The Best Resorts in Fuerteventura, the Canary Islands

Three Iberostars command this end of Playa de Jandia, with the adult-only Palace taking the prize as the most upscale and polished. Nearly all of the airy 442 suites offer out-of-this-world views of the beach, as well as perks like pillow menus, Smart TVs and turndown service. Common areas are equally upmarket, with four pools (and a thatch-roofed pool bar), wine cellar and hydrotherapy spa, alongside yoga on the beach and sangria workshops. High-quality meats, seafood, pizza, pasta and salads are always fresh in the main restaurant; alternatively, dine at the on-site Japanese restaurant.

The Sheraton is a big, buzzing beach resort that appeals primarily to families and golfers. It’s parked between the year-round Fuerteventura Golf Club and Golf Club Salinas de Antigua (both with 18 holes and sea views) and Caleta de Fuste, a protected arch of golden-sand beach that’s perfect for little swimmers. Heated pools, tennis, a kids’ club, a thermal spa, an 18-hole mini-golf course overlooking the beach and a games room with billiards and table tennis are just a few of the resort attractions.

Large resorts are a dime a dozen in Corralejo, but the classic Gran Hotel Bahía Real stands out for its excellent spot on a quiet beach and ample offerings. Six à la carte and rotating-theme buffet restaurants ensure that meals never get repetitive. Free loungers with built-in windshields can be found on the beach, by the pools and in the adult-only terrace above Gran Hotel’s enormous spa (which features an amoeba-shaped pool, flooded with natural light).

Bahiazul Villas & Club is one of the most adored hotels in all of the Canaries. Set in the remote outskirts of Corralejo, the peaceful property is equidistant to town attractions, arid lava fields, and awesome sand-dune beaches. The snowy-white, three-bedroom/four-bathroom villas look worthy of an Aegean Sea getaway. All have open kitchens (with washing machines and dishwashers), private aquamarine pools (there is no communal pool on-site), whirlpools and private rooftop terraces for reading, barbecuing and enjoying cocktails. A highly praised breakfast is included in all rates, and a half-board plan package is available.

The “Castillo” portion of this Barceló’s name refers to the centuries-old castle turret that’s on-site, located next to one of the hotel’s three saltwater pools. Other big selling points at this kid-friendly resort include tonnes of activities for children of all ages (from a kids’ club to mini-golf) and a theatre with live shows. Adults will appreciate the spa/fitness centre with a Turkish bath and Tai Chi classes, alongside 10 total restaurants, buffets and bars. Rate options include self-catering, half-board and all-inclusive.

Formerly Tui Sensimar Royal Palm, this sprawling resort has a primo perch overlooking wide, sandy Playa de Butihondo. The scene here is mellower than you’d think based on the resort’s size — this isn’t the place for upbeat music by the pool or nightly shows. Instead, it’s more about relaxing in the 20,000sqft (1,860sqm) spa, swimming in the pool (especially the heated one on the lower level), claiming a Balinese bed on the rocky precipice or walking along the beach toward the lighthouse. Scheduled activities skew low-key, too: cooking classes, Nordic walking, stargazing and yoga are typical offerings.

The adult-only Barceló Corralejo Bay may have a corporate façade, but once inside, it’s a long way from the one-size-fits-all experience you might expect. The pool area is beautifully designed, with sunbeds nicely spaced out, and the wellness centre has it all in terms of hydrotherapy pools, steam rooms and saunas. Recently refreshed rooms have sleek, contemporary decor and terraces or balconies.