El Cotillo Fuerteventura
A charming fishing village on Fuerteventura's northwest coast, known for its stunning beaches, natural lagoons, and world-class surf.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
El Cotillo Fuerteventura
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming fishing village on Fuerteventura's northwest coast, known for its stunning beaches, natural lagoons, and world-class surf.
"El Cotillo is a surfer's paradise with the most beautiful beaches and clearest blue sea."
🚗 Rent a Car for Freedom
Essential for exploring beyond El Cotillo and reaching hidden beaches. Book in advance!
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
The Canarian sun is strong year-round. Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Playa de Los Lagos
North of El Cotillo
Serene natural pools perfect for swimming and relaxing, with crystal-clear waters.

Faro El Tostón
North of El Cotillo
Iconic lighthouse offering panoramic ocean views and a glimpse into the island's maritime history.
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El Cotillo Village
Coastal town
Charming fishing village with whitewashed houses, local shops, and delicious seafood restaurants.

Surfing Beaches
Various locations
World-class spots for surfing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing, attracting enthusiasts year-round.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Coastal Charm
Best Time for Sun and Surf
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Rent a Car for Freedom
Essential for exploring beyond El Cotillo and reaching hidden beaches. Book in advance!
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
The Canarian sun is strong year-round. Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.
🏄♀️ Embrace Water Sports
El Cotillo is a surfer's paradise! Try surfing, kitesurfing, or windsurfing.
🍽️ Savor Fresh Seafood
Enjoy delicious, locally caught fish and seafood at the village's charming restaurants.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Rent a Car for Freedom
Essential for exploring beyond El Cotillo and reaching hidden beaches. Book in advance!
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
The Canarian sun is strong year-round. Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.
🏄♀️ Embrace Water Sports
El Cotillo is a surfer's paradise! Try surfing, kitesurfing, or windsurfing.
🍽️ Savor Fresh Seafood
Enjoy delicious, locally caught fish and seafood at the village's charming restaurants.
🌅 Catch the Golden Hour
El Cotillo offers stunning sunsets, perfect for photography and romantic moments.
🚶♀️ Wander the Village
Get lost in the picturesque streets, discover local shops, and soak in the relaxed atmosphere.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about El Cotillo's stunning natural beauty, particularly its pristine beaches and calm lagoons, making it a top choice for relaxation and family fun. The charming fishing village atmosphere, delicious fresh seafood, and excellent surfing conditions are frequently highlighted as major draws. Some find the village a bit quiet outside of peak season, and access to certain amenities might require a car.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way to reach El Cotillo from Fuerteventura Airport (FUE) is by renting a car, which takes about 45-50 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a bus, but it will involve transfers and take significantly longer. Taxis are also available but can be more expensive.
El Cotillo village itself is quite walkable. However, to explore the surrounding beaches and attractions like Faro El Tostón, renting a car is highly recommended for convenience and flexibility.
Yes, there are public bus services that connect El Cotillo to other towns in Fuerteventura, including Corralejo and Puerto del Rosario. However, schedules can be infrequent, making a car a better option for maximizing your visit.
The most convenient way to travel between El Cotillo and Corralejo is by car, taking approximately 20-25 minutes. There are also bus services available, though they may require transfers and take longer.
Cycling is possible, especially if you are an experienced cyclist, as there are coastal routes. However, be prepared for potential wind and varying terrain. Many visitors opt for car rental for easier access to all areas.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, access to El Cotillo's beaches, including Playa de Los Lagos and Playa de la Concha, is free of charge. You can enjoy the natural beauty without any admission fees.
The Faro El Tostón lighthouse itself is generally accessible from the outside for free, offering great views. There might be small fees if there are specific exhibitions or tours inside, but exploring the grounds is typically free.
Most natural attractions like beaches and the lighthouse area are accessible at all times. Restaurants and shops in the village have varying opening hours, typically from late morning to evening. It's best to check specific venues.
While El Cotillo is a charming village, it's a smaller destination. You might find tourist information in larger towns like Corralejo or Puerto del Rosario, or rely on online resources and local advice for specific queries.
For popular restaurants, especially those with ocean views or known for fresh seafood, booking in advance is recommended, particularly during peak season. This ensures you get a table, especially for dinner.
