Playa de Cofete

Playa de Cofete, Pájara (Fuerteventura)

At the far southwest of Fuerteventura, within the Jandía Natural Park and in the municipality of Pájara, opens one of the most imposing beaches of the Canaries. Playa de Cofete is a wild strip some twelve to fourteen kilometres long, exposed to the windward coast and guarded by the huge Jandía mountain range, which drops almost sheer to the shore. There are no resorts, no promenades, no rented parasols: only sand, wind, mountain and the Atlantic Ocean. It is the image of untamed nature, and that is why it ranks among the most photographed and memorable beaches on the island.

A virgin beach in the heart of the Jandía Natural Park

The power of Cofete lies in its scale. The beach stretches out of sight, with golden-toned sand that shifts in shade with the light of day, and in the background the highest peaks of Fuerteventura form a natural wall. The absence of buildings reinforces that sense of isolation: people come here to walk, to watch the swell and to disconnect, not to find comforts. For its size and its almost untouched state it is often described as one of the great examples of virgin coast in the archipelago. It is, without doubt, one of the beaches that best capture the wildest side of the island.

Safety: dangerous sea, swimming not recommended

It is worth being clear: the sea at Cofete is dangerous. The beach is exposed to the open Atlantic and strong swell, wind and, above all, rip currents are frequent, capable of dragging swimmers out to sea even when the surface looks calm. There is no surveillance or lifeguard service, so swimming is not advisable. The sensible thing is to enjoy the landscape and walks along the shore with caution, stay away from the breaking zone and not be lulled by apparently calm days.

How to get there

The access is part of the experience. From Morro Jable a dirt track of about twenty kilometres sets off across the Jandía massif. The journey takes around three quarters of an hour and a high or off-road vehicle is recommended, as the track has potholes and narrow sections. Those who would rather not drive can use the off-road bus of TIADHE line 111, an all-terrain service that connects Morro Jable with Cofete; it is best to check timetables and fares before going. More official information about the island on the Fuerteventura tourism portal.

What to know before you go

• Minimal services: in the small hamlet of Cofete there is a bar-restaurant (Pepe el Faro), but do not expect beach facilities. Bring water, food and sun protection.

• Fuel and coverage: there is no petrol station in Cofete and mobile coverage is poor along much of the route. Fill up in Morro Jable and let someone know your route.

• Nearby heritage: a short distance from the beach are the enigmatic Villa Winter and a small historic cemetery, two of the most singular spots on the Jandía peninsula.

• Respect the environment: this is a protected natural area. Leave no waste and drive only on the authorised tracks.