Morro Jable in southern Fuerteventura has a lot to offer. This beautiful place offers miles of golden sands, water sports, nature spotting, boat trips and so much more.
Morro Jable is located on the south coast of Fuerteventura, which is one of the Canary Islands off the coast of Africa. Once a small fishing village, it has since grown into one of the island’s most popular resorts.
Morro Jable is favoured by German visitors in particular, and the resort is clustered around Playa del Matorral, a golden sandy beach which stretches for around two-and-a-half miles (or four kilometres). You can find the Morro Jable lighthouse and port here, plus a turtle nursery and a sperm whale skeleton. Another attraction for wildlife lovers is the Saladar de Jandía wetlands just north of the town.
The more developed parts of the resort provide visitors with all the accommodation options, shops, bars, cafes and restaurants they could need. It’s also possible to sample water sports like sailing, windsurfing, scuba diving, kiteboarding, surfing and deep-sea fishing at Morro Jable beach.
Much of the resort remains unspoiled, and simple pleasures like long coastal walks, exploring history or sampling local food remain very much a way of life here. If this destination appeals to you, read on to discover things to do in Morro Jable, plus where to stay and eat and how to get there. This is the ultimate guide to Morro Jable, Fuerteventura.
How to Get to Morro Jable
There is one direct bus route between the Airport and Morro Jable, and this runs a few times a day. This is route 10 from Puerto del Rosario. The entire journey takes about one hour and 45 minutes and costs €9.70. Bear in mind that the buses run even less frequently on Saturdays, and only twice per day on Sundays and public holidays.
You can also get to Morro Jable from Puerto de Rosario via bus 1, which takes about two hours and costs 10.00 €.
Another way to get there is to take a taxi. As the distance is 80 kilometres, this costs around €100 and takes just over an hour.
Morro Jable also has a port, and ferries to and from Gran Canaria operate here. When visiting Fuerteventura from Tenerife by ferry, you’ll travel via Gran Canaria, then to Morro Jable.
Things to Do in Morro Jable
Hit the Beach
The most obvious option for those wondering what to do in Morro Jable is to hit the beach. Idyllic Playa del Matorral is the resort’s main beach and offers soft golden sands lapped by azure waters.
The four kilometre stretch is sometimes known as Morro Jable Beach, and here you can sunbathe, swim or sample some water sports. Playa del Matorral is one of the best beaches in the whole of Fuerteventura, yet it’s also close to all the amenities you could wish for.
The Blue Flag beach offers sun loungers and parasols, disabled access, toilets and a year-round lifeguard service. There are beachfront cafes, restaurants and bars here serving fresh seafood, paella, ice cream and drinks. You can also try water sports such as windsurfing, paddle boarding, surfing, kayaking and snorkelling here.
Do be aware that the northern end of the beach is a nudist-friendly area.
Experience Morro Jable Lighthouse
Morro Jable’s working lighthouse is 60 metres high and an iconic part of the southern Fuerteventura coastline. Construction of the lighthouse was completed in 1991, and it’s fully automated. The beam of white light emitted stretches for around 20 nautical miles.
Seeing this attractive white-painted lighthouse at sunset and snapping some pictures here is highly recommended. It can be clearly seen from Playa del Matorral, as it’s positioned right at the tip of this coastal stretch.
Discover the Turtle Nursery
Morro Jable’s port is home to a small turtle rehabilitation centre. Here turtles are cared for until they’re ready to re-enter the ocean. The centre is free to visit, though you’re welcome to make a donation towards turtle conservation. It’s open on weekdays between 10 am and 1 pm.
As it’s a small place, each visitor is subject to a 20 minute time limit. This is enough to see what goes on here, and to observe the resident loggerhead turtles. Many of these have sustained injuries or sickness due to ocean debris including plastic and fishing hooks or nets.
Turtles are also reared here via donor eggs. The nursery cares for these until they’re well equipped to survive after being released back into the ocean.
See the Skeleton of Sperm Whale
A sperm whale skeleton can be found on the grassy area in Morro Jable, close to Playa del Matorral and the lighthouse. This is an interesting spot to visit not only because of the skeleton, but also as there is also a nice kids’ playground and a picnic area nearby.
Bright green Monk Parakeets are also common here, and you can feed and take photos with these. It’s a super fun spot for families, with superb sea views.
Shop at Morro Jable Market
The local market takes place every Monday and Thursday between 9 am and 2 pm at the Cosmo Shopping Centre.
This market sells fake designer goods, high quality leather items and handmade wares. Foodstuffs are also sold here, and you can try delicious samples while wandering around the stalls.
Stroll Along the Seafront Promenade
The oceanfront promenade runs for a kilometre between the resort and the beach. A refreshing sea breeze here is very welcome when the Morro Jable weather is hot, and you can stop for a break at any of the cafes or bars here. The aromas of grilling seafood and paella being prepared can be irresistible!
If you follow the full length of the promenade, you can see both traditional fisherman’s homes and modern holiday resorts. For those who like to run, it’s a lovely place to exercise.
Head Up to the Viewpoint
The viewpoint in Morro Jable is located near the Nuestra Señora del Carmen church (location). You can take the stairs leading from the beach towards the bell tower, and it’s worth the uphill slog for the breathtaking coastal views. Turquoise waters, palm trees, rugged rocky stretches and pristine sands all await those who take the uphill walk.
Explore the Saladar de Jandia Wetlands
Backing Playa del Matorral in Morro Jable is the Saladar de Jandía wetland reserve. The unique environment here has provided a habitat for particular species of flora and fauna.
Birdwatchers in particular will love exploring the wetlands, as there are many migratory and resident species to see. Other creatures to spot include chipmunks, salamanders, hares and donkeys. For flora fans, the wetlands’ attractions include plants that live only in saltwater environments.
Join a Boat Trip
To appreciate the beauty of Fuerteventura’s southern coast, you can join a boat trip to see the island from the water. There are some pristine beaches to see while you sail, and kids love the adventure of taking to the water.
You also have the opportunity of going dolphin and whale watching in Morro Jable, or donning a snorkel. One of the ideal options for families is to take a pirate boat, or you can enjoy a trio that includes swimming, snorkelling and a tapas lunch.
Dolphin & Whale Watching Boat Trip
This one-and-a-half hour boat trip will take you in search of whales, dolphins and turtles. You can also view mountain and coastal scenery from the water.
Sailing Trip with Snorkeling and Dolphin Watching
Taking a full day trip allows you to see manta rays as well as going in search of dolphins and whales. Snorkelling, swimming and tapas are also included.
Fuerteventura Pirate Adventure by Boat
Hop aboard a pirate ship with the family to explore. The cruise includes a Canarian lunch, mammal spotting and even some sailing instruction.
Visit Playa de Cofete
If you are staying in Morro Jable, Cofete beach is very easy to visit as it’s in the nearest town to it. It’s about a 40-minute drive from Morro Jable to Cofete. There is also the option of bus number 111. This travels from Morro Jable Bus Station (location) to Cofete two times per day at 10:00 and 14:00, and returns at approximately 12:45 and 16:45. Here is the full timetable. The price is 8.7 euros per ticket.
It’s not the easiest drive to Cofete, as the rocky, dusty track is unpaved, but it is worth the effort. If you’re seeking an unspoiled beach, then this is the perfect place. Backed by the Jandía Natural Park mountains, the long beach has glorious golden sand fringed by clear turquoise waters.
Due to strong currents and wave action, swimming here can be dangerous. Instead, perhaps take a walk in search of the sand-covered coastal cemetery among the dunes. If you arrive early, you might well see no one else at Playa de Cofete. The sunset here is spectacular, but of course witnessing this may mean navigating the treacherous track in the dark.
Call at Jandia Lighthouse
Jandia lighthouse is located on the island’s southernmost tip (Google Maps). It’s one of the Canaries’ oldest lighthouses and like the one in Morro Jable, it’s a working lighthouse.
