10 Best Things to Do in El Cotillo, Fuerteventura + MAP

There are numerous attractions to explore in El Cotillo, where visitors can spend several unforgettable days in Fuerteventura. This coastal town has become increasingly popular in recent years, due to its scenic beaches with turquoise water and white sand, something that should not be missed from any itinerary there.

When we initially traveled to El Cotillo, Fuerteventura, we recently completed visiting the Calderón Hondo volcanic area, and we headed there out of mere curiosity. We had heard that we could obtain great cuisine there, so we took the car to see what it entailed.

Over time, we uncovered the beaches of El Cotillo and a serenity that left us completely fascinated. In fact, I believe it is one of the best places to visit in Fuerteventura, so I decided to create this guide where I will tell you what to do in El Cotillo, where to dine, and a few other things for you to consider when planning your next trip.

1. Castillo del Tostón, one of the best places to visit in El Cotillo, Fuerteventura

The famous Castillo del Tostón is an important site to view in El Cotillo, therefore a visit is essential. This 18th century tower was constructed to monitor the coast for imminent pirate arrivals, and nowadays serves as a vantage point providing probably the ideal perspectives of the shoreline.

It was declared a Historic Monument of Cultural Interest, and going inside it`s one of the mostfascinatingthings to do in El Cotillo. At the highest, you`ll find three completely preserved cannons and a drawbridge with iron chains that`ll carry you again in time. Moreover, cultural occasions and different exhibitions are organized here, so if you`re lucky, you can attend them at no cost.

At the bottom, you will find Playa del Castillo, so you can make this visit and then relax by the ocean. So, if you are searching for something to do in El Cotillo without too much movement, I recommend including this activity in your itinerary.

2. Puerto de El Cotillo y Mirador Alto Grande, something essential to see in El Cotillo

El Puerto is one of the main attractions to visit in El Cotillo, Fuerteventura. Here visitors will be able to see small boats beside the pier and fishermen who gather every morning to carry out their tasks. This essentially captures the essence of the town.

However, most visitors head here for the stunning perspectives of the surrounding beaches, guarded by the Tostón Lighthouse, which I will explain later.

Furthermore, tourists will discover the Mirador Alto Grande, which is considered the highest viewpoint in El Cotillo. From this location, one can observe all of the northern beaches as well as the picturesque facades of the town homes, creating a postcard-worthy scene. I suggest avoiding it on windy days since the gusts are usually much stronger at higher elevations.

3. The old lime kilns, one of the curious places to visit in El Cotillo

It is common to find remnants of old limestone kilns along the coast of Fuerteventura. During times of drought, the Majorera island exported this material substantially as it was one of the few resources available on the island.

The residents of the Canary Islands constructed kilns near the ports to bake limestone, making it easier to transport and sell.

For this reason, one of the most intriguing things to see in El Cotillo is this set of five completely preserved ovens, which, in addition to telling the story of its past inhabitants and economy, are part of the island’s most valuable heritage.

If choosing to visit them, they are situated behind the marina, simply where the town concludes. From here stunning landscapes can be appreciated, including some of the most untamed beaches.

4. Senda de los Cetáceos, something interesting to see in El Cotillo

The Seda de los Cetáceos is something different that can be seen in El Cotillo, which both children and adults will find fascinating. This open-air exhibition space displays the skeletons of cetaceans that have washed ashore on the island`s coast, either due to natural causes or human involvement.

In addition to functioning as an intriguing attraction, this project strives to teach visitors regarding the biology of these remarkable creatures and motivate contemplation about our behaviors toward the environment. If you are exploring the island of Fuerteventura, you will discover them in the most significant cities. For instance, in Puerto del Rosario a 10-meter tropical whale stands near the Playa Chica area.

In El Cotillo, there remains the skeletal framework of a Cuvier’s beaked whale, a marine mammal capable of swimming to depths of over 9,840 feet for more than two hours. It is singular in nature and stretches almost 20 feet in length. I was previously unaware that an animal possessing such aptitudes existed, but what amazed me most was the sensation I felt standing before this figure and comprehending its tremendous scale.

5. Playa de La Concha, the best beach in El Cotillo, Fuerteventura

Playa de La Concha is the most prominentbeach in El Cotillo, so I recommend you enjoy its turquoise waters and silky sand. This beach is made up of several small coves, so you will find a calm and sheltered environment where you can spend a day by the sea.

If you are traveling with youngsters, El Cotillo beach is a suitable place to visit with the little ones since there are basically no waves, and you can park straight at the entrance to the beach. It also has a lifeguard, so you can swim in peace, and there are several bars and eateries nearby where you can take a break and recharge.

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6. Traditional Fishing Museum and Tostón Lighthouse, a cultural visit to make in El Cotillo

The Tostón Lighthouse is one of the essential attractions to explore in El Cotillo, Fuerteventura. In fact, it is situated in Punta Ballenas, three miles from El Cotillo’s town center, but the trip there is worth taking.

This monument at El Cotillo was constructed in 1897 to provide sailing vessels moving through the La Bocaina Strait, which divides Fuerteventura and Lanzarote, with guidance. However today it additionally houses the Traditional Fishing Museum. This represents another attractionto explore in El Cotillo if you want to immerse yourself in the Majorera culture and gain knowledge about its customs.

This 131-foot-tall tower provides incredible panoramic views of the surrounding virgin and wild landscape. I recommend visiting around sunset to watch the sun lower in the sky from this elevated vantage point.

