Sun, Sea and Sand
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Fuerteventura is one of the 8 Canary Islands. Although often overlooked for the other islands, with its golden beaches, volcanic landscapes, and chill vibes, it is a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life for anyone. Fuerteventura is home to some of the most stunning beaches you’ll ever lay your eyes on. The island boasts over 150 kilometres of coastline, so whether you’re into lounging on the sand or catching some waves, there’s definitely a spot for you.
In terms of things to do, The Corralejo Dunes are a must-visit. This area is famous for its endless sand dunes and crystal-clear waters. You can also take a short boat trip from the port in Corralejo town to the uninhabited island of Lobos for some more secluded sunbathing and snorkelling.
And if you’re a surfer, head over to El Cotillo or Jandía – the waves here are fantastic, and the surfing community is super welcoming. For long golden beaches, head south to Morro Jable, where sand spans for miles and the water is crystal clear.
Beyond the beaches, Fuerteventura’s volcanic landscape is nothing short of mesmerising. The island’s unique terrain is the result of ancient volcanic activity, and it’s a hiker’s paradise. (We’re not the most sporty people so the views are good enough for us!)
The Calderón Hondo is one of the island’s most famous volcanoes, and hiking up it is possible and offers breathtaking views that make every step worth it.
While Fuerteventura is known for its natural beauty, its towns and villages have their own charm. Betancuria, the former capital, is a quaint village with whitewashed buildings and narrow streets. It’s a great place to take a leisurely stroll and soak in some history. But be warned, it’s not the easiest or best to get to, with windy roads with sheer drops at the edge. Don’t miss the Church of Santa María, which dates back to the 15th century.
On top of the quaint Spanish towns, there are of course the more popular tourist resorts such as Corralejo as mentioned above, Caleta de Fuste and not forgetting the island's capital, Puerto del Rosario. All the resorts are host to loads of different restaurants, bars and of course that holiday atmosphere and beaches galore. They all offer something slightly different. Corralejo does tend to have more of a nightlife than other resorts but Caleta wins for the relaxation factor.
For a taste of local culture however, visit La Oliva. This town is home to the Casa de los Coroneles, a historic mansion that now hosts art exhibitions. And if you’re there on a Tuesday or Friday, hit up the local market for some unique souvenirs and a taste of traditional Canarian cuisine. Other markets are available in Corralejo and Caleta.
Speaking of cuisine, it wouldn’t be a Sightseekr post if we didn’t mention food! Fuerteventura’s culinary scene is a delightful mix of Spanish and local Canarian flavors. Fresh seafood is a staple, of course.
For all you cheese lovers out there, Fuerteventura is famous for its Majorero cheese. Made from the milk of local goats, this cheese is rich and creamy. Try the paella or the papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes) served with mojo sauce (our personal favourite!) – it’s a simple yet delicious dish that perfectly captures the essence of Canarian food. All of which pair lovely with a glass, or a jug, of Sangria. Caleta de Fuste has a great bar out at sea called Beach Club Chringuito (See map below) with amazing Sangria!
Another great thing about Fuerteventura is that it offers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. If you’re an adrenaline junkie, there’s no shortage of activities to get your heart racing – from windsurfing and kiteboarding to ATV tours across the rugged terrain. In addition to this, there is a fantastic obycat boat trip from Caleta de Fuste harbour with all-inclusive bar. This is really worth it but be warned - you may get wet. But if you’re looking to unwind, you’ll find plenty of quiet spots to relax and soak up the sun. There is also a water park called 'Acua' in Corralejo which is great for families!
So, whether you’re planning a solo adventure, a romantic getaway, or a fun family vacation, Fuerteventura has something for everyone. Its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and laid-back atmosphere make it a destination you’ll want to return to again and again.
We were so grateful to be invited onto Hablamos Fuerteventura podcast to discuss all things Fuerteventura there! Take a listen!
Additional information:
How do I get to Fuerteventura?
Fuerteventura is easily accessible by air, with direct flights from many major cities around the UK. The flight time from the UK varies, but is normally within the region of 4 hours. If you're visiting another canary island, such as Lanzarote, flights or ferries between them are often very regular and affordable. Why not extend your trip and visit two islands instead of one?
Where should I stay in Fuerteventura?
Fuerteventura is a place where lots of people book package holidays, so all of your accommodation, flights, luggage, and sometimes food and drink is taken care of. If that's what you're looking for, we recommend booking through Jet2Holidays or Easyjet Holidays.
If you're trying to travel a little cheaper, sometimes booking everything separately means you can get a better deal. Have a look for accommodation in Fuerteventura that will suit your group size and budget on booking.com or Expedia.
Do I need a visa to visit Fuerteventura?
Citizens of most countries do not need a visa to visit Spain for a stay of up to 90 days. Read our Schengen Agreement post to find out more details about this rule.
The rules of entering Europe are changing. Take a read of our handy European travel rules post for more information.
What's the currency in Fuerteventura?
The currency of Spain is the Euro. You can change money when you arrive or withdraw from ATMs, but be aware of high conversion fees! Some ATMs may charge you to withdraw money, even if your bank doesn't. It's always best to pay in local currency, but we had no issues paying by card in Fuerteventura.
What languages are spoken in Fuerteventura?
The official language of Spain is Spanish, but English is widely spoken in Fuerteventura as it is a major tourist destination. It's always polite to learn a few phrases, though!
What's the weather like in Fuerteventura?
Fuerteventura is close to the equator so it's nice and warm all year round. The island has an average of more than 300 sunny days per year, and only gets 150mm of rain on average every year! For context, the UK has an average yearly rainfall of around 1400mm.
It's a windy island so it can make the temperatures feel a little cooler than they actually are, especially on an evening by the sea.
Here's the average high / low temperatures for each season in Fuerteventura:
Spring: 20°C / 13°C
Summer: 24°C / 17°C
Autumn: 24°C / 17°C
Winter: 19°C / 13°C
Here's the current weather in Fuerteventura:
What's the time zone in Fuerteventura?
Fuerteventura is in the Western European Time Zone. The time is usually the same as the UK, but an hour behind Spain's capital, Madrid.
What are the best things to do in Fuerteventura?
We always try and give you a few great recommendations of things to do on our Sightseekr Inspiration posts. If you're looking to fill your itinerary, have a look for the best activities, excursions and other things to do in Fuerteventura on GetYourGuide here.
