Playa del Castillo (El Cotillo)

Playa del Castillo is one of Fuerteventura’s most popular beaches when it comes to visitor numbers and names. Also known as Caleta de Fuste and Piedra Playa, it is considered a good beach for families even though strong surf means younger paddlers shouldn’t be left alone in the water.

Close to a wide range of hotel complexes and places to eat and drink, it lies on the western side of the island. Its soft sand is dotted with sunbeds and umbrellas for hire, as well as a series of beach volleyball courts along its length of around 600 metres. The main water sport in evidence here is surfing, while the strong offshore wind also makes kitesurfing and windsurfing popular.

Named after the nearby eighteenth-century Castillo El Toston, which was built during a time when piracy was still a serious concern, today the only issue you’re likely to face are the gravel paths that lead down to the beach and over the low rocky hills. They begin close to the car park and bus stops. Lifeguards are on duty between July and October.