Once a sleepy fishing village, this town is now a resort location with sprawling beaches and scenic lagoons.
Relax at the beach and appreciate the lack of crowds in El Cotillo, a tranquil haven on Fuerteventura’s western coast. The village centres on a harbour where local fishermen congregate, so it is an ideal place to glimpse the island’s culture. Enjoy this more relaxed and peaceful alternative to Corralejo and Antigua on Fuerteventura.
Learn about the customs of this fishing village at the Museum of Traditional Fishing. See its red-and-white striped lighthouse surrounded by giant waves crashing into the rocks. Walk around the old harbour and see the black beaches created from volcanic eruptions. Spot impressive boats at the new harbour. Several restaurants and bars are nearby, serving local specialties, such as shellfish, potatoes and goat’s cheese.
The 18th-century Cotillo Tower is a local landmark rising above the rest of the area. Climb to its peak for excellent views of the harbour and ocean. It was initially constructed as a defence against pirates. Find out about activities and events in the tourism office inside the tower.
Capture photos of the town as you walk through its centre. Note the rows of colonial-style buildings with colourful façades. The dark sand beaches here are very rarely crowded. Enjoy having so much space along the miles of beaches with clear ocean water. Sunbathe at Cotillo Beach and enjoy a picnic with your family.
Make your way to La Concha Beach, the largest of the village’s sandy stretches. Attend the annual Fuerteventura Music Festival here on the first weekend of July. There are also several nudist beaches in the area.
The sleepy village of El Cotillo lies on the western coast of the island, a 40-minute taxi ride from Fuerteventura Airport. The scenic journey from one coast to another is about 25 miles (40 kilometres)
