17 unmissable things to do in fuerteventura

17 best things to do in Fuerteventura

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17 BEST THINGS TO DO IN FUERTEVENTURA: ALL THE UNMISSABLE ISLAND EXPERIENCES.


Fuerteventura, with its mesmerizing golden sandy beaches, pristine crystal-clear waters, and dramatic rugged landscapes, is a true paradise for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. Offering a wide range of unforgettable experiences, from exhilarating water sports to tranquil stargazing nights, this Canary Island gem is sure to captivate your soul.

We recently walked the GR131 through Fuerteventura, visiting the entire island in the process. We were absolutely blown away by how beautiful it was and we can’t wait to visit again soon!

Now, let’s explore the top 17 things to do in Fuerteventura.

What is special about Fuerteventura?

Fuerteventura is one of the Canary Islands. But, as we discovered recently the islands are all very distinctive. Here are a few of the unique and special things about Fuerteventura, compared to other islands.

🏄 Fuerteventura is a surfers paradise. There are many popular beaches to surf or kiteboard. The whole island has quite a laid-back surfer vibe.

🏖️Fuerteventura has the most spectacular sandy beaches of all the islands in the Canaries. There are miles and miles of beautiful beaches.

🐐Known for goat’s cheese and goat farming – you’ll find this special cheese on lots of menus

🌋Fuerteventura is a volcanic island with unique geology.

🏝️Furteventura is actually two islands – the main one and nearby Isla de Lobos (more on that below)

How many days do you need in Fuerteventura?

You could spend around four days in Fuerteventura for a short break, or longer. We would recommend at least five or six in order to enjoy the best things to do in Fuerteventura and really see the island properly.

Which month is best to go to Fuerteventura?

Fuerteventura has a climate that means that it is possible to visit all year around and get some sun. Even the winter months can be warm, with temperatures around low 20s during the day.

May to June are pleasant and a bit warmer, around 25 degrees. September and October are also popular times to visit, cooler than the summer but warm enough to swim.

The summer months can be very hot – only travel here if you plan to chill on the beach and take things very easy during the summer!

Do you need a car to get around in Fuerteventura?

Whether you need a car or not really depends on what your intention is for your holiday. If you are basing yourself in one hotel and plan only to explore the resort you are in, you will not need a car.

Equally, Corralejo is a great base which allows you to explore without a car – you can walk to a number of attractions and/or take public transport. Public transport links are quite good in Fuerteventura. But, if you want to explore remote areas or for ease of getting around then it is best to have a car.

17 Unmissable Experiences in Fuerteventura

THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN FUERTEVENTURA.

Fuerteventura is an incredible destination offering an abundance of amazing activities, including the opportunity to unwind on the beautiful beaches. Experience the thrill of water sports or simply relax and revel in the wonders of nature. Whether you seek excitement, tranquility, or immersion in local culture, this island caters to all preferences. Pack your belongings, venture to the island, and create unforgettable memories in Fuerteventura!

Here are the 17 best things to do in Fuerteventura.

1/ Corralejo Beach Town

Kickstart your Fuerteventura adventure in the lively town of Corralejo, to the North East of the island. Take a leisurely walk along the buzzing streets, check out adorable little shops, and grab a bite to eat in beach side restaurants with a view of the Atlantic Ocean. Whether you choose to stay here or just visit for the day, Corralejo is one of the best things to do in Fuerteventura.

We were really taken with how quaint Corralejo is on the streets near to the beach, it reminded us of the South West of England -but with much better weather. There are loads of lovely bars with ocean views where you can enjoy a glass of ice cold wine as you watch the sun go down over the sea.

Corralejo is a great place to stay with a family, or if you’re looking for a combination of laid back beaches and some lively nightlife too. By day, spend the time on the sand or in the calm water – paddle boarding is popular here. Away from the sea you’ll find a very modern town with a great selection of restaurants, from steak house to pizza places and traditional Canarian food.

2/ Climb Calderon Hondo

Embark on an exhilarating hike to Calderón Hondo, a volcanic crater boasting stunning panoramic views of the island’s interior. Remember to bring your camera to capture the unforgettable moments!

Calderón Hondo was formed by a volcanic eruption around 70,000 years ago during the Pleistocene epoch. It is part of the volcanic landscape that characterizes Fuerteventura. It measures a whopping 1200m diameter and is 70m deep. This is one of the most epic things to do in Fuerteventura.

Calderon Hondo is found close to Corralejo, making it an easy day trip. You can actually walk to it from Corralejo if you want to, or drive up and park in the car park before taking a short stroll around it. The pathway to walk around Hondo is flat and accessible, even for the smallest legs. But, climbing it is a little tougher. All hiking trails are really well marked and easy to find. Be sure to look out for some wonderful birds in this area too!

3/ Betancuria- the oldest town in Fuerteventura

Immerse yourself in the island’s fascinating history by checking out Betancuria, Fuerteventura’s former capital and the oldest town on the island. Take a stroll through its charming streets, drop by the Santa María church, and dive into the island’s past at the Archaeological Museum.

