Popcorn Beach Playa del Bajo de la Burra - a sandy beach with a blue ocean in the background
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Popcorn Beach Playa del Bajo de la Burra

4.4
·1k reviews·, Spain

Fuerteventura's Popcorn Beach, Playa del Bajo de la Burra, is a surreal wonder covered in white rhodoliths resembling popcorn.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early morning

Fewer crowds, softer light for photos.

CrowdLow
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Popcorn Beach Playa del Bajo de la Burra - a sandy beach with a blue ocean in the background

Popcorn Beach Playa del Bajo de la Burra

Best Time

Early morning

Fewer crowds, softer light for photos.

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Fuerteventura's Popcorn Beach, Playa del Bajo de la Burra, is a surreal wonder covered in white rhodoliths resembling popcorn.

4.4
(1k reviews)

"Absolutely stunning! Popcorn Beach is the most amazing beach I’ve ever seen!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚫 Leave the 'Popcorn'!

Do NOT take rhodoliths. They are protected and vital to the ecosystem.

🚗 Bumpy Road Ahead

A car is best, but the dirt road is rough. Drive slowly and carefully.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The 'Popcorn' Shoreline

The 'Popcorn' Shoreline

Walk among millions of white, popcorn-like rhodoliths that create an otherworldly landscape. Truly unique!

Photographer's Paradise

Photographer's Paradise

Capture stunning, surreal photos with the distinctive white 'popcorn' against the blue ocean. Perfect for unique shots.

Rock Pool Exploration

Rock Pool Exploration

Discover small rock pools teeming with marine life like fish and crabs during low tide. Great for curious explorers.

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Planning Your Visit

Respect the Rhodoliths!

Popcorn Beach's unique 'popcorn' is actually fossilized algae called rhodoliths. These take decades to form, so please leave them where they are. Taking them is prohibited and harms the ecosystem. TikTokInstagram

Access and Amenities

The beach is accessible via a bumpy dirt road, so a car with higher clearance is recommended. TikTokInstagram There are no facilities like toilets or showers, so come prepared. Reddit

Best Times

When
Early morning
Why
Fewer crowds, softer light for photos.
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour for stunning photos.
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Ubicación e información importante👇 📍Playa del Bajo de la Burra Esta playa se encuentra en la costa norte de Fuerteventura, Islas Canarias. Y es un recordatorio de la diversidad natural de Fuerteventura, por eso es prohibido llevarse los “popcorns” a casa. También existen leyendas locales que advierten a los visitantes que llevarse una piedra de la playa puede traer mala suerte. Según la leyenda,...
@noma2digitales
1.5K likes • 117.1K views

🚫 Leave the 'Popcorn'!

Do NOT take rhodoliths. They are protected and vital to the ecosystem. TikTokInstagramReddit

🚗 Bumpy Road Ahead

A car is best, but the dirt road is rough. Drive slowly and carefully. TikTokInstagram

⚠️ LEER LA DESCRIPCIÓN ¿Sabías que hay en España una playa donde su arena parecen palomitas? Es la Playa del Bajo de la Burra y se encuentra en la isla de Fuerteventura (Canarias) Estas formaciones únicas, conocidas como rodolitos, requieren al menos 50 años para desarrollar su peculiar estructura. Al morir y ser arrastradas por el mar hacia la orilla, la erosión del agua contribuye a que adquiera...
@avionesenpapel
263 likes • 13.2K views
Playa del Bajo de la Burra,znana szerzej jako Popcorn Beach. Popcorn - wyrzucone na brzeg oceanu skamieniałe algi swym wyglądem przypominające do złudzenia uprażone ziarna kukurydzy. #fuertaventura #playadelbajo #playadelbajodellaburra #popcorn #algi #
porwani_przez_wiatr
11 likes • 82 views

🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes

The 'popcorn' can be uneven. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring. Reddit

📸 Camera Ready!

This unique beach is a photographer's dream. Capture the surreal landscape. TikTokInstagram

👉Playa del Bajo La Burra 📍 conocida también como : "Playa de las Palomitas , Cotufas , Roscas o Pop Corn Beach" Se encuentra en Fuerteventura cerca de Corralejo. ⚠️ Está totalmente prohibido y vigilado por las autoridades competentes de la zona llevarse estos "Rodolitos del Lugar" ⚠️ Recordamos si lo visitáis , Mantener el lugar siempre Limpio. #fuerteventura #canarias #fuerteventuraisland #ca...
familiacamperizada
0 likes • 2.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚫 Leave the 'Popcorn'!

Do NOT take rhodoliths. They are protected and vital to the ecosystem. TikTokInstagramReddit

🚗 Bumpy Road Ahead

A car is best, but the dirt road is rough. Drive slowly and carefully. TikTokInstagram

🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes

The 'popcorn' can be uneven. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring. Reddit

📸 Camera Ready!

