Sotavento Beach: All You Must To Know Before You Go
The approximately 10-kilometer stretch of Sotavento Beach in southeastern Fuerteventura draws windsurfing enthusiasts, families with children, and anyone seeking tranquility amid the surrounding dunes. The sandy shore gently slopes into the turquoise waters of the Atlantic Ocean, with the surrounding hills and dunes enhancing the impression of a wild natural haven. The beach sand is soft and fine – covered with sand brought in from the Sahara Desert.
One of the distinctive features of this beach is its long lagoon, which changes shape several times a day due to the tides. As the water rises, scattered kites fill the area, and as it recedes, tranquility returns to the beach.
What To Do In Sotavento Beach
Sotavento Beach is divided into five sections: La Barca, Risco del Paso, Mirador, Malnombre, and Los Canarios. Each one is remarkably beautiful, offering the perfect setting for relaxation and fun by the water. The experience on this beach largely depends on the tides, so I recommend checking the tide schedule before your visit here.
During low tide, the beach appears as a vast, wide stretch of sand, but high tide brings a touch of magic! The tide height isn’t always the same, so what one tide creates won’t be repeated, as the next tide shapes a different view. If you’d like to see Sotavento Beach and its surrounding natural beauty from a different perspective, head to the Sotavento viewpoint.
The gentle ocean waves and constant breeze create ideal conditions for water activities, making Sotavento Beach a favorite spot for kitesurfing and windsurfing enthusiasts. Whether you’re a professional or trying these activities for the first time, you’ll find equipment rentals and water sports schools on the beach if needed. Each year, this beach also hosts international championships for these water sports.
Discover: Costa Calma Buggy Safari
How To Reach Sotavento Beach
If you’re traveling around Fuerteventura by car, reaching the beach is quite easy. There are parking areas close to the beach, and drivers typically take the FV-2 highway, following the signs to their destination. A car is the most comfortable option for getting to the beach. For the best access to the lagoons and scenic views, I’d recommend parking in this lot.
If you’re staying nearby and enjoy hiking, you can walk to the beach. It’s about 7 kilometers from Costa Calma to Sotavento, which takes around an hour and a half on foot. Alternatively, you can also reach it by bicycle.
Another way to reach Sotavento Beach is by booking a guided tour. In my opinion, this would be a fantastic experience, as you wouldn’t have to worry about any logistics – just relax and enjoy the views, new insights, and experiences along the way.
Where To Eat Near Sotavento Beach
There are no dining establishments directly on Sotavento Beach, so for a meal, head to nearby Costa Calma, where you’ll find a variety of restaurants and cafes. Below, I’ve listed a few restaurants located near the beach.
Alternatively, when you arrive at Sotavento Beach, you have the option of a picnic. It almost goes without saying that food tastes even better in such a stunning location, and enjoying a picnic surrounded by this natural beauty is a rare treat.
Bar Marko y Monika
- This is the perfect spot for a snack – here, you can enjoy delicious tapas paired with excellent wine. The bar always welcomes guests with fresh, homemade dishes made from local ingredients. It’s sure to appeal to those seeking high quality at an attractive price.
Restaurant Terraza del Gato
- Located just a few kilometers from Sotavento, this restaurant’s menu features traditional Canary Islands dishes, including a wide selection of fresh grilled fish and meats. Wine enthusiasts will be pleasantly surprised by the extensive selection of local varieties.
Restaurant Mirador de Sotavento in Costa Calma
- Situated a bit farther from Sotavento Beach, this restaurant offers a broad menu of traditional Mediterranean and Canary Islands dishes. Vegetarians and vegans will find options here, and the menu includes dishes for those with allergies. As an added bonus, guests can enjoy a stunning sunset view from the restaurant.
What To See Close Sotavento
Just a few minutes by car or a little over an hour on foot, and you’ll find seaside resort Costa Calma. Upon arrival, you’ll quickly understand why this town is called a slice of paradise in the Canary Islands. Costa Calma offers a charming blend of town life and vibrant energy, providing a delightful contrast to the beach. You’ll also find wild nature, scenic hills, numerous restaurants, bars, cafes, shops, and more.
About a 20-minute drive from the beach is Oasis Park, which is definitely worth a visit. Here, you’ll have the chance to see giraffes, elephants, hippos, numerous birds, reptiles, and more. There’s also an impressive botanical garden filled with cacti, tropical plants, exotic fruit trees, and other wonders. And that’s not all – visitors can enjoy unique experiences like a camel safari or a walk with lemurs. If you’re traveling with children, they’ll absolutely love it here. They’ll not only get to see animals but also explore a special children’s farm and play areas. My family especially enjoyed this park, and we ended up spending the entire day here.
A 20-minute drive in the opposite direction from Oasis Park takes you to the charming town of Morro Jable, full of beauty and authentic atmosphere. Once a small fishing village, today it’s a wonderful resort that attracts many tourists and has plenty to offer. Visit the Morro Jable harbor, stroll through the town’s streets, and enjoy its ambiance. You can try a variety of water activities or embark on hiking and cycling adventures.
Also read: Things to Do in Costa Calma
Sotavento Beach FAQs
Sotavento Beach stretches along the Jandia Peninsula in the southern part of Fuerteventura. Located near the Costa Calma resort, the beach is easily accessible by car from anywhere on the island.
Sotavento Beach is nearly 10 kilometers long. It attracts visitors with its stunning golden sand and clear turquoise waters, perfect for swimming and trying out various water sports.
Yes, this beach is great for families, as the shore is very shallow and suitable for young children.
There are no restrooms directly on the beach, but you’ll find them at the windsurfing center.
Be sure to bring sunscreen, a hat, a beach towel, and a swimsuit. If you plan to spend an extended time at the beach, consider bringing snacks and drinks.
Yes, Sotavento Beach offers a variety of water sports, including surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and kiteboarding.
Yes, Sotavento Beach is one of the world’s most renowned surfing spots, known for its strong and consistent trade winds.
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Have you felt the breeze at Sotavento Beach? Let me hear about your experience in the comments!
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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!