Fuerteventura is known to have some of the best beaches in the Canary Islands and is one of the most popular islands to visit. Tourists can enjoy incredible nature along with fantastic cultural attractions. Fuerteventura is actually the oldest of the Canary Islands, as it came into existence about 20 million years ago after a volcanic eruption.
When you’re planning a holiday, it can be tedious to filter through local attractions and build an itinerary for yourself and your travel companions. That’s where we here at Road Affair come in! We don’t want you to miss out on any of the island’s amazing attractions, so we’ve gone ahead and carefully compiled a list of the best things to do in Fuerteventura. This way, you can spend less time planning.
Spend a Day Sunbathing at Playa de Cofete
Fuerteventura is known worldwide for its incredible beaches, so why not spend a day at one of the best beaches on the island?
The secluded sands of Playa de Cofete are tucked away on the southwest side of the island in Parque Natural Jandía, about a two-hour drive from the island’s capital of Puerto del Rosario. The drive is not an easy one, though. Once you enter Parque Natural Jandía, the path becomes a narrow dirt road, which can be difficult to navigate if you don’t have a 4×4 vehicle.
If you are confident in your driving skills, it is possible to reach the beach’s parking area without four-wheel drive, but if you’d like to err on the side of caution, you can always book this day trip Jeep tour to Cofete. With this excursion, you can spend a day touring the park in a 4×4 Jeep, stopping for lunch in El Puertito, swimming in a cove, and enjoying other natural attractions in the park.
Playa de Cofete boasts over 12 kilometers of pristine sand, coupled with majestic mountain ranges in the distance. This is truly one of the best beaches for you to find solitude and set yourself up for a day of relaxation in the sun away from crowds.
If you have time before or after visiting the beach, we recommend checking out the mysterious Villa Winter. This two-floor mansion was constructed in 1946 (although locals claim it was 1937) by German engineer Gustav Winter. Many conspiracy theories surround the home and its possible link to the Nazi party. It’s well worth a visit if you’re in the area.
Enjoy the Panoramic Views From Pico de la Zarza
If you are wondering what to do in Fuerteventura, why not hike up to the island’s highest mountain peak? Believe us when we say the views are worth it.
Pico de la Zarza, also known as the Donkey’s Ear, offers sweeping views of the ocean, beaches, and surrounding landscapes. The trail to the top of Pico de la Zarza is an out-and-back path that is roughly 13 kilometers long and takes just under five hours to complete.
If you are a first-time hiker or just don’t want to worry about navigation, you can book this guided hike to Pico de la Zarza, which includes hotel pickup and drop-off from select locations. Either way, the rewarding panoramic views are worth the trek!
Tour the Dunes at Corralejo Natural Park with a Buggy
One of the coolest things about the Canary Islands is the nature parks with extensive dunes that make you feel like you’re in the middle of a desert.
Corralejo Natural Park is the best area on the island to see these unique dunes, and the best way to experience them is with this 2.5-hour guided buggy tour. A driver’s license is required to drive the two-person buggy, and passengers must be at least 3 years old. You’ll start off your tour with a cruise through the dunes, where you can stop to take in the landscape views and snap a few pictures.
After a short break, you’ll continue on to the off-road paths of Villaverde, through the volcanic area, until you reach Parque Holandés. Here, you’ll take another short break before heading back through the volcanic area. Hotel pickup and drop-off are available on the north end of the island.
Take a Boat Trip to Lobos Island
Seeing as you are surrounded by the sea, it’s no surprise that one of the best activities in Fuerteventura is to take a boat trip!
Lobos Island is a stunning area to visit just off the coast of Fuerteventura. It boasts crystal-clear waters and plenty of hiking trails that lead through volcanic mounds and salt marshes. The island is largely a nature preserve, so bird-watching there is also quite popular.
There are two ways to get to the island. If you want to explore the island at your own pace, you can take a 20-minute ferry ride to Lobos Island from Corralejo. Once you land on the island, consider going for a swim at Playa de la Concha, hiking to the 19th-century Punta Martiño Lighthouse, or hiking up the island’s tallest peak, La Caldera.
Another great option is to book this four-hour sailing cruise around Lobos Island, which includes fun activities like kayaking, snorkeling, feeding fish, and stand-up paddleboarding. While on board the catamaran, you’ll get access to free snacks, water, soft drinks, and, most importantly, unlimited beer!
Go Swimming at Laguna de Sotavento
If you’re looking for free things to do in Fuerteventura, you can’t go wrong with a beach day – especially at Laguna de Sotavento!
Laguna de Sotavento is a tidal lagoon on the south end of the island near the resort town of Costa Calma. This stunning beach is the perfect place to sunbathe on pristine white sands or swim in the glassy turquoise water. After hanging out in the sun for a few hours, you can walk over to the beach bar for something to eat or take a stroll along the coastline.
