Things to Do in Fuerteventura

The Canary Islands sit just 70 miles (113 kilometers) off the coast of western Africa. But the 6,425 acres (2,600 hectares) of rolling sand dunes within Fuerteventura’s Corralejo Dunes National Park might have you thinking you’re visiting the African continent as opposed to a beach-filled archipelago.

In addition to housing the biggest and best dunes in the Canary Islands, Corralejo Dunes National Park also boasts a rugged and dramatic volcanic landscape, dominated by red jagged rock formations and Montaña Roja (Red Mountain) volcano. Day trips to Fuerteventura from Lanzarote often include time at the national park for exploring the beaches and dunes, as well as visits to the hamlet of Betancuria, Church of Our Lady of Regla, and the town of Corralejo.

The national park lies just off the FV-1 road between Puerto del Rosario and the town of Corralejo. If you’re staying on neighboring Lanzarote, the easiest way to reach the park is via ferry from Playa Blanca to Corralejo or by joining a guided tour.

Fuerteventura is hot and sunny throughout the year, making the national park’s beautiful beaches appealing no matter the season. If you plan to do some hiking in the park, plan to visit between April and June or October, when temperatures are slightly cooler.

Though the undulating fine white sands of the Fuerteventura dunes are surely reminiscent of the desert, the granules in Corralejo Dunes Natural Park are in fact actually made up of tiny little pieces of shell and mollusk, as opposed to anything rocky.

When it comes to remoteness and volcanic landscapes, the Canary Islands are good at making you feel like you're a world away. And the barely-a-village, bayside Majanicho only adds to that magic. It will have you feeling like you're on an expedition on the face of the moon "“ albeit one that includes surf-worthy beaches and an ocean.

Located along the northern coast of Fuerteventura, Majanicho is"”at least for now"”less a village than it is a collection of somewhat ramshackle houses cuddled up around the watery finger of a bay. Don't expect to find restaurants or shops here, and rather just a rocky coast, and crystal-blue waters filled with the occasional dinghy used for fishing. 

And then, of course, there are the surfers -- from windsurfers to kiteboarders and just regular old surfers "“ who know that these secluded waters offer up some great opportunities to catch either waves or wind. That is, however, as long as one takes great caution: the underwater volcanic rock makes these shores a natural booby trap for those not especially careful.

How long this humble paradise will remain so quiet is yet to be seen: a nearby housing develop is underway, and there's word that this charming little bay may be turned into a harbor. Really, though, all the more reason to see it for yourself before it transforms into a tourist hot spot.

Lobos Island (Wolf Island) is named after the “sea wolves” (monk seals) that used to live here. Now a protected nature reserve, the small, rocky island is home to wildlife—from birds to sharks—beaches, hiking paths, a visitor center, and, at the northern tip, the lonely Punta Martiño Lighthouse.

Located a short boat ride from Fuerteventura, Lobos Island is a popular day trip destination for Canary Islands visitors. Prebook round-trip ferry tickets or a water taxi and spend the day exploring the island independently, or opt for a guided experience. 

Catamarans, yachts, or glass-bottomed boat cruises often include an onboard meal; some anchor offshore at Concha Beach so participants can snorkel, swim, fish, kayak, and try stand-up paddleboarding. Longer cruises combine a trip to Lobos Island with a visit to Lanzarote, Fuerteventura’s northern neighbor.

Lobos Island is just 1 mile (2 kilometers) north of Fuerteventura. Ferries depart from Corralejo on the north coast of Fuerteventura several times a day. Water taxis also depart from Corralejo. The journey typically takes around 15 minutes. 

Boats depart for Lobos Island year-round. Between November and May, the weather—though fine for hiking—can be variable and  too cold for sunbathing at times. July and August are the warmest and busiest months; even then, though, Lobos Island remains peaceful and uncrowded. 

Hiking is one of Lobos Island’s main draws. There are several paths—all have signs indicating the listed attractions. For a short walk, take a 10-minute stroll from the wharf to La Concha Beach (Playa de la Caldera). If you want to go farther, follow the path north toward the lighthouse; look out for the Caldera Mountain (Montaña de la Caldera), which, at more than 394 feet (120 meters), is the tallest point on the island.

Though tourism has made its mark on many of Fuerteventura’s beaches and fishing towns, there are a few that have yet to fully feel its effects – and El Cotillo is no doubt one of them. While it’s only a matter of time before it becomes a destination for the masses, for now it remains a sweet former fishing village with idyllic shores ideal for all water lovers. 

Located on the northwestern side of the island, El Cotillo has a laidback village vibe that’s hardly fancy, but still exudes a certain charm nonetheless. The town sidles up against the ocean, where you’ll find a rippled coastline complete with a selection of different kinds of beaches. Family’s can park themselves in the sand to the north along La Concha, which is protected on both sides, ensuring calm waters. On the other hand, those in search of both wind and waves will want to travel south to the long stretch of beach situated just beyond town. 

Apart from the pueblo and beach lounging, what else is there to do and see in these parts? While you’re venturing from shore to shore, be sure to head south of El Cotillo’s harbor to check out the Fortaleza del Tostón, a tower-like fortress built in the 1790s to defend against pirates. Then, if you’re looking for unsurpassable panoramic views, head north to the Faro de Tostón, a lighthouse situated on a flat finger of land, and surrounded almost entirely by the sea.