A long sandy beachbreak on Fuerteventura's northwest coast, Cotillo fires when NE winds shut down the north shore and sends surfers hunting for shelter. NW to W swells push through deep water, producing powerful, occasionally hollow peaks across shifting sandbanks. SE, E, or NE winds blow offshore, with the northern end of the beach offering extra wind protection when conditions elsewhere deteriorate. Best size is waist to head high, though overhead sets carry real punch and close out fast if the banks aren't right. Beginners are well served when it's small, with surf schools operating here regularly, but once the size climbs, intermediate skill is the floor. Bottom: sand with occasional volcanic rock. Season: October to March. Consistency: high. Car crime is an active problem at the cliff-top car parks, so leave nothing visible in your vehicle.
Cotillo gets busy, particularly in summer when learners and surf schools fill the water, and on the best autumn-winter swells when the north coast is maxed. Multiple peaks spread across the beach help dilute the crowd, but the standout banks attract competitive lineups. Local vibe is manageable if you read the pecking order.
Cliff-top parking runs the length of the beach, free and easy to reach. Camping is available nearby. El Cotillo village is just north, with restaurants, bars, and a small supermarket. Leave nothing in your car.
When Cotillo closes out on big NW swells, Correlejo's outer bay peak to the north picks up the same energy with more room to breathe. The east coast offers reef options that prefer large N swells with W winds, worth checking when the northwest is maxed.
Forecast by Windy.app
