Nestled along the coast of Fuerteventura in the municipality of Tuineje, the quaint fishing village of Las Playitas offers a unique blend of tradition, natural beauty, and tranquillity. While the Canary Islands are famed for their expansive beaches and volcanic landscapes, Las Playitas remains a lesser-known destination, preserving an authentic charm with its whitewashed houses, narrow streets, and deep-rooted fishing heritage.
Las Playitas’ traditional architecture is one of its defining features. The whitewashed homes and narrow alleyways lead to the village’s fishing port, a central part of daily life where visitors can observe local fishermen at work and sample fresh seafood. The village’s restaurants serve traditional Canarian dishes, including favourites like sancocho, offering an authentic taste of the islands.
The village’s crowning attraction is Playa de los Pobres, a striking beach with black volcanic sand and clear waters. The beach is ideal for swimming and water sports like surfing, windsurfing, and paddleboarding, with equipment rentals and lessons available through the local sports club, catering to both beginners and seasoned enthusiasts.
A short six-kilometre hike or drive from Las Playitas leads to the La Entallada lighthouse, a unique structure built in 1955 featuring Moorish architectural elements. Positioned on a high vantage point, the lighthouse offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the nearby Cuchillos de Vigán, a Natural Monument known for its rugged, mountainous terrain.
Las Playitas has also developed a modern tourism area, complete with holiday apartments and an 18-hole golf course designed by John Chilver-Stainer. This course, which provides sweeping views of the Atlantic, is complemented by other sports facilities, including tennis courts, a fitness centre, and an Olympic-sized swimming pool.
For nature lovers, Las Playitas serves as a gateway to explore Fuerteventura’s volcanic terrain, with hiking routes that wind through ravines and volcanic landscapes. The route to La Entallada lighthouse is especially popular, offering scenic viewpoints along the way and the chance to immerse oneself in the island’s rugged, untouched beauty.
Ideal for travellers seeking a peaceful retreat steeped in tradition, Las Playitas invites visitors to experience Fuerteventura’s natural wonders, local cuisine, and unique blend of coastal and volcanic landscapes.
