With more than 155 miles (150 km) of coastline, Fuerteventura is nicknamed "the beach of the Canary Islands". Its indigenous name, Maxorata, could be translated as "the largest island". As is often the case, words matter here too: to speak of an evocative shore touched by the Atlantic Ocean, or of a large island that is already a superlative in itself, helps when understanding the magnitude of its marine beauty. But what are the best beaches in Fuerteventura? And above all, how do you choose the most suitable one for each type of traveller?
In this top 10 of the best beaches in Fuerteventura, we'll show you the favourites for surfers, but also the ones that are sheltered from the wind and the most comfortable (and beautiful) for children. Because, no matter how you are and how you like to travel, on the island of volcanoes there is a perfect coastal spot for you. And it's waiting for you.
The best windless beaches of Fuerteventura
Jandía Beach
Where are the best beaches on Fuerteventura? In its southern part, where rugged landscapes give way to turquoise, crystal-clear waters and long stretches of golden dunes, lies the Jandía Peninsula, an area of incredible ecological wealth. It is separated from the rest of the island by the Isthmus of La Pared, and is home to the Jandía Nature Reserve. The beach that bears its name is considered to be one of the best beaches in Fuerteventura without wind, making it ideal for a day of relaxation. Furthermore, Playa de Jandía is home to some of the best hotels in Fuerteventura.
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Selfie spot
If you are looking for the best selfie spot, you will find it in Playa de Jandía. Its virgin spots and white sand will make you feel like you're on a deserted and unexplored island, but with all the comforts (and Wi-Fi connection). On 26 May 2009, Fuerteventura was declared a UNESCO-protected biosphere reserve in its entirety: with beach spots as spectacular as this one, it's easy to see why.
El Matorral Beach
Without leaving the Jandía Peninsula, you will have access to another of the best beaches in the south of Fuerteventura with white sand, Playa del Matorral. It is located on the outskirts of the Morro Jable urbanisation, in the municipality of La Pájara. Here you will find a balance between wild nature and accessibility, as its three miles in length harmoniously coexist between areas without intervention and those with services. The Morro Jable lighthouse and the Saladar wetlands are a must-see.
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An active beach
In addition to surfing and kitesurfing, at El Matorral you can also rent canoes and paddle boards, as well as practise beach volleyball thanks to the nets installed. Another active option for discovering this beach is to take a cycling route: there is a cycle lane that runs parallel to the beach.
Bajo Negro Beach
At Bajo Negro Beach, which is mostly nudist, there is hardly any wind, so the waves are very gentle. This particularity, together with a clean and shallow sea, makes it an excellent place for bathing, sunbathing and resting. It has also been awarded the Blue Flag for its quality and sustainability.
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A visit to the Natural Park of the Corralejo Dunes
Bajo Negro Beach is located in the Corralejo Dunes Nature Park, in the north of the island. Its two different sectors make it a good example of the contrasting landscapes of Fuerteventura, with one part that is sandy, bathed by turquoise waters, and the other that is more volcanic, with extravagant lava formations in ochre and reddish tones. Before visiting the park, we recommend you take a look at these simple tips for sustainable tourism: when it comes to caring for the planet, every little gesture counts.
Cofete Beach
Cofete Beach is located on the Jandía Peninsula, on the Barlovento side. To reach it you have to cross a rocky path, as it is guarded by majestic mountains. As a reward, on the other side awaits more than seven miles of golden sand and blue sea, hugging the horizon. Thanks to the characteristics of its access, it is not usually very crowded. This is the beach for you if you want privacy and calm.
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The most romantic spot on the island
Are you planning your next getaway as a couple? On this beach, romanticism reaches its peak, especially at sunset. Now, imagine yourself with your loved one, watching the sunset, that's all you need, isn't it? Close to this spot, the Iberostar Selection Fuerteventura Palace hotel is located to complete the experience. This five-star accommodation is especially designed for couples, with suites and exclusive Star Prestige areas that will give you even more peace and quiet and hideout.
The best beaches in Fuerteventura for children
Castillo Beach
Playa del Castillo is located in Caleta de Fuste, a coastal location with fine white sand, ideal for children. It is named after a nearby 18th century fortress. The atmosphere is family friendly and lively. In addition, this coast has sun loungers and parasols for hire, restaurants and beach bars, taxi or bus stops and a promenade, as well as few waves, making it very comfortable and safe for bathing. It is close to the marina and less than ten minutes drive from the airport.
