Costa Calma is one of the main tourist towns in Fuerteventura, offering the perfect ambiance for a relaxing holiday. Not only does it have pristine white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, but it’s also home to some of the best hotels in Fuerteventura. This makes the town of Costa Calma the ideal spot for a few dreamy days by the sea.
Another appealing feature of Costa Calma is its strategic location, making it a perfect base for exploring various must-see attractions in Fuerteventura, like the captivating Jandía Natural Park. And let’s not forget the charming town center of Costa Calma with its inviting local culture and vibrant nightlife. However, what truly draws many tourists is the incomparable beauty of Costa Calma’s beaches. You have the luxury of choosing between more comfortable spots with all the services or untouched beaches that will leave you breathless.
In this guide, I’ll provide you with all the essential information for your visit to Costa Calma in the Canary Islands. From recommendations on where to stay in Fuerteventura to exciting things to do in Costa Calma, consider this guide your friendly handbook for an unforgettable stay. So, let’s dive in:
1. Costa Calma Beach, the best place to visit in Costa Calma, Fuerteventura
When it comes to the best things to do in Costa Calma, Fuerteventura, Costa Calma Beach steals the spotlight. Stretching over 1.2 miles, this urban beach, although the most touristy, is one of the most beautiful spots in the city.
You don’t need to venture far to enjoy a day by the sea, especially since many top-notch, all-inclusive hotels in Fuerteventura are located in Costa Calma and offer direct beach access. So, if you’re looking for nice and well-located accommodation where you can spend a few days unwinding and disconnecting from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, a hotel in Costa Calma, Fuerteventura, is your best bet.
1. Costa Calma Beach, the best place to visit in Costa Calma, Fuerteventura
The beach is divided into different areas, ensuring you find the perfect spot for relaxation. Even during peak seasons, you’ll often find peaceful sunbathing spots without the crowds. I recommend heading to the area closest to the urban center, where you will find umbrella and beach chair rentals, lifeguards, and a variety of water activities, creating a more family-friendly atmosphere.
If you enjoy water sports, you can also head southward. The winds are more robust in this part of Costa Calma Beach, which attracts experienced surfers and other water sports athletes.
2. Sotavento Beach, another must-see spot in Costa Calma
For those considering renting a car in Fuerteventura, a visit to Sotavento Beach is a must-do. This beach is located just 5.5 miles from Costa Calma and ranks as one of the best beaches in Spain.
Sotavento Beach is approximately 6 miles long, and it’s divided into five smaller beaches, each offering unique activities and environments. Despite their unique characteristics, all share the common thread of white sandy shores and turquoise waters, making Sotavento a prime destination to relax and connect with nature, and one of the best places to visit in Jandía.
2. Sotavento Beach, another must-see spot in Costa Calma
Playa Barca, for instance, is a hotspot for water activities like windsurfing, kitesurfing, surfing, and sailing, thanks to the ideal wind conditions. If you prefer a more intimate setting, Mal Nombre Beach is the perfect destination with a relaxed atmosphere, which is also popular among nudists.
I recommend taking a walk to explore the natural surroundings. Also, keep in mind that during low tide, a vast natural pool forms among the dunes. The Sotavento Lagoon is one of the main attractions of Sotavento Beach, offering a mesmerizing landscape that’s a must-see when visiting one of the best beaches in Fuerteventura.
3. Playa Esmeralda and other beaches in Costa Calma, Fuerteventura
For a tranquil escape on the Jandía Peninsula, I highly recommend Playa Esmeralda, located north of Costa Calma in Fuerteventura. This secluded beach offers a peaceful setting, ideal for couples planning a relaxing day.
While you have to travel along a dirt road to get here, the reward is well worth the effort. The mesmerizing natural setting and clear waters make it a prime spot for snorkeling in Costa Calma—just don’t forget your mask!
3. Playa Esmeralda and other beaches in Costa Calma, Fuerteventura
In my opinion, Playa Esmeralda is one of the most beautiful beaches on the Jandía Peninsula, where you can find peace and tranquility. Plus, it’s not as remote as other beaches in Costa Calma. Moreover, in some areas, you can access amenities like beach bars, beach chair rentals, and lifeguards, making it an excellent choice for families with children.
