Have you ever imagined yourself walking on a sea of popcorn? Fuerteventura is a magical island with breathtaking landscapes, beaches of golden sand and crystal-clear waters. And among its many charms, there is one beach that stands out for its uniqueness and beauty: the famous Playa de las Palomitas (Popcorn Beach).
This stunning beach is covered with small rocks in the shape of popcorn and attracts hundreds of travellers from all over the world every year.
Today, on the Elba Hotels blog, we will tell you everything you need to know about Playa de las Palomitas in Fuerteventura, including where it is and how to get there. We will also give you some recommendations so that you can get the most out of your holiday.
Why is its sand so special?
Playa de las Palomitas, whose real name is Playa del Bajo de la Burra, is particularly noteworthy because it is covered with small white pebbles that, at first glance, could be mistaken for popcorn.
In reality, however, what we can actually see are natural formations known as rhodoliths which are calcareous algae that grow on the seabed. Over the years, they’ve been worn away by the impact of the waves, and turned into small balls of calcium carbonate, the shape and colour of which are reminiscent of popcorn.
Interestingly, rhodoliths grow very slowly, barely a millimetre a year, which means that some of the specimens on the beach are centuries old. In fact, some of them are as much as 4,000 years old. Therefore, it is not only a special place because of its beauty, but also because of its geological history.
Where is Playa de las Palomitas?
Playa de las Palomitas is located in the north of the island, specifically between the towns of Corralejo and Majanicho, in the municipality of La Oliva.
It is relatively secluded and quiet which makes it an ideal place for enjoying nature in its purest state. The beach, which has been left completely intact, is also renowned for its spectacular natural surroundings.
How to get to Playa de las Palomitas in Fuerteventura
To get to Playa de las Palomitas, take the dirt track that connects Corralejo with Majanicho. The beach is about 5 kilometres away from Corralejo with access via an unpaved road.
Although it is not a difficult road to navigate, there may be potholes so it is a good idea to have a vehicle that is suitable for this type of terrain. A few minutes along the road, you will find the beach.
If you prefer a quieter option, you can also do the route on foot and enjoy the scenery at your own pace. However, bear in mind that the journey can take a little over an hour, so it is advisable to bring water, a hat and sunscreen, especially if you are visiting the area in the middle of summer.
Recommendations for visiting Playa de las Palomitas
If you are planning to visit this beach on your next holiday, here are some recommendations for you to make the most of your visit:
Take what you need with you
The beach is quite quiet and does not have many amenities nearby, so it is important that you are well prepared. Bring enough food and water.
Rhodoliths are not souvenirs
One of the main features that have made Playa de las Palomitas famous is the large quantity of rhodoliths which cover the ground. Some tourists have been known to take them away as souvenirs. However, it is actually illegal to do this. They are very fragile and breaking them off can damage the ecosystem, so just take a nice souvenir in the form of a photo instead!
Enjoy the scenery
Playa de las Palomitas is the ideal place to enjoy a quiet day in close proximity to nature. Its stunning views of the sea, combined with spectacular rock formations and the curious popcorn effect, create a beautiful backdrop that is hard to find anywhere else in the world.
Explore the surrounding area
If you find yourself close to Playa de las Palomitas, don't miss the opportunity to explore the surrounding areas. The Parque Natural de las Dunas de Corralejo is one of Fuerteventura's main tourist attractions, with its huge golden sand dunes and breathtaking views.
Nearby you will also find the picturesque village of Majanicho, where you can enjoy a quiet and relaxed atmosphere. There is also Corralejo, which has a wide variety of restaurants, shops and activities to be enjoyed after the beach. From here, you can even take a trip to the Isla de Lobos, a nature paradise that is the perfect place for hiking enthusiasts.
In summary, Playa de las Palomitas, with its tranquil and unique surroundings, is an ideal destination for those who are looking for something a bit different in Fuerteventura. Are you ready to pay it a visit?