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Where to eat in Playa del Castillo
To savour the best food from the Canary Islands, you can visit some of the beach bars in the Caleta de Fuste area, frequented by the locals. La Frasquita is a traditional eating house known for its fresh fish and seafood dishes, as well as its potatoes with mojo picón and mojo verde. The Oliver tapas bar serves typical local recipes in pinchos (skewers) and to share. An alternative? Organise a picnic on the beach (including a good Majorero cheese washed down with one of the volcanic wines of the Canary Islands).
Moro Beach
Playa del Moro is on the list of the best beaches in the north of Fuerteventura. It stands out for its turquoise and crystalline waters, with gentle waves, almost always calm. It is only 900 feet long, is excellently communicated and has a lifeguard service. Many families come here in search of peace, but without having to give up on practicality. If, after spending a few days in the north, you are looking for accommodation with children in the south of Fuerteventura to continue exploring the island, Iberostar Waves Gaviotas Park is an ideal hotel for families where they will also have a great time. It has adapted rooms and a Star Camp programme, as well as different children's areas, including an outdoor swimming pool with a play area. It is part of the Gaviotas Complex together with Iberostar Waves Playa Gaviotas, which is focused on adults.
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Getting started with surfing
There are numerous surfing, kitesurfing and paddle surfing schools on Playa del Moro. Its waves, which are not too intense, are perfect for beginners to practice these sports under supervision. You can also go hiking, diving and snorkelling in the surrounding area to discover the fascinating underwater world that is part of the Corralejo Dunes Natural Park.
La Concha Beach
Playa de la Concha is an impressive bay located on the Lobos islet. With a semicircular shape that resembles the shell of a mollusc (hence its name) and a hue of blues that is almost impossible, it looks like something out of a postcard depicting paradise. Young and old alike will be fascinated by its beauty.
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Lobos islet: an adventure with the family
One of the things you absolutely have to do in Fuerteventura is a visit to the islet of Lobos, which can only be reached by boat. Its small harbour links directly to Corralejo. Many people camp on the island to enjoy the scenery and a unique adventure (starry night included). If you visit, bear in mind that the whole islet is a Natural Park, so bathing is not allowed outside the designated areas.
Fuerteventura's best surfing beaches
Sotavento Beach
In Sotavento, located in the Jandía area, you can practice surfing if you don't have much experience yet, as its winds are moderate and its waves are quite manageable depending on the areas. It is divided into five strips, each one suitable for a different level: La Barca, Risco del Paso, Mirador, Malnombre and Los Canarios.
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Making friends
The surfer lifestyle is sociable by nature. So whether you're travelling alone or in company, in Jandía you'll be able to meet people and make friends. At night, the bars and beach bars in the area become the centre of fun, with live music, cocktails and a relaxed and festive atmosphere.
Flag Beach
The surf spots surrounding the municipality of Corralejo stand out for their adaptability. On Flag Beach the peculiarities of the wind, with peaks of waves in different directions, also allow you to enjoy modalities such as kitesurfing and windsurfing in optimum conditions. Numerous schools and academies are also located here.
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The best sunset
At sunset, Flag Beach and the rest of Corralejo's beaches fill up with surfers, but also with couples, groups of friends, families and other types of travellers in search of the best sunset. Its desert geography frames sunsets that will teleport you to another planet, with lit skies and an ever-changing, ever-surprising mirror sea.
El Hierro Beach
With big waves breaking on a volcanic reef, this beach is a favourite with experienced surfers. It is located in the north, close to the fishing village of Majanicho. The so-called "Izquierda del Hierro", a long and powerful wave where you can make tubes, is considered the most famous and challenging of Fuerteventura together with the "Acid Drop".
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Meditation session to connect with the island
A meditation session overlooking the Atlantic Ocean will help you slow down and connect with the island after a day of surfing. Playa del Hierro offers a pure, atypical landscape, and this is precisely why it’s ideal for meditation. All you need to do is close your eyes, breathe and... let yourself be carried away by the energy of the earth, present like nowhere else in Fuerteventura with its more than twenty-two volcanic areas, which invite you to active tourism.
Fuerteventura's best beaches are just the beginning. Further afield, but close by, the other Canary Islands also welcome you with their volcanic hospitality; from Tenerife, with its tropical versatility from north to south under the watchful eye of Mount Teide, to Lanzarote, with its endless cactus gardens, its lunar landscapes and its exclusivity.
