Popcorn Beach in Fuerteventura: Playa del Bajo de la Burra
Looking for information about Popcorn Beach in Fuerteventura, also known as Playa del Bajo de la Burra? You’ve come to the right place. Let’s start from the beginning…
Popcorn Beach Fuerteventura
Fuerteventura is a popular travel destination rich in attractions. Some draw massive tourist crowds, while others remain unique and are known almost exclusively to locals. Not long ago, one such hidden gem gained popularity on social media. Yes, I’m talking about Popcorn Beach, which sparked my curiosity the moment I saw photos of it online. Among Fuerteventura’s sun-kissed beaches, this one stands out as truly unique and mysterious. Of course, its real name isn’t quite as playful. It’s officially called Playa del Bajo de la Burra, but let’s stick with the fun nickname: Popcorn Beach.
A beach scattered with popcorn certainly sounds intriguing, doesn’t it? If you’re planning a trip to Fuerteventura, this exceptional spot is definitely worth adding to your must-visit list. Instead of the usual sand or pebbles, a large stretch of the beach is covered with pieces of coral that look astonishingly similar to popcorn. In fact, some of them are much larger than actual popcorn, but I suggest seeing it for yourself!
Why Visit Popcorn Beach
From a distance, the beach looks like any other, but as you get closer, it starts to change as its unusual sand shape increasingly resembles bright white popcorn. If you enjoy capturing Instagram-worthy views for your social media, this beach won’t disappoint. Pieces of coral washed up from the ocean and mixed with the beach’s sand create a playful and unique look.
Here, you’ll encounter a striking contrast: the white popcorn against volcanic rocks and the deep blue ocean water makes the beach even more captivating.
When you visit this beach, you’ll undoubtedly snap plenty of amazing photos. Take a walk along the shoreline and enjoy the vastness of the Atlantic Ocean unfolding before your eyes.
Important Notice: Unfortunately, some tourists don’t hesitate to pocket these popcorn corals and take them home. According to official sources, it is estimated that around ten kilograms or more of coral are removed from the beach each month. These corals take many years to form, and it has taken an exceptionally long time for this unique and beautiful landscape to develop. Therefore, I encourage you to simply admire the corals and leave every piece where it belongs. Furthermore, the importance of these corals for biodiversity should not be forgotten.
How To Get To Popcorn Beach
This beach is located in the northern part of the island, not far from the popular town of Corralejo. The distance between them is about 7 kilometers, roughly a 15-minute drive. The road winds along the coast, offering stunning views throughout the journey. Alternatively, you can reach the beach on foot in just over an hour. I’d even recommend taking this walk at a relaxed pace while enjoying the breathtaking scenery. If you decide to walk, be sure to wear comfortable shoes. Please note that there is no public transport from Corralejo to the beach.
If you are staying in more distant towns or resorts in Fuerteventura, you can reach Popcorn Beach by car. Public transport from many places on the island will take you to Corralejo. From there, you can reach the beach on foot or by taxi, the distance isn’t very far, so the fare shouldn’t be too expensive.
What To See Near Popcorn Beach
Take a stroll around the town of Corralejo, a lively and bustling destination loved by tourists. Here, you’ll find inviting beaches for relaxation, a vibrant nightlife scene, plenty of shops, and excellent places to try local cuisine. Corralejo also features a large water park, guaranteeing fun for visitors of all ages.
You can also take a short boat trip to Lobos Island. It’s a small but incredibly beautiful island, offering breathtaking views, plenty of great hiking trails, and fun experiences for snorkeling enthusiasts. The island is accessible by ferry. Even the trip itself will be memorable, as the ferry has a glass-bottom, allowing you to admire the underwater world during the journey. On the island, you’ll find a national park and a volcano, from which you can enjoy stunning panoramic views.
Another must-see attraction nearby that I highly recommend making time for is the Corralejo Sand Dunes—impressive, massive, and seemingly endless. They stretch about 10 kilometers in length and 2.5 kilometers in width, covering a total of 2,600 hectares. You can reach the dunes by car, then continue exploring on foot along the walking trails. Take in the breathtaking expanse of the sandy landscape and watch how the wind constantly reshapes the dunes.
Several nearby locations offer ideal wind conditions for water sports enthusiasts. If you enjoy surfing, take advantage of the perfect blend of wind and waves found here.
For those who enjoy small challenges and more active leisure, I highly recommend the hike to the summit of the Calderon Hondo volcano and back. The starting point for the hike is in the village of Lajares, about 12 kilometers from Popcorn Beach and a 20-minute drive away. It’s even more convenient to reach from Corralejo, taking about 15 minutes by car or around 30 minutes by public transport.
Also read: Calderon Hondo Hiking Guide
FAQS About Beach: Playa del Bajo de la Burra
Is Popcorn Beach worth visiting?
Absolutely! Popcorn Beach is a unique and iconic destination known for its unusual coral formations that look like popcorn. It’s perfect for photography, nature walks, and enjoying breathtaking ocean views. Even though it’s not ideal for swimming due to its rocky shore, it offers a truly unforgettable experience.
Where is Popcorn Beach in Fuerteventura located?
Popcorn Beach, also known as Playa del Bajo de la Burra is located on the northern coast of Fuerteventura, about 7 kilometers from the popular town of Corralejo. I had some trouble finding the beach myself, so I’m sharing a direct link to its exact location to make it easier for you.
How long should I plan to stay at Popcorn Beach?
A visit to Popcorn Beach usually takes 1-2 hours, enough time to explore the unique landscape, take photos, and enjoy the ocean views. Since there are no facilities nearby, remember to bring water, snacks, and sunscreen.
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Evelina
Hi, I’m Evelina, a travel enthusiast who loves nature, peace, and authentic places. I cherish the freedom to explore and learn with each adventure, whether it’s hiking trails, stunning beaches, natural parks, unique architecture, or rich cultural heritage. I hope my experiences inspire you to embark on your own journeys!
