Family holidays are such special times, but organising and planning one can often be a daunting prospect. If summer sun and beachside fun are the main priorities for your perfect family getaway, then I can highly recommend a trip to El Cotillo, a stunning spot west of Fuerteventura. Away from the main tourist hub, this hidden paradise is home to the best beach on the island.
This spot is not only family-friendly, but convenient too. In less than an hour you can travel from the airport to the hotel with a pre-booked transfer! Fuerteventura is a stunning island, and in El Cotillo there is so much on offer for families. I have put together some highlights which I think are the perfect ingredients for a memorable family holiday.
Family Friendly Fun in El Cotillo
Playa de la Concha
This is going to be somewhere you’ll surely want to return to time and time again during your trip. Known as of the best beaches in Europe, this white sandy shoreline bordering exquisite turquoise waters is a haven for families.
I love the fact that it is not lined with sun loungers and beach umbrellas, but that does mean it is wise to bring your own. There are no cafes or restaurants here so I also suggest packing a picnic before you come.
Top Tip: When travelling with youngsters, try and arrive when the tide is out and the water is shallow and calm.
The Lagoons
Further up the coast are the gorgeous lagoons, made up of quiet out-of-the-way beaches. Waters here are calm, warm and very inviting, particularly if you have small children.
You can walk here or grab a buggy tour – I think the latter is definitely worth doing. Most of the time you’ll notice that there are no waves, which is quite unique for a stretch of the Atlantic coastline. Children will love exploring, paddling, building sandcastles and lots more.
Top Tip: Bring some snacks, as there is nowhere to buy supplies here.
Water Sports Action
If you or your older children fancy a go at surfing, head to one of the two beaches just further down the coast from Playa del Castillo. Either of these beaches is perfect for trying out a bit of surfing or body boarding. Waves are reliable and perfect for the adrenaline junkies in the family.
Visit a Lighthouse
On the way to the Lagoons you can make a detour to El Toston Lighthouse. This charming little spot has a small but interesting museum that charges a nominal entrance fee for a worthwhile stop-off.
Wander the Market
For a true authentic experience, why not head to the local market in El Cotillo? It’s a lovely place to wander, and if the kids fancy choosing a souvenir or two for their friends, they won’t be disappointed here.
El Cotillo really is a favourite among families who are looking for a relaxed spot for a memorable beach holiday. Days can be spent by the hotel pool, on a beach or discovering the history and culture of the local area. It comes highly recommended.
Where to Stay
Barceló Corralejo Sands – This hotel caters really well for kids, so is ideal for families. Not only is there a designated children’s pool, but there is also a free shuttle service to the nearest beaches. This is a welcome feature when you have tired little ones at the end of the day who don’t want to walk back to the hotel.
With two restaurants on site, eating doesn’t have to mean venturing out too far. One of the eateries is a causal snack bar, serving all the fast food snacks kids will love. Mums and dads will enjoy the spa here, while the children will be well taken care of at the mini club.
Oasis Village – This beautiful spot, built around lush gardens, has a tropical theme running throughout. It is colourful and fun everywhere you look, and children will particularly love the enormous outdoor pool. The whole complex oozes a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere.
The restaurant is buffet style, which is ideal for fussier children, and there is also a snack bar by the pool for informal daytime snacks. There is something for every member of the family here, from tennis and volleyball to the stunning spa facilities and evening entertainment.
How to Get There
Flying from the UK to Fuerteventura Airport (FUE) could not be easier. The flight is reasonably long at just over four hours, but as there are several weekly flights it’s easy to choose one that suits the family best.
On arrival, especially when travelling with young children, you are going to want to hurry straight to your hotel and get your holiday started. I can recommend choosing Shuttle Direct and taking a pre-booked airport transfer. Fuerteventura is not a big island and you if you choose this reputable company that offers a door-to-door service, you can be in your hotel in less than an hour. Pre-book in the UK and you can look forward to stress-free onward travel to El Cotillo. You can also book car seats for the kids.
Overview
- UK to FUE Flight Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- FUE to El Cotillo Distance: 45 kilometres
- Shuttle Direct Transfer Time: 49 minutes
About Shuttle Direct
We are an excellent transfer company offering a professional and friendly service from airports across Europe and North Africa. Catering for every budget, we provide shared or private transfers. You can pre-book with us at Shuttle Direct before you leave and look forward to seamless onward travel.
