Sotavento Beach, Fuerteventura

Sotavento Beach in Fuerteventura is a paradise for nature fans, stretching over six miles and housing one of the wildest environments on the island. So, if you’re interested in exploring one of the most pristine landscapes in Fuerteventura, this guide is perfect for you.

Besides being among the primary destinations to visit in Fuerteventura, the Sotavento Beach proposes various interesting areas for exploring. Begin with its panoramic viewpoints or go to the renowned Sotavento Lagoon, viewed as among the top attractions on the Jandía Peninsula. Known for furnishing beneficial circumstances for aquatic sports, this beach is in addition a focal point for some of the most exhilarating excursions in Fuerteventura. Whether you favor relaxing on the sand to absorb the sun or remaining busy by trying some stimulating activities, I strongly propose visiting Playa de Sotavento.

If planning an excursion to Sotavento Beach but the details have yet to be finalized, I’ll provide the necessary guidance to make the most of this scenic getaway.

Beaches of Playa Sotavento, Fuerteventura

Sotavento Beach in Fuerteventura, Canary Islands, essentially comprises a collection of smaller beaches, each with its own distinct characteristics. Progressing from north to south, you’ll come across Playa de la Barca,Risco del Paso Beach,Playa Mirador de Sotavento,Playa Los Canarios, and Playa delMal Nombre.

Despite sharing turquoise waters and white sands, each of these natural wonders possesses a unique set of qualities as well. Here, I’ll provide you with pertinent information to help you choose the perfect spot when exploring the beaches of Playa Sotavento in Fuerteventura.

Playa de la Barca, the famous Playa Sotavento Lagoon

Playa de la Barca, home to the renowned Sotavento Lagoon, is located to the north of Sotavento Beach, near the charming village of Costa Calma. Undoubtedly, it is one of the best beaches in Fuerteventura, offering a serene and secluded atmosphere that attracts many naturists.

What creates Playa de la Barca truly unique is the Playa Sotavento Lagoon, a natural, shallow lagoon that develops during low tide. This occurrence arises because of a sizable sandbank near the shoreline, successfully blocking the flow of water. Families, particularly those with small children, discover this location attractive as the lagoon’s depth remains below 16 inches, establishing a safe environment to take a refreshing dip.

Note that the atmosphere undergoes complete transformation during the Windsurfing & Kiteboarding World Cup. The beach hosts numerous water sports tournaments, with the primary event happening around a huge pop-up tent. Throughout the World Cup, there exist all sorts of entertaining activities and nightly parties, thus the beach can attract large groups of visitors. If you favor a tranquil setting, I suggest avoiding this time of year and exploring the other areas of PlayaSotavento in Fuerteventura.

A number of access points along the FV-2 highway in Fuerteventura lead to Playa de la Barca. However, using the exit near the Meliá Fuerteventura Hotel, located next to a parking area, is the best way to get here.

Risco del Paso Beach, one of the best beaches for windsurfing and kitesurfing in Playa de Sotavento

Risco del Paso Beach is considered one of the most famous sandy stretches along the coast of Jandía. Situated on the shoreline of Jandía, this beach has attracted many enthusiasts of aquatic sports due to constant breezes favoring such activities. Moreover, Risco del Paso Beach has some of the premier facilities in the local area for teaching water sports and surfing techniques. Whether you`re a novice interested in exploring these sports or wanting to refine existing abilities, Risco del Paso Beach offers ideal conditions.

Despite attracting many water sports lovers, Risco del Paso Beach retains a calm atmosphere, making it an ideal choice for individuals preferring a tranquil day by the coastal waters. If desiring a leisurely stroll along the shoreline while admiring the scenery, this is a perfect destination. The beach spans around 1.2 miles, offering a serene setting where numerous bird species often linger.

Furthermore, Risco del Paso Beach caters well for families with children, providing amenities such as accessibility for disabled visitors, restrooms, parking, and lifeguards.

Playa Mirador de Sotavento, one of the best nudist beaches in Playa de Sotavento

Playa Mirador de Sotavento beach is rated among the most popular beaches located in Sotavento, Fuerteventura. Situated in the center of Sotavento Beach, this area offers a serene escape devoid of available amenities. Here, it is simply the individual, the white sand dunes, and the turquoise waters. However, keep in mind that access is among the most difficult sections.

