Spread along Fuerteventura’s south east coast is Sotavento beach in Costa Calma. It’s a 30-km-long, virtually unbroken expanse of windswept shorelines stretching from Playa de la Barca down to Morro Jable. Awe-inspiring in every direction, the golden sand coastline has Jandia National Park’s rolling hills and lava ridges on one side and the crystal clear turquoise waters on the other. What a place!
Sotavento beach is ideal for tourists looking for secluded beaches away from throngs of fellow holidaymakers and untarnished by souvenir shops. A day trip to this remote island paradise will leave you sunburnt but also full of lasting memories.
Table of Contents
Why Visit Sotavento Beach? It Has Five!
If there’s a place you can’t miss during your vacation to Fuerteventura, it’s most definitely Sotavento Beach. Its shoreline goes on and on, housing five beaches—La Barca, Risco del Paso, Mirador, Los Canarios, and Malnombre—in one stunning sunlounger-free stretch. Great for enjoying peace and quiet, as well as some water sports, it’s an expanse of perfectly fine, light sand with all-year-round sun and ridiculously clear blue water. You’ll be looking forward to your next visit to this paradise before you even leave.
Additionally, Sotavento is a clothing-optional destination in Fuerteventura. The sea temperature rarely drops below 20°C (68°F), so why not cast clothes aside and let it all hang out? Daring to bare is accepted on this beach and, with its enormity, no one might even notice.
La Barca
Perhaps the most popular part of Sotavento, La Barca boasts exceptional conditions for water sports but with a twist. It’s a prime spot for windsurfing and kitesurfing, taking full advantage of the strong, consistent winds that make this area a world-renowned location for these sports.
In addition, the beach is favored by tourists for its dramatic tidal lagoons that form during low tide. These shallow waters are ideal for beginners to learn stand-up paddleboarding or for anyone looking to wade or simply enjoy the tranquility of the water without the intensity of waves. They also provide a safe space for families with kids to swim and splash around.
This dynamic nature of La Barca means that there’s something for everyone at any time of day, depending on the tide. Left your gear at home? No worries! The beach is equipped with schools and rental shops that cater to both the adrenaline of windsurfing and kitesurfing and the calmness of paddleboarding, ensuring that all visitors can enjoy the water in a way that suits them best.
Starting at the end of July or beginning of August, you can also witness La Braca transform into a prestigious venue for the annual World Championship of Windsurfing and Kiteboarding. The competition takes advantage of La Barca’s exceptional wind conditions and ability to cater to high-level windsurfing action, turning it into a vibrant sporting hub and drawing spectators and sports enthusiasts from across the globe to Fuerteventura.
Risco del Paso
The laid-back counterpart to its much livelier neighbor, Playa de la Barca, tranquility reigns supreme in the Risco del Paso section of Sotavento. It’s the go-to spot for those seeking a quiet escape with family and friends, away from the hustle and bustle.
But don’t let its serene vibe fool you—Risco del Paso has its own brand of excitement. Beginners can dip their toes into windsurfing here, thanks to the shallow waters perfect for practicing beachstarts and waterstarts. Meanwhile, seasoned athletes can challenge themselves at the sandbar, where the waves break, offering a thrilling ride for the more experienced surfers.
Risco del Paso isn’t just a playground for beachgoers—it’s also a hotspot for international windsurfing competitions, hosting the “Freestyle Grand Slam Windsurfing Championship” since 1986. And let’s not forget about those awe-inspiring dunes, affectionately known as “rayones,” which add a touch of drama to the landscape, stretching over 300 meters long and towering up to 15 meters high.
Mirador
Mirador section of Sotavento Beach is a spot where both nudists and regular holidaymakers find their slice of paradise. True to its name, which means ‘viewpoint’, Mirador offers a breathtaking view stretching from Risco del Paso all the way to Mal Nombre, complete with a colorful bench for those Instagram-worthy moments. Parking is a breeze with a spacious area ensuring quick beach access, though you might find it surprisingly uncrowded. Just a heads up, if the wind picks up, it can get quite strong here, so be prepared for an impetuous breeze during your visit. Whether you’re there to embrace naturism or just looking for a less frequented beach spot, Mirador doesn’t disappoint.
Los Canarios and Malnombre
Los Canarios and Malnombre both offer convenient parking and easy access, making them hassle-free destinations for a beach day. Facilities are minimal, except for a lone restaurant on the Malnombre side, which also houses the only restroom between the two. This simplicity adds to the charm and tranquility of the experience.
