El Cotillo
El Cotillo is a small fishing town that in recent years has opened up to tourists, although not on the level of other areas like Corralejo or Morro Jable, as it has maintained its traditional charm and characteristic tranquillity. It is found on the north-western coast of Fuerteventura, in the La Oliva region.
El Cotillo is full of little treasures, especially popular for the white sand coves located in the north of the town. Take a dip in the coves. Stroll through its maritime surroundings. Savour the local cuisine in its restaurants. Try out some water sports, like snorkelling or windsurfing, which are just some of the many options offered by El Cotillo.
Accommodation in El Cotillo
Its accommodation offering is mainly small apart-hotels and rental apartments on the incredible shoreline. With no enormous hotel complexes, El Cotillo is a destination free from big crowds, ideal for burying your worries on its idyllic beaches under incomparable weather.
You can see all the options for accommodation in El Cotillo here.
Places of interest
After the European arrival to Fuerteventura, El Cotillo gained great importance as a port, as what is now known as El Tostón Lighthouse (Faro del Tostón) was built. The lighthouse has become a symbol for the town and today holds the Traditional Fishing Museum, reflecting the close relationship between El Cotillo and fishing.
The importance of the port led to the construction of the El Tostón Castle (Castillo de El Tostón), built in the 15th Century to defend the island from attacks from North Africa. Over time, the fort has become a historical, architectural, and cultural landmark of the town.
To the south, you can find Piedra Playa, a beach that is popular among surfing and kitesurfing lovers. In contrast, to the north of El Cotillo you’ll find the crystal-clear waters of the white sand coves, which are a great invitation for snorkelling.
Beaches and bathing areas
The beaches in El Cotillo are typically small, uncrowded and without any waves. They are ideal for those looking for peace and quiet. Los Lagos is one of those places – a succession of small white sand coves covering almost a kilometre in total. They have white sand and are protected from the waves by a natural breakwater.
La Caleta del Marrajo is further north and is formed of a large esplanade of white sand, calm crystalline waters that are ideal for snorkelling. Even further north, at the top of Fuerteventura, you’ll find Los Charcos, 5km from El Cotillo. It also has white sand and isn’t very busy.
To the south of the town is Piedra Playa, which doesn’t fit with the characteristic look of El Cotillo’s beaches. It has darker sand and strong waves which make it more popular among kite surfers and surfers than swimmers.
Frequently asked questions
How is the weather in El Cotillo?
The warmest months in El Cotillo are between July and October when the average temperature is 24ºC with a very low chance of rain. The cooler months are between December and March, when the average temperature is 17ºC and rain is unlikely. The skies are usually clear all year round.
When is the best time of the year to visit El Cotillo?
Any time of the year is good for visiting El Cotillo. In the summer months, the town is busier, although not overcrowded. For the rest of the year, El Cotillo is very quiet.
How far is El Cotillo from the airport?
El Cotillo is 45km away from Fuerteventura airport, which takes around 40 minutes by car.
How can you get to El Cotillo?
You can get to El Cotillo via the FV-10. If you wish to take public transport, you can consult the bus lines on our website. However, the most comfortable option for travelling around Fuerteventura is by car, which you can hire here.