Winter is well behind us now and fun in the sun is on everyone’s mind, right? If sun, sand, sea and surf are all the ingredients you need for your perfect summer holiday, then look no further than El Cotillo in Fuerteventura. This village right on the shore of the Atlantic Ocean, once a simple fishing hamlet, has grown to become a surfers’ paradise. Wind surfing, kite surfing or regular surfing; no matter what your preference, the beaches to the south of the town are among the best on the island.
While the town is quieter than some of its neighbours – including the busy touristy resort of Corralejo, especially when it comes to clubs and all night bars – El Cotillo still has plenty of action; great restaurants and buzzing little bars and cafes provide all the atmosphere you need and complement a good day’s surfing perfectly.
The Bubble might be the ultimate in surfing challenges in the area, but there are lots of options for the less experienced too. Here is my guide to the must-try surf spots close to this Fuerteventura town.
El Cotillo
Definitely the most popular surf hang out on the island, this is a long, golden sandy beach where intermediates can catch waves left and right, and beginners can try out their new skills on the long white water waves. There is no need for a paddle out at this beach and so less confident surfers can practice in their comfort zone and get their confidence soaring. The best tide here is definitely the mid tide. Although I love this beach, it can get busy with surf schools in summer.
Playa de Esquinzo
A smaller bay and much less crowded than El Cotillo, this pretty spot offers a reliable swell. Waves can be flatter in the summer, but when the wind blows in from the west and you get waves breaking both left and right, there is good surf on this beach. High tide is the time to catch the best waves here.
Spew Pits
If you are a dab hand at riding the waves then Spew Pits is the place to head to. The offshore winds from the east provide great conditions and you can often see some of the best local surfers catching tubes and showing off their expert skills here. Definitely not for beginners, this beach has powerful waves and shallow, rocky waters. Even the most advanced surfers lose their boards here; the power of the waves snaps anything that hits them the wrong way! You have been warned.
With so many options for the beginners and intermediates, El Cotillo is a great place for anyone who wants to be out on their board. Both in and out of the water, this laid-back town has lots to offer.
How to Get to El Cotillo
The flight time to Fuerteventura (FUE), the only airport on the island, is four hours, after which it is just a short 45-minute drive to El Cotillo. With so many airlines including British Airways, easyJet, Ryanair, Iberia and Lufthansa offering flights from the UK, you will have plenty of choice and are likely to get some good bargains.
When you arrive, you are bound to be itching to get straight to your holiday accommodation, so I suggest booking with Shuttle Direct. Book in advance and you can look forward to a comfortable transfer straight to your final destination. Going for the shared option is a good budget choice, but if you want to splash out you can book a private vehicle and have the driver meet you in arrivals.
Where to Stay
Apartamentos el Cotillo – These spacious apartments are a good budget choice in El Cotillo. Bright, modern and simply furnished, Apartamentos el Cotillo enjoy a great location only a five-minute walk from the shops and bars, as well as the beach. That all-important self-catering option is offered here, and I just love the living area space, which is ideal for groups of friends on holiday together.
Casa Nami – Casa Nami is the perfect choice if you fancy more of an apartment than a hotel room; much more sociable when holidaying with friends. Not only do the apartments have their own patio or terrace, but some also have a kitchenette with fridge and microwave. This is useful if you want to self cater and save your pennies for more water sports fun instead!
Laif Hotel – This groovy little hotel is right in the centre of town and a short ten-minute walk from the beach. Free Wi-Fi comes as standard and, even though you might think you’ll never use it, the flat-screen TV is a treat for those chill out afternoons before you hit the bars. An onsite restaurant offers breakfast and dinner, so when you just want to eat and get on with your day (or night), you don’t have to worry about trawling the streets to find somewhere. Laif Hotel is great value for money and close to all the action in town.
About Shuttle Direct
Shuttle Direct are the leading transfer service in Europe and North Africa, providing reliable and comfortable transfers to and from all major airports. With a pre-booking option and the chance to choose private or shared vehicles, this professional company cater for all budgets and requirements. Take the stress out of your onward travel and book with Shuttle Direct.