When planning a day at this beach, consider packing accordingly since there are no beach bars or restrooms nearby. Those seeking utmost solitude will find Playa Mirador de Sotavento an ideal spot encountering only a few others on its expansive surface of golden sand. While the occasional sunbather may catch the eye in the distance, the atmosphere generally remains quiet and peaceful.

Playa Los Canarios, one of the wildest beaches in Sotavento Beach

Playa Los Canarios is a small inlet around 1,500 feet in length situated between Playa de Sotavento and Playa de Mal Nombre, which will be introduced later. Despite experiencing some wind, the waters here are much calmer than in other areas of Sotavento Beach, thanks to the natural shelter provided by the nearby cliffs.

To reach the nearly untouched natural setting surrounding Playa Los Canarios requires a somewhat more difficult route of access. One must take the older road from Costa Calma to Morro Jable, heading to the gas station called Barranco de los Canarios. Approximately 1500 feet farther from there, a dirt path leading to the beach comes into view.

Keep in mind to carry all necessary provisions for your beach visit, as there are no supermarkets, beach bars, or conveniences in the vicinity. And more importantly, don’t neglect your snorkel mask, as the seabed is full of treasures.

Playa del Mal Nombre, the only beach in Playa Sotavento with chair and umbrella rentals

Playa del Mal Nombre is the only beach in Sotavento, Fuerteventura, that furnishes all the conveniences for a day out with companions or relatives. This half-mile long shoreline boasts dark rock cliffs that not only add to its scenic beauty but also shield it from strong winds. The contrast between these cliffs and the turquoise waters creates a picturesque vista worthy of a postcard.

While not entirely secluded, the beach does offer some amenities in the vicinity, like restaurants and restrooms, which makes it a good choice for those prioritizing comfort. Accessing this beach is extremely practical, with parking available right next to it. Simply take the roundabout signifying “Tierra Dorada,” named after an abandoned hotel you will easily notice just a few steps away.

Sotavento de Jandía Viewpoint

If one has an inclination for photography and wishes to appreciate the splendor of Playa SotaventoinFuerteventura, think about a visit to the Mirador de Sotavento de Jandía. Situated upon the cliffs of Risco del Paso Beach, this viewpoint provides magnificent vistas of the Playa SotaventoLagoon.

Exploring this 360° viewpoint allows you to comprehend the grandeur of the landscape and observe how the scenery evolves with the tides. I strongly recommend taking a few moments to feel the sea breeze. In case the winds increase, there’s a small cabin where you can find shelter.

It’s a straight drive on I-5 N. Another straightforward trip! There are buses between the two cities, but you’ll need a car to fully experience a day trip.

El Salmo Viewpoint

El Salmo Viewpoint, situated at the opposite end of Sotavento Beach, provides an amazing panoramic perspective. If you’ve been structuring your island itinerary, you’ve likely encountered depictions of a vibrant, multicolored wooden bench perched on the cliff’s edge, giving spectacular views of the coastline.

This viewpoint is a perfect spot to admire Playa de Sotavento de Jandía, Spain, and delight in the diverse color scheme. You have a chance to witness the enchanting blend of golden sands with turquoise waters and observe the visual effects created by the varying depths of the water.

Accessible from the main FV-2 highway, you can arrive at the viewpoint by taking the exit signposted for Mal Nombre. Then, follow the FV-602 road towards Playa de Salmo.

How to get to Sotavento Beach

If you’re uncertain about how to reach Sotavento Beach, the following section provides all the needed details. Various options are available, and your choice will depend on the mode of transportation you select to navigate Fuerteventura. Here are your primary options:

Getting to Sotavento Beach by car

Renting a vehicle in Fuerteventura is the optimal selection for accessing Playa de Sotavento, providing independence to discover the island and its attractions according to your own schedule. The well-marked routes make navigation and visits to even the remotest areas of the island straightforward.

Ahead of time, we consistently use DiscoverCars to arrange car rentals. Then, we simply collect the keys upon arrival at our destination. Based on experience, DiscoverCars consistently furnishes the most affordable daily rates.

For the residents of Costa Calma, Playa de la Barca is the closest beach in Sotavento. It`s approximately 10 miles away, with convenient parking available.

If you find yourself in Morro Jable, Playa del Mal Nombre is just six miles away, also providing parking facilities and a nearby eatery.

Playa del Risco de Paso, which also possesses a parking lot, is directly next to Mirador de Sotavento. It’s an excellent choice if you favor appreciating some views without descending to the beach.

Getting to Sotavento Beach by bus

If budget-friendly transportation is what you want for traveling cheaply, public transit provides a cost-effective means of accessing Sotavento Beach in Fuerteventura from various key tourist destinations on the island. Local buses, known as “guaguas,” service this route.

Bus Line 1 operates between Puerto del Rosario and Morro Jable, with stops including the access point close to Meliá Fuerteventura Hotel and Barranco de los Canarios. It travels through Costa Calma, Tuineje, and Gran Tarajal.

If you find yourself in Ajuy,La Pared, or Pájara,Line 4 can take you to the same access point.

You can check the schedules on the Thiade website, the transportation agency responsible for overseeing this service provides timetables. Payment for the ticket can be made directly to the bus driver, who will calculate the cost based on the distance traveled. Those planning to make multiple trips could consider purchasing the single transport card for €5, which offers discounted fares for each journey.

Excursion to Sotavento Beach

If your available time is limited, you prefer to avoid driving, and wish to not handle public transit, I suggest participating in an outing to Sotavento Beach in Fuerteventura.This full day tour, starting from the north of the island, allows you to explore the major attractions of Fuerteventura, including BeachofSotavento, in a single day.

The trip begins with a visit to the town of Corralejo, known for the impressive Corralejo Dunes, a vast desert landscape stretching to the ocean. The tour then takes visitors to the island`s capital, Puerto del Rosario, providing a glimpse into local Canarian lifestyle. While there are numerous things to do in Puerto del Rosario, I wholeheartedly recommend taking some time to explore its iconic buildings and stroll through its charming streets.

Continuing along a scenic route through charming towns and desert landscapes, you’ll reach Sotavento Beach, where you can admire its beauty and take a few photographs from its magnificent viewpoints.

After a busy schedule, you’ll make a stopover in the small town ofAjuy to renew your energy levels. Ajuy, with its fishing atmosphere, has some of the top restaurants in Fuerteventura, many of which are famed for their fresh catch. Additionally, Ajuy is home to the captivating Ajuy Caves, a fascinating and less busy site on the island.

Finally, the outing culminates with the opportunity to enjoy the spectacular views of Tindaya Mountain, one of the most interesting volcanoes in Fuerteventura. Referred to as the “Sacred Mountain,” it is believed to have served as the center of religious rites for the original Majoreros inhabitants and features around 300 rock engravings.

Best hotels near Sotavento Beach, Fuerteventura

The best approach for visiting Playa deSotavento is to reside in the town of Costa Calma, where you’ll find a diverse assortment of lodging possibilities in Fuerteventura to suit various financial plans and inclinations.

Here are my suggestions for the best hotels in Fuerteventura with strategic positions to improve your experience:

• Luxurious lodging: H10 Playa Esmeralda, situated in Costa Calma, stands out as one of the most favored all-inclusive hotels in Fuerteventura. This hotel features contemporary rooms with ocean and garden views, each boasting a furnished balcony or terrace. The hotel offers amenities for example a swimming pool, jacuzzi, tennis court, and mini-golf.

• Mid-range option: A differently named hotels, situated right next to the off-ramp to a beach, provides a strategic base to explore the region`s section of coast as well as its lagoon. In addition, it is among the spots suggested for affordable lodging on the island, ensuring a delightful trip without exceeding one`s budget. The complex includes four aquatic areas, landscaped gardens, and entertainment alternatives for children, such as a shallow pool with slides, a playground, and an activity zone.

• Cost-effective option: For an affordable alternative, consider lodging in one of the highly-rated apartments in Jandía. Some of my favorites are the Bahía Calma Beach apartments located in Costa Calma. These accommodations, with individually-reserved 1 or 2 bedroom designs, feature equipped kitchens and common areas. The complex offers both an indoor heated pool and an outdoor pool, where visitors can take a refreshing dip without traveling to the shoreline.

This guide has covered the key details about visiting Sotavento Beach in Fuerteventura. The information provided should aid planning a trip to Playa de Sotavento. If you have any other questions or want to share your experiences exploring one of the finest Canary Islands, feel free to comment below. I look forward to hearing back from readers.

Have fun in Fuerteventura!