The beaches themselves are a beautiful blend of sandy shores dotted with rocks, creating picturesque landscapes that are a dream for naturists seeking the freedom to bask in the sun as they please. As with the other Sotavento beaches, lagoons appear at low tide, creating safe, shallow waters that are ideal for families with children to splash around in.
The lack of watersports bustle contributes to a serene atmosphere, where the only sounds might be the laughter of your loved ones or the gentle lapping of the waves. Despite their beauty and accessibility, these spots remain relatively undiscovered, meaning you’re likely to have vast stretches of beach almost to yourself. For those looking to escape the throng of crowds and enjoy a relaxing day by the sea, Los Canarios and Malnombre are perfect choices.
Dining Options
Sotavento beach is a self-catering destination. Holidaymakers must bring everything they may need to enjoy a day at this coastal paradise, including snacks and drinks. While this is not where you go to escape hotel buffets, it is near major tourist towns and is, therefore, a few minute drive to many dining options.
El Bar de Marko y Monica
The selection of Spanish-Mediterranean restaurants is quite vast in Fuerteventura, so standing out amongst many is difficult. I’ll put my hands up and declare that El Bar de Marko y Monica managed to do so easily. We first dropped in after a long walk in the Sotavento beach for some pre-dinner drinks and nibbles but ended up sinking a bottle of Albariño and a wide variety of tapas.
El Bar de Marko y Moni is a busy, busy place, but their staff handles the bustle with big smiles and a touch of hospitality charm. Their menu, including the nice selection of wine, is within a decent price range. Apart from the ones I’ve already mentioned, their croquettes, fried squid, meatballs in apple and blue cheese sauce, cheesecake, and caramel parfait are world-class. We haven’t tried one food from this warm, family-owned dining spot that we can’t recommend.
L’AperiPizza
L’AperiPizza is the most popular pizzeria in Costa Calma. Conveniently located near bus stops, it’s a rewarding little find with a small menu that offers an authentic Italian taste and more value than what you pay for. There’s no shortage of pizza parlors in this part of the island, but believe me when I say that it will make you visit twice in the same day.
The restaurant uses fresh local, organic ingredients and offers an assortment of pizza in gigantic sizes. Whether you’re a health-conscious customer or dining in big groups, consider L’AperiPizza if you want authentic Italian cuisine in a laid-back dining atmosphere. Plus, they make them in thin, crispy bases with just the right amount of toppings, so you don’t feel bloated even if you ‘ciao’ down their maxi pizza, which is truly, truly enormous.
Having eaten Italian food extensively, I can undoubtedly say that there is genius in the simplicity of the food that comes out of L’AperiPizza’s kitchen. Some of their best pizza varieties that must hit your table on your next travel to Fuerteventura include the Saporita (spicy salami with gorgonzola), Tricolore (has the colors of the Italian flag—green, white, and red), and Popeye (has spinach, scarmorza, and brie). Also try their Calzone Del Mar (tomato, mozzarella, tuna, shrimps, and crab), Nutella calzone, and Classico (tomato, ham, mozzarella, and mushrooms).
We recommend booking in advance when planning to dine in L’AperiPizza as it’s a busy place with just a few tables. They also accept walk-ins, but, of course, a fast turnover is not something they can guarantee. Regardless, you can expect super friendly and professional staff, as well as orders that arrive quick and hot.
Tasca Dos Jotas
It’s the last thing you’d expect from an old Fuerteventura shopping center. Yet tucked away in the upper floor of El Palmeral, there it is, a modest restaurant where the island’s freshest produce becomes 5-star Canarian dishes. This place is called Tasca Dos Jotas, and it’s a true hidden gem tourists must find.
We came here because of the great recommendations online and, while we were initially unimpressed, it did not disappoint. What an unforgettable treat they had in store for us. We came at a very busy time, not unusual for this restaurant we heard, but managed to get a gastronomic experience that remains one of the absolute highlights of our dining choices in Costa Calma. The service we received was efficient, and the food, all in abundant portions, was well-prepared.
I started with a delicious, home-cooked style gazpacho with a few bites of tuna croquettes and morcilla de Burgos (also known as blood sausages). A glass of sangria paired with smoked salmon came next, and oh, what an excellent decision that was. My buddies were equally happy with their roasted kid shoulder, steak fillet in mushroom sauce, and slices of duck breast, so these dishes come highly recommended too. My immaculate dinner ended with a slice of almond cake even though I could no longer afford the extra calories and a new addition to my list of favorite Fuerteventura restaurants.