Betancuria is a lovely place to spend a few hours, especially if you can enjoy a lunch on one of the many pretty restaurant terraces. La Casa de Queso is a crowd pleasing tapas place, offering a chance to sample local cheeses. Fuerteventura is known for it’s fabulous goats cheese.

4/ Surfing in El Cotillo

One of the things that we loved about Fuerteventura as a whole, is that it has a really nice laid back surf vibe. Surfing is a popular past time, you can regularly see locals rocking up to most beaches with their boards, hoping to catch a few waves at any time of the day. Many tourists are also keen to try surfing when they visit the island too. Surfing is one of the most adventurous things to do in Fuerteventura!

With its amazing waves and always awesome swells, El Cotillo Beach, the the North West of the island, is like a surfer’s dream come true. Whether you’re a total legend or just getting started, come hang ten and feel the stoke of surfing in the Atlantic.

If you’re new to surfing, then you can book a lesson for beginners to get you started. There are many options across the island in popular surf sports like Corralejo and El Cotillo.

5/Visit Isla de Lobos

Isla de Lobos is a tiny little island to the North of Fuerteventura. A favourite amongst hikers and nature lovers and an excellent day trip from Corralejo. Isla de Lobos is the perfect day out for adventurers and one of the best things to do in Fuerteventura.

Embark on a chill boat trip to Isla de Lobos, a super peaceful spot just off the coast of Fuerteventura. Hike to the island’s lighthouse, take a dip in its crystal-clear waters, and just vibe with the serene, untouched natural beauty of the place.

If you’re a fan of hiking, you can take a 6 mile circular trip around the island. Find the trail and details here. This is a great way to see the whole island and the best of the nature on offer.

Getting there is easy, a short 15 minute ferry ride from Corrajelo. There are around 8 sailings a day, so it’s best to check times and plan ahead to get the most from your day.

If you’d prefer something a little more laid back, you can book sailing excursions to Isla de Lobos. Check out this four hour Catamaran Trip, complete with lunch and (more importantly), unlimited drinks!

6/ Hike on sand dunes

Lace up your hiking boots and prepare to explore the enchanting sand dunes of Fuerteventura. The vast dunes of Corralejo provide a surreal backdrop for a leisurely stroll or an exhilarating sandboarding adventure.

You can walk to the Corralejo national park, from the Corrajelo town. Although it is a little bit of a trek, so you may be better off driving if you plan to hike once in the dunes too.

Sand dunes and a desert experience can also be found further to the South of Fuerteventura at Parque Natural Jandia. This is a great option if you want to follow a hiking trail, rather than just going for a leisurely stroll. Park up near to La Pared and follow one of the many trails!

7/ See Fuerteventura’s Windmills

Discover the island’s rich cultural heritage as you explore the iconic windmills spread across its stunning landscape. These historical landmarks beautifully reflect Fuerteventura’s agricultural past and provide amazing photo opportunities for visitors to capture the essence of the island’s charm.

One of the most famous is Molino de Tefia, found here.

8/ Visit the Morro Velosa Statues

Marvel at the breathtaking sculptures of Morro Velosa, majestically perched atop a cliff with a captivating view of the island. These extraordinary statues honor Fuerteventura’s indigenous inhabitants and present a wide-ranging vista of the surrounding landscape.

Depending on your appetite for adventure, you can take a hike down to Bentacuria from the Morro Velosa statues. The hike provides a wonderful vantage point for the Pena Valley. A fairly easy stroll getting down to Bentacuria but a little tougher getting back up the hill after lunch!

9/ Eat seafood in Morro Jable

To the south of the island you will find the absolutely stunning beach of Playa del Mattoral. After a few hours there, you’re sure to have worked up an appetite. Morro Jable village is nestled in the cliff just above the beach.

Indulge in a delightful culinary experience by enjoying fresh seafood in the charming fishing village of Morro Jable. From grilled fish to seafood paella, savor the diverse flavors of the sea in this picturesque coastal town. Laja de Morrojable is a restaurant with one of the best spots in town, overlooking the beach.

10/ Visit Faro de Jandia Lighthouse

Visit the iconic lighthouse of Faro de Jandia and soak up breathtaking views of the rugged coastline. Explore the nearby beaches or hike along the scenic coastal trails for an unforgettable experience.

The Faro de Jandía, built in 1864, is situated on Punta Jandía, at the southernmost point of Fuerteventura. It marks the end of the Jandía Peninsula, a rugged and scenic area known for its beautiful beaches and natural landscapes.

It’s a great place to head for a quiet escape and some peaceful views.

11/ Take a boat to Lanzarote or Gran Canaria

Expand your horizons by embarking on a captivating boat trip to the neighboring islands of Lanzarote or Gran Canaria. Immerse yourself in their singular landscapes, embrace the vibrant local culture, and create cherished memories to treasure forever.

