Your guide to Fuerteventura Popcorn Beach

Many people flock to Fuerteventura for the Canary Island’s sun-soaked sandy coastline. In fact, the beaches in Fuerteventura are one of the main reasons the island has become a top holiday destination.  

Amidst the endless stretches of sugar-white sands though, you’ll find Playa del Bajo de la Burra also known as Popcorn Beach. Said to be one of the best beaches in Fuerteventura, Popcorn Beach is pretty impressive.

At first glance, Playa del Bajo de la Burra might look like any other Fuerteventura beach. Get a bit closer however and you’ll notice how the sand isn’t actually sand at all. Instead, the sea laps what looks like popcorn, creating a unique and spectacular setting.  

Thanks to social media, the now not-so-hidden gem has become one of the top things to do in Fuerteventura. It’s a must-visit for those wanting to explore the island’s natural beauty.  

Here’s our guide to the Fuerteventura Popcorn Beach including where it is and how to get there...

What is so special about Popcorn Beach Fuerteventura?

Although there are many beautiful Fuerteventura beaches, Popcorn Beach tends to stand out. After all, Popcorn beach isn’t your average beach. Instead of sand, small algae fossils cover the shoreline. These algae fossils are called rhodoliths and they start off red in colour before turning white over time. The waves also give them a unique shape, creating something that resembles popcorn.  

Due to its unusual landscape, Popcorn Beach has become one of the best beaches in Fuerteventura to visit.  

These natural algae fossils are protected in order to preserve their beauty. So, when you’re visiting, make sure you don’t take any ‘popcorn’ with you!

Where is Popcorn Beach Fuerteventura?

Popcorn Beach is located on the north coast of Fuerteventura in the municipality of La Oliva. It’s approximately 7km from Corralejo and around 4.5km from Majanicho. If you’re looking at a map of Fuerteventura, it’s best to look for Playa del Bajo de la Burra.

Popcorn Beach Fuerteventura: How to get there

So, how do you get to Popcorn Beach Fuerteventura? Well, part of the charm of this Fuerteventura beach is that it’s off-the-beaten track. There aren’t any direct public transport links to the beach. However, the good news is that Popcorn Beach is still easily accessible by foot or car.

For those who fancy a bit of an adventure, there is a hiking trail leading from Corralejo to Popcorn Beach. Walking from the town usually takes around 1 hour although it depends how many times you stop for photos!

Alternatively, you can drive from Corralejo. The drive usually takes around 15 minutes. Either way, you’re in for a scenic journey!

If you’re staying elsewhere in Fuerteventura, you can either drive directly to Popcorn Beach or get public transport to Corralejo and then walk from there.  

Popcorn Beach Fuerteventura parking

If you’re travelling by car, you don’t need to worry about parking. There are parking spaces available right by the beach.  

Is there anything at Fuerteventura Popcorn Beach?

Popcorn Beach is one of Fuerteventura’s quieter beaches. So, you won’t find the usual umbrellas and sun loungers here. Instead, it’s more of a place to admire and take in the natural beauty of the beach.  

However, there is a small café on Popcorn Beach where you can get a snack or a drink if you haven’t brought your own supplies. Although do remember that Fuerteventura weather can get very hot so don’t forget your SPF!

Is Popcorn Beach Fuerteventura worth visiting?

If you’ve booked a Fuerteventura holiday and you’re looking for things to do in Fuerteventura, Popcorn Beach should definitely be on your list. With its algae fossils, it’s one of the most unique and picture-perfect beaches in Fuerteventura.

Ferries to Fuerteventura

As well as getting flights to Fuerteventura, the island is also easily accessible by ferry. There are 3 ferry ports in Fuerteventura: Corralejo, Puerto del Rosario and Morro Jable.

You can get ferries to Fuerteventura from mainland Spain (Cadiz) and other Canary Islands including Tenerife, Gran Canaria and Lanzarote.

Popular sailings include:

Playa Blanca to Corralejo ferry – This ferry from Lanzarote to Fuerteventura usually takes around 29 minutes, with approximately 24 daily and 164 weekly sailings.

Lobos to Corralejo ferry – The ferry from Lobos Island to Fuerteventura takes just 15 minutes. There are around 6 daily and 40 weekly sailings between Lobos and Corralejo.

Las Palmas to Morro Jable ferry – A popular route from Gran Canaria to Fuerteventura, this ferry usually takes about 2 hours with 2 daily and 16 weekly sailings.

You can check out other ferries to Fuerteventura and book your Fuerteventura ferry here.