Beach Hopping and Sunbathing – Endless Shores of Fuerteventura

Fuerteventura is often called the “Beach Island” of the Canaries — and with good reason. With more than 150 kilometers of coastline and over 150 beaches, it offers some of the most breathtaking and diverse seaside landscapes in Europe. From wild, windswept stretches of golden sand to calm turquoise lagoons, beach hopping and sunbathing are among the top experiences for any visitor to the island.

Whether you're seeking total seclusion, family-friendly shores, or beaches ideal for watersports, Fuerteventura delivers variety, space, and natural beauty at every turn.

Why Fuerteventura’s Beaches Are So Special

The island’s beaches are known for:

Soft golden or white sand, often formed by crushed coral and seashells.
Crystal-clear waters, with hues ranging from deep blue to brilliant turquoise.
Space and tranquility, even in peak season.
Consistent sunshine, with over 300 days of sun per year and very little rainfall.
Untouched nature, especially in the protected coastal zones.

Many of Fuerteventura’s beaches are part of nature reserves, offering minimal development and a sense of serenity that’s hard to find in more commercial destinations.

Top Beaches to Visit for Sunbathing and Relaxation

Sotavento Beach (Costa Calma)
Located on the southeastern coast, this long, pristine beach is famous for its shallow tidal lagoons and endless stretches of sand. It’s perfect for long walks, kite-watching, and sunbathing away from crowds. A paradise for photographers and peace seekers.
Cofete Beach (Jandía Peninsula)
Remote and wild, Cofete is set against dramatic mountains and offers 12 kilometers of untamed coastline. The waves can be strong, making it less suitable for swimming but ideal for solitude and cinematic landscapes.
Grandes Playas de Corralejo (Corralejo Dunes)
These expansive beaches lie within the Corralejo Dunes Natural Park. They offer soft sand, clear waters, and incredible views of Isla de Lobos. Sunbathe with ample space or take shelter behind natural sand dunes for privacy. Naturist-friendly areas are also common.
Playa de la Concha (El Cotillo Lagoons)
A calm, family-friendly beach in northern El Cotillo with lagoon-style waters and volcanic rock formations. The water is usually calm, making it great for swimming and relaxing in a natural pool environment.
Playa del Matorral (Morro Jable)
One of the best-serviced beaches on the island, with lifeguards, beach bars, and sunbeds. The lighthouse and surrounding dunes make for great scenery, while the nearby promenade offers shops and restaurants.

How to Beach Hop in Fuerteventura

Rent a Car
The best way to explore multiple beaches in one day. Roads are generally well-maintained, and many beaches are signposted, although access to wilder spots like Cofete may require a 4x4 or careful driving on unpaved roads.
Plan a North-to-South Route
Start in Corralejo and work your way south through El Cotillo, La Pared, Costa Calma, and finally Morro Jable. Each area offers different beach experiences.
Bring Essentials
Many beaches lack services — bring plenty of water, snacks, sun protection, and a beach umbrella if you’re planning to stay a while. Most southern beaches are more developed and offer amenities.

What to Do While Sunbathing

Read, nap, or simply unwind under the endless blue sky.
Swim or wade in the shallow lagoons or calm waters of Sotavento and El Cotillo.
Try beach yoga or meditation, especially during sunrise or sunset at quieter spots like Cofete.
Watch kite- and windsurfers along Sotavento’s breezy shores while you relax on the sand.
Pack a picnic and enjoy a peaceful, oceanside lunch in a natural setting.

Best Time to Go Beach Hopping

Thanks to its mild desert climate, Fuerteventura is a year-round beach destination:

Winter (Dec–Feb): Ideal for sunbathing without the heat, perfect for northern travelers escaping the cold.
Spring (Mar–May): Bright and sunny, with blooming landscapes and fewer crowds.
Summer (June–Aug): Hotter temperatures, but trade winds keep coastal areas pleasant.
Autumn (Sept–Nov): Warm seas, sunny skies, and peaceful beaches — an ideal time for exploration.

Naturist-Friendly Culture

Fuerteventura is open-minded and naturist-friendly, especially in remote or lesser-developed beaches like Playa de Esquinzo, Sotavento, or parts of Corralejo. Discretion is respected, and signs often indicate clothing-optional zones.

Responsible Travel and Sustainability

Use biodegradable sunscreen to protect marine life.
Take all waste with you, especially when visiting undeveloped beaches.
Avoid disturbing sand dunes and native plants.
Support beachside cafés and local vendors where available.

Conclusion

Fuerteventura’s beaches offer more than a place to sunbathe — they offer space to breathe, move freely, and enjoy the island’s elemental beauty. Whether you’re lying beneath volcanic cliffs, wading through shallow turquoise water, or walking along miles of untouched coast, beach hopping here is a personal journey through one of Europe’s last great natural coastal frontiers.

Beach Hopping and Sunbathing - Endless Shores of Fuerteventura

See also

Valverde - The Quiet Capital in the Clouds of El Hierro

The Canary Islands International Music Festival

Hike through El Sabinar and the Highlands - The Wind-Bent Soul of El Hierro