While there are plenty of things to do in Corralejo, this former fishing village has become one of the most popular destinations in Fuerteventura thanks to its incredible sand dunes and long beaches.
Personally, I feel that I find a much more local atmosphere here than in the south of the island, and I love that. However, Corralejo is also the starting point for many of the most recommended excursions in Fuerteventura, which is why many travelers have used it as a base camp for various activities around the island. Even the ferry to Lanzarote from Fuerteventura departs from here.
We stayed here several times, and we never get tired because there are so many things to do in Corralejo, Fuerteventura. In fact, the ferry to Isla de Lobos leaves from here, so it is also a good opportunity to see another beautiful place in the Canary Islands.
In this guide, you will find the best things to see in Corralejo. I included the most important points of interest in the city, as well as interesting places that you can visit nearby. This way, you will have all the information you need when planning your itinerary.
1. Great Beaches of Corralejo, the best place in Corralejo, Fuerteventura
Undoubtedly, one of the best things to see in Corralejo is the Grandes Playas or Great Beaches. These 6 miles of coastline are home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Fuerteventura, so don’t miss the opportunity to swim in its turquoise waters when you’re visiting the island.
In addition to its fine sand, these beaches have a special environment since they are surrounded by a virgin desert, the Great Dunes of Corralejo. I will talk about them later.
1. Great Beaches of Corralejo, the best place in Corralejo, Fuerteventura
In Corralejo, Fuerteventura, you will find beaches for all tastes, whether you want to share a day with your family or friends, or you are looking for a quiet environment. For example, Bajo Negro Beach is ideal to go with young children because it has all the amenities you need to spend a day by the sea. On the other hand, if what you want is to relax, Playa El Viejo is a quiet place to lie under the sun and where nudism is also allowed.
Some of the beaches in Corralejo are windier, which is why they have become popular places to visit in Corralejo for lovers of water sports. If you go to the beaches of El Médano or El Pozo, you will see people practicing surfing, kitesurfing, or windsurfing, so I recommend you keep that in mind if you prefer something more private.
2. The Dunes of Corralejo, one of the essential things to see in Corralejo
The Great Dunes of Corralejo are 6,550 acres of virgin desert where you can immerse yourself in a natural and wild environment. In addition to being one of the most popular attractions in Fuerteventura, here you can practice various sports and fun activities that I am sure you will love.
The best way to get the most out of this natural wonder in Corralejo, Spain is by taking the road that goes from Corralejo to the Natural Park. We went in our car and made several stops in between to explore the landscape and take photos.
2. The Dunes of Corralejo, one of the essential things to see in Corralejo
Also, we signed up for this buggy tour and it was amazing. We did a tour going up and down the sand dunes at full speed, and I enjoyed some incredible views. Without a doubt, it is one of the best things to do in Corralejo, so don’t miss it. You can also practice sandboarding, so if you have ever been curious about this sport, this is your chance.
If you prefer something quieter, the dunes are an ideal place to watch the sunset. The different shades of red in the sky and the sun falling on the horizon create a scene that you will surely remember after the trip.
3. Visit the town of Corralejo, something you must do in Corralejo
There are several things to see in the town of Corralejo, but you can start your tour on Avenida de Nuestra Señora del Carmen, the main street where most of the shops and restaurants are concentrated. Some of the best nightclubs in Fuerteventura are also located in this area, so if you are looking for things to do in Corralejo at night, here you will find some options.
Plaza Patricio Calero hosts different concerts and cultural events during the summer for free, although there are also several terraces where you can sit down for a drink and have a good time. You can also go to Calle Iglesia where some of the best places to eat in Fuerteventura are located, but at the end of this article, I will give you specific recommendations on the best restaurants in Corralejo.
3. Visit the town of Corralejo, something you must do in Corralejo
Also, if you pay attention, you will find the old mills scattered throughout the city. These are typical constructions similar to windmills, which were used to grind different types of grains.
If you feel like taking a walk at sunset, I recommend walking along the Bristol Promenade. In addition to the beautiful views, there are wooden benches where you can rest and appreciate the sound of the waves along the entire route. You can also visit several beautiful beaches just a few steps from the center of Corralejo’s old town. Muelle Chico beach is the most central of all, but I prefer Los Verilitos beach, which has a very good atmosphere and is ideal to stay for a drink at sunset.
