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Holidays in Corralejo, Fuerteventura

Corralejo, a vibrant town located on the northern tip of Fuerteventura, one of the Canary Islands, is a popular destination for holidaymakers seeking sun, sea, and sand. With its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a wide range of activities, Corralejo offers something for everyone, from families and couples to solo travelers and adventure seekers. This comprehensive guide will provide you with everything you need to know to plan your perfect holiday in Corralejo.

Why Choose Corralejo for Your Holiday?

Corralejo boasts several compelling reasons that make it an excellent choice for your next holiday destination:

Stunning Beaches: The beaches in and around Corralejo are truly breathtaking. From the vast, sandy expanse of the Corralejo Natural Park to the smaller, more sheltered coves, there’s a beach to suit every taste.
Year-Round Sunshine: Fuerteventura enjoys a mild, sunny climate throughout the year, making it an ideal destination for a beach holiday any time of year.
Wide Range of Activities: Whether you’re looking for water sports, hiking, shopping, or simply relaxing on the beach, Corralejo has it all.
Vibrant Nightlife: Corralejo offers a lively nightlife scene, with a variety of bars, restaurants, and clubs to choose from.
Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Corralejo is a safe and welcoming town that’s perfect for families with children.
Excellent Value for Money: Compared to other popular holiday destinations, Corralejo offers excellent value for money, especially when it comes to accommodation and dining.

Getting to Corralejo

The easiest way to get to Corralejo is by flying into Fuerteventura Airport (FUE), which is located about 40 kilometers south of the town. Numerous airlines offer direct flights to Fuerteventura from major European cities. Once you arrive at the airport, you can choose from several transportation options to reach Corralejo:

Airport Transfer: Pre-booked airport transfers are a convenient and hassle-free way to get to your accommodation in Corralejo. Many companies offer private or shared transfers.
Taxi: Taxis are readily available outside the airport terminal. However, they can be more expensive than pre-booked transfers.
Bus: The public bus service (Line 3) runs between the airport and Corralejo. This is the most affordable option, but it can be slower and less convenient, especially if you have luggage.
Car Rental: Renting a car at the airport gives you the freedom to explore the island at your own pace. Several car rental companies operate at Fuerteventura Airport.

Accommodation in Corralejo

Corralejo offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. From luxurious hotels and all-inclusive resorts to self-catering apartments and budget-friendly hostels, you’ll find the perfect place to stay for your holiday. Here are some popular types of accommodation in Corralejo:

Hotels: Corralejo boasts a variety of hotels, ranging from 3-star to 5-star, offering a range of amenities and services.
Apartments: Self-catering apartments are a popular choice for families and those who prefer more independence.
Villas: Renting a villa is a great option for larger groups or families who want more space and privacy.
Resorts: All-inclusive resorts offer a convenient and hassle-free holiday experience, with meals, drinks, and activities included in the price.
Hostels: Budget-friendly hostels are a great option for solo travelers and backpackers.

Recommended Hotels in Corralejo

Here are a few recommended hotels in Corralejo, catering to different budgets and preferences:

Gran Hotel Atlantis Bahia Real G.L.: A luxurious 5-star hotel with stunning views of the ocean and Lobos Island.
Hotel Riu Palace Tres Islas: Another excellent 4-star hotel located on the beachfront.
Barceló Corralejo Sands: A popular 4-star hotel with a central location and family-friendly facilities.
H10 Ocean Dreams Hotel Boutique – Adults Only: A stylish adults-only hotel perfect for couples seeking a relaxing getaway.
Oasis Duna Apartments: A good value apartment complex with multiple swimming pools and a central location.

Beaches in and Around Corralejo

The beaches are undoubtedly one of the main attractions of Corralejo. Here’s a closer look at some of the best beaches in the area:

Corralejo Natural Park (Dunas de Corralejo)

The Corralejo Natural Park is a vast expanse of sand dunes that stretches for several kilometers along the coast. The dunes are constantly shifting and changing shape, creating a surreal and beautiful landscape. The beaches within the park are long, sandy, and exposed to the wind, making them popular with windsurfers and kitesurfers. The water is crystal clear and turquoise blue, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Some popular beaches within the park include:

Playa Grande: The largest and most popular beach in the Corralejo Natural Park.
Playa del Moro: A smaller, more sheltered beach that’s ideal for families with young children.
Playa de la Escalera: A secluded beach that’s perfect for those seeking peace and quiet.

Town Beaches of Corralejo

In addition to the beaches in the natural park, Corralejo also has several beaches located within the town itself. These beaches are generally more sheltered and calmer than the beaches in the park, making them ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Some popular town beaches include:

Playa Corralejo Viejo: A small, sandy beach located in the heart of the town.
Playa Waikiki: A popular beach with a lively atmosphere, located near the harbor.
Playa Bristol: A sheltered beach with calm waters, perfect for families.

