What are the beaches like in Caleta de Fuste, Antigua?
The main beaches in Caleta de Fuste, like Playa del Castillo and La Guirra, are man-made with golden or white sand. They are known for their calm, shallow waters because they are in sheltered, horseshoe-shaped bays, making them ideal for families with children. Some visitors note that the sand on Playa del Castillo can be a bit rough in places due to imported sand. There are also smaller, natural coves and rock pools nearby for a more rugged experience.
Is Caleta de Fuste good for a family beach holiday?
Yes, Caleta de Fuste is widely considered an excellent destination for family beach holidays. The main beaches, such as Playa del Castillo, are man-made and situated in sheltered bays, resulting in calm, shallow waters that are very safe for children. The resort offers numerous family-friendly amenities, including playgrounds near the beach, and various water sports suitable for all ages. Many hotels in the area also cater to families.
Can you swim in the sea at Caleta de Fuste?
Yes, you can comfortably swim in the sea at Caleta de Fuste. The main beaches, Playa del Castillo and La Guirra, are located in sheltered bays, which means the water is generally calm and shallow with hardly any strong waves or currents. This makes swimming very safe, even for children and less confident swimmers.
How windy are the beaches in Caleta de Fuste?
While Fuerteventura is generally known as a windy island, the main beaches in Caleta de Fuste, particularly Playa del Castillo, are situated in a horseshoe-shaped bay that offers good protection from strong winds and waves. This makes the beach experience generally calmer compared to more exposed areas of Fuerteventura. However, prevailing north-easterly winds can still occur, so it's advisable to be mindful with inflatables.
What's the best time of year to visit Caleta de Fuste beaches for swimming?
The best time for swimming and water sports in Caleta de Fuste is generally between May and November. During these months, sea temperatures are warmer, typically ranging from around 19°C in May to 22°C in summer and 21°C in November. While the water is still relatively mild in winter (around 20°C), sea breezes can sometimes make it feel too cold for a comfortable swim for some.
Are the beaches in Caleta de Fuste natural or man-made?
The main beaches in Caleta de Fuste, including Playa del Castillo and La Guirra, are largely man-made. The sand, often golden or white, has been imported to create these popular tourist beaches. Some areas, like La Guirra, are described as lagoon-style beaches created by replacing rock with sand.
Are there sunbeds and umbrellas for hire at Caleta de Fuste beaches?
Yes, sunbeds and umbrellas are available for hire at the main beaches in Caleta de Fuste, such as Playa del Castillo and La Guirra. For example, at Playa del Castillo, the local council provides several hundred sunbeds and parasols, with a typical daily charge. La Guirra beach also offers sunbed and parasol hire, and sometimes Balinese beds.
How do Caleta de Fuste beaches compare to Corralejo beaches?
Caleta de Fuste and Corralejo offer different beach experiences. Caleta de Fuste's beaches, like Playa del Castillo, are man-made, very sheltered, and ideal for families with young children due to their calm, shallow waters. Corralejo, in the north, is famous for its spectacular natural sand dunes (Parque Natural de las Dunas de Corralejo) which form vast, beautiful beaches. These can be wavier and windier in some areas, though Corralejo also has smaller, calmer town beaches. The choice depends on whether you prefer a protected, resort-style beach or expansive natural dunes.
Are there any quieter or more natural beaches near Caleta de Fuste?
Yes, while the main Caleta de Fuste beaches are popular and well-developed, there are options for those seeking quieter spots. Playa de las Caletillas, a short drive away, offers a more serene escape often favored by locals, with unique sand hills. The natural rock pools in Caleta de Fuste also provide a distinct and picturesque swimming experience away from the main sandy areas. Further south, El Muellito in Salinas del Carmen is a quiet, golden sand beach. Pozo Negro offers a black sand beach experience in a small fishing village.
What facilities are available at Playa del Castillo in Caleta de Fuste?
Playa del Castillo is well-equipped with facilities. These include lifeguards, toilets, showers, sunbed and parasol hire, and ramps for disabled access. There are also beach volleyball courts, a children's playground, and nearby beach bars and restaurants. The promenade connects to a shopping center and the marina, where various water sports can be booked.
Is it easy to get to the beaches in Caleta de Fuste from nearby hotels?
Yes, the main beaches in Caleta de Fuste, like Playa del Castillo and Playa La Guirra, are generally easily accessible on foot from most surrounding hotels and apartments. The resort is designed so that many accommodations are within a short walk of the coastline and its amenities. There's also a promenade that runs along the beach area.
What is the water temperature like in Caleta de Fuste during winter (December-February)?
During the winter months (December to February), the average sea temperature in Caleta de Fuste is around 18°C to 20°C. While this is mild, some may find it a bit chilly for extended swimming, especially when factoring in potential sea breezes.
Are there any beaches in Costa de Antigua itself?
No, Costa de Antigua, which is near Caleta de Fuste, does not have its own beach. The closest sandy beach is in Caleta de Fuste, which is about a 2-kilometer walk or a short drive away. There is a coastal path connecting the two areas.
What kind of water sports can you do at Caleta de Fuste beaches?
Caleta de Fuste offers a variety of water sports. Due to the calm waters, it's a good place for activities like paddle surfing, windsurfing (especially for beginners), kayaking, and jet skiing. There are also diving clubs offering lessons and excursions, and options for boat trips and pedalo hire.
Are Caleta de Fuste beaches suitable for people with reduced mobility?
Playa del Castillo, the main beach in Caleta de Fuste, has made efforts to be accessible. It features wooden boardwalks to allow easier access for wheelchairs to reach the sea, wooden solariums, and sometimes a bathing chair for people with reduced mobility. Ramps are also available for access.
