Located on the island of Fuerteventura, Playa de Sotavento stands out as a unique natural wonder. Stretching an impressive nine kilometres, it is distinguished by a striking feature: a sandbank that creates a lagoon separating it into two distinct shores.
Fuerteventura is the second-largest Canary Island by coastline after Tenerife, boasting a total coastal perimeter of 326 kilometres, with 77 kilometres of it being sandy beaches.
Among its numerous beaches, Playa de Sotavento is particularly notable for its natural phenomenon, a sandbank that forms a lagoon approximately three kilometres long and only half a metre deep, shielded from the Atlantic tides.
The expansive Playa de Sotavento is divided into five distinct sections: La Barca, Risco del Paso, Mirador, Mal Nombre, and Los Canarios. Each segment offers a unique experience, visible from the Sotavento viewpoint which provides breathtaking views of the area in the municipality of Pájara.
- La Barca and Risco del Paso: These popular beaches attract many visitors and are favoured spots for water sports enthusiasts, including windsurfing and kitesurfing.
- Mirador: This area offers scenic views and is ideal for leisurely strolls along the beach, where visitors can enjoy the clear waters and sandy stretches.
- Mal Nombre: Stretching nearly one kilometre, Mal Nombre is somewhat removed from the busiest areas yet retains its fine white sand and turquoise waters. Surrounded by cliffs, it offers a tranquil escape from the crowds.
- Los Canarios: At 500 metres long and 40 metres wide, Los Canarios is the most secluded section of Playa de Sotavento. Positioned between Sotavento and Esquinzo Butihondo, it is considered one of the island’s wildest beaches, perfect for those seeking solitude away from the masses.
Playa de Sotavento’s extraordinary features and diverse offerings make it a must-visit destination for beachgoers and nature lovers alike, providing a unique blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities.
