When we first planned our trip to the Canary Island of Fuerteventura we were overwhelmed by how much there was to see and do. From long sandy beaches to rugged desert landscapes, Fuerteventura island truly has it all. We breakdown our Fuerteventura travel guide by dividing it into the four sections of north, east, south and west. We will be covering all the awesome things to do in each area, what to expect during your stay, and the best beaches to see when visiting Fuerteventura island!
Canary Islands Travel
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8 Things We Loved about Visiting Fuerteventura Island
All the Beaches: It’s a tropical island so of course there are going to be beaches! Yet what is truly amazing is that no two beaches are the same. From black and white sand to natural pools and massive rocky cliffs, there’s something for everyone visiting Fuerteventura.
→ Check out our guide to the best 12 Best Beaches on Fuerteventura: Corralejo Dunes to Morro Jable!
Crystal Clear Water: When we first stuck our toes in the water we couldn’t help but be in awe. The crystal clear ocean sparkled in the hot afternoon sun as we saw dozens of fish swimming past. Don’t forget to pack your goggles when you travel to Fuerteventura!
Swimming in Late November: The Canary Islands as a whole are known for their unique and warm climate. That means even when you visit in the winter you’ll need your swim trunks or bikini.
The Mars Landscape: As Fuerteventura is the closest of the Canary Islands to Morocco, it also shares a barren dessert landscape that is noticeable from the moment you step off your flight.
Sand Dunes: In the north of the island you’ll feel like you are transported to a different world as you drive through the Parque Natural Dune De Corralejo. The landscape is so special that the new Star Wars movie was even filmed here!
Natural Pools: You haven’t truly been to the Canary island of Fuerteventura until you’ve swam in one of its natural pools. We’ve seen quite a few now around the world and these are some of the most gorgeous!
Island Specialties: During your Fuerteventura travel make sure not to miss out on traditional specialties like Majorero goat cheese, papas arrugadas, and mojo sauce.
Endless Aloe Vera: With beach weather year round it’s good to know that they grow Aloe Vera on the island. You can get this at almost every store, or go to an Aloe farm when visiting Fuerteventura if you need some relief from a sun burn!
How to Travel to Fuerteventura Island
Flight to Fuerteventura Island
The easiest way to travel to Fuerteventura is by flight. Multiple flights arrive daily from around mainland Europe, and can be extremely inexpensive if you book in advance.
We flew to and from the Canary Islands for well under $100 USD. If you’re arriving from another part of the Canaries there are several airlines that run inter-island flights such as Binter and CanaryFly. Always search Skyscanner to find the best flight deals and compare companies!
Fuerteventura Travel by Ferry
Typically we love ferries and have traveled by boat all over Europe and Asia. However, the Canary Islands might be the one place we wouldn’t recommend making them your go-to transportation.
The ferries can shockingly be more expensive than flights, and the harbors are often located in parts of the island that are difficult to get to. Also, you’re not allowed to take your rental cars on the ferries which can make it more tricky to plan your Fuerteventura travel.
Nevertheless, if there is one route we would pick by ferry it would be from Fuerteventura to Lanzarote. This is one of the most beautiful islands to experience and it’s just a short 30 minute ride between the two. Here’s some great tips if you’re thinking about traveling to Lanzarote in winter!
Getting Around Fuerteventura Island
Our favorite way to see the Canary Island of Fuerteventura is by renting a car! We don’t always recommend having a set of wheels, but when visiting Fuerteventura you’ll see most roads are in good condition. There are also many great things to see that are not accessible by bus.
We booked our rental car for $20 USD per day including full insurance. If you don’t feel comfortable renting a car and don’t care to explore the entire island, simply book a hotel in the north.
In the city of Corralejo you’ll have some of the best beaches in Fuerteventura, restaurants, shops, and can easily day trip to Lobos island.
