Is Fuerteventura Too Windy to Visit? 🌬️

As the second largest of the Canary Islands, Fuerteventura is a true gem waiting to be explored. Often overshadowed by its more famous neighbour Lanzarote, this island has a unique charm and beauty that wins over all who travel here, year after year. From its endless golden beaches to its dramatic volcanic landscapes, Fuerteventura offers an abundance of experiences to fill your days.

When it comes to the Canary Islands, Fuerteventura is often hailed as a windsurfing and kitesurfing mecca. With its near-constant ocean breezes sweeping across its expansive beaches and dramatic volcanic landscapes, this island has earned a reputation for being one of the windiest destinations in the archipelago!

But does that mean it’s not worth visiting if you’re not an extreme water sports enthusiast? Absolutely not! In fact, Fuerteventura’s renowned winds can actually be a big part of its allure – if you know how to embrace them.

In April, I actually found myself in this underrated corner of the world and it quickly became one of my favourite destinations in Europe. So, without further ado, let’s explore how windy Fuerteventura really is and all of my insider tips!

Honest Opinion: Is Fuerteventura Too Windy to Visit?

Let’s start by addressing the elephant in the room – yes, this island is pretty windy.

In fact, it’s often referred to as the “Windy Island” of the Canaries. However, rather than seeing this as a drawback, seasoned travellers know to view it as one of Fuerteventura’s greatest assets!

After all, these near-constant trade winds help create the island’s exceptional microclimate, keeping temperatures pleasantly mild year-round and the air wonderfully fresh.

For thrill-seekers, the wind is an absolute gift. Fuerteventura is renowned globally as one of the best destinations for watersports like windsurfing, kitesurfing, and even paragliding. These are adrenaline-fueled experiences that can’t be beaten!

World Windsurfing Championships: Fuerteventura hosts prestigious windsurfing competitions such as the PWA (Professional Windsurfers Association) World Cup. Top athletes from around the globe flock to the island to compete in its challenging yet exhilarating wind conditions!

But even if you’re not an extreme sports enthusiast, Fuerteventura’s winds can still enhance your island getaway! The cooling breezes make exploring the island’s rugged volcanic landscapes far more comfortable, whether you’re hiking along the coastline, cycling through the desert, or simply lounging on the beach.

I also find that there’s something incredibly soothing about the sound of the wind whistling through the palm trees and across the sand dunes. It just gives off tropical vibes that you can’t experience in the office, so, is Fuerteventura really too windy to visit? I think not!! 🥥 🌴

Did you know that the wind holds cultural significance in Fuerteventura? It’s even celebrated through traditional festivals such as the “Fiesta del Viento” (Wind Festival)! These lively events feature kite-flying competitions, wind-themed parades, and music performances, showcasing the island’s vibrant spirit.

If you’re looking to capture some Instagram worthy content, the wind is your ally here! Over the centuries, the wind has sculpted dramatic rock formations and cliffs along Fuerteventura’s coastline, creating breathtaking scenery and natural wonders that attract visitors from around the world.

Also, many locals believe in the therapeutic effects of the wind, known as “aire limpio” (clean air), which is believed to have positive effects on respiratory health and overall well-being!

So, in short, is Fuerteventura too Windy to Visit? No way!

Fun Facts about the Wind in Fuerteventura:

Fuerteventura’s winds aren’t just a feature of the island’s climate but also play a key role in shaping its landscape, culture, and activities. Here’s some fun facts about the wind in Fuerteventura!

🌬️ Trade Winds: Fuerteventura is blessed with consistent trade winds, primarily blowing from the northeast. These winds are a result of the temperature difference between the African continent and the Atlantic Ocean.

🌬️ Venturi Effect: The island’s unique geography contributes to its windy reputation. Fuerteventura’s mountainous terrain funnels and accelerates the trade winds through narrow valleys, creating ideal conditions for wind sports enthusiasts.

