12 Things to Do in Fuerteventura, Canary Islands

Dreaming of dunes, dramatic coastlines, and a bit of wild island magic? Fuerteventura’s got you. This sun-soaked slice of the Canary Islands sits just off the coast of Morocco, and it’s all about golden beaches, volcanic adventures, and breezy laid-back vibes. Here are 12 of the best things to do in Fuerteventura.

Fuerteventura Welcome Sign with a Canarian goat sculpture. Blue sky and brown/red mountainous landscape in the background.

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I’m Hazel, a British travel blogger who escapes to the Canary Islands whenever the UK gets too grey (read: often). I’ve been lucky enough to explore most of the islands, and Fuerteventura has totally stolen my heart.

Here are the top things to do in Fuerteventura – from ancient towns to popcorn beaches. Car rental is your best friend here (try Discover Cars), but there are loads of fab day tours too.

1. Roam the Corralejo Dunes 🏜️

These silky sand dunes are Fuerteventura’s showstopper. Part of Corralejo Natural Park, the dunes stretch for 10km and feel more Sahara than Spain – especially with the red volcanic hills in the background.

A paved road curves through a sandy desert landscape under a clear blue sky, with small shrubs visible on the left side.

Hike them, roll down them, or just sit and soak it all in. There’s a main road slicing through the dunes (hello, dramatic photo ops), and the beaches here are postcard-perfect.

Don’t forget your camera and some windproof lip balm – it’s breezy!

2. Brave the Wilds of Cofete Beach 🌊

Raw, remote and ridiculously beautiful, Cofete is where you go to escape, well, everything.

Volcanic beach with high dunes to the left and turqouise sea to the right — Cofete, Fuerteventura

This 15km stretch of untouched coastline on the Jandia Peninsula is backed by mountains and battered by Atlantic waves.

Getting here is half the adventure – either bump along a dirt road in a 4×4 or hop on a guided tour. Don’t miss the spooky Villa Winter and the wild views from Mirador de Cofete.

3. Wander Through Betancuria Town 🏘️

The oldest town in the Canaries? Betancuria wears that crown. Tucked into the island’s hilly middle, it’s full of whitewashed houses, palm-lined paths, and peaceful vibes.

Narrow streets with white walls and brown planters. Betancuria, Fuerteventura — Betancuria

Stop by Santa María Church, check out the Archaeology Museum, and sip a cortado at one of the village cafes. It’s also a top spot for a scenic drive.

4. Snap the Quirky Popcorn Beach 🏘️

Yep, it looks like popcorn. Playa del Bajo de la Burra near Majanicho is sprinkled with fossilised algae called rhodoliths that resemble popcorn kernels.

A hand holds pieces of white coral in front of a beach covered with similar white coral fragments, with waves visible in the background.

Close-up of white popcorn scattered with a few dark, round stones mixed in.

It’s Insta-famous, but don’t let that put you off. Just remember: it’s protected, so no taking the “popcorn” home. It’s a bumpy drive or a 1-hour walk from Corralejo, and the sea here is more for gazing than swimming.

5. Hike Barranco de las Peñitas ⛰

Craving drama? This ravine delivers. Hidden in the Betancuria mountains, Barranco de las Peñitas is a rocky, cinematic spot (Ridley Scott filmed here).

Rust coloured landscape with a ravine and steep cliffs in Fuerteventura, Canary Islands

Scramble your way to the natural stone arch, Arco de las Peñitas, and visit the tiny Hermitage of Virgen de la Peña. It’s peaceful, photogenic, and feels like another planet.

After some minor scrambling around rocks to reach the Arco de las Peñitas, an Instagram-worthy sight awaits you.

Volcanic landscape with a central gorge, steep brown cliffs and a small white chapel

6. Lounge on Sotavento Beach ✨

The south’s Sotavento beaches are loooong, luminous, and perfect for wind lovers. Kite surfers love it here – especially at Playa de la Barca lagoon, which pops up dramatically with the tide.

Great for a chill day or a splash of adrenaline. The water’s warm, the views are endless, and the vibes are top notch

A wide sandy beach curves along turquoise water under a partly cloudy sky, with two people riding horses on a rocky foreground. Hills and mountains are visible in the background.

7. Day Trip to Isla de Lobos ⛴️

A short ferry ride from Corralejo, Isla de Lobos is a tiny nature reserve packed with beauty. Think volcanic trails, turquoise lagoons, and white sand bliss.

Snorkel, hike to Punta Martiño lighthouse, or just laze on La Concha beach. Boat tickets usually include the island permit. Dolphins sometimes join the ferry ride, too!

View of a small Island, brown volcanic landmass, turquoise bloue sea and small white boats and catamarans.

8. Conquer Pico de la Zarza ⛰️

Fuerteventura’s highest point (814m) isn’t Everest, but the hike up Pico de la Zarza is still a thigh-burner. Your reward? Jaw-dropping views over Cofete Beach and the endless Atlantic.

Two hikers on trail to Pico de la Zarza - the highest peak of Fuerteventura island, Spain

Start from Morro Jable and give yourself 5 hours round trip. Bring water, snacks, and layers – it gets breezy at the top.

9. Explore the Caves of Ajuy ⛺

Ajuy is a charming little west coast village famous for its black sand beach and sea caves carved into ancient rock.