→ 10 Reasons You’ll Love Having a Rental Car in Fuerteventura Spain
North of Fuerteventura Island
In the north of Fuerteventura Island you’ll find massive sand dunes, long sprawling beaches, and sand that literally looks like popcorn! If you’re looking for a busy town close to the beaches and filled with nightlife then Corralejo is for you. This was our last stop when visiting Fuerteventura island, but when we return it will definitely be first on our list!
Don’t Miss Out On…
Parque Natural de Corralejo: This huge park of endless sand dunes roll through the northern part of the island.
Lobos Island: Set just off shore from Corralejo is Lobos island. You’ll have to plan your visit in advance because there is a restriction on the number of people that can visit in one day. Book your Lobos Island ferry tickets or splurge and book a 4 hours Sailing Tour to Lobos!
Corralejo Ocean Walk: Stretching along the water throughout town is a beautiful walk that runs along the ocean. This is great for a morning stroll, or you can head to the main beach for an afternoon dip.
El Cotillo: Known as a laid back and relaxing fishing village, this small town is like transporting back in time on Fuerteventura island.
Beautiful Beaches: Playa de la Goleta, Popcorn Beach, Playa el Viejo, Playa Alzada, and El Cotillo beach are all highly recommended!
East of Fuerteventura Island
When arriving by plane you’ll land almost smack dab in the middle of Fuerteventura’s east coast. Here you’ll find the busy port and capital city of Puerto del Rosario as well as the popular vacation town of Castillo Caleta de Fuste.
The east side of the island isn’t known for having as beautiful beaches as the north or south. Nevertheless, there are still many fun places to explore.
Don’t Miss Out On….
Krabbenfelsen Natural Pool: At low tide you can jump into this small pool that is protected by the surrounding natural rock wall. Still, don’t make the mistake and visit at high tide because the pool will be completely hidden by the rough sea! Use our Krabbenfelsen Natural pool guide to help plan your visit!
Castillo Caleta de Fuste Ocean Walk & Bike Path: The path stretches for several miles along the ocean and you can rent a bike in Castillo Caleta de Fuste to cruise along the sparkling water.
Castillo Caleta de Fuste Market: Every Tuesday and Saturday between 9am and 2pm there is a massive market in town. Here they sell everything from watches and shoes to homemade goods and local crafts.
Salt Museum Salinas del Carmen: Stop in and see how salt has been made for years on the Canary Island of Fuerteventura.
Canary Aloe Vera Finca or Verdeaurora Bio Farm: Aloe is literally everywhere on the island. So what better way to get some then go to the source in the fields where it’s grown?
Beautiful Beaches: Castillo Caleta de Fuste and Playa Gran Tarajal are awesome!
South of Fuerteventura Island
The sun kissed south of Fuerteventura has everything from an amazing natural park to some of the best beaches on the island. Unlike most of Fuerteventura, the streets here are filled with palm trees. This gives it the feel of a small tropical oasis in the middle of the desert.
Don’t Miss Out On…
Costa Calma: As one of the top beach towns on the island, many travelers come here and don’t see any reason to leave. Expect to spend your days at the long beach all day in Costa Calma and swimming in the ocean. There’s also a nudest beach in town if that’s up your alley!
Morro Jable: This is one of the most popular beach towns in Fuerteventura, and for good reason. The clear blue water is surrounded by dunes and the perfect temperature for swimming. There’s also plenty shops and restaurants in Morro Jable as well.
Jandía Natural Park: Wild mountains surround this beautiful natural park. This makes for an awesome adventure day, and a great spot to do some hiking and swimming.
Pico de la Zarza: Ready for some more hiking? Well Pico de la Zarza is actually Fuerteventura’s highest point! This 807 meter mountain peak gives you one of the best views of the ocean and landscape you’ll get while visiting Fuerteventura.
Jandía Beach and Lighthouse: If you go to Jandia beach it will be impossible to miss this giant lighthouse. It’s a great spot to explore while adventuring around the many beaches of Fuerteventura island.
West and Center of Fuerteventura Island
Known as the wild side of Fuerteventura, a natural and rugged landscape fills the west coast of the island. Yet just because it isn’t as developed as the other areas shouldn’t stop you from going. In a half day of exploring you can see most of the center and western sights. There is so much natural beauty here that it will completely change your impression of the island!