🌬️ Sand Dunes Formation: The relentless action of the wind has sculpted Fuerteventura’s stunning sand dunes, particularly in areas like Corralejo and Jandía. These vast expanses of sand create otherworldly landscapes perfect for exploration and photography.

🌬️ Microclimates: The winds in Fuerteventura contribute to the island’s diverse microclimates. While the northern coast tends to be cooler and more humid due to the influence of the trade winds, the southern regions experience warmer, drier conditions, making for varied ecosystems and landscapes.

🌬️ Wind Energy: Fuerteventura harnesses its windy conditions for renewable energy production. Wind farms dot the island’s landscape, contributing to its sustainable energy goals and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

These fun facts illustrate how the wind is not just a meteorological phenomenon in Fuerteventura but an integral part of its identity, culture, and allure!

Least Windy Time to Visit Fuerteventura?

The least windy time to visit Fuerteventura usually falls in the summer months, particularly from June to August. But why exactly is Summer the least windy time to visit Fuerteventura, you ask? Well, it’s all to do with the trade wind influence. During this time the trade winds tend to be less intense, resulting in calmer conditions around the island, especially along the coastal areas.

With reduced wind speeds, you can enjoy the island’s stunning beaches to the fullest. Calmer seas make swimming, sunbathing, and water sports activities even more enjoyable and accessible.

Also, during the summer months, lots of outdoor events, festivals, and cultural celebrations take place, offering the chance to fully experience Fuerteventura’s vibrant culture without the interruption of strong winds, making this the best time to visit Fuerteventura.

Although the least windy time to visit Fuerteventura is in Summer, it’s important to note that the climate here can be unpredictable, and a gusty embrace is still very much possible during these summer months! Also, the best time to visit Fuerteventura will always depend on the person, with some people even preferring the cooling effect of the wind!

Packing tip for Fuerteventura

Regardless of when you visit Fuerteventura I HIGHLY recommend packing (appropriately) for the occasion!

Essential items:

– Jumpsuits / Playsuits / Shorts – I only packed dresses and since Fuerteventura is pretty windy that was regrettable!

– Lightweight Clothing: Fuerteventura has a warm and sunny climate year-round, so pack lightweight and breathable clothing.

– Sun Protection: The sun in Fuerteventura can be strong, so pack plenty of sunscreen with a high SPF.

– Water Sports Gear: Fuerteventura is known for its water sports so if you plan to surf, windsurf, or kiteboard, pack your gear or rent equipment locally.

– Comfortable Footwear: Fuerteventura’s terrain can be rugged so pack comfortable walking shoes or hiking sandals if you plan to explore nature trails or go hiking.

– Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated during your adventures in Fuerteventura by bringing a reusable water bottle. Tap water in Fuerteventura is safe to drink, so you can refill your bottle when you’re here.

– Medications and First Aid Kit: Bring insect repellent for protection against mosquitoes – there was quite a few of these pests here when I visited!

– Travel Adapter: Fuerteventura uses the Europlug (Type C) and Schuko (Type F) electrical outlets, so make sure to pack a travel adapter if your devices have different plug types.

10 Amazing Things to do in Fuerteventura 🇮🇨

Of course, the wind isn’t the only draw of this Canary Island paradise! Fuerteventura is renowned for its diverse and jaw-dropping natural beauty, from its endless sandy beaches and turquoise waters to its dramatic volcanic landscapes and undulating sand dunes. It’s a place of stark contrasts and mesmerising scenery, where you can easily find yourself transported to another planet.

Beyond the great outdoors, Fuerteventura also offers a rich cultural tapestry to explore. Wander through the charming whitewashed towns, browse the local artisan markets, and savour the flavours of Canarian cuisine – all while feeling the ever-present island breeze! It’s an experience that will leave you feeling utterly rejuvenated.

So, without further ado, let’s dive in to the best things to do in Fuerteventura…

1. Bask on the Beaches of Corralejo🏝️

Fuerteventura is famous for its stunning coastline, and the crown jewel is undoubtedly the beaches of Corralejo. Stretching for miles along the northern tip of the island, these vast expanses of golden sand are the perfect spot to soak up the sun, swim in the gorgeous waters, and enjoy watersports like windsurfing and kitesurfing.