El Cotillo Beaches (Nearby)

A short drive from Corralejo, you’ll find the charming village of El Cotillo, which boasts some stunning beaches on the west coast of Fuerteventura. These beaches are known for their dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, and powerful waves, making them popular with surfers. Some popular beaches in El Cotillo include:

Playa de la Concha: A sheltered lagoon with calm, shallow waters, perfect for families.
Playa de los Lagos: A series of small, natural pools formed by volcanic rock, ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
Playa del Castillo (El Toston): A popular surfing beach with strong waves and a rocky coastline.

Things to Do in Corralejo

Corralejo offers a wide range of activities to suit all interests. Here are some of the most popular things to do in Corralejo:

Water Sports

With its strong winds and clear waters, Corralejo is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. Some popular water sports activities include:

Windsurfing and Kitesurfing: The beaches in the Corralejo Natural Park are renowned for their excellent windsurfing and kitesurfing conditions. Several schools offer lessons and equipment rental.
Surfing: While Corralejo isn’t as well-known for surfing as other parts of Fuerteventura, there are still some good surf spots in the area, particularly around El Cotillo.
Scuba Diving and Snorkeling: The clear waters around Corralejo are home to a variety of marine life, making it a great place for scuba diving and snorkeling. Several dive centers offer courses and guided dives.
Jet Skiing: Jet skis are available for rent at several beaches in Corralejo.
Boat Trips: Several companies offer boat trips from Corralejo, including trips to Lobos Island, catamaran cruises, and fishing trips.

Explore Lobos Island

Lobos Island is a small, uninhabited island located just off the coast of Corralejo. The island is a protected natural park and offers stunning scenery, crystal-clear waters, and a variety of wildlife. You can reach Lobos Island by taking a ferry from Corralejo harbor. Once on the island, you can hike to the top of the volcano, relax on the beach, snorkel in the crystal-clear waters, or visit the small fishing village.

Hiking

Fuerteventura offers some excellent hiking opportunities, and Corralejo is a great base for exploring the island’s interior. Some popular hiking trails include:

Montana Roja (Red Mountain): A volcanic cone located just outside Corralejo, offering panoramic views of the town and surrounding area.
Calderon Hondo: A well-preserved volcanic crater located near Lajares, offering stunning views of the island’s volcanic landscape.
The Coastal Path to El Cotillo: A scenic coastal walk that takes you from Corralejo to the charming village of El Cotillo.

Shopping

Corralejo offers a variety of shopping opportunities, from souvenir shops and boutiques to supermarkets and markets. The main shopping area is located along the pedestrian street in the center of town. Here you can find a variety of shops selling clothing, jewelry, souvenirs, and local products. The weekly market is held on Tuesdays and Fridays and is a great place to find bargains on clothing, souvenirs, and local produce.

Nightlife

Corralejo offers a lively nightlife scene, with a variety of bars, restaurants, and clubs to choose from. The main nightlife area is located along the main street and in the harbor area. You can find everything from traditional Spanish tapas bars to lively Irish pubs and trendy cocktail bars. Many bars offer live music, and there are also several nightclubs that stay open until the early hours of the morning.

Food and Drink in Corralejo

Corralejo offers a wide variety of dining options to suit all tastes and budgets. From traditional Canarian cuisine to international dishes, you’ll find something to satisfy your appetite. Here are some popular types of food and drink to try in Corralejo:

Canarian Cuisine

Canarian cuisine is a blend of Spanish, African, and Latin American influences. Some popular Canarian dishes include:

Papas Arrugadas: Small, wrinkled potatoes boiled in seawater and served with mojo sauce.
Mojo: A spicy sauce made with garlic, peppers, herbs, and oil. There are two main types of mojo: mojo rojo (red mojo) and mojo verde (green mojo).
Gofio: A type of flour made from toasted grains, often used in soups, stews, and desserts.
Sancocho Canario: A fish stew made with potatoes, sweet potatoes, and gofio.
Queso Majorero: A cheese made from goat’s milk, produced on the island of Fuerteventura.

Seafood

With its coastal location, Corralejo offers a wide variety of fresh seafood. Some popular seafood dishes include:

Grilled Fish: Freshly caught fish grilled over charcoal and served with salad and potatoes.
Paella: A traditional Spanish rice dish with seafood, chicken, or vegetables.
Gambas al Ajillo: Garlic prawns cooked in olive oil with garlic and chili peppers.
Pulpo a la Gallega: Galician-style octopus cooked with paprika, olive oil, and salt.

International Cuisine

In addition to Canarian cuisine, Corralejo also offers a variety of international dining options, including Italian, Chinese, Indian, and British restaurants.

Drinks

Some popular drinks to try in Corralejo include:

Canarian Wine: Fuerteventura produces some excellent wines, particularly white wines made from the Malvasia grape.
Ron Miel: A honey rum liqueur that’s a popular digestif in the Canary Islands.
Tropical Beer: A local beer brewed in the Canary Islands.
Barraquito: A layered coffee drink with condensed milk, Licor 43, coffee, and steamed milk.

