While there are plenty of activities available in Corralejo, this former fishing village has become one of the most popular destinations in Fuerteventura owing to its incredible sand dunes and lengthy beaches.
Personally, I feel that this area provides a more local atmosphere than in the south of the island, which I appreciate. However, Corralejo is also the starting point for many of the most recommended excursions on Fuerteventura, which explains why numerous travelers have used it as a base to explore different activities around the island. Even the ferry connecting Lanzarote to Fuerteventura departs from here.
- Sunrise at Batur Volcano: This experience during my 7-day visit to Bali proved unquestionably the peak experience of the entire trip.
Within this guide, you will find the premier things to see in Corralejo. I incorporated the most important points of interest in the city, as well as intriguing places that you can visit nearby. In this manner, you will have all the information needed when planning your itinerary.
Table of Contents
1. Great Beaches of Corralejo, the best place in Corralejo, Fuerteventura
Undoubtedly, one of the most notable attractions in Corralejo is the Grandes Playas or Great Beaches. These 6 miles of coastline are home to some of the finest beaches in Fuerteventura, so do not miss the chance to swim in its turquoise waters when you’re visiting the island.
In addition to its fine sand, these beaches have a unique environment since they are surrounded by an untouched desert, the massive Great Dunes of Corralejo. I will discuss them later.
In Corralejo, Fuerteventura, you will find beaches catering to all tastes, whether you seek to spend a day with family or friends, or prefer a tranquil setting. For example, Bajo Negro Beach is ideal for young children as it provides all needed amenities for a day by the sea. On the other hand, if relaxation is desired, Playa El Viejo presents a quiet place to sunbathe where nude recreation is also permitted.
Some of the beaches in Corralejo have stronger winds, making them popular spots to visit in Corralejo for those who enjoy water sports. If you go to the beaches of El Médano or El Pozo, you will see people practicing surfing, kitesurfing, or windsurfing. I suggest keeping in mind your preference if you want something more private.
2. The Dunes of Corralejo, one of the essential things to see in Corralejo
The massive sand dunes of Corralejo comprise 6,550 acres of untouched desert where you can immerse yourself in a natural and wild setting. Additionally, it represents one of the most well-known attractions in Fuerteventura, here you can practice numerous sports and entertaining activities that I am certain you will enjoy.
The optimum way to make the most of this natural wonder in Corralejo, Spain is by taking the road from Corralejo to the Natural Park. We went by car and made several stops along the way to explore the landscape and capture photos.
Also, we signed up for this all-terrain vehicle tour through the sand dunes and it was amazing. We rode up and down the sandy hills at full acceleration, and I was able to admire some incredible views. Undoubtedly, it is one of the finestactivities to partake in in Corralejo, so don`t pass up the opportunity. You can also try sandboarding, so if you`ve ever been interested in this sport, this is your chance
Watching the magnificent sunset over the rolling sand dunes creates a memorable spectacle with the varied crimson shades lighting up the descending orb along the horizon.
3. Visit the town of Corralejo, something you must do in Corralejo
There are numerous sights to explore in the community of Corralejo. You can commence your touring on Avenida de Nuestra Señora del Carmen, the principal street where most of the stores and dining establishments are concentrated. Some of the best nightclubs in Fuerteventura are also situated in this area, so if you are seeking events to engage in Corralejo at night, here you will discover certain options.
Plaza Patricio Calero hosts an assortment of concerts and cultural happenings during the summer months free of charge, though there are also several terraces where you can sit back with a beverage and relax. You may also head to Calle Iglesia where a number of the highly rated dining spots in Fuerteventura are situated, but later in this article, I will offer you particular recommendations on the top restaurants in Corralejo.
Also, one will find if paying attention, the structural remnants scattered throughout the city. These are typical architectural designs akin to wind-powered grain grinders, which were employed to crush different types of cereals.
If you feel like taking an evening stroll, I recommend walking along the Bristol Promenade. In addition to the beautiful scenery, there are wooden seating where you can rest and appreciate the sound of the waves along the entire route. You can also visit several beautiful beaches just a short distance from the center of Corralejo’s historic downtown.Muelle Chico beach is the most central of all, but I prefer Los Verilitos beach, which has a very welcoming atmosphere and is perfect to spend time for a beverage at sunset.
Wandering through the traditional Canarian marketplace, which is organized twice weekly in the Plaza del Centro Comercial El Campanario, is another entertaining thing to do in Corralejo. It is a good place to shop or simply stroll and enjoy the ambiance.
4. Climb the Calderón Hondo Volcano, an adventurous thing to do in Corralejo
To provide full transparency – I actually didn’t make it to Verdeo. I wanted to go, but by the time we were planning to arrive, the coronavirus had reached Colombia and we decided not to travel across the city to get there. But, I did communicate with them and they confirmed that they have a few selections that are safe for people with Celiacs. And by a few, they really mean just a handful. On their menu, which labels dishes with “suitable for people with Celiac disease”, there’s 4-5 choices for you to pick from.
To complete it independently, go to the town of Lajares, where you will find the starting point of the trail. The route is quite straightforward, and finishing it will take you around one hour, so it is something you can do in half a day and then unwind on the beach or visit other attractions in Fuerteventura.
Otherwise, there exists the possibility of registering for this guided excursion with a local scout, who will accompany you and provide some thought-provoking facts regarding the island’s volcanic occurrences. I partook in it a few years prior and I quite enjoyed it, so I habitually advise it to other visitors.
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 popcorn. 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.
If wanting to visit it, it lies only around 15 minutes by vehicle from the center of Corralejo travelling north. Of course, remember that on the last stretch of road, driving on a dirt track will be necessary, so I recommend proceeding with caution.