Browsing the traditional Canarian market, which is organized twice a week in the Plaza del Centro Comercial El Campanario, is another fun thing to do in Corralejo. It is a good place to go shopping or just take a walk and enjoy its atmosphere.
4. Climb the Calderón Hondo Volcano, an adventurous thing to do in Corralejo
If you like adventure, one of the best things to do in Corralejo is to climb Calderón Hondo, the most famous volcano in Fuerteventura. It is around 50,000 years old, and its crater is one of the best preserved, so doing this hiking route in Fuerteventura and appreciating the incredible panoramic views from the top is worth it.
4. Climb the Calderón Hondo Volcano, an adventurous thing to do in Corralejo
To do it on your own, go to the town of Lajares, where you will find the beginning of the trail. The route is quite simple, and completing it will take you around an hour, so it is something you can do in half a day and then relax on the beach or visit other attractions in Fuerteventura.
Otherwise, you can also sign up for this tour with a local guide, who will accompany you and explain some interesting facts about the island’s volcanic activity. I did it a few years ago and I loved it, so I always recommend it to other travelers.
5. Popcorn Beach, a curious place to see in Corralejo, Fuerteventura
Popcorn Beach, or Playa del Bajo de la Burra, is one of the essential places to see in Corralejo. This beach is famous for its unique appearance, as it looks as if it were covered in popcorns. Actually, its appearance is the product of some algae called “rhodoliths,” and, in my opinion, it is one of the most curious places you can find in Fuerteventura.
5. Popcorn Beach, a curious place to see in Corralejo, Fuerteventura
If you want to visit it, it is only about 15 minutes by car from the center of Corralejo to the north. Of course, keep in mind that on the last stretch of road, you will have to drive on a dirt track, so I recommend you do it with caution.
If you are looking for things to see in Corralejo with children, this is a fun and different place that I am sure they will love. However, keep in mind that its waters have some strong currents and a rocky surface, so you can take some pictures of the landscape and then go swimming at other of the best beaches in Corralejo.
6. Go to Acua Water Park, one of the best things to do in Corralejo with family
Another thing you can do if traveling with your family is to visit Acua Water Park, one of the best attractions in Corralejo, and something different to add to a traditional itinerary.
6. Go to Acua Water Park, one of the best things to do in Corralejo with family
This water park is full of slides and games for all ages, so everyone will find something fun to do. For example, among other facilities, there is a giant jacuzzi where you can relax while the children have fun in the wave pool.
In addition, in the complex, you will find a family restaurant where you can take a break and recharge your batteries to continue playing.
7. Climb Red Mountain, an incredible thing to do in Corralejo, Fuerteventura
If you’ve already visited Corralejo Natural Park, surely you’ve noticed a mountain that rises in the middle of the Great Dunes, one of the most beautiful landscapes to see in Corralejo. Well, this is the Montaña Roja, or Red Mountain, another site that I consider a must-see during your trip.
7. Climb Red Mountain, an incredible thing to do in Corralejo, Fuerteventura
There are other volcanoes in Fuerteventura, but many travelers are satisfied with just appreciating the Red Mountain from the beach. For me, the trail that leads to its top is one of the most scenic routes I’ve done on the island, which is why it has become one of my favorite activities in Corralejo. In addition, it is not so crowded, and we were able to do the 5-mile hike completely alone.
This trail starts from the town of Villaverde, just 8 miles away, and you can complete it without much difficulty. Of course, remember to wear good shoes since you will find some slippery surfaces, but nothing dangerous, so this will not prevent you from relaxing and enjoying the views as you go up.
8. Surfing and other water sports, some other active things to do in Corralejo
As I mentioned before, one of the things to do in Corralejo is to try some of the most popular water sports on the island. Whether you have experience or want to get started in a sport, Corralejo has several schools for different levels. That is why many travelers looking for what to do in Corralejo decide to take advantage of the beach conditions and reserve one of the classes available.
8. Surfing and other water sports, some other active things to do in Corralejo
Although I preferred to relax on the beach, Dani was encouraged to take this surf course and he really enjoyed it. It was not the first time for him since he had already done a similar one in Bali, but here he was able to enjoy a privileged environment and learn some new moves.
The next time we go I am thinking of signing up for these windsurfing lessons. I was comparing various options and I liked this one more than others because you work in small groups, so you spend more time with your instructor and learn faster.
