Fun in the Sun: Where To Stay in Wild and Windswept Fuerteventura

The second largest of Spain’s Canary Islands, Fuerteventura is one of those holiday destinations that has it all. From lively towns and pristine beaches to fascinating culture and history, it’s impossible to ever feel bored here. Its volcanic Mars-like landscape provides plenty of opportunities for exploring when you don’t feel like lounging on the sand, and its secluded villages are ideal for slowing down. Choosing where to stay in Fuerteventura may seem like a difficult task, but don’t worry – our travel experts at Plum Guide are here to help. We’ve traversed every corner of the island and have put together this comprehensive guide on the best places to stay.

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If this is your first visit to Fuerteventura, the resort town of Corralejo is a great place to stay. Located on the northern part of the island, the town offers everything you need for the perfect trip. Its scenic beaches are its main draw, with options including the golden Playa del Moro offering holiday-makers the chance to swim, sunbathe and try out watersports like surfing, windsurfing and kiteboarding. One of the must-visits is the nearby Parque Natural Dunas de Corralejo, a protected natural park with some of the best scenery on the island. The northern part of the park is made up of white sands and turquoise waters, whereas the southern section provides a dramatic contrast of ochre and red volcanic landscape.

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Also known as El Castillo, the resort town of Caleta de Fuste is a wonderful place for a family-friendly holiday. The coastline here is one of the few places on the island where surfers would be disappointed. Instead, it attracts families with young kids who can splash about in the safe and calm waters. Playa del Castillo is the main beach, a long and wide expanse of golden sands with loungers and parasols. You can easily spend the whole day here, as there are numerous shops, bars and restaurants along the promenade which backs the beach. Elsewhere in town, enjoy retail therapy at the variety of modern shopping centres, take a range of exciting boat trips from the marina or tee off at Fuerteventura Golf Club – little ones can even learn the ropes at the Mini Golf course by the beach.

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Fuerteventura’s lively capital city of Puerto del Rosario is bursting with history and culture. There are many attractions and landmarks to visit, including the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora del Rosario, a beautiful church dating back to the 18th century. Also worth visiting is the Casa Museo Miguel de Unamuno, a museum dedicated to the famous Spanish writer and philosopher who was exiled to the island during the Spanish Civil War. Meanwhile, art lovers can follow the town’s Sculpture Trail, an open-air display of sculptures dotted around the city. As the main transport hub of Fuerteventura, Puerto del Rosario is an ideal base for those looking to explore further afield, with many bus routes connecting the city to other resorts on the island.

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Wondering where to stay in Fuerteventura for watersports? Costa Calma is your go-to. This resort town on the Jandia peninsula isn’t as calm as its name suggests, as the winds here can really pick up, especially in the summer months of July and August. Thanks to these winds, however, the town is the best place to enjoy activities like windsurfing and kitesurfing, as well as other watersports like jet-skiing, kayaking and snorkelling. Some of the best beaches in Costa Calma include the golden Playa de Costa Calma, as well as Playa de Sotavento and Playa de Esmeralda with their turquoise waters. When you’re not in the sea, explore the nearby Jandia Natural Park, an area of wild and rugged nature home to diverse flora and fauna like kestrels, Egyptian vultures and lizards. There are some beautiful hikes within the park which offer breathtaking views of the coastline.

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Right next to Costa Cala, Morro Jable is another idyllic resort town. Tucked away amongst picturesque cliffs, the town’s whitewashed houses are like something out of a postcard. Once a thriving fishing village, Morro Jable has maintained its local feel, attracting holiday-makers looking for a more authentic experience. One of its main attractions is the photogenic Faro de Morro Jable, a lighthouse perched on a headland which offers panoramic views of the coast. Take a stroll along the promenade towards the Old Town and the harbour, where you can sit back at the many alfresco cafes along the waterfront. To avoid the crowds, the 4-kilometre-long Playa del Matorral is a wonderful place to relax. The waters surrounding Morro Jable are warm and clear most of the year, so don’t forget to bring your snorkel gear.

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Couples searching for somewhere to stay in Fuerteventura will love the tranquil coastal village of El Cotillo. This is somewhere you can escape the hustle and bustle of the big resorts and experience a slower pace of life. It’s home to some of the best beaches on the island, including the stunning Playa La Concha, a large stretch of white sand and clear waters. Other dreamy beaches in the area include El Caletón, Los Lagos and Playa del Castillo. Protected by a large reef, the waves here are never too big and provide good opportunities for snorkelling. One of the best things to do during your stay here is explore the nearby lagoons of Los Charcos. These natural swimming pools are filled with warm, calm waters and are the perfect spot to relax.

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Lying at the foot of an impressive mountain range, the coastal town of Gran Tarajal is another peaceful place away from the tourist crowds. The town is home to a small fishing harbour where you can watch fishermen in action and taste some of the freshest seafood on the island. The Gran Tarajal Open Sea Fishing Competition takes place here each September, with prized catches including tuna and swordfish.

If music is more your thing, be sure to visit in August for the Fuerteventura Sound Music Festival, which happens on the main beach. Stretching for over 500 metres, this striking black sand beach offers crystalline waters for swimming and watersports. It’s backed by a promenade with cafes, bars and restaurants, so you’re never too far from an ice-cold cerveza.

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The ancient capital of Fuerteventura, Betancuria is a pretty village in the island’s mountainous interior. It’s one of the most interesting places to see, with a rich history and stunning scenery to discover. Spend your time meandering the narrow streets lined with traditional Canarian architecture – the whitewashed houses and colourful balconies will make it hard to put your camera down. Swing by the 17th-century Santa Maria Church, or learn about the area’s history and culture at the Betancuria Museum. The village also attracts hikers and cyclists who come for the many trails within the Betancuria Natural Park. With its rugged mountains, lush valleys and unique flora and fauna, there is plenty of nature to enjoy here.

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Travellers interested in culture and history should consider a stay in Costa de Antigua. There are several exciting attractions worth checking out, including the cultural centre of Molino de Antigua. Built around an old but still functioning windmill, the centre features an exhibition centre, craft shop, cafeteria and garden with indigenous plants. Take a short drive out of town to the Salinas de El Carmen, the only active saltworks on the island. Dating back to the 18th century, these salt mines are one of the most remarkable sights on the island. Visit the Museo de la Sal to have your mind blown by salt facts. The entry fee includes a tour of the salt plains – keep an eye out for the whale skeleton.

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The small town of Lajares is a relaxed place to enjoy Fuerteventura’s outdoors. Surrounded by volcanoes and lava flows, the landscape here is dry and arid. There are a great variety of hiking trails. One of the most popular routes is the Calderón Hondo Volcano trail, a 5-kilometre loop taking you to the caldera of an extinct volcano – the views from the summit are breathtaking. Lajares is also a fantastic place to learn about the local customs and traditions, with the village producing many handcrafted items like silk, jewellery, hats, leather, paintings, soap and local produce like Majorero cheese. Pop by the Los Lajares Artisan Market each Saturday, where you can shop for locally made goods.

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