There is a variety of beaches in Costa Calma that you may like, depending on your preferences and time constraints. Agustín Millares Beach, for example, is a small and centrally located haven, which is a great choice for those seeking a cozy corner away from strong winds and waves. Alternatively, you can visit Playa Laja del Corral, a family-friendly option with shallow waters.
Now, if you want to immerse yourself in the breathtaking environment of the Jandía Peninsula, I can recommend two of my favorite spots: Matas Blancas Beach and La Jaqueta Beach. Matas Blancas is a true paradise with fine sand and calm waters, just 10 minutes from the town center. On the other hand, La Jaqueta Beach is one of the few campsites in Fuerteventura with a wild and untouched landscape. The Mirador del Viento at the end of the beach provides a perfect vantage point to appreciate its beauty.
4. African Market of Costa Calma, the best place for shopping in Costa Calma
For a unique and authentic experience in Costa Calma, Fuerteventura, make sure to explore the African Market, also known as the Senegal Market. Even if you’re not into shopping, I recommend walking through its colorful stalls filled with crafts, clothing, and various items and enjoying the lively atmosphere.
4. African Market of Costa Calma, the best place for shopping in Costa Calma
The market comes to life every Wednesday and Sunday on Happag Lloyd Avenue, running from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. It’s an excellent opportunity to get a taste of a typical African souk, with many vendors of Senegalese origin. Remember that haggling here is not just allowed but encouraged. So, shopping in Costa Calma gives you a chance to hone your negotiation skills and acquire diverse products at affordable prices.
5. Windsurfing and kitesurfing, the most popular water sports in Costa Calma
Costa Calma is a haven for windsurfing and kitesurfing enthusiasts, making it the perfect destination for water sports lovers in Fuerteventura. The conditions here are nothing short of ideal for enhancing your skills or perfecting your moves. So, don’t miss the chance to enroll in one of the many classes or organized tours in Fuerteventura to learn or advance your abilities by surfing in Costa Calma. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, there are suitable spots on both the southern and northern beaches, with various schools lining the coast to cater to your needs.
5. Windsurfing and kitesurfing, the most popular water sports in Costa Calma
A word of advice: if you plan your visit during the bustling months of July and August, be prepared for large tourist crowds. These are peak months, coinciding with the Fuerteventura Kitesurfing & Windsurfing World Cup in Costa Calma, which attracts thousands of enthusiasts. So, if you’re looking for a more peaceful experience, consider planning your vacation during a quieter time of the year.
6. Buggy excursion, one of the best things to do in Costa Calma
If you’re looking for a thrilling on-land adventure, an excursion through Costa Calma is the perfect choice. This 3-hour buggy tour is an exciting journey through the untamed landscapes of Costa Calma in Fuerteventura, offering one of the most fascinating adventures that you can rarely find elsewhere. We tried it a few years ago, and the memories of speeding through these virgin landscapes still give us a rush of adrenaline.
6. Buggy excursion, one of the best things to do in Costa Calma
During the excursion, you’ll explore various points of interest, including Ugán Beach with its black sand and towering waves, La Pared Beach—a hotspot for surfers, and Sotavento Beach. As you can see, this buggy adventure allows you to visit multiple sites, which helps you make the most out of your time.
Other things to do in Costa Calma
If you have extra time, consider exploring some more must-visit attractions near Costa Calma.
Morro Jable, another popular town on the island, captivates visitors with its magical fishing environment and the beautiful Playa del Matorral, one of the most popular beaches in Morro Jable. Beyond its excellent hotels and gastronomic offerings, the town is home to some of the best nightclubs in Fuerteventura, making it a great choice for nighttime adventures.
Other things to do in Costa Calma
However, my favorite activity is whale and dolphin watching in Fuerteventura, and many tours depart daily from the port of Morro Jable. I signed up for this boat tour, and let me tell you, it was amazing! I had the chance to spot numerous dolphins in just an hour and a half. Alternatively, you can choose this excursion, which includes lunch and snorkeling, or this glass-bottom boat tour, offering an ideal way to observe marine life without getting into the water.
A slightly more adventurous option is a visit to Cofete Beach and Villa Winter in Costa Calma. Although it requires about an hour’s drive, I highly recommend taking this journey to those who want to experience another side of the island. The town of Cofete is one of the most secluded parts of the island, located next to a magnificent 7.5-mile-long beach.