7. El Cotillo town, something traditional to see in El Cotillo

Exploring the streets of the town on foot is one of the finest activities to engage in at El Cotillo. Here you will not find extensive stores or luxurious hotels, but you will be able to appreciate a tranquil atmosphere and authentic as well as traditional architecture.

The village is characterized by its light-colored homes, whose doorways are all painted in varying shades of blue. Additionally, there are numerous murals that you will come across as you stroll through its roads, making it very vivid and completely charming.

Though the urban shoreline is Playa del Muellito, visitors can go a bit farther from downtown and view others with more natural surroundings. Regardless of the choice, I assure you`ll find crystal clear waters and extensive stretches of fine sand at all locations.

Something critical to bear in mind is that El Cotillo town encompasses some of the finest dining establishments in Fuerteventura, so do not miss the chance to delight your palate in some local eateries. Of course, determining where to go can pose a difficult task, but I will provide some recommendations later so that you can maximize enjoyment of local culture.

8. Playa Los Charcos, something to visit in El Cotillo, Spain with children

Playa Los Charcos is considered one of the most beautifully scenic beachesto visit in El Cotillo, however keep in mind that it is 1.8 miles from the center of town. Nevertheless, it can be easily located as it houses the famous Tostón Lighthouse as mentioned previously.

It takes its name from the lagoons that form before arriving at the sea, which are natural pools of crystal-clear water where you can relax and spend time on hot days. Here you will find shallow waters, so if you are traveling with children, you can enjoy with your family without worries.

You will find a secluded and private setting, so it is not unusual for the beach to be frequented by naturists. Additionally, water sports like windsurfing are very popular, but the beach is so spacious that you will always have your own area.

9. Molino del Roque, an emblematic site to see in El Cotillo

This type of sightseeing tour via bus is particularly helpful for families with children since they can experience many attractions while conserving time and money. Kids tend to quickly become tired and bored, so don’t spend funds paying admission to a location you’ll only spend a few minutes at!

This grain mill has three stories and four blades and was worked in the eighteenth century, when the island’s economy was essentially in view of the grain exchange. Windmills were one of the most reasonable structures on an island with solid storms like Fuerteventura and filled in as its essential wellspring of vitality.

10. Surfing at Playa del Castillo, something fun to do in El Cotillo

Finally, the organization known as Cabrera Medina that is located within the area provides a popular choice for those seeking rental cars in Lanzarote and other Canary Islands. You can obtain your vehicle at the airport or at other designated locations throughout Lanzarote, so it represents one of the most practical choices available.

If you are new to the sport, I advise exploring Playa del Castillo, which frequently has suitable conditions for learning during the summer months as it is surrounded by tall cliffs. I participated in this program and I quite liked it. I managed to ride a few waves, so I ended up very satisfied.

If you prefer a more challenging experience, you can take benefit of the strong winds during winter months, or go to Playa Aljibe de la Cueva, where you will find more intense waves all year round.

Where to stay in El Cotillo

El Cotillo, Spain is home to some of the best areas to lodge in Fuerteventura, so here are some lodging suggestions to spend a dream vacation:

• Luxury:Coral Cotillo Beach, a hotel with modern facilities and activities for all family members.
• Mid-price: An option like TAO El Cotillo, which is considered one of the best apartments in El Cotillo featuring a traditional style.
• Budget: Cotillo Ocean View, some rentals in Fuerteventura with scenic views and good value regarding price.

And If you enjoy adventure, keep in mind that El Cotillo is one of the prime locations for camping in Fuerteventura. There are three enabled beaches and a camping area, so you can choose the place that you prefer best and spend the night under the stars for free.

Where to eat in El Cotillo

Despite ranking among the most affordable hotels in the Grand Canyon, Thunderbird Lodge offers quality amenities such as a business center, a conference room, and a cozy picnic area. Additionally, it features a cafeteria-style eatery serving Native American dishes and continental cuisine.

La Vaca Azul is an establishment frequented by both visitors and locals looking to enjoy some of the finest seafood dishes crafted from the day`s catch at affordable prices in a relaxed yet scenic setting overlooking Muelle Chico.

On the other hand, Azzurro Chill Out is also one of the prime restaurantsto visit in El Cotillo to delight your palate. It stands out for its Italian fare and its high-quality wines, but you can also try exquisite rice dishes and seafood. I like it because it has a very informal atmosphere, characteristic of a beach restaurant, and beautiful ocean views. If you want to watch the sunset, you can do so from its terrace, while sipping some cocktails.

Loque of the Fishermen is located in the port area, therefore if you are viewing Castillo del Tostón or among the primary spots to see in El Cotillo, you will simply be several steps away. This typical Canarian eating place possesses a outdoor patio along with panoramic views of the coastline as well as offers a amount of the best Mediterranean and Spanish delicacies in the complete town. So, if you want savoring a traditional lunch or dinner party, I propose you bookmark this place.

Map of El Cotillo

Below, you will find a map where you can locate all the things to see in El Cotillo on your next trip:

I also recommend taking a look at our interactive map of Fuerteventura to locate other places to visit nearby.

I hope this guide has aided you in deciding what sights to see in El Cotillo on your next vacation in one of the top Canary Islands. If you are planning your trip and have any inquiries or want to share your experience in El Cotillo, you can leave me a comment below. I will be delighted to hear from you.

Enjoy your trip!