Visit the Old Capital of Betancuria
Before Puerto del Rosario became the capital of Fuerteventura in 1860, Betancuria was the island’s bustling historic capital. Today, Betancuria is well worth a visit to learn more about the island’s history.
Once you arrive in the town, take time to walk the beautiful old streets and admire the architecture. Make your way to Iglesia de Santa María de Betancuria, the town’s most iconic building, which is both a church and a museum for religious artifacts. If you’re interested in learning more about the island and its culture, head to the Museo Arqueológico de Fuerteventura.
After strolling through the town and visiting museums, you’ll probably be a bit hungry. If so, check out La Casa Del Queso, which is known for its tapas.
On your way in or out of town, you can stop at some incredible viewpoints. We recommend a pit stop at Mirador de Morro Velosa for a nice view and the Morro Velosa Statues to see something unique.
Visit the Animals and Botanical Gardens at Oasis Park
If you’re looking for a family-friendly outing on the island, why not visit the animals and lush gardens at Oasis Park?
The park offers the chance to get up close and personal with a variety of animals – such as monkeys, hippos, and cheetahs – as well as special animal experiences. These experiences allow young ones (or the young at heart) to spend time with a zookeeper and learn more about animals such as elephants, lemurs, and giraffes, and you can even feed some of them! You can also ride a camel or catch one of the live sea lion or bird shows.
A ticket to Oasis Park also includes access to the botanical garden, Jardín Botánico Fuerteventura. This is a lovely spot where you can end the day with a relaxing stroll.
Walk to the Cuevas de Ajuy
Another great place to visit in Fuerteventura is the Cuevas de Ajuy. These stunning caves are a popular attraction, as you can climb right down into two of the caves.
The caves are on the west side of the island, about a 50-minute drive from Puerto del Rosario. When you get to the car park, you take roughly a 20-minute walk down stone stairs to reach the caves.
Cuevas de Ajuy is one of the island’s most ancient sites and one of the oldest formations in the Canary Islands. The site is a protected natural monument and among the top geological interest sites in the world.
Learn About Salt Farming at Las Salinas del Carmen
One of the most unique tourist attractions in Fuerteventura is the Salt Museum at Las Salinas del Carmen.
These incredible salt flats – the only working salt flats on the island – showcase how sea salt is farmed and the history of its cultivation. You can tour the museum, learn about salt extraction, and even be a salt worker for a day. After your visit, head to the Los Caracolitos restaurant for a glass of wine and a nice meal.
Spend a Day in Las Playitas and Visit Faro de la Entallada
Las Playitas is a beautiful coastal town that gives you a chance to explore a small fishing village in all its charm.
Head to the volcanic sands of Playa de los Pobres, where surfboards and windsurfing boards are available to rent. You can also walk down the coast to Vista Socorrida for a nice view of the town and sea.
After some swimming and sunbathing, hop in the car and head to Faro de la Entallada. This Moorish-style lighthouse was built in 1955 on top of a cliff and offers incredible views.
Go For a Dip at Aguas Verdes
If you’re looking to cool off on a hot day, make your way to the stunning pools of Aguas Verdes.
Aguas Verdes is tucked in on the rocky western shoreline beside Playa del Valle. Here, you will find a hidden treasure trove of unspoiled natural swimming pools. There are a few different pools to enjoy a dip in and lots of salty patches to explore. If you’re looking to get away from crowds, this is a great place to spend a few hours!
Explore the Dried Ravine of Barranco de los Encantados o Enamorados
There are many “barrancos” (ravines) in the Canary Islands, which are mostly dried up and ready to be explored!
The Barranco de los Encantados o Enamorados has been formed over the years by water and wind and is quite a spectacular view. You can get some pretty amazing photos or discover fossils embedded in the rock walls.
You can find the pin on Google Maps by searching “Barranco Encantado.” However, Google Maps won’t give you a direct route there. Find the dirt path off the road that goes through Esquinzo. Satellite mode in Maps shows a better understanding of the path to get there.
If you’re looking for hidden gems, this ravine is a must-see in Fuerteventura.
Walk the Calderón Hondo’s Crater Rim
Ever wanted to hike the rim of a volcano? Well, here’s your chance. OK, don’t get too scared – Calderón Hondo is an extinct volcano dating back over 50,000 years.
The walk to the top of this volcano is fairly easy; you don’t have to be an expert hiker to reach it. The loop trail is about 4.7 kilometers long and will take you all around the rim of the volcano. It takes roughly an hour and a half, so pack water, sunscreen, and good hiking shoes. Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with some fantastic views!
If you and your group would rather not venture out to the volcano alone, consider booking this guided hike to Calderón Hondo. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off as well as drinks.