Update: Tasca Dos Jotas has been taking a little break since January 28, 2024, and has yet to open its doors. It is still closed today, March 14, 2024. But don’t worry—they’re gearing up to welcome us back soon. Keep an eye out for their reopening!
How to Reach Sotavento Beach
To reach Sotavento Beach, tourists must take the FV-2 highway and the exit to their desired drop-off point—exit 64 for Mirador de Sotavento, 68 to Hotel Melia and the northern tip of the Sotavento beach, or 602 to Playa de Sotavento. Hiring a taxi or renting a car is the best way to reach the mentioned places as minor destinations are either not included in the Fuerteventura bus routes or serviced by infrequent buses. If you’d really rather go by public transport, bus lines 01, 04, and 05 have routes that pass near the beach.
Traveler Tips
Following these tips can help ensure a pleasant and memorable visit to Sotavento Beach, allowing you to fully enjoy its natural beauty and recreational opportunities.
Pack for the Wind: Sotavento is known for its breezy conditions, perfect for water sports. Even if you’re not planning to participate, the wind can be strong, so bring appropriate clothing and secure your belongings.
Bring the Essentials: The sun can be intense, and the wind might trick you into not feeling the burn. Always apply and reapply sunscreen, and stay hydrated by bringing plenty of water.
Foot Protection: The sand can get hot, and the beach is large, so wear sandals or flip-flops to protect your feet during walks.
Snack Supplies: While there are some facilities in nearby towns, options might be limited. Packing your snacks or a picnic can enhance your beach day.
Leave No Trace: Help keep Sotavento pristine by taking all your trash with you or disposing of it in provided bins. The beach’s beauty relies on the cooperation of its visitors.
Check the Tide Schedule: The lagoon at Sotavento fills and empties with the tides, creating different experiences throughout the day. Plan your beach visit according to the tide schedule for swimming or water sports.
Camera Ready: Don’t forget your camera! The beach offers stunning landscapes and wildlife, perfect for photography enthusiasts.
FAQ
What is the best time of year to visit Sotavento Beach?
The optimal time to visit Sotavento Beach for windsurfing enthusiasts aligns with Fuerteventura’s most active season for the sport, from Easter, which can fall in March or April, until the end of summer in early September. During these months, the winds are more consistent, providing ideal conditions for windsurfing, and the temperatures are perfectly suited to the sport’s physical demands. Even outside these prime conditions, special wetsuits are available that allow for windsurfing in less clement weather, ensuring the sport can be enjoyed year-round.
For visitors more interested in swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the beach with less wind, the shoulder months of April, May, October, and November offer milder weather conditions, reduced wind levels, and fewer crowds. These months are ideal for those looking to experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Sotavento Beach. Regardless of the time of year, the beach’s unique landscape and the mesmerizing change of tides provide a breathtaking setting for all visitors.
Are pets allowed on Sotavento Beach?
Yes, pets are allowed on Sotavento Beach, making it a pet-friendly destination. Visitors can bring their cute furry friends along to enjoy the expansive sands and scenic views. However, pet owners need to be responsible, ensuring their pets are well-behaved and under control at all times and that any waste is promptly cleaned up to maintain the beach’s natural beauty and cleanliness for all to enjoy.
What safety measures are in place at Sotavento Beach?
At Sotavento Beach, safety is a priority to ensure everyone has a blast while soaking up the sun and surf. You’ll usually find lifeguards around during busy times to keep an eye on things, especially when the crowd gathers. They use flags to give you the heads-up about the water conditions, so you know when it’s all clear for a swim or when you might want to chill on the sand instead.
Plus, there are signs dotted around with useful tips on how to stay safe, so beachgoers can enjoy their day without any hiccups. Since Sotavento’s a hotspot for catching waves and winds, they’ve smartly marked out where it’s cool to swim and where the watersport action is, so everyone can have their slice of fun without crashing into each other. And if you’re ever in doubt about doing something safely, there’s always someone nearby to ask – from the beachside crew to the local shops. Just remember to keep an eye out for any updates or signs to make sure you’re in the loop.
Sotavento Beach: A Secluded Gem for Fun and Relaxation
Fuerteventura vacationers hoping to avoid crowds of beachgoers will love the stretches of sand of Sotavento Beach. It’s available to anyone yet remains unblemished by human activities. The secluded sandy gem offers relaxation and is perfect for wind watersport enthusiasts. Plus, the remote paradise doesn’t require a stay in an exclusive resort to gain access to its pristine expanse of tranquil shores.
