Explore Beyond the Resort on a Fuerteventura Family Holiday
There’s nothing wrong with spending a day by the pool on holiday, but if you venture beyond the resort, Fuerteventura has plenty more to see. You can explore rolling sand dunes, spot colourful fish in clear Atlantic waters, wander through traditional villages and discover beaches that each have their own personality.
Before you set off, it’s worth checking the latest travel advice for Spain, particularly if you’re travelling with younger children or planning day trips around the island.
Discover the famous sand dunes of Corralejo
The Corralejo Natural Park is one of the island’s best-known attractions, and it’s easy to see why. The huge dunes stretch along the coast, creating a backdrop that feels more like a desert than a typical beach destination. The protected dune area extends for around 10.5km along this part of Fuerteventura.
The area works well for a half-day visit because you can combine exploring the dunes with time by the sea. If you’re visiting during the warmer months, heading there earlier in the day can also make exploring more comfortable.
If you’re planning a visit, checking Spain’s latest weather and climate information before you go can help you plan around the conditions.
Take a boat trip to Lobos Island
Just off the northern coast, Lobos Island offers a complete change of pace. A short boat journey from Corralejo takes you to this small, largely undeveloped island, where facilities are limited.
Once there, you can follow walking routes, enjoy the volcanic landscape or spend some time beside the clear water. Snorkelling is popular around the island too, although, as anywhere in the sea, children should be supervised and conditions should be checked before getting in the water.
Visitor numbers to Lobos Island are restricted, and permission needs to be obtained in advance, so this is one day trip that’s worth planning before you arrive.
Meet local animals at Oasis Wildlife Fuerteventura
Oasis Wildlife Fuerteventura is home to a wide range of animals, including giraffes, camels and lemurs, alongside botanical gardens showcasing plants from different climates.
Younger children may enjoy seeing the animals, while older visitors can learn more about the conservation, rescue and breeding work carried out by the park.
Explore traditional villages and local culture
While the coastline attracts most of the attention, Fuerteventura holidays also offer interesting inland experiences. Villages such as Betancuria offer a glimpse of a quieter side of the island, with historic buildings and small museums where you can learn more about Fuerteventura’s past.
Enjoy a beach-hopping adventure
One of the easiest ways to explore more of Fuerteventura is by visiting several beaches during your stay. Different stretches of coastline can offer completely different experiences, even when they’re only a short drive apart.
Caleta de Fuste has a sheltered bay with generally calm waters and is popular with families, while El Cotillo is known for its natural lagoons and relaxed atmosphere. Families with older children might also enjoy heading to Sotavento, particularly to watch the windsurfers and kitesurfers making the most of the island’s famous windy conditions.
You certainly don’t need to fit all of these into one holiday. Even choosing one or two trips away from the resort can give you a chance to see a completely different side of Fuerteventura – and still leave plenty of time for those lazy days by the pool.
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