Cofete Beach: Fuerteventura’s Untouched Beauty

Cofete Beach, Fuerteventura, in the Canary Islands, offers a unique experience for nature lovers and thrill-seekers. Although getting there is a bit of a trek, it is worth the effort as there isn’t a beach in the entire Canary Islands to match it.

Stretching for miles along the southwest coast of Fuerteventura, Cofete Beach boasts golden sands and stunning mountain views.

The rugged landscape and wild waves create a sense of untamed beauty that’s hard to find elsewhere in Spain.

Getting to Cofete is half the fun. The journey takes you on a winding mountain road with jaw-dropping vistas. Once you arrive, you’ll feel like you’ve discovered your private paradise.

The beach is always very quiet, giving you plenty of space to relax and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot to escape the crowds and connect with nature.

Cofete’s Unique Landscape

Cofete Beach boasts a stunning landscape that will take your breath away. Its wild beauty and untouched nature make it an extraordinary place to visit.

Cofete Beach

As you approach Cofete, you’ll be struck by the vast expanse of golden sand stretching 14 kilometres along the west coast. The beach is remarkably wide, with soft sand that seems to go on forever.

At times, massive waves crash onto the shore, creating a dramatic scene. The beach’s remoteness means it’s often empty, giving the feeling of being alone in nature.

Behind the beach, you’ll spot the towering Pico de la Zarza, the highest point in Fuerteventura. This mountain backdrop adds to the area’s wild charm.

Flora and Fauna

Cofete is part of Jandía Natural Park, home to unique plant and animal species. As you explore, you might see rare birds soaring overhead or nesting in the cliffs.

The landscape is mostly barren, with hardy plants adapted to the harsh conditions. Look out for:

• Euphorbias (cactus-like plants)
• Sea lavender
• Coastal shrubs

Keep an eye out for:

• Barbary ground squirrels
• Kestrels
• Ospreys

Remember to respect this fragile ecosystem. Take only photos and leave only footprints to help preserve Cofete’s natural beauty for future visitors.

Activities and Excursions

Water Sports and Swimming

The wild beauty of Cofete Beach makes it perfect for surfing and bodyboarding. The powerful waves attract experienced surfers looking for a challenge. If you’re a beginner, it is best to stick to calmer days.

Swimming at Cofete requires caution due to strong currents. On calm days, you can take a refreshing dip, but always stay close to shore. The vast expanse of sand is ideal for long walks along the shoreline, beachcombing, or simply relaxing on the golden sand.

Hiking Trails and Panoramic Views

Cofete’s rugged landscape offers fantastic hiking opportunities. The trail to Pico de la Zarza, Fuerteventura’s highest point, starts near the beach. It’s a challenging 5-hour round trip, but the panoramic views are worth the effort.

For a more leisurely walk, head to Mirador de Cofete. This viewpoint provides breathtaking vistas of the beach and surrounding mountains. It’s accessible by car or a short hike.

Another popular route is the coastal path to the Punta de Jandía lighthouse, the most southerly point of Fuerteventura. This path passes through varied terrain and offers stunning ocean views. Remember to wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water.

Historical Sites and Exploration

Villa Winter, a mysterious mansion near Cofete, is a must-visit historical site. Built in the 1930s, legends of Nazi connections surround it. You can join guided tours to learn about its intriguing past.

This beach was used as the backdrop to the parting of the Red Sea in the film “Exodus: Gods and Kings with Christian Bale. You can see it in this movie clip:

Explore the tiny Cofete Cemetery, which holds the graves of early settlers. It’s a poignant reminder of the area’s harsh living conditions in the past.

Book a 4×4 tour for a deeper dive into local history. These excursions often include stops at Villa Winter, the cemetery, and other points of interest. Guides share fascinating stories about the area’s role during the Second World War and its unique ecosystem.

Getting to Cofete

Reaching Cofete Beach requires some planning and preparation. There are a few transport options, each with its own considerations for navigating the rugged terrain.

Driving Directions and Car Rental Options

Renting a car gives you the most flexibility to explore Cofete. From Morro Jable, take the FV-30 road west for about 20 km. At the junction, turn right onto the dirt track to Cofete. Many car rental companies are available in Fuerteventura.

Standard cars can make the journey, notably as the road has recently been improved, but a 4×4 is safer and more comfortable.