🎫 🏖️ Beaches & Nature
El Cotillo boasts several stunning beaches. Playa de Los Lagos offers calm, shallow pools ideal for families. Playa de la Concha is a beautiful sandy cove, and the beaches north of the lighthouse are popular with surfers.
Yes, especially Playa de Los Lagos and Playa de la Concha, which have calm waters protected from the open ocean. The northern beaches can have stronger currents and waves, making them better suited for surfing.
Playa de Los Lagos is perfect for relaxed swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the natural rock pools. It's a great spot for families with young children due to its shallow and calm waters.
Absolutely! El Cotillo is renowned as a surfer's paradise, with consistent waves and various surf schools offering lessons for all levels. The northern beaches are particularly popular for surfing.
Yes, the area around Faro El Tostón, near Playa del Marrajo and Los Lagos, is known for its beautiful natural pools that form at low tide, offering crystal-clear waters for a refreshing dip.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
El Cotillo is famous for its fresh seafood and traditional Canarian cuisine. You'll find excellent fish dishes, tapas, and local specialties in the village's restaurants.
Many restaurants along the harbor and in the village center offer delicious seafood. La Vaca Azul is highly recommended for its fresh catches and ocean views.
While seafood is prominent, many restaurants are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan options. It's advisable to check menus or ask staff for specific choices.
Olivo Corso Kiosko is mentioned as a place for tapas and drinks. Exploring the village will reveal other local spots offering authentic Canarian tapas.
A mid-range meal in El Cotillo can cost between €25-€40 per person, especially at restaurants with harbor views or specializing in seafood. Casual dining and tapas can be more budget-friendly.
📸 📸 Photography
The western coast near El Cotillo offers spectacular sunsets. Watching the sunset from the village, near Faro El Tostón, or from one of the western beaches provides incredible photo opportunities.
The charming fishing harbor, the whitewashed streets of the village, the dramatic coastline near Faro El Tostón, and the pristine beaches like Playa de Los Lagos are all highly photogenic.
Capture the contrast between the rugged volcanic landscape and the turquoise waters. The natural pools at low tide and the traditional fishing boats in the harbor offer unique shots.
Early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) provides the best light for photographing the beaches, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check local rules and restrictions regarding drone operation in protected natural areas and near residential zones before flying. Always fly responsibly.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏄♂️ Surfers and Water Sports Enthusiasts
🚶♀️ Relaxed Travelers and Couples
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring El Cotillo's Beaches
Further north, the coastline transforms into a haven for water sports enthusiasts. Beaches like Playa del Marrajo and Piedra are known for their consistent waves, attracting surfers, windsurfers, and kitesurfers. These areas can have stronger currents, so swimmers should exercise caution. The dramatic cliffs and rugged terrain surrounding these northern beaches provide a breathtaking backdrop for photography and exploration.
When planning your beach visits, consider the tides, especially if you want to experience the natural pools at Los Lagos. The El Cotillo beach Fuerteventura experience is diverse, offering everything from serene lagoons to exhilarating surf breaks.
The Charm of El Cotillo Village
The heart of the village is its small fishing harbor, where colorful boats bob gently in the water. This is a fantastic spot to observe local life and enjoy the freshest seafood. Several highly-rated restaurants are situated along the harbor, offering delicious meals with stunning sea views. La Vaca Azul is frequently mentioned for its excellent fresh fish and Canarian specialties.
Beyond the immediate village, the El Cotillo Fuerteventura experience extends to its historical landmarks. The Faro El Tostón (El Tostón Lighthouse) stands proudly on the northern coast, offering panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the rugged coastline. Exploring the area around the lighthouse provides a sense of the island's wild beauty and maritime heritage.
Surfing and Water Sports Hub
Beyond surfing, the strong winds that often sweep across Fuerteventura make El Cotillo a hotspot for windsurfing and kitesurfing. The open waters and dedicated areas cater to these dynamic sports. Visitors can often see colorful kites and sails dotting the horizon, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of the coastline.
For those interested in surf camps in El Cotillo, there are several options available that combine accommodation with surf lessons, providing an immersive experience for enthusiasts looking to improve their skills and enjoy the surf culture of the island.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit