Introduction to the Mirador del Salmo – Fuerteventura (also called Mirador del Salmo)
The Mirador del Salmo – Fuerteventura, also known as Mirador de la Playa Sotavento, is one of those places that takes your breath away as soon as you arrive. We have lived on the island for more than four years, and it still happens to us. It is located on the southeast coast of the Jandía peninsula and offers one of the most iconic views of the entire island: kilometers of golden sand, a Sotavento lagoon that appears and disappears depending on the tides, sandbars, and a turquoise ocean that looks hand-drawn.
Some people arrive out of curiosity, others looking for the famous colorful bench, and many come to be surprised by the changing landscape of Sotavento beach. But everyone agrees on one thing: it is a magical place.
If you are planning to explore the south of Fuerteventura, this viewpoint cannot be missed on your itinerary.
Why does it have two names?
- Mirador de Sotavento: the most touristy name, related to the beach.
- Mirador del Salmo: the local name due to its proximity to the Playa del Salmo (this is how you will find it on signs or on Google Maps).
Both are correct. It is the same place.
🌍 Travel Insurance: 5% Off with IATI Seguros! 🌟
Take advantage of this offer and travel safe.
History and evolution of the Mirador de Sotavento / Mirador del Salmo
Although it is super popular today, for years it was simply a viewpoint on the road. Surfers, windsurfers, and locals used it to check the tides and the wind.
The change came with the colorful bench, which turned the viewpoint into a tourist symbol. This simple detail turned the esplanade into a unique photo spot while still preserving the original landscape.
We love that, despite the increase in visitors, the essence of the place remains intact: pure nature.
Relax, Sit, Contemplate and Enjoy the beaches of Sotavento in the south of Fuerteventura.
The views: lagoon, dunes and infinite beaches
From above, you have a complete postcard of what makes this area of southern Fuerteventura so special.
The Sotavento Lagoon
It appears and disappears depending on the tide. It is one of the most incredible natural phenomena on the island. Its color can range from mint green to deep blue depending on the daylight.
A landscape that changes every hour
From the Mirador del Salmo you can see:
- Lines of fine sand
- Golden dunes that ripple with the wind
- Kilometer-long, practically virgin beaches
- Reddish volcanic mountains
- An ocean that is either flat or wild depending on the wind
Each visit is different, and that is why we go back again and again.
Sotavento Beach:
On the Jandía peninsula in Fuerteventura, Spain, lies Playa de Sotavento, very close to Costa Calma. It is actually several kilometers of beaches, made up of 5 beaches:
- Playa de la Barca
- Risco del Paso
- Playa El Salmo
- Playa Los Canarios
- Playa Mal Nombre
These beaches are characterized by their impressive natural beauty, with golden sands and crystal-clear waters in a turquoise green tone that contrasts with the imposing sand dunes that surround them.
The beaches visible from the Mirador del Salmo
This part of the coast is made up of several beaches that together create Sotavento:
Playa de la Barca
Epicenter of windsurfing and kite championships.
Risco del Paso
With its sandbar that divides the lagoon. A natural wonder.
Other nearby Sotavento beaches
Los Canarios
Wide, quiet, and perfect for walking.
Mal Nombre
A very charming beach.
👩⚕️👨⚕️ A must-have for stress-free travel! 🌎✈️ ➜ Get a Quote, Compare & Buy
How to get to the Mirador de Sotavento (Mirador del Salmo)
Getting there is very easy, no matter where you are coming from.
From the main FV-2 road, on the way to Morro Jable, you must take the exit towards Playa del Salmo. Then, at the roundabout, take the FV-602 road towards Playa del Salmo. In one of the curves, there is a viewpoint with the colorful bench that offers magnificent views.
Most common routes
-
From Corralejo: approx. 1h 30min – Route FV-1 → FV-2. Exit Playa del Salmo
-
From Puerto del Rosario: approx. 55min – all via Route FV-2. Exit Playa del Salmo
-
From Morro Jable: 20 min – ideal if you are already in the south. Exit El Salmo
Take the exit towards Playa del Salmo / El Salmo and then the FV-602, after approx. 200 meters you will find the viewpoint.
Coordinates and parking
-
Available as “Mirador del Salmo” on Google Maps.
- 📍GPS Point (Mirador de Sotavento – Google Maps)
-
Simple parking, with few spaces, on the side of the road.
-
There is no shade, nor much more than the bench and the surprising views.
Tip: when it is windy (usually), hold onto your car door. We’ve had several hats fly away here!
Or a mobile phone even smashed on the tripod when it fell due to the wind. Be careful he he.
Things to do near the Mirador de Sotavento
Kitesurfing and windsurfing
Sotavento is world-famous. Home of the Fuerteventura World Cup.
Surfing, SUP and snorkeling
On days without strong wind, there are ideal conditions for beginners.
Panoramic walks
There are short trails that lead to secondary points with incredible views.