Don’t Miss Out On…
Aguas Verdes Natural Pools: Six kilometers of incredible natural pools dot the coastline. Make sure to plan your visit around low tide!
Mirador de Guise y Ayose: As one of the most popular viewpoints on the island, you’ll have an incredible view of the center and far costal beaches in Fuerteventura in all their glory.
La Olivia: Stroll through the white washed buildings and shop at the local markets of this mountain town.
Montaña de Tindaya: Considered a sacred location, this mountain jumps out as being completely different on an already amazingly diverse island.
Ecomuseo La Alcogida: Step back in time to a traditional 19th century museum town that shows a much simpler life on the Canary Island of Fuerteventura.
Museo del Queso Majorero: It won’t take long while driving around to see the large fields of goats in Fuerteventura! Goat cheese from here is super delicious, and there’s no better place to learn about it than at the museum.
→ Aguas Verdes Natural Pools: Fun on the Wild West Coast of Fuerteventura
Have any questions about our Fuerteventura travel guide, or your own island recommendations? Let us know in the comments below!
Safe Travels,
Brigitte & Jake
Where in the world are we? Follow our daily adventures on Instagram @nothingfamiliar!
Where To Stay on Fuerteventura Island
Ultra Luxury (High End) – Gran Hotel Atlantis Bahía Real G.L – Upscale family friendly hotel set on the beach with two pools, spas, and six restaurants. While everything you need is onsite, the location in the north also makes it a great choice when visiting Fuerteventura.
Fun Vacation (Mid Range) – AVANTI Lifestyle Hotel – Upscale adults only hotel overlooking the ocean. Mediterranean style decor with ocean view rooms, rooftop pool, and stylish restaurant. Steps from seaside cafes and bars as well as the Carralejo town beach.
Hostel Life (Budget) – La Fresa Hostel – Basic hostel in the center of Corralejo with dorms and private rooms. Large common areas, small outdoor pool, shared kitchen, and a staff more than happy to help you with your Fuerteventura travel.
For more places to stay on the Canary Island Fuerteventura you can explore the latest prices here!
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Explore Spain
Best of Spain: 40 Foods & Drinks – Visiting in Winter – Costa Del Sol – 13 Best Drinks – 22 Fun Facts – Plate of the Day – 11 Cities in Southern Spain – Vueling Airlines Tips
Granada: Best Tapas – 15 Fun Things to Do – Alhambra de Granada
Nerja: 15 Things to do – Best Tapas – 7 Beautiful Beaches – Playa Burriana – Nerja Caves
Small Towns: Mijas – Frigiliana – Rupit – Cadiz – Ronda
Gran Canaria: Agaete Natural Pools – Route of the Tapas
Tenerife: Playa Amarilla – Boat Tour
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Spain Travel Planning
Flights: We always find the best flights using Skyscanner. Sometimes it’s cheaper to fly between cities in Spain than driving or taking the train!
Accommodation: Compare multiple sites to get to the best deal such as Booking.com and Agoda! Also, Hostelworld should be your go-to source if you’re traveling on a budget.
Rental Car: We use Discover Cars to explore when traveling. Consider renting a car in one city and dropping it off in another for an epic Spain road trip!
Tours: Check out Get Your Guide for thousands of activities around Spain. You can book a tour of the Madrid Royal Palace, skip the line and explore the Alhambra de Granada, or even jump on a Tenerife Dolphin cruise!
Travel Insurance: Never travel abroad without protection! We’ve been using SafetyWing for the last few years on the road and they are there when we need them.
Packing Lists: Find all the inspiration you need with our Amazon packing lists. Including our electronics and camera gear, must-have medical items, and long flight essentials!
Great article!! Thanks. I am selling a lot of trips to Fuertventura but I have never been interested by myself to visit it. After your post I changed my mind ?
Author
Thank you! Yes definitely visit if you have the chance… Such a beautiful island!