Here, you can find Villa Winter, an abandoned mansion surrounded by captivating stories. Some people believe it once served as a meeting place for German Nazis during World War II, but there’s no confirmed data to support this claim. To fully appreciate its beauty, head to the Mirador de los Canarios. This viewpoint offers panoramic views of the beach and its surroundings, particularly during sunset. If you prefer a more adventurous experience, consider signing up for this jeep ride.
Things to do in Costa Calma
If you enjoy outdoor activities, you’re in the right place! Costa Calma boasts one of the best hiking routes in Fuerteventura– Pico de la Zarza. This trail leads you to the island’s highest point, which takes about 3 hours to complete. The route is well-marked and presents no major complications. Once you reach the summit, you can immerse yourself in the fantastic panoramic views of the island.
Oasis Park Fuerteventura, a place I don’t recommend visiting in Costa Calma
While Costa Calma has a myriad of captivating attractions, one place I would advise against visiting is the Oasis Park Fuerteventura. As the only zoo on the island, it houses approximately 3,000 animals from 250 different species, including giraffes, hippos, sea lions, and even some endangered species like parrots.
The park offers various activities, such as camel safaris (with around 300 dromedaries) and shows featuring crocodiles and exotic birds. However, we have chosen not to promote establishments that keep animals in captivity, especially those in danger of extinction.
I believe that it’s more enriching to appreciate wildlife in its natural habitat instead of confining wild animals for our own entertainment. Although the botanical garden located within Oasis Park Fuerteventura might be of interest, it’s unfortunate that separate tickets are not available.
Best hotels in Costa Calma, Fuerteventura
When it comes to choosing the perfect accommodation in Costa Calma, Fuerteventura, you have a range of options catering to different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best hotels in Costa Calma:
Best hotels in Costa Calma, Fuerteventura
- Budget-friendly: INNSiDE by Meliá Fuerteventura is located in front of the stunning Sotavento Beach. This adults-only hotel offers super modern boho-style decor in its rooms. You can enjoy its beautiful gardens, an infinity pool with sea views, and a variety of entertainment options, including complimentary yoga and Pilates classes.
- Mid-range option: If you are looking for a beachfront hotel, H10 Playa Esmeralda is an excellent choice. Besides offering an all-inclusive package with no restrictions, the hotel features a swimming pool, jacuzzi, tennis court, and mini-golf. There are two on-site restaurants in the facility offering diverse dining options and a terrace with sea views, perfect for enjoying cocktails.
- Luxury accommodation: If you want to travel cheaply, consider booking one of the best apartments in Fuerteventura, such as the Bahía Calma Beach. Just a few steps from Sotavento Beach, this property offers one- and two-bedroom apartments. All units feature a fully equipped kitchen with a kettle, coffee maker, and microwave, which allows you to prepare your own meals. Plus, the living room provides a cozy space to relax after a full day.
Best restaurants in Costa Calma
If you’re exploring the attractions of Costa Calma and need to recharge your batteries, consider visiting the La Lajita Beach area, especially in front of the fishing village, where you’ll discover several local restaurants offering fresh fish. Besides that, here are some of the best restaurants in Costa Calma where you can enjoy a delightful dining experience:
- Terraza del Gato Restaurant: This restaurant serves traditional Canarian cuisine, fresh fish, and a variety of international options. Whether you choose a table indoors or on the beautiful terrace, you can expect spectacular treatment along with delicious food.
- El Bar de Marko: Regarded as one of the best restaurants in Fuerteventura, this spot offers delicious and hearty dishes with a fantastic quality-price ratio. You can enjoy beautiful beach views and try their comprehensive appetizers while watching the sunset.
- Palmita Pepe & Antonia: This restaurant is located a bit away from the center, on Playa Esmeralda, offering a spectacular terrace right on the beachfront. While they have a diverse menu, I highly recommend trying their fish or seafood specialties.
Finally, here’s a map of Costa Calma in Fuerteventura to help you plan your itinerary:
Additionally, I recommend checking out our tourist maps of Fuerteventura.
I hope this guide has helped you discover the most exciting places to explore and the best things to do in Costa Calma, Fuerteventura. If you have any questions or would like to share your experience on one of the best Canary Islands, feel free to leave a comment below.
Enjoy your trip to Costa Calma!