9. Visit El Cotillo and its beaches, something to do around Corralejo, Fuerteventura
In addition to all the places to see in Corralejo, in the surroundings, you will find some charming towns that are worth taking a look at, such as El Cotillo. This seafaring population is much smaller, so you will feel a calm that is difficult to find in other places on the island.
9. Visit El Cotillo and its beaches, something to do around Corralejo, Fuerteventura
There are several places to visit in El Cotillo, but if you are just going to spend the day, I recommend you focus on the area around the Castillo del Tostón. Here, you will find several local restaurants, beautiful views, and wild beaches where you can take a dip.
If you like surfing, El Cotillo is famous for its waves, so you will surely be tempted to grab your board and catch some of them. However, there are also other beaches in El Cotillo with calmer waters where you can swim and enjoy a relaxing day by the sea.
10. Excursion to Isla de Lobos, another thing to do in Corralejo, Spain
Finally, Isla de Lobos is an islet that is located in front of Fuerteventura where you can admire landscapes that look like they were pulled straight out of a movie. It’s one of the best places to visit in Corralejo, and it’s easy to get to since the ferry leaves from its port.
Of course, to visit Isla de Lobos you must request a special permit, which will allow you to stay here for a maximum of 4 hours. The purpose of this measure is to protect this natural reserve from mass tourism, but it also maintains the islet’s tranquil and rustic environment.
10. Excursion to Isla de Lobos, another thing to do in Corralejo, Spain
Once on the island, you can climb the Montaña de la Caldera, the highest point on Isla de Lobos, tour the island by bicycle (you must rent it in Corralejo and bring it with you on the ferry), or sunbathe on La Concha Beach. Getting there takes only a 10-minute walk from the port.
However, I recommend you take advantage of the richness of its seabed and head towards El Puertito, one of the places in the Canary Islands that surprised me the most. In addition to contemplating the beauty of its transparent waters, you can snorkel and see some little fish and colorful coral.
Another way to visit this island is by hiring an excursion that includes other extra activities. For example, if you take this catamaran cruise that leaves from Corralejo, you can take a walk along the coast of Isla de Lobos and also have time to dive into its waters and do some snorkeling. On the other hand, to me, this hiking tour seems very complete since you will be able to climb the Caldera Mountain with a professional guide and then relax in El Puertito.
Where to stay in Corralejo
There are many different accommodations in Corralejo, so choosing where to stay in Fuerteventura while visiting the city can be a bit confusing. Therefore, here are some recommendations for different types of travelers:
- Luxury: Hotel Riu Palace Tres Islas, one of the most recommended all-inclusive hotels in Fuerteventura. They have a super complete all-inclusive package and modern facilities, although you can also check our guide on the best all-inclusive hotels in Corralejo to see other alternatives.
- Mid-range: Apartamentos Hesperia Bristol Playa, the ideal apartments in Fuerteventura for a family holiday. If you want to check other apartments in Corralejo, check our guide.
- Budget: Corralejo Surfing Colors Hotel&Apartments is a cheap accommodation in Fuerteventura with good value for its price.
If you are a large group, it may be worth renting a Fuerteventura villa such as Villas Veaco Bahiazul. We stayed here with friends, and we found it an ideal place to spend a few days and feel at home. We have a guide on the best villas in Corralejo in case you need more options.
Best restaurants in Corralejo, Fuerteventura
One of my favorite parts of traveling is enjoying the local gastronomy, so before visiting an area, I always research the best places to eat. In Corralejo, there are several restaurants where you can enjoy the best typical Canarian dishes, but at Casa Manolo, you can delight yourself with fresh seafood and traditional Mediterranean cuisine in an informal and relaxed environment.
If you prefer a more elegant place, I recommend reserving a table at Land of Freedom, where they also serve tapas and cocktails, so you can also consider it for appetizers.
Finally, Italian cuisine is always a good option, and L’Oca Blanca is one of the best restaurants in Corralejo where you can enjoy all kinds of typical Italian cuisine in an intimate and cozy atmosphere.
Map of Corralejo, Fuerteventura
Finally, I leave you a map with all the things to see in Corralejo, as well as the accommodations and restaurants that I have mentioned above so that you can better locate them.
Now you know the best places to go in Corralejo. I hope this guide has helped you plan your itinerary, but if you have any questions or want to share your experience, you can leave me a comment below.
Enjoy Corralejo!
