When we first planned our trip to Fuerteventura Spain, we were overwhelmed by how much there was to see and do. Our travel guide will take you from the long sandy beaches to rugged desert landscapes, with helpful tips in between. Here’s all our favorite things to do in Fuerteventura and what to expect during your stay.
What’s So Special About Fuerteventura Spain?
It’s a tropical island, so of course there are going to be wonderful beaches! Yet, what is truly amazing about Fuerteventura, is that no two are the same. From black and white sand to natural pools and massive rocky cliffs, there’s something for everyone. Check out our guide to the best Beaches on Fuerteventura before your visit.
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.
Also, don’t forget to pack your goggles when you travel to Fuerteventura! 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.
Another thing that immediately struck us about Fuerteventura Spain was its Mars-like landscape. It’s the closest of the Canary Islands to Morocco, and has a barren dessert landscape that’s noticeable from the moment you step off your flight.
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. This area is so unique that the new Star Wars movie was even filmed here!
To top it all off, Fuerteventura has some incredible natural pools. We’ve seen quite a few now around Spain including the Agaete Natural Pools on Gran Canaria. However, Fuerteventura definitely has some of the most gorgeous.
Don’t miss out on traditional specialties like Majorero goat cheese, papas arrugadas, and mojo sauce. We wrote a full Canary Islands food guide with some of our favorite meals to read before you go.
Keep an eye out for the endless Aloe Vera on your trip. You can get this at almost every store, or go to an Aloe farm for relief from a sun burn.
How to Get to Fuerteventura Spain
Flight to Fuerteventura Island
The easiest way to travel to Fuerteventura is by plane. 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 from Madrid for just $30 USD! If you’re traveling 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 deals and compare companies!
Fuerteventura by Ferry
Typically, we love boats and have used everything from the Greek island ferries to the islands in Thailand! With that said, the Canary Islands is 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 places that are difficult to get to. Also, you’re not allowed to take your rental cars on the ferries, which can make it more to get to all the best things to do in Fuerteventura.
If there is one route we would do 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!
Driving Around Fuerteventura
Our favorite way to see Fuerteventura Island is by renting a car! We don’t always recommend having a set of wheels, but you’ll see most roads are in good condition. There are also many great things to do on Fuerteventura 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 (or don’t care to explore the entire island), simply book a hotel in the north.
→ 10 Reasons You’ll Love Having a Rental Car in Fuerteventura Spain
Where to Stay in Fuerteventura Spain
Corralejo has some of the best beaches in Fuerteventura, restaurants, shops, and you can easily make a day trip to Lobos island. We’ve included some of our favorite spots to stay in Corralejo for your visit.
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 – 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, and a shared kitchen.
22 Best Things to do in Fuerteventura Spain
Things to do in Fuerteventura (North)
The north of Fuerteventura Island has 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!
1. Parque Natural de Corralejo: This huge park of endless sand dunes roll through the northern part of the island.
2. 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 for a 4 hours Sailing Tour to Lobos!
3. 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.
4. El Cotillo: Known as a laid back and relaxing fishing village, this small town is like transporting back in time on Fuerteventura island.
5. Beautiful Beaches: Playa de la Goleta, Popcorn Beach, Playa el Viejo, Playa Alzada, and El Cotillo beach are all highly recommended!
Things to do in Fuerteventura (East)
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. Don’t worry though, there are still many fun places to explore.
6. 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!
7. 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.
8. 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.
9. Salt Museum Salinas del Carmen: Stop in and see how salt has been made for years on Fuerteventura Island.
10. Canary Aloe Vera Finca or Verdeaurora Bio Farm: Aloe is literally everywhere on the island. So what better way to get some than go to the source where it’s grown?
11. Beautiful Beaches: Castillo Caleta de Fuste and Playa Gran Tarajal are awesome!
Things to do on Fuerteventura (South)
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.
12. 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!
13. 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.
14. 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.
15. 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.
16. 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.
Best Things to do in Fuerteventura (West & Center)
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 Fuerteventura Spain!
17. Aguas Verdes Natural Pools: Six kilometers of incredible natural pools dot the coastline. Make sure to plan your visit around low tide! We wrote a full guide to the Agues Verdes natural pools to read before you go.
18. Mirador de Guise y Ayose: As one of the most popular lookouts on the island, you’ll have an incredible view of the center and far costal beaches in Fuerteventura in all their glory.
19. La Olivia: Stroll through the white washed buildings and shop at the local markets of this mountain town.
20. Montaña de Tindaya: Considered a sacred location, this mountain jumps out as being completely different on an already amazingly diverse island.
21. Ecomuseo La Alcogida: Step back in time to a traditional 19th century museum town that shows a much simpler life in Fuerteventura Spain.
22. 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.
Have any questions about our Fuerteventura travel guide or your own island recommendations? Let us know in the comments below!
Safe Travels,
Brigitte & Jake
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We’re Brigitte and Jake! American travel bloggers currently based in Spain. If you can believe it, we started Nothing Familiar way back in 2015 on an Ipad in the Ecuadorian jungle. Ever since, we haven’t stopped traveling! We’ve now been to over 60 countries around the world, with our expertise being Europe and Southeast Asia. We love outdoor adventures, tasting local specialties, and island hopping through tropical destinations. Hopefully, our guides and authentic experiences will inspire you on your own travels!
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 ?
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Thank you! Yes definitely visit if you have the chance… Such a beautiful island!