The lighthouse comprises a single storey whitewashed and volcanic rock building with a tower around 20 metres tall. It occupies a secluded spot, so you can enjoy a sense of getting away from it all. As well as superlative views.
Hike to the Highest Point in Fuerteventura
The hike to Fuerteventura’s highest point – Pico de la Zarza – starts close to Morro Jable, near the Jandia golf course (location).
A summit at over 800 metres takes around five to six hours to walk to and from. So take plenty of water, sunscreen and food, and wear appropriate clothing and shoes. As you might expect, the views are incredible.
You can use this map for a 13.0-km out-and-back trail. It’s open all year round, and is classed as a challenging route. The trail is also popular with mountain bikers. If you want to avoid the afternoon heat, it’s best to set off as early as you can.
Best Places to Stay
Best – XQ El Palacete
This paradisiacal place is the pick of the Morro Jable hotels when you don’t mind paying a little more. All rooms here offer sea views, and watching the sunset from your own terrace or balcony is truly special.
This peaceful hotel can be found right by Jandia Beach, and has a pool area offering stunning coastal panoramas. Delicious and plentiful buffet breakfasts are served daily, and the hotel also offers a restaurant and bar and a guest lounge with live music.
Mid-Range – MUR Faro Jandia Fuerteventura & Spa
The Faro Jandía is a four star resort with a superb spa on site. This property is just a few hundred metres from the beach, and boasts a trio of swimming pools. There are views over the pool area, gardens or ocean from all rooms.
The facilities at this luxurious and squeaky-clean Morro Jable hotel are top-notch. There’s a spa with Turkish baths, a sauna, a hot tub and sensation showers. At this hotel you can also use the gym and tennis courts, and live entertainment is provided during the evenings.
Mid-Range – Apartamentos Igramar MorroJable – Adults Only
Apartamentos Igramar Morro Jable is just a stone’s throw from the beach, and the complex offers a lovely pool area with sun loungers and sea views. This is an adults only property, so it’s perfect for couples seeking peace.
Each room here comes with a generously sized balcony or terrace, and most offer ocean views. The location is quiet, yet within a 15 minute walk of the resort centre. Even the smallest accommodation here comes with kitchen facilities, so it’s ideal for a self-catering break.
Budget – Villamar Hotel
Villamar Hotel has a three star rating and offers a clean, comfortable base for those on a budget. The hotel has a pool with a sun-drenched terrace and an outdoor hot tub, plus a gym. The beach is around 200 metres away.
All air-conditioned accommodation at Villamar has a lounge area and an equipped kitchenette, and some larger rooms also have balconies and dining areas. The location is convenient for all the resort amenities, such as shopping, dining out and nightlife.
Our Favorite Morro Jable Restaurants
La Farola del Mar
For the freshest seafood, La Farola del Mar is unbeatable. There’s a sunny outdoor terrace with sea views here too.
Restaurant la Puntilla Casa Menso
The tapas, steaks and seafood at Restaurant la Puntilla Casa Menso are superb, and the service very helpful indeed.
Mis Abuelos
Mis Abuelos is one of the most popular tapas places in Morro Jable. It’s family-run and has a welcoming atmosphere.
Simon’s Kitchen at the Irish Times
If you fancy something other than food from Spain or the Canaries, Simon’s Kitchen at this Irish pub serves some of the best burgers and pizzas in Morro Jable.
Taberuga Restaurante Pizzería
Pizza, pasta and views of palm trees and the lighthouse await at Taberuga. The service and food are all excellent.
Morro Jable Nightlife
Even though Morro Jable is a calm and relaxed kind of town, there still are great bars and clubs for enjoying nights out.
Mojo Beach Club
Mojo Beach Club is the place to come for colourful cocktails, shisha pipes, hip hop tracks and a cool crowd.
Bar Oasis
Bar Oasis is ideal for those seeking their local while away from home. Staff are helpful and the drinks are reasonably priced.
Tortuga Fuerteventura
If you want to dance until dawn, then Tortuga in Morro Jable is your best bet. Don’t be fooled if it’s quiet early on, as many guests don’t arrive until well after midnight.
