This Canary Island is a specialist in unique beaches, but that’s just the beginning: here are the best things to do in Fuerteventura.

During the winter (and, indeed, spring, summer and fall) sun, the best things to do in Fuerteventura are hard to beat. This has a lot to do with the fact that it is the closest of the Canary Islands to Africa, just 100 km away, being the closest to mainland Spain at 1,350 km. While you may be tempted to spend every hour you have on this island laying flat by the pool or on the beach, there’s so much more to explore here. As you will discover with our recommendations on the best things to do in Fuerteventura.

The best things to do in Fuerteventura

1. Maxi Power Sailing

What is? An 83-foot-long yacht moored in the port of Morro Jable, the main tourist center in the south of the island.

Why go? In Fuerteventura, the sea breeze is not just the name of a cocktail. Go out on the yacht with Maxi Power Sailing’s sea dog, Kino Quiroga, and you’ll feel the true Atlantic zephyr. Both Kino and his boat have competed in round-the-world regattas. Perfect for absolute beginners or more experienced sailors.

2. Oasis Park

What is? One of the largest zoos in the Canary Islands, which serves as a botanical garden.

Why go? If you visit Oasis Park Fuerteventura on time, you will be able to cross many things off your holiday wish list. Here you can ride a camel (don’t worry if you’ve stuffed yourself during the holidays, as they can carry up to 500 kg of weight), see the largest collection of cacti in the Canary archipelago and buy an inexpensive souvenir at the Mercado Agro-Artesanal . Among the stalls is photographer John Ette, who has captured some evocative images of the island.

3. Isla de Lobos

What is? An island, off the northeast coast of Fuerteventura, that is perfect for a day trip.

Why go? If you feel confined during your stay in Corralejo, the most popular tourist center in the north of Fuerteventura, there is a solution. Hop on a ferry and head to Isla de Lobos, once populated by sea lions (monk seals) and now by an even smaller number of human settlers in the handful of shacks on the main street of El Puertito. There isn’t much to do here except enjoy a wonderfully natural chill-out area. If you feel like getting some exercise, try hiking the rocky trails or taking a dip in the sea.

4. Cofete

What is? A beach to escape to in the southeast of Fuerteventura.

Why go? Are you staying in the urbanized Morro Jable? Take a trip to Cofete. Like the Lobos Islands, there are only a handful of houses here. The only signs of human presence are the graveyard of sand and Villa Winter, with its haunting history. (Rumor has it that it was a secret Nazi base.)

One of the advantages of FuerteVentura is its great versatility when it comes to offering different alternatives to tourists. Whatever your tastes, here is a list with different possibilities.

5. La Marisma

What is? The most outstanding restaurant in El Cotillo.

Why go? Have you heard of this resort whose present reflects its past as a former fishing village? This is not a holiday brochure speech: El Cotillo, in the north of Fuerteventura, is really like that. Marked by the stone floor and walls, in a minimalist style, La Marisma is the place to visit to taste fresh seafood from the ocean. Clams and mussels, which melt in the mouth, are accompanied by a green mojo with herbs, a sauce with lots of cilantro.

6. Salinas del Carmen

What is? The only salt flats left in Fuerteventura.

Why go? Caleta de Fuste is the place chosen by the British who visit Fuerteventura. (Where hotels stock up on Marmite for nostalgic tourists.) For a more Canarian flavor, head south on FV-2 (or walk along the coast if you prefer) to Salinas del Carmen. Here you will find a salt museum detailing the history of salt production on the island. In addition, you will have the opportunity to purchase some of these white products in the store.

7. Natural pools (Aguas Verdes)

What is? Natural pools in the wild west of Fuerteventura.

Why go? Imagine the coast of Fuerteventura and you will imagine one sandy beach after another. However, things get a bit rocky out west. Including the 6 km stretch of the Betancuria coast. Where you will discover the island’s great open-air spa. The Atlantic torrent turns these rock pools into outdoor hot tubs.