Small coastal village with flat-roofed buildings, surrounded by brown hills, cars parked along the road, and people on a dark sandy beach with small boats.

Wander the cliffside path to the caves, peek inside, and then tuck into fresh fish at one of the seafront eateries. It’s a moody, dramatic contrast to Fuerteventura’s golden sands.

10. Spot Whales from Morro Jable 🐋

Fancy seeing dolphins or whales? Hop on a boat from Morro Jable, and you might just spot them playing in the waves.

Aerial view of a coastal town with white buildings, sandy beach, turquoise water, anchored boats, and mountains in the background under cloudy skies. — Morro Jable Fuerteventura

There are catamaran cruises (with lunch and cava), speedy RIB tours, or family-friendly options with snorkeling stops. Add the Turtle Recovery Centre and stingrays in the marina for bonus wildlife points.9. Take a boat trip around Morro Jable.

11. Visit the Salinas del Carmen ⚖️

Salt farming, but make it scenic. These traditional salt pans near Caleta de Fuste are still in operation and powered by wind, water, and gravity.

There’s a small museum (with a 15-metre whale skeleton!) and a salty little gift shop. Come for the pics, stay for the eco-geekery.

Rows of rectangular salt evaporation ponds bordered by dark stones, forming a grid pattern with crystallized salt visible on the ground.

12. Step Back in Time at La Alcogida 🐐

In Tefia, the Ecomuseo de La Alcogida lets you peek into traditional Canarian life. Think restored farmhouses, old-school crafts, and goats munching in the background.

A traditional windmill in Fuerteventura with a stone base and wooden blades stands in a rural area under a clear blue sky. — Tefia Windmill

It’s a hands-on spot where you can try bread-making, pottery or just enjoy a stroll through the cactus gardens. Super chill and family-friendly.

Quick Fuerteventura Wrap-Up 🌴

There you have it – wild beaches, volcanic hikes, chilled-out villages and a dash of salt and sand. Fuerteventura’s beauty lies in its raw edges and dreamy landscapes.

Whether you’re here to surf, snack, or snooze on the beach, there’s something for every kind of island wanderer.

For even more beachy inspo, check out my guide to Corralejo or my Best Beaches in Fuerteventura post.

And if you’re renting a car (you should), I recommend Discover Cars for the best deals.

Happy travels – and don’t forget your sunhat!

Travel Tips for Fuerteventura ✨

🏖 Bring water shoes – some beaches (like Ajuy and Lobos) have rocky entries.

🚙 Rent a car for maximum freedom – the island is big, and buses don’t reach the best spots.

🌬 Pack layers – even when it’s hot, Fuerteventura’s famous wind can sneak up on you.

🕶 Don’t forget sun protection – the UV here is strong year-round.

🐐 Try local goat cheese – it’s a Canarian speciality and seriously tasty.

📸 Sunset views are epic from El Cotillo and Sotavento – plan one evening around it.

Map of Things to do in Fuerteventura 🗺️

The following map shows all of the things to do in Fuerteventura as listed in this post. Click the blue icons to see more information, or click the star icon to add the map to your own Google Maps.

FAQs about things to do in Fuerteventura.

Planning your first trip to Fuerteventura? Or just want to know a few insider tips before you go? Here are the most frequently asked questions from fellow travellers – all answered in one handy spot!

When is the best time to visit Fuerteventura?

Fuerteventura is warm year-round, but spring (March – May) and autumn (September – November) offer perfect weather with fewer crowds. Winter is popular with sun-seeking Europeans.

Do I need to rent a car in Fuerteventura?

You can get by in towns like Corralejo without a car, but to explore the island properly (especially remote spots like Cofete), a rental car is ideal. Try Discover Cars for deals.

What are the top beaches to visit?

Fuerteventura is the place to go for beaches. Corralejo Grandes Playas, Sotavento, Cofete, El Cotillo, and Playa de la Concha on Lobos Island are all must-visits.

What local foods should I try in Fuerteventura?

Try Majorero cheese, papas arrugadas with mojo sauce, fresh seafood, and gofio. Wash it all down with a local barraquito (Canarian coffee).

Is it windy all the time in Fuerteventura?

Pretty much! The name Fuerteventura means “strong wind.” It keeps things cool and is great for water sports – just bring a windbreaker and lip balm!

Can I take a day trip to other islands?

Yes, Lanzarote is just a 30-minute ferry from Corralejo. Lobos Island is even closer and perfect for a relaxed nature-filled day.

Is Fuertevenura safe for solo travellers?

Yes! It’s friendly, easy-going, and generally very safe for solo travellers. Just use normal travel smarts (see my solo travel section if you need help) and you’ll have a fab time.

A beach scene, yellow sand with footprints, blue sea with waves and blue sky with white clouds. Small volcanic island (Lobos Island) on the horizon. — Playa Grande Beach Correlejo with Lobos Island, and Lanzarote in the distance.

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10 Great Things to do in Fuerteventura, including beaches, national parks, sand dunes, shopping and more. Places to visit in Canary Islands, Spain

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Tags: Beaches, Canary Islands, Europe, Fuerteventura, Spain

12 Wonderful Things to do in Fuerteventura, Canary Islands ✨