Some of the best beaches in Corralejo are:

1. Grandes Playas: Grandes Playas, or “Big Beaches,” is a stunning stretch of golden sand that extends for several kilometers along the coast. This beach is popular for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports like windsurfing and kiteboarding. The area is known for its clear waters and picturesque dunes.
2. Playa del Muelle: Playa del Muelle is a picturesque beach located near Corralejo’s old harbour. It’s got calm waters and soft sand, making it ideal for families with children. The beach is backed by restaurants and cafes, making it convenient for grabbing a bite to eat.
3. Flag Beach: Flag Beach, named after the colourful flags that mark the different water sports areas, is a popular spot for windsurfing, kitesurfing, and other water activities. The beach also has facilities like sunbeds and umbrellas, as well as beach bars and surf schools.
4. Playa de la Concha: Playa de la Concha is a small, sheltered beach within the town of Corralejo. It has calm waters and a relaxed atmosphere, making it a favourite spot for swimming and sunbathing. The beach is also surrounded by cafes and shops.
5. Playa de los Charcos: Playa de los Charcos is a series of small coves and rocky inlets located near the centre of Corralejo. It offers tranquil waters and plenty of opportunities for snorkeling and exploring tide pools. The beach is surrounded by volcanic rock formations, providing a unique backdrop – perfect for snapping some Insta-worthy pics!
6. Playa de Corralejo Viejo: Playa de Corralejo Viejo is a stunning beach located near the old town of Corralejo. It offers beautiful views of Lobos Island and Lanzarote and is a great spot for swimming and sunbathing. The beach is also less crowded than some of the larger beaches in the area.

Another cool beach to visit near Corralejo is Popcorn Beach (also known as Playa del Castillo). The ”Popcorn” scattered along the shore line is created from dead rhodoliths, a type of red corraline algae, which means that unfortunately you can’t eat this natural phenomenon!

In general, Corralejo is an amazing place to stay in Fuerteventura, I really loved my time here, and if you don’t have a car it’s super easy to hit the beaches, the town, the harbour and just about everything worth seeing you can do by foot.

2. Explore the Volcanic Landscapes 🌋

Just inland from the beaches of Corralejo lies the otherworldly Parque Natural de Corralejo, a protected area showcasing Fuerteventura’s dramatic volcanic landscapes, where you can wander through the incredible sand dunes that seem to stretch on forever.

A popular way of exploring the volcanic landscapes of Fuerteventura is to do an Off-Road Excursion, which is ideal for thrill seekers!

Also, keep an eye out for the elusive Canarian ground squirrel, an endemic species found only in the Canary Islands! This is undoubtedly one of the most unique things to see in Fuerteventura.

3. Discover the Historic Old Town of Betancuria 🤩

Venture into Fuerteventura’s rugged interior and you’ll find the charming town of Betancuria, the island’s former capital. Wander the narrow streets of the well-preserved old town, admiring the traditional Canarian architecture and stopping to explore historic sites like the 15th-century Santa María church.

The town was actually completely razed to the ground by pirates some 500 years ago, but thankfully it has been rebuilt and is now the cultural capital of Fuerteventura. What I love about Betancuria is that it offers a glimpse into Fuerteventura’s rich cultural heritage and is a delightful respite from the coastal bustle. If you’re a culture vulture like me, this is one of the best things to do in Fuerteventura!

You can easily spend a whole day here, grabbing some souvenirs (they sell tons of amazing aloe vera products in the little town), trying traditional Canarian coffee (Barraquito), and taking some striking pictures.

If you’re looking for some otherworldly views I HIGHLY recommend checking out the Morro Velosa Statues (these are the ancient Kings of Fuerteventura) and the viewpoint next to them. Once you’re at the viewpoint you’ll have panoramic views of rugged and martian looking terrain that seems to stretch on forever.