This unique beach is a photographer's dream. Capture the surreal landscape. TikTokInstagram

🌊 Not for Swimming

Waves can be strong and rocks make swimming difficult. InstagramReddit

💧 No Facilities Here

Bring your own water and snacks. No toilets or showers available. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Popcorn Beach's surreal, otherworldly landscape, with many calling it the most amazing beach they've ever seen due to its unique 'popcorn' appearance. It's highly recommended for photos and exploring rock pools. However, some note it's smaller than expected and not suitable for swimming, with a bumpy access road and no facilities.

"Absolutely stunning!
Popcorn Beach is the most amazing beach I’ve ever seen! Instead of sand, it’s covered in natural white coral stones that really look like popcorn — it’s surreal. The view is breathtaking: ocean waves, wind, and a truly otherworldly landscape.
Perfect spot for photos, walks, and soaking up the unique atmosphere. Highly recommend visiting!"

OKSANA TOKAREVA

"In fact, it is a very cozy and unique place. You will not find such a beach anywhere. But before going there we looked at the reviews and photos of other people, and the beach is smaller than in the photo. However, you definitely need to visit it, because it is unique!"

Diana Basarab

"Popcorn beach is a good side activity for an hour. Lots of rock pools to explore to see fish and crabs. It’s a quick drive from Corralejo but be careful as it’s a bumpy dirt road with lots of bumps and holes"

J C

What People Like

Unique 'popcorn' appearance
Surreal landscape
Great for photos

What People Dislike

Not for swimming
Bumpy access road
No facilities

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Popcorn Beach, also known as Playa del Bajo de la Burra, is located on the north coast of Fuerteventura, near Corralejo. TikTokInstagram It's best reached by car via a dirt track that connects Corralejo to Majanicho. TikTokInstagram Be aware that the road is unpaved and can be bumpy, so a vehicle with higher clearance is recommended. TikTokReddit

While technically walkable, it's about an hour's walk from Corralejo, which can be quite a trek, especially in the sun. Reddit Driving is the more practical option for most visitors. TikTok

The drive involves a dirt road, so proceed with caution. TikTok Many visitors suggest driving slowly and being mindful of potholes and uneven terrain to avoid damaging your vehicle. Reddit

There isn't a designated parking lot, but you can usually find informal spots to park your car along the side of the dirt track near the beach. TikTok

Public transport options directly to Popcorn Beach are limited. Renting a car or taking a taxi from Corralejo is the most common and convenient way to reach it. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Popcorn Beach is a natural attraction and entry is free. TikTok It's accessible 24/7. TikTok

There is no entrance fee to visit Popcorn Beach. It's a public beach for everyone to enjoy responsibly. TikTok

The main restriction is that you are strictly prohibited from taking the rhodoliths (the 'popcorn' stones) with you. TikTokInstagramReddit This is to protect the unique ecosystem. TikTok

Popcorn Beach is open all day, every day. TikTok However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and to fully appreciate its unique appearance. TikTok

Yes, authorities monitor the beach to ensure visitors do not remove the rhodoliths. Instagram It's important to respect the rules and the environment. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The 'popcorn' is not actual popcorn but fossilized algae called rhodoliths. TikTok+2 These are the skeletons of marine algae that take many years to form and are washed ashore by the waves. TikTok+1

Swimming is generally not recommended due to strong waves and rocky areas. InstagramReddit The ocean can be rough, and accessing it from the shore involves navigating rocks. TikTok

It's a great spot for photography, leisurely walks, and exploring the rock pools for small marine life. TikTokReddit Many visitors enjoy simply marveling at the unique landscape. TikTok

Crowds can vary, but it's generally considered a good spot for a quick visit. Visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon might offer a more serene experience. TikTok

Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended as the 'popcorn' terrain can be uneven. Reddit Bring sun protection, as there is no shade. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

No, there are no dining facilities directly at Popcorn Beach. Reddit It's a natural beach with no amenities. Reddit

The nearest town with dining options is Corralejo, which offers a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars. TikTok

You can bring your own food and drinks for a picnic, but please ensure you take all your trash with you to keep the beach clean. Instagram

Fuerteventura's cuisine features fresh seafood, goat cheese (Majorero cheese), and local stews. Many restaurants in Corralejo will offer these traditional dishes. TikTok

Yes, it's a good idea to bring snacks and water, as there are no services available at the beach. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Early morning or late afternoon offer the best light for photography. The golden hour light can create stunning contrasts with the white rhodoliths. TikTok

The unique texture and color of the rhodoliths, resembling popcorn, create a surreal and otherworldly landscape that is highly photogenic. TikTokInstagram

The entire beach is a photo opportunity! Focus on the textures of the rhodoliths, the vastness of the shoreline, and the ocean backdrop. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscape. A macro lens can be useful for close-ups of the rhodoliths' intricate details. TikTok

Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local drone laws and guidelines before flying, especially as Fuerteventura is a Biosphere Reserve. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Popcorn Beach offers a unique visual experience for families. The 'popcorn' stones are fascinating for children to look at and touch (but not take!). TikTok Exploring the rock pools at low tide can be an exciting activity, allowing kids to discover small sea creatures like crabs and fish. Reddit However, the beach is not ideal for swimming due to strong waves and rocky entry points, so supervise children closely if they venture near the water. InstagramReddit The bumpy dirt road access might require careful driving with young children in the car. TikTok Remember to bring plenty of snacks and water, as there are no facilities. Reddit

📸 Photographers & Content Creators

Popcorn Beach is a dream destination for photographers seeking unique and surreal landscapes. TikTokInstagram The contrast between the white rhodoliths and the blue Atlantic Ocean provides endless creative opportunities. TikTok Aim for the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon for the best light. TikTok Wide-angle lenses are great for capturing the expansive shoreline, while macro lenses can highlight the intricate textures of the 'popcorn' stones. TikTok Remember to respect the environment and avoid disturbing the rhodoliths for your shots. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers

For those who appreciate natural wonders, Popcorn Beach is a must-visit. The geological formation of rhodoliths is a fascinating subject. TikTok+1 The walk along the shore offers a chance to connect with the raw beauty of Fuerteventura's coastline. Reddit While not a strenuous hike, the uneven terrain requires sturdy footwear. Reddit The surrounding area also offers opportunities for exploring the rugged Fuerteventura landscape. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Science Behind the 'Popcorn'

Popcorn Beach, or Playa del Bajo de la Burra, owes its distinctive appearance to rhodoliths. These are not actual popcorn but rather the fossilized skeletons of a type of red algae. TikTok+2 Over time, these algae die, and their calcified structures are broken down by the sea and waves. TikTok+1 The constant action of the ocean then smooths and rounds these fragments, eventually washing them ashore to create the beach's unique, popcorn-like texture. TikTok It's a slow geological process, with some rhodoliths taking up to 50 years to form their characteristic shape. TikTok

This natural phenomenon makes Popcorn Beach a truly special place. However, it also means the rhodoliths are fragile and an integral part of the coastal ecosystem. TikTok Many visitors are captivated by the visual resemblance to popcorn, leading to a temptation to collect them. TikTokInstagram It's crucial to remember that these are natural formations, and their removal can have a significant impact on the beach's integrity and the surrounding environment. TikTokInstagram

Fuerteventura's status as a Biosphere Reserve underscores the importance of preserving its natural wonders. TikTok The unique composition of Popcorn Beach serves as a reminder of the delicate balance of nature and the responsibility visitors have to protect it. TikTok By leaving the rhodoliths undisturbed, we ensure that future generations can also marvel at this extraordinary natural spectacle. TikTok

Navigating the Terrain and Access

Reaching Popcorn Beach requires a bit of an adventure. The most common way to get there is by car, but be prepared for a bumpy dirt road that leads to the shore. TikTokInstagram This track is not paved and can be quite rough, with potholes and uneven surfaces, so driving slowly and cautiously is essential to avoid damaging your vehicle. Reddit Some visitors recommend using a car with higher clearance if possible. TikTok

While it's technically possible to walk from Corralejo, it's a considerable distance, often cited as around an hour's walk. Reddit This can be a strenuous option, especially under the Fuerteventura sun. Therefore, a car is generally the preferred mode of transport for most visitors looking for a convenient way to access the beach. TikTok

Once you arrive, there are no formal parking facilities. You'll typically find informal spots along the side of the dirt track where you can park your car. TikTok It's important to be mindful of where you park to avoid obstructing others or the natural landscape. Remember that there are no amenities like toilets or showers at the beach, so plan accordingly and bring everything you need. Reddit

Environmental Responsibility at Popcorn Beach

The most critical aspect of visiting Popcorn Beach is understanding and respecting its delicate environment. The star attraction, the 'popcorn' itself, consists of rhodoliths, which are fossilized algae. TikTok+1 These formations take a very long time to develop, and their removal is strictly prohibited. TikTokInstagram Many social media posts and reviews emphasize this rule, with warnings that taking them can lead to problems. TikTokInstagram

Fuerteventura is a Biosphere Reserve, a designation that highlights its ecological importance and the need for conservation. TikTok Removing rhodoliths not only deprives the beach of its unique character but also disrupts the natural coastal processes. TikTok The visual appeal of the beach is directly tied to the presence of these natural elements. TikTok

Visitors are urged to practice Leave No Trace principles. This means not only refraining from taking souvenirs but also ensuring you take all your trash with you and avoid disturbing the wildlife in the rock pools. Instagram By being mindful and responsible, you help preserve this extraordinary natural wonder for others to enjoy. TikTokReddit

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