Explore the Town and Surrounding Nature at Puertito de los Molinos
Puertito de los Molinos, located on the northwest side of the island, is a great place to explore if you want to experience a more remote area of Fuerteventura.
The village has a total population of 20 permanent residents. If even that is more people than you had in mind, don’t let it deter you: There are plenty of hidden gems waiting to be discovered here.
Playa Puertito de Los Molinos boasts beautiful golden sands, and it isn’t normally crowded, thanks to its remote location. You can grab a bite to eat at the beach’s restaurant, go for a swim, or explore. There is a hidden natural pool on the right side of the beach, and you can check out some caves (the Cuevas de los Molinos) on the left side. The best (and safest) time to access these hidden attractions is at low tide, so plan accordingly.
After going for a swim, consider hiking to the secluded Playa de Jarubio. This is the most remote beach on the island and gets the least visitors, so it’s a great spot to sit and watch the sunset. To get there, you can drive along the dirt road out of Puertito de los Molinos, then walk down to the beach, or walk there from town, which takes about an hour.
Get Cheesy at Museo del Queso Majorero
Is there anything better than cheese? Sorry to the lactose intolerant, but no, there isn’t! Luckily, Fuerteventura has a museum where you can get your cheese on.
At Museo del Queso Majorero, you can taste the island’s delicious Majorero cheese. You’ll also learn about Fuerteventura’s volcanic past and even meet the goats that help make the island’s famous cheese.
The museum features local arts and crafts for purchase and an on-site restaurant. After a bite to eat, you can walk off all that cheese with a stroll past the water-frame mill to the cactus garden.
Drive Along the Ruta de los Molinos
The Ruta de los Molinos, or “drive of the mills,” is a great day-trip route for anyone wishing to go sightseeing in Fuerteventura.
Start the day at the Centro de Interpretación de los Molinos, located in Tiscamanita. Here, you’ll learn all about the history of windmills and other mills on the island that helped to produce cereals and toasted cornmeal. Cereal has historically been a huge part of Fuerteventura’s culture and economy, and you’ll learn all about how it’s made here.
After learning about the island’s windmills, you can drive north and visit the Windmill at Museo del Queso Majorero, then head north again to see the famous Tefía Windmill. There are, of course, many more windmills in Fuerteventura but these two are the most popular.
View the Stars at Mirador Astronómico de Sicasumbre
This Fuerteventura attraction is fantastic in the daytime too, but the real treat comes when the sun goes down.
At this astronomical observation point, you can enjoy incredible clear skies for stargazing. There is also a sundial, a vertical clock, and signs that help you identify constellations.
If you do plan on stargazing, remember to pack warm clothes. If not, there are still some incredible views from the platform during the day, so it’s worth a stop either way!
Step Back in Time at Ecomuseo La Alcogida
Experience what life was like for the islanders over the last century at Ecomuseo La Alcogida.
This is a fun thing to do in Fuerteventura for families or anyone interested in the history of the island. The museum showcases what the last century was like for rural Fuerteventura citizens at all economic levels, with re-created rooms using traditional Majorero architecture. You can explore workshops for trades like pottery, palm, and embroidery, along with traditional homes. This unique attraction is well worth a visit!
Enjoy a Beach Day
Given that Fuerteventura boasts some of the best beaches in the Canary Islands, you’d best get some beach days into your itinerary!
We’ve told you about a few of the island’s most popular beaches, but there are still more for you to consider. Playa de Garcey, an incredible beach with immaculate sands, is known for the American Star shipwreck. The wreckage is no longer there, which might be a disappointment to some, but this is still a great remote beach for a day trip. There is even a nearby cave to explore. The area is particularly windy, though, so it’s better for surfing than swimming.
Other fantastic beaches include Playa Esmeralda, a sprawling soft sand beach known for allowing nudity; Playa del Matorral, a semi-nude beach with sun loungers for rent, showers, and a lighthouse; and Playa del Castillo, an urban beach in the resort town of Caleta de Fuste.
Take a Day Trip to Lanzarote
If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, why not take a jaunt to the neighboring island of Lanzarote?
This full-day tour to Lanzarote by boat will take you to some of the island’s top attractions. You’ll start the tour by embarking from Corralejo on a one-hour boat trip to Playa Blanca. You’ll then board an air-conditioned coach, which will take you to Timanfaya National Park, famous for its volcanoes.
Next, you’ll head to the vineyards of La Geria for some wine tasting, then off to Museo de Aloe de Lanzarote to learn about the local farming and health properties of aloe vera. The entire trip is guided and lasts roughly seven hours.
There you have them – the top things to do in Fuerteventura! From secluded beaches to cheese museums, this island has it all. All you have to do now is figure out how many of these amazing attractions you can fit into your itinerary. Good luck!
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