4. Indulge in Canarian Cuisine🍴

No visit to Fuerteventura would be complete without sampling the island’s amazing local cuisine. Savour fresh-caught seafood, sample the famous Majorero goat cheese, and sip on the region’s acclaimed wines.

Be sure to try traditional Canarian dishes like papas arrugadas (boiled potatoes in sea salt) and mojo sauce, which showcase the incredible flavors of this stunning Canary Island.

The best restaurants in Fuerteventura that you NEED to try:

• Single Fin – perfect if you’re on the hunt for the finest burgers in town (even if you have a vegan in your crew)!
• Casa Marcos: Nestled in Villaverde, Casa Marcos is your go-to spot for traditional Spanish cuisine on the island.
• Avenida: Craving fresh seafood? Avenida is the answer! The traditional Spanish restaurant is tucked away in the heart of town but well worth the find.
• Nomad cafes: If you’re a digital nomad and looking for the best cafes to work remotely from in Fuerteventura, my personal favourites were Mana Cafe and Café Capuchino.
• If in Corralejo be sure to grab dinner at Abaluus – the Italian I had here was as good as Michelin star food but without the price tag! The pistachio and Nutella pie was the best dessert I’ve ever had in my life, and this is coming from someone that orders two desserts at every meal out!

If you’re a serious foodie, experiencing the local food scene is one of the top things to do in Fuerteventura!

5. Go Hiking in the Ajuy Caves 🥾

Lace up your hiking boots and head to the Ajuy Caves, a geological marvel that’s been formed by volcanic activity and hewn out by the crashing waves over the millennia.

When you get here, be sure to hike along the rugged coastline, explore the caves, and check out the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. The juxtaposition of the deep blue sea against the rugged cliffs makes for postcard worthy pictures.

Ajuy Caves Tip: Once in Ajuy, there’s a 1.5km path that leads from Ajuy town centre to the caves, with the entrance to the path located at the end of the town’s main beach (Playa de Ajuy). You only need an hour or so to see the caves as it’s fairly easy to hike in a short amount of time.

Fun fact: This area of rock is from the Cretaceous period, meaning it’s over 100 million years old and contains fossils like marine gastropods.

My favourite thing about this place was not even the incredible views, but it was actually the Canarian squirrels! There was lots of these cuties on the path and they were unbelievable curious and friendly – totally happy to pose for some pictures!

The paella on Ajuy was also delicious – you can easily spend the full day in the area here, there’s tons of things to keep you entertained. If you’re into the great outdoors, nature and history, this is easily one of the best things to do in Fuerteventura!

6. Snorkelling, Diving and Sailing on Lobos Island 🐠

One of the best places to go snorkelling is actually Isla de Lobos, which is a small island just off the coast of Corralejo. The waters around the island are pristine and you can even spot sea turtles here. Diving is also popular around Isla de Lobos, with dive sites ranging from shallow reefs to deeper walls.

When you get here, dive into the crystal-clear waters and you’ll quickly discover a vibrant underwater world teeming with marine life. You can explore underwater caves, swim alongside colourful fish, and check out the unbelievable beauty of the island’s marine ecosystems!

It’s really easy to get to Lobos from Corralejo, you can either catch the ferry directly there or do a 4 hour sailing tour like I did, which included a guided tour of the island and the most delicious paella lunch. Even if you don’t fancy swimming the tour of the island is still really interesting. I HIGHLY recommend booking this tour in advance, as the number of visitors to the island per day is capped, and you really don’t want to miss out on visiting this cool island!

If you’re into the ocean – this is one of the top activities in Fuerteventura!

7. Enjoy Spectacular Sunset Views 🌅

End your day on a magical note by watching the sunset from one of Fuerteventura’s scenic viewpoints. Whether you’re atop a mountain, on a beach, or at a seaside bar, the island’s fiery sunsets are sure to leave you in awe!