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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 include in a traditional itinerary.
This water park contains slides and games suitable for all ages, ensuring everybody will locate an enjoyable activity. For instance, among other amenities, there exists a substantial hot tub where you can unwind while the youngsters have fun in the wave pool.
Additionally, within the complex, there is a family restaurant where one can take a break and recharge their energy levels 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 an elevated landmass that rises in the center of the Great Dunes, one of the most beautiful landscapes to view in Corralejo. Well, this is the Montaña Roja, or Red Mountain, another site that I consider essential to see during your trip.
While there are other volcanoes located in Fuerteventura, many visitors to the area are content merely enjoying the views of Red Mountain from the shoreline. For myself, the trail leading to its summit is one of the most scenic routes I`ve traveled on the island, which explains why it`s become one of my favorite things to do in Corralejo. Also, the path isn`t overly busy, allowing my companions and I to complete the 5-mile hike entirely alone.
This path begins from the town of Villaverde, just 8 miles away, and can be completed without much difficulty. Of course, remember to wear sturdy shoes as some slippery surfaces may be encountered, yet nothing dangerous, so this will not prevent relaxing and enjoying the views while ascending.
8. Surfing and other water sports, some other active things to do in Corralejo
As previously noted, one of the important activities to do in Corralejo involves trying some of the most popular aquatic sports on the island. Whether you have experience or want to begin a sport, Corralejo has several schools for different skill levels. That is why many travelers searching for things to do in Corralejo opt to make the most of the beach conditions and reserve one of the available classes.
While I preferred relaxing on the shore, Dani was inspired to participate in this surf program and enjoyed the experience. It was not his first time since he had also completed a similar course in Bali, but here he could enjoy a privileged setting and learn new techniques.
The next time we visit I am planning to register for these windsurfing lessons. I analyzed various selections and I favored this one over others because you work in small communities, so you spend more time with your instructor and learn more quickly.
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 deserve 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.
There are numerous locations to explore in El Cotillo, but if you are just going to spend the day, I recommend focusing on the area surrounding the Castillo del Tostón. Here, you will find several local eateries, stunning vistas, and wild beaches where you can take a dip.
For enthusiasts of surfing, El Cotillo gains renown for its waves, undoubtedly tempting visitors to hoist their boards and catch some. In any case, also present are other beaches in El Cotillo offering calmer waters where swimming and relaxing by the sea for a day can be enjoyed.”
10. Excursion to Isla de Lobos, another thing to do in Corralejo, Spain
Finally, Isla de Lobos is an island located offshore from Fuerteventura where striking landscapes reminiscent of scenes from movies can be admired. It`s one of the best places to visit in Corralejo, and it`s easy to get there since the ferry departs from its port.
Of course, to visit Isla de Lobos you must secure a special permit, which will allow you to remain here for a maximum of 4 hours. The purpose of this measure is to shield this natural reserve from mass tourism, but it also maintains the islet’s tranquil and rustic environment.
Once on the island, you can ascend the Mountain of the Caldera, the highest point on Isla de Lobos, tour the island by bicycle (you must rent it in Corralejo and transport it with you on the ferry), or sunbathe on La Concha Beach. Reaching there takes only a 10-minute walk from the port.
However, I recommend making the most of the abundance of marine life located below the surface and head towards El Puertito, one of the sites in the Canary Islands that left me most amazed. Apart from admiring the splendor of its transparent waters, you can snorkel and see some smaller varieties of fish and colorful coral.
Another way to explore this island is by hiring an excursion that offers extra optional activities. For example, if you take this catamaran cruise that leaves from Corralejo, you can go for 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 myself, this hiking tour appears very comprehensive 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 lodging choices in Corralejo, so selecting accommodations in Fuerteventura while visiting the city can be somewhat unclear. Therefore, here are some suggestions for various travelers:
- Luxury:Hotel Riu Palace Tres Islas, one of the most suggested all-inclusive accommodations located in Fuerteventura. They offer a extensively complete package while staying and relaxing all inclusive style with modern amenities, although you can also explore our guide reviewing some of the top rated all-inclusive lodging alternatives on the island through other curated listings to consider also.
- Mid-range:Apartamentos Hesperia Bristol Playa, an excellent choice for families on holiday. For other apartment options in the area, check our guide on lodging in Corrallejo.
- Financial plan: The Corralejo Surfing Colors Hotel&Apartments in Fuerteventura offers good value for the listed price and is seen as an inexpensive lodging option.
For larger groups, renting a Fuerteventura villa like Villas Veaco Bahiazul may be worthwhile. We stayed at a place like this with friends, and found it to be an ideal accommodation allowing us to feel at home during a few days there. We have a guide on the top villas in Corralejo in case additional options are needed.
Best restaurants in Corralejo, Fuerteventura
One of the highlights of exploring new places for me is sampling the local cuisine. Before visiting an area, I make sure to research the top spots to dine. In Corralejo, several restaurants offer tasting authentic Canarian dishes, but at Casa Manolo, you can indulge in freshly caught seafood and traditional Mediterranean fare in a relaxed, casual setting.
If you prefer a more refined setting, I suggest reserving a table at Land of Freedom, where they also offer appetizers and cocktails, so you could think of it for starters as well.
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Map of Corralejo, Fuerteventura
Finally, I provide a map containing all the sights to see in Corralejo, along with the lodgings and restaurants previously mentioned so you can better locate them.
The highlighted locations in Corralejo have hopefully aided your trip planning, but should you have additional queries or want to share your experiences, please post a comment below.
Enjoy Corralejo!
