Popcorn Beach is located on the north shore of Fuerteventura between Majanicho and Corralejo. It’s actual name is Playa el Hierro or Playa del Bajo de la Burra.
Although most beaches in Fuerteventura are made up of beautiful light-colored sand, Popcorn Beach is different—well, actually unique. It is largely made up of pieces of white fossilised calcareous algae that build up around a tiny stone or grain of sand and are called rhodoliths. They look very much like popcorn—hence the name.
The beach is quite isolated, so you will need to drive to it if approaching from the east. I did meet a couple who walked to it from Corralejo, though, so that is possible for any of you fit and dedicated walkers out there.
As Fuerteventura beaches go, Popcorn Beach is certainly not among the best, even if it is rather unusual. However, if you are driving along the north shore, it is worth stopping to look at it.
I drove from Majanicho along a very bumpy track first of all staying right by the sea shore. I was in my trusty old 4×4 so I was ok but you would struggle to take this track in a normal car. You certainly wouldn’t want to take your own car on it, although, as we all know, hire cars can go anywhere!
You can also take a much easier-maintained track, which is quite easy in a normal car.
There is a small cafe/bar at the beach, but it was closed when I visited. I don’t know when it will reopen.
PLEASE don’t take any of it away if you visit the beach!
It is starting to disappear because visitors are taking souvenirs home with them (which is also illegal)
Recent press coverage
Over the past few weeks, Popcorn Beach in Fuerteventura has been featured in both the UK and US press. I have no idea why it should suddenly feature as it has been here forever, but that’s the press for you.
The Daily Mail ran this article on Popcorn Beach Fuerteventura.
It was even featured on Fox News in America, which is odd. But perhaps that may at least have educated a few Americans about where the Canary Islands are (or even that they exist at all) since many tend to be rather geographically challenged. This is the article on Popcorn Beach.
It seems that it first popped up on someone’s Instagram feed, and that was where the press picked up on it. Many people believed it to be a hoax, with faked photo-shopped photos. But I can confirm that it does exist!
How to get to Popcorn Beach
From Lajares end
To get to Majanicho, first go to Lajares. At the roundabout by the football ground, turn along the side of the football ground—signposted Majanicho. Continue down there, past the entrance to the Origo Mare complex and then into the quaint, picturesque fishing hamlet of Majanicho.
Turn right to go to Popcorn Beach (or left to go to El Cotillo – see video) but stop there for a little walk around as it is a lovely little place. See my video – Majanicho.
Once out of the village, keep to the best track (right-hand) for about 10 minutes until you arrive at the little cafe. Turn off and park right by the beach.
From the Corralejo end
To drive from the Corralejo end, take the back road to the port. Look out for the two wind turbines by the desalination plant. Take the track that goes from the rear of the bus station and passes near the wind turbines, and just keep going until you come to the little cafe right on Popcorn Beach.
This is the video I made about Popcorn beach Fuerteventura.
Other articles you may find useful
Renting a car in Fuerteventura | Car hire advice from a local
Tips for driving in Fuerteventura
I have been holidaying in Fuerteventura for over 30 years and have been living here full time since 2013. I have a popular Youtube channel related to this website called JP in Fuerteventura
Leave a Reply