My personal favourite spot is from El Cotillo: This charming fishing village on the northwest coast of Fuerteventura offers several spots for enjoying the sunset. The beaches around El Cotillo, such as Piedra Playa and Playa de la Concha, provide stunning views of the sun setting over the Atlantic Ocean.

8. Experience the Nightlife🍹

This island comes alive after dark with a seriously vibrant nightlife scene.

Top tip: If you’re after the best nightlife in Fuerteventura, head to Corralejo or Puerto del Rosario for live music, amazing cocktails and beachfront clubs!

Popular late night venues are Flicks Bar, Rock Island Bar, Blue Rock and The Talk Of The Town.

There’s even a Casino on the island (Gran Casino Antigua), which has all the usual features of a large casino and is open until the early hours. If you’re into gambling and looking for a fun night out, this is easily one of the best things to do in Fuerteventura!

9. Embark on a Stargazing Adventure 🌠

As one of the Canary Islands’ Dark Sky destinations, Fuerteventura offers unparalleled opportunities for stargazing.

Head to the remote Parque Astronómico de Tindaya and marvel at the breathtaking display of the Milky Way, constellations, and even the occasional shooting star.

This is an experience that will leave you in awe of the natural wonders of the night sky and easily one of the best things to do in Fuerteventura!

10. Book a Fuerteventura Tour 🎫

Since you know that Fuerteventura is not too windy to visit, you’ll want to stay for as long as possible!

For your amazing vacay here, I recommend checking out these Fuerteventura tours (there’s literally a tour for just about anyone on GetYourGuide)! ⬇️

Whether you’re seeking sun-drenched beaches, dramatic volcanic landscapes, or immersive cultural experiences, Fuerteventura has something to captivate every traveler.

So why not start planning your own Canarian adventure and discover the hidden gems of this special island! Trust me when I say you won’t regret it!

Fun Fact: Historically, windmills played a crucial role in Fuerteventura’s economy. These traditional windmills, known as “molinos,” were used to grind grain and pump water. Though many are no longer operational, they stand as iconic reminders of the island’s agricultural past!

Where to stay in Fuerteventura? 🏩

Now that I’ve answered the question, ”Is Fuerteventura Too Windy to Visit?” I’m sure you’ll immediately want to book your ticket to this underrated gem! And of course you’ll need somewhere to stay when you get here.

So, let me tell you where I stayed In Fuerteventura. During my work-cation I personally stayed at AVANTI LIFESTYLE HOTEL (Adults Only).

What I loved about it:

👍🏻 Great WiFi (as I was working remotely from here so this is a big plus!)

👍🏻 Gorgeous Sea Views

👍🏻 Location – Right on Corralejo Beach

👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻 The fact it’s adults only LOL

What I didn’t love:

👎🏻 Quite expensive (not amazing value for what you pay)

👎🏻 Can be noisy as it’s super close to the centre

👎🏻 Rooms are pretty small

If AVANTI LIFESTYLE HOTEL doesn’t appeal you can always use Agoda to find the best place to stay in Fuerteventura!

Conclusion: Fuerteventura Too Windy to Visit? 🇮🇨

If you’re planning a Canary Islands getaway, don’t let Fuerteventura’s reputation for wind deter you. Embrace the elements, immerse yourself in the island’s unparalleled natural beauty, and get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime. This is one destination where the wind is very much your friend!

Fuerteventura, known for its gusty embrace offers so many amazing activities and places just waiting to be explored. Whether you’re a windsurfer looking for the perfect wave, a remote worker in search of an affordable paradise, or a traveller eager for some fun in the sun, Fuerteventura has it all!

From its golden shores, the warm breeze, and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, this is an amazing corner of the world!

So, in answer to your question, is Fuerteventura Too Windy to Visit? It’s a ”Hell No” from me!

Safe travels 🌬️✌🏻

If you’ve been to the island I’d love to know if you think Fuerteventura is too windy to visit! Let me know your thoughts in the comments! 🌬️