Fuerteventura is a hidden gem in the Canary Islands, offering the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. Whether you’re chasing the thrill of windsurfing on its iconic beaches, exploring the tranquil Isla de Lobos, or simply soaking up the stunning views, this island has something to ignite your sense of adventure. From family-friendly activities to dramatic rocky coastlines, Fuerteventura is a destination that promises unforgettable experiences and a much-needed escape from the ordinary. Ready to discover the best this island has to offer? Let’s dive in!
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Where we stayed: Hotel Arena
For somewhere affordable, Hotel Arena is a good shout. It’s all-inclusive and budget-friendly, so it’s great if you don’t want to break the bank but still want a nice enough place to stay. The hotel’s on the edge of Corralejo, so you’re close enough to the action but far enough away for a bit of peace and quiet. Plus, you’re only a short walk to Playa de Dormidera, so if you want to spend time on the beach, it’s handy. The food’s decent enough, and the facilities are fine for a relaxed stay – nothing fancy, but you’re not paying for fancy either.
Isla de Lobos
If you’re staying in Corralejo, you’ve got to jump on a ferry to Isla de Lobos. It’s a small, quiet island just off the coast, and it’s totally worth the trip. The ferry ride is short, and once you get there, it’s a great spot to escape the crowds. There are a few walking routes if you fancy a wander, or you can just chill by the beach and enjoy the views. It’s peaceful, and because it’s a nature reserve, you won’t find any shops or big crowds, so it feels pretty untouched. Just remember to bring some water, because there’s not much on the island in terms of facilities.
In Spanish, Isla de Lobos means ‘Island of Wolves’. There are no wolves. It turns out this was a name for ‘Sea Wolves’ – or monk seals. However, there are no more monk seals! It has good snorkelling in a protected litte bay though!
Corralejo’s Rocky Points
Just outside of Corralejo, there’s a rocky point where the sea crashes against the shore. The wind is pretty strong here, and it can be a bit wild, but it’s definitely worth checking out if you like dramatic coastlines. It’s not a place for swimming – the water’s a bit too rough and the rocks aren’t the best for lounging around on – but it’s a cool spot to grab some photos and take in the view. You’ll get a real feel for the island’s raw side here, especially when the wind’s really kicking in.
Ferry to Lanzarote
While you’re in Corralejo, it’s pretty easy to hop on a ferry and head over to Lanzarote for the day. It’s only about 25 minutes to get there, so if you’re up for seeing something a bit different, it’s worth the trip. Lanzarote’s famous for its volcanic landscapes and unique architecture, so it’s a good spot if you fancy a change of scenery. We did a day trip because there’s plenty to see – including the main spots like Timanfaya National Park and the volcanic beaches with the famous green pool, but also a vineyard with wine tasting, where you can sample the local wine that is grown in protected little ‘dips’ in the ground. The last three pictures below are from our Lanzarote trip.
Playa de Dormidera – A Windy Beach
We stayed at Hotel Arena, which is just down the road from Playa de Dormidera – a massive, wide beach that’s pretty windy most of the time. The wind here makes it a top spot for windsurfing and kitesurfing, but if you’re just looking to chill, it might not be your best bet unless you’re into having sand blasted at your face. The beach itself is nice and big, so there’s plenty of room to spread out, but it can feel a bit wild with the strong gusts – people have built little sections of ‘wall’ to protect beachgoers but they weren’t super effective when we went. It’s definitely got a bit of a laid-back vibe, though, and it’s a great place to watch people trying to master their windsurfing skills.
Water Park Fun for Families
There’s a water park near the hotel we didn’t go to, but if you’ve got kids, it looks like a good shout. It’s got all the usual slides, pools, and attractions, so the little ones will be entertained for hours. It’s a typical water park experience – nothing mind-blowing, but solid fun if you’re after a day of splashing around and keeping the kids happy.
Mini Golf
We did hit up the mini golf course nearby though, and it was a laugh. Nothing too complicated, just a fun way to kill a bit of time. It’s not something that’ll change your life, but it’s an easy-going activity if you’re in the mood for something casual. The course is fairly straightforward in most places but then ridiculously hard in other, but it’s decent for families or groups looking for a bit of light-hearted competition. It is quite run down in terms of appearance so if you’re used to Turnberry, brace yourself.
Fuertaventura Zoo
If you’re after a full-day family adventure, the Fuerteventura Zoo is a great option, and it’s easy to get to with a direct bus service from Corralejo. The zoo is split into several sections, each offering something unique. The African area showcases animals like zebras, camels, and various birds, while the farmyard section lets you interact with goats, pigs, and chickens—perfect for younger kids. The zoo also has live exhibitions, including birds of prey displays (would definitely recommend) and reptile shows, which are both educational and exciting to watch. There’s a real focus on conservation, with plenty of information on endangered species and wildlife protection. With animal encounters, beautiful landscaped areas, and regular feeding times, it’s a fun and informative day out for the whole family.
A Windy and Rocky Paradise
If you’re into water sports or just love gusts, Fuerteventura is the place to be. The island’s pretty windy, which makes it great for surfing, kitesurfing, and windsurfing. The beaches here are often windy, so if you’re looking for a more relaxed beach day, you might need to head to one of the quieter spots. But for those who enjoy the wind in their hair and the waves crashing in, it’s a dream. The coastline can be rocky and dramatic, which makes for some great views and photo ops.
Fuerteventura is a great place for a mix of relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re exploring the island’s natural beauty, trying out some watersports, or just chilling by the beach, there’s plenty to keep you busy. And with all the family-friendly activities, it’s an easy destination for everyone to enjoy.
