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Fuerteventura is, above all, sand: more than 150 beaches, dunes that look like a desert by the sea and turquoise lagoons left behind by the tide. It is the oldest of the Canary Islands, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and one of the quietest — perfect for a simple beach holiday.
Where to stay with kids
Barceló Fuerteventura Castillo (Caleta de Fuste)
Bungalows and suites right on the most sheltered bay on the island, with a kids’ club, a children’s pool and Family Suites for up to six.
Occidental Jandía Mar (Jandía)
All-inclusive with a free water park, a kids’ club for ages 4–12, a teens’ room and family suites for up to six.
Alua Suites Fuerteventura (Corralejo)
Spacious one- and two-bedroom suites near the Corralejo dunes, with eight pools, a children’s pool and a kids’ club.
Things to do
- Corralejo Dunes Natural Park: the largest dune field in the Canary Islands and a giant natural playground.
- Isla de Lobos: a fifteen-minute boat trip from Corralejo. Access to the islet is regulated by the Fuerteventura island council and requires a free permit, requested at lobospass.com for a chosen date and time slot. Places are limited and visits last up to four hours, so book ahead in high season and carry the permit on your phone or printed. If you travel on one of the authorised boats from Corralejo, the operator usually handles the permit; check when you buy the ticket. With children, head for La Concha beach, with calm, shallow water, and bring water, food, hats and sun cream, as there are hardly any services on the islet.
- Oasis Wildlife Fuerteventura: the island’s zoo and botanical garden, with elephants, hippos and meerkats.
- Acua Water Park in Corralejo, with separate areas for small children.
- Ajuy caves: a short coastal walk to the oldest rocks in the Canaries.
Best beaches for kids
The bay of Caleta de Fuste is the most sheltered on the island, ideal with babies. In the north, the lagoons of El Cotillo form calm pools between rocks, and in the south, at low tide, Sotavento beach turns into a huge shallow lagoon. Avoid swimming on the west coast and at Cofete, where currents are dangerous.
Tips for parents
- Wind is the island’s trademark: a beach windbreak is almost essential.
- Distances between north and south are long — pick one base.
- A hire car is essential; the airport is next to Puerto del Rosario.