You can get to Lanzarote’s resort town of Playa Blanca in around 30 minutes by ferry from Corralejo. Or, at the other end of the island, you can take a ferry from Morro Jable to the buzzing Gran Canaria city of Las Palmas (a favourite spot of ours on the Canary islands.)

12/ Star gazing at night time

We were totally wowed by stars at night when we recently visited the Canary Islands. If you get away from the main towns and cities, the stars are an incredible sight to behold. Because there is minimal pollution on the islands, many of them are recognized as having dark sky status.

Fuerteventura has been named a Starlight Reserve by the Starlight Foundation, thanks to its pristine night skies and efforts to preserve them.Head to a secluded spot away from light pollution, lay back, and gaze in awe at the countless stars twinkling above.

One of the best spots on the island to watch the stars is Mirador Astronomico de Sicasumbre found here. There are also several observatories around the island for keen astronomy enthusiasts.

13/ Take a beach walk on the east coast

With over 150 kilometers of coastline, Fuerteventura boasts some of the most stunning beaches in the Canary Islands.

One of our favorite stretches of the hike that we did in Fuerteventura was along the East coast of the island, from Jandia to Morro Jable. Whether you want to walk all of it, or just a short stretch, there are lots of hiking trails along the cliff tops to follow. You can also just walk along the beach too, with sand stretching for miles. Look out for the local chipmunks hanging around looking to make friends too!

(Oh, and this stretch of beach is quite popular with nudist bathers. Even on chillier days!)

14/ Visit Ajuy Caves

Delve into Fuerteventura’s geological wonders by exploring the fascinating Ajuy Caves on the West coast of the island. Marvel at the dramatic rock formations, stroll along the rugged coastline, and discover the island’s ancient history.

You an visit independently, or if you’d like to take a tour to Ajuy Caves there are some great ones which include canyon hikes too.

15/ Wine and cheese tasting

While Fuerteventura is not as famous for wine production as some other Canary Islands like Tenerife or Lanzarote, it does have a small but growing wine industry. The island’s volcanic soil and unique climate offer favorable conditions for cultivating certain grape varieties.

Fuerteventura’s wine production primarily focuses on white wines, particularly those made from the native grape varieties such as Listán Blanco and Malvasía. These wines are known for their crisp acidity, fruity flavors, and minerality, reflecting the island’s terroir.

There is one winery in Fuerteventura with the exclusive DO (Spain’s Denominaciones de Origen) marking. They offer a fabulous wine and cheese tasting, which wine lover’s should not miss if looking for things to do in Fuerteventura.

16/ Buggy excursion

What could be a better and more fun way to see the island of Fuerteventura than to take a buggy tour? This tour will pick you up and drop you off in the beautiful Costa Calma. During the tour you will visit Playa de Tarajalejo, La Pared and Playa Giningimar.

17/ Stand up paddle boarding

Fuerteventura is a fabulous place to go stand up paddle boarding. Rent a board in Caleta de Fuste, to experience paddle boarding on some of the calmest waters around the island. Idyllic.

Where to stay in Fuerteventura? 10 best hotels

Fuerteventura is hard to beat when it comes to year round sunshine and glorious sandy beaches. It is one of our favourite islands in the sun!

There are many amazing places to stay in Fuerteventura, it can be hard to choose. Here are our three top picks.

⭐⭐⭐⭐

H10 OCEAN DUNAS , Corralejo

✔️ Close to the beach

✔️ Adults Only upscale hotel

⭐⭐⭐⭐

H10 TINDAYA, Costa Calma

✔️ 5 swimming pools

✔️ kids club, kids pool and activities

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

IBEROSTAR SELECTION FUERTEVENTURA PALACE, Mattoral Beach

✔️ Beach front location

✔️Two outdoor pools

You can find the full list of the 10 best hotels to stay in Fuerteventura here.

How to get to Fuerteventura?

Many airlines offer direct flights from major UK airports to Fuerteventura Airport (FUE). Airlines such as British Airways, easyJet, Ryanair, TUI Airways, and Jet2.com operate regular flights to the island from airports like London Gatwick, London Stansted, Manchester, Birmingham, and Edinburgh. Flight time is expected between four and four and a half hours.

Still not booked your flights? Grab the best deals with SkyScanner now.

Written by Emma

Wine Lover. Yogi. Hiker. Writer.

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5 responses to “17 best things to do in Fuerteventura”

  1. […] VERDICT: Canary Islands – we recommend Fuerteventura […]

  2. […] towering volcanic peaks on La Gomera to lush forests in Tenerife and stunning coastlines on Fuerteventura, the islands provide a true paradise for hikers and nature lovers. Whether you’re conquering the […]

  3. […] Find out more about the GR131 in Fuetreventura here. And you can find our guide to where to stay & the 17 best things to do in Fuerteventura here. […]

  4. […] As the fastest ferries take only 25 minutes, it is very much feasible to hop from Playa Blanca to Corralejo (and vice […]

  5. […] If you want to read more about the best things to do in Fuerteventura, find our guide here. […]

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