walking or cycling is ideal.
Yes, tap water is treated and safe. It’s desalinated, which means it may taste a bit different but it’s perfectly fine to drink, so remember to bring your reusable water bottle with you to make the most of it.
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