Tips for Planning Your Holiday in Corralejo

Here are some useful tips to help you plan your perfect holiday in Corralejo:

Book in Advance: Especially during peak season, it’s advisable to book your flights and accommodation in advance to secure the best deals and avoid disappointment.
Pack Appropriately: Fuerteventura enjoys a mild climate year-round, but it can be windy, especially on the beaches. Pack light clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. A light jacket or sweater is also recommended for evenings.
Learn Some Basic Spanish: While English is widely spoken in Corralejo, learning some basic Spanish phrases will be appreciated by the locals and can enhance your experience.
Rent a Car: If you want to explore the island beyond Corralejo, renting a car is a good option.
Be Aware of the Sun: The sun in Fuerteventura can be very strong, so it’s important to protect yourself from sunburn. Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, and drink plenty of water.
Respect the Environment: The Corralejo Natural Park is a protected area, so please respect the environment and avoid littering.
Try Local Products: Be sure to sample the local cuisine and try some of the local products, such as Queso Majorero and Canarian wine.
Bargain at the Market: If you’re shopping at the weekly market, don’t be afraid to bargain for a better price.
Enjoy the Sunset: The sunsets in Corralejo are truly spectacular, so be sure to find a good spot to watch the sun go down.

Corralejo with Children

Corralejo is an excellent destination for families with children. The town is safe and welcoming, and there are plenty of activities to keep kids entertained. Here are some things to do in Corralejo with children:

Beach Days: The beaches in Corralejo are perfect for building sandcastles, swimming, and playing in the sand. Playa Corralejo Viejo and Playa Bristol are particularly suitable for young children due to their calm waters.
Acua Water Park: Acua Water Park is a popular attraction with water slides, swimming pools, and a lazy river.
Oasis Park Fuerteventura: Located a short drive from Corralejo, Oasis Park Fuerteventura is a zoo and botanical garden with a variety of animals and plants.
Glass Bottom Boat Trip: A glass-bottom boat trip is a great way to see the marine life without getting wet.
Buggy Safari: Older children will enjoy a buggy safari through the sand dunes of the Corralejo Natural Park.
Mini Golf: Several mini golf courses are located in Corralejo.

Sustainable Tourism in Corralejo

As tourism continues to grow in Corralejo, it’s important to consider the impact on the environment and the local community. Here are some ways to practice sustainable tourism in Corralejo:

Choose Eco-Friendly Accommodation: Look for hotels and apartments that have implemented sustainable practices, such as energy efficiency, water conservation, and waste reduction.
Support Local Businesses: Shop at local markets, eat at local restaurants, and use local tour operators.
Respect the Environment: Avoid littering, stay on marked trails, and don’t disturb wildlife.
Conserve Water and Energy: Be mindful of your water and energy consumption, and turn off lights and appliances when you’re not using them.
Reduce Your Carbon Footprint: Consider taking public transportation or renting a bicycle instead of driving a car.
Learn About the Local Culture: Take the time to learn about the local culture and traditions.
Leave No Trace: Leave the environment as you found it, or even better, leave it cleaner.

Day Trips from Corralejo

Corralejo is a great base for exploring the rest of Fuerteventura. Here are some popular day trips from Corralejo:

El Cotillo: A charming village on the west coast of Fuerteventura, known for its dramatic cliffs and stunning beaches.
Lajares: A laid-back village known for its surfing and its weekly craft market.
Betancuria: The former capital of Fuerteventura, a picturesque town with a rich history.
Ajuy: A small fishing village with black sand beaches and impressive sea caves.
Puerto del Rosario: The current capital of Fuerteventura, a bustling port city with a modern art museum.
Jandia Peninsula: The southern part of Fuerteventura, known for its long, sandy beaches and the highest point on the island, Pico de la Zarza.

Events and Festivals in Corralejo

Corralejo hosts several events and festivals throughout the year. Here are some of the most popular:

Carnival: Celebrated in February or March, Carnival is a colorful and lively festival with parades, music, and dancing.
Fiesta de la Virgen del Carmen: Celebrated in July, this festival honors the patron saint of fishermen with a procession of boats.
Fuerteventura International Kite Festival: Held in November, this festival attracts kite flyers from all over the world.
Christmas and New Year: Corralejo is beautifully decorated for Christmas and New Year, with festive lights and decorations.

Practical Information for Your Trip to Corralejo

Here’s some practical information to help you plan your trip to Corralejo:

Currency: The currency in Fuerteventura is the Euro (€).
Language: The official language is Spanish. English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
Time Zone: Fuerteventura is in the Western European Time zone (GMT+0).
Electricity: The electricity supply is 220V, 50Hz. European-style plugs are used.
Water: Tap water is generally safe to drink, but it’s recommended to drink bottled water.
Emergency Numbers: The emergency number is 112.

Conclusion

Corralejo, Fuerteventura, offers a fantastic blend of natural beauty, exciting activities, and vibrant nightlife, making it an ideal holiday destination for all types of travelers. From its stunning beaches and thrilling water sports to its delicious food and welcoming atmosphere, Corralejo has something to offer everyone. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing beach holiday, an adventurous getaway, or a fun-filled family vacation, Corralejo is sure to exceed your expectations. So, start planning your trip today and get ready to experience the magic of Corralejo!