El Cotillo village

El Cotillo is a quiet fishing village that retains a traditional charm that has been lost in many of the bigger resort areas. It is still a working fishing village and much of the fish served in the local restaurants will have been landed that day in the harbour.

Tourism is growing in the area although it is mainly through private apartments and there is only one small hotel in the village. Visitors to El Cotillo tend to be people who know Fuerteventura quite well and are looking for an alternative to large built up resorts. It will not suit those looking for nightclubs and large crowds of people. Although not strictly essential, many people will find a car useful here and driving is surprisingly easy given the good quality main roads and the lack of traffic. Local taxi prices are reasonable, however.

One of the lagoons to the north of the village which is a short walk from the apartment.

El Cotillo is surrounded by amazing beaches with sandy coves and lagoons to the north offering sheltered swimming, which are ideal for families. To the south is a large beach perfect for watersports as it catches most swells for surfing and also offers good windsurfing and kitesurfing conditions. Surfboard hire can be organised from the surf shop in the village.

The beaches are never crowded and you won’t ever find yourself fighting for space. This makes it ideal for both those wanting to get away from it all and families who want space for their children to enjoy. Parking is available free at all the beaches.

The village has many good restaurants and a handful of bars. Nightlife tends to be focussed around eating although the bars have a friendly atmosphere. There are a handful of mini-markets and a bakery in addition to a few surf shops and general stores. Larger shops and supermarkets are available either in Coralejo or Puerto del Rosario which are a 20 or 40 minute drive away respectively.

El Cotillo as viewed from the lagoon beaches.