When renting, check if the company allows driving on dirt roads. Some may have restrictions, but most people ignore them. Book in advance during peak seasons. Prices vary but expect to pay around €30-50 per day for a small car and €60-100 for a 4×4.

Remember to fill up with petrol before leaving Morro Jable, as no fuel stations near Cofete exist.

Public Transport Availability

If you prefer not to drive, a public bus service runs to Cofete. Line 111, a special 4×4 bus, departs from Morro Jable twice daily. It leaves Morro Jable at 10:00 and 14:00 and returns from Cofete at 12:45 and 16:45.

The journey takes about an hour each way. Tickets cost around €3.50 one-way. You can buy them from the driver. The bus stops at several points:

• Bus station
• Morro Jable pier
• Cemetery
• Gran Valle
• Cofete
• Puertito de la Cruz
• Faro (lighthouse)

Space is limited, so arrive early to secure a seat.

Navigating Unpaved Roads

The last 20 km to Cofete is on unpaved roads. This stretch can be challenging, especially for inexperienced drivers. The track is narrow and winding, with steep drops in places. Drive slowly and carefully.

Allow at least 45 minutes for this part of the journey. In wet weather, the road can become muddy and slippery. Check weather forecasts before setting out.

If driving yourself, ensure your vehicle has good tyres and brakes. Take water and snacks, as there are no shops along the route. A spare tyre and basic tools are also wise precautions.

Local Accommodation and Amenities

Staying near Cofete Beach offers a unique experience with limited options. You’ll find rustic charm and breathtaking views, but the amenities are basic. Dining choices are few, and services are minimal in this remote area.

Staying Near Cofete Beach

Accommodation near Cofete Beach is scarce. The closest option is Morro Jable, which is about an hour’s drive away. Here, you’ll find a range of hotels and holiday rentals. For a budget-friendly stay, look for guesthouses or small apartments. Luxury seekers can choose upscale resorts like the Barceló Fuerteventura Royal Level or Sheraton Fuerteventura Beach, Golf & Spa.

Read: Where to stay in Fuerteventura

If you’re after a more adventurous stay, consider camping near the beach. It’s free of charge, but there are no official facilities. Make sure to bring all necessary supplies and respect the environment.

Parking is limited at Cofete Beach, so arrive early to secure a spot.

Dining and Local Cuisine

Eating options at Cofete Beach are limited, as there is just one small cafe. It’s best to pack a picnic lunch to enjoy on the golden sands. The beach is perfect for a memorable outdoor meal with stunning views.

You must head back to Morro Jable or Costa Calma for proper meals. These towns offer a variety of restaurants serving local Canarian cuisine. Try:

• Fresh seafood dishes
• Papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes)
• Mojo sauce
• Goat cheese

Remember to bring plenty of water, as no shops near the beach exist.

Infrastructure and Services

Cofete Beach is in a remote part of the Jandía Peninsula. Services are very limited. There are no lifeguards, so swim with caution. The area has:

• Basic toilets
• A small car park
• No shops or kiosks

The nearest town with full services is Morro Jable. Here you’ll find:

• Supermarkets
• Pharmacies
• Medical facilities
• Banks

The local population is small, and the area remains largely undeveloped. This adds to its charm but means you need to plan ahead for your visit.

Safety and Conservation

Cofete Beach’s beauty comes with some risks and conservation needs. When visiting, staying safe and protecting this natural wonder is crucial.

Understanding Ocean Currents

The currents at Cofete Beach can be tricky. Strong waves and currents make swimming dangerous. You should be very careful if you decide to go in the water.

Watch for red flags on the beach. They warn of unsafe conditions. Hidden currents can pull you out quickly even if the sea looks calm. It’s best to enjoy the views from the shore.

If you do swim, stay close to the beach. Don’t go out too far. At all times, keep an eye on children near the water.

Beach Preservation Efforts

Cofete Beach is a hidden gem that needs protection. You can help keep it pristine for future visitors.

Take all your rubbish with you when you leave. Don’t disturb plants or wildlife. Stick to marked paths to avoid damaging fragile dunes.

The local council has set up bins and signs to guide visitors. They also organise beach clean-ups. You can join these efforts if you’re interested.

Remember, this beach is unspoiled nature. Please treat it with care. Your actions can help preserve its wild beauty and sense of freedom for years.