Is Cotillo a good place for a beach holiday?
Yes, Cotillo is considered a great destination for a beach holiday, especially for those who appreciate a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere and natural, unspoiled beaches. It offers a variety of beaches, from sheltered lagoons ideal for swimming and families, to more rugged beaches with good waves for surfing. The village itself is a charming fishing town with good restaurants and a peaceful vibe, away from mass tourism.
What are the beaches in Cotillo like?
The beaches in Cotillo are varied. To the north of the village, you'll find a series of white sand coves and lagoons with calm, turquoise waters, such as La Concha and Los Lagos. These are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and families with children. To the south, beaches like Piedra Playa (also known as Surfer's Beach) are more rugged, with golden sand, stronger waves, and are popular for surfing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing.
Can you swim in the sea at Cotillo beaches?
Yes, you can swim at many of Cotillo's beaches. The beaches to the north of the village, like Playa de la Concha and the lagoons (Los Lagos), offer calm, sheltered waters ideal for swimming and are very family-friendly. Beaches to the south, such as Piedra Playa, have stronger currents and waves, so while swimming is possible, more caution is needed, and it's often preferred by surfers.
Which Cotillo beach is best for families with children?
Playa de la Concha is generally considered the most family-friendly beach in Cotillo. It has calm, shallow waters protected by a natural reef, making it safe for children to play and swim. At low tide, small rock pools form, which are great for kids to explore. The nearby Los Lagos (lagoons) area also offers similar sheltered conditions.
Are there naturist or nude beaches in Cotillo?
Yes, Cotillo is known for being naturist-friendly. Many beaches, particularly those to the north of the village like the lagoons near the lighthouse and parts of La Concha (usually the right-hand side), are frequented by naturists. The further north you go towards the lighthouse, the more common naturism becomes. Steps Beach to the south can also be naturist-friendly due to its seclusion. Generally, there's a relaxed attitude, and naturists and clothed beachgoers coexist comfortably.
What's the best time of year to visit Cotillo beaches for good weather and swimming?
Fuerteventura, where Cotillo is located, is known as the 'island of eternal spring' with pleasant weather year-round. For the warmest sea temperatures (around 22-23°C) and generally good swimming conditions, the summer months (June to September) are ideal. However, spring (April-May) and autumn (October-November) also offer lovely weather, warm waters, and potentially fewer crowds. Even in winter, the water temperature rarely drops below 18°C.
Are the beaches in Cotillo windy?
Fuerteventura is generally a windy island, which is why it's popular for wind-dependent sports. Cotillo beaches can experience wind, especially those to the south which are favored by surfers and kitesurfers. However, the lagoon beaches to the north, like La Concha, are more sheltered. Many beaches have 'corralitos' – small, circular stone walls built by locals to provide shelter from the wind.
Which Cotillo beach is best for surfing?
Piedra Playa (also known as Stone Beach or Surfer's Beach), located south of the village, is the main surfing beach in Cotillo. It's an exposed beach break with consistent surf, offering conditions for various levels, though it can be powerful. Surf schools often operate here. Playa de Esquinzo, further south, is another option for surfers seeking tranquility.
Is it easy to park near Cotillo beaches?
Yes, generally it's relatively easy to find parking near Cotillo's beaches. La Concha beach has a dedicated car park. For the lagoon beaches north of the village, you can usually park along the road leading to the lighthouse or in designated areas. Beaches south of the village, like Piedra Playa, are accessible via dirt tracks where parking is also available.
Are there sunbeds and umbrellas for rent on Cotillo beaches?
No, the beaches in El Cotillo are known for their natural and unspoiled character. You generally won't find rows of sunbeds and umbrellas for rent. Visitors typically bring their own towels, mats, and umbrellas if needed.
What's the difference between beaches north and south of El Cotillo village?
The beaches north of El Cotillo village (towards the lighthouse) are characterized by calm lagoons, white sand, and sheltered waters, making them ideal for swimming, families, and snorkeling (e.g., La Concha, Los Lagos). The beaches south of the village (e.g., Piedra Playa, Playa Esquinzo) are more exposed to the Atlantic, with stronger waves, golden sand, and are popular for surfing and other water sports.
Are there any facilities like toilets or beach bars at Cotillo beaches?
Facilities vary. La Concha beach, being one of the most popular, has a beach bar (Azzurro) nearby and lifeguard services. Some sources mention restrooms are available at or adjacent to El Cotillo Beach. However, many of the more remote or wilder beaches, especially further from the village, will have limited or no facilities. It's best to plan accordingly, especially if visiting more secluded spots.
How do I get to the beaches in El Cotillo if I don't have a car?
If you are staying in El Cotillo village, many beaches, particularly those immediately north and south of the old harbor, are within walking distance. For instance, you can walk to La Concha beach in about 10-15 minutes from the village. The local bus service (e.g., Route No. 8 from Corralejo) stops in El Cotillo, and from the bus station or stops within the village, you can access nearby beaches on foot.
Is El Cotillo more for a party holiday or a quiet, relaxing one?
El Cotillo is definitely known for being a quiet, relaxing holiday destination. It's a small fishing village with a laid-back atmosphere, ideal for those looking to unwind, enjoy nature, and escape crowds. While there are nice restaurants and bars, it's not a party town like some other resorts. People come here for the beautiful, natural beaches and tranquil environment.
What are the 'corralitos' I hear about on Cotillo beaches?
The 'corralitos' are small, semi-circular walls made from volcanic rock that you'll find on some of El Cotillo's beaches, particularly La Concha. Local residents build these to provide shelter from the wind, creating cozy spots for sunbathing. They are a distinctive feature of the beaches here.