Water Sports at the Mirador de Sotavento
If you are a water sports enthusiast, Playa de Sotavento is ideal! The constant winds and perfect conditions make this destination famous for kitesurfing and windsurfing. Depending on the day, surfing and even paddle SUP. You can rent equipment or take classes if you are a beginner. Get ready for an exciting adventure on the waves!
Jandía Natural Park
The Mirador de Sotavento is located near the Jandía Natural Park, an ecological gem of Fuerteventura. Here, you can explore the island’s rich biodiversity, observe exotic birds, and discover unique plants that thrive in this unique environment.
Hiking in the Jandía Mountains
If you are a nature lover, you cannot miss the opportunity to go hiking in the Jandía mountains. The trails will take you through stunning landscapes and allow you to connect with the natural beauty of Fuerteventura.
If you are in the south and you like viewpoints, you cannot miss the Mirador de COFETE
➜More Info: Mirador de Cofete
Street markets in the southern part of Fuerteventura
Morro Jable Market
Costa Calma Market
Oasis WildLife Market
➜More Info: Street markets in Fuerteventura: Days and times
Weather in the area: wind, sun and temperatures
Fuerteventura is the island of the wind, and Sotavento is living proof of that.
Best months
- Spring and autumn: perfect weather for exploring
- Summer: ideal for wind sports
- Winter: mild days and beautiful light for photos
Other places to visit in the north of Fuerteventura
➜ Guide: Things to do in El Cotillo
➜ Guide: Things to do in Corralejo
Delicious Canarian Gastronomy and typical dishes
You cannot visit Fuerteventura without trying the delicious local gastronomy.
Local restaurants offer fresh and delicious dishes, with an emphasis on fish and seafood.
-Papas Arrugadas con Mojo: This is one of the most iconic dishes in the Canary Islands. They are small potatoes boiled in salted water until the skin wrinkles. They are served with mojo, a delicious sauce made with garlic, olive oil, vinegar, and peppers.
-Majorero Cheese: Fuerteventura is famous for its majorero cheese, made from goat’s milk. You can find it in several varieties, from mild to cured. It is ideal to enjoy with a good Canarian wine.
-Ropa vieja canaria or the “Puchero canario”, is made with shredded beef slow-cooked with chickpeas, potatoes, and a delicious tomato sauce.
Try dishes like “gofio,” a traditional corn-based food, or fresh fish caught in the nearby waters.
These are traditional dishes that will let you taste the authentic culinary culture of Fuerteventura.
A typical drink is the Barraquito: Typical Canarian coffee, containing condensed milk, liqueur, espresso, and milk.
Fruits: Canarian banana / Pitaya (dragon fruit) / Piel de Sapo melon / Mango.
Recommended areas
- Costa Calma: variety for all tastes
- Morro Jable: super fresh fish and seafood
Where to stay near the Mirador de Sotavento
-
Meliá Fuerteventura: the closest to the beach
-
Apartments in Costa Calma.
-
Boutique hotels with sea views.
Where to Stay in Fuerteventura - Map y Precios
On the map below, you can zoom in, move around, and filter by your travel dates to see real-time accommodation prices in Fuerteventura.
Final tips from our experience living on the island
We can assure you one thing: Sotavento never disappoints. Whenever you come, you will see something different. If you can, visit it both at high tide and low tide. They are two completely different landscapes.
And if you like photography… free up memory space, because you are going to take MANY photos.
➜More Info: Things to do in Fuerteventura from North to South
Tours in Fuerteventura
Are Mirador de Sotavento and Mirador del Salmo the same?
Yes. It is the same viewpoint; only the name changes according to the nearby beach.
Can you walk down from the viewpoint to the beach?
You can, but it is not recommended. It is long, downhill, and there is no comfortable trail. It is better to drive down.
Are there services at the viewpoint?
No. Bring water and sunscreen.
When does the lagoon form?
With high tide. At low tide, it can almost completely disappear.
Where is the Mirador de Sotavento located?
The Mirador de Sotavento is located on the southeast coast of Fuerteventura, on the Jandía peninsula, near Costa Calma.
What is the best time to visit the Mirador de Sotavento?
The best time to visit the Mirador de Sotavento is during spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and the winds are ideal for water sports.
Do you need previous experience to practice kitesurfing in Sotavento?
You do not need previous kitesurfing experience to enjoy this exciting activity in Sotavento. You can take beginner classes and learn the necessary skills.
Are there accommodation options near the Mirador de Sotavento?
Yes, there are a variety of accommodation options near the Mirador de Sotavento, including hotels, apartments, and villas. You can choose according to your budget and preferences. The closest option is the town of Costa Calma or the same Meliá Fuerteventura resort which is directly on the same beach of Sotavento.
What makes the Mirador de Sotavento special?
The Mirador de Sotavento is special due to its stunning golden sand beaches, ideal conditions for water sports like kitesurfing and windsurfing, the Sotavento lagoon that appears and disappears with the tides, its proximity to the Jandía Natural Park, and the hiking opportunities in the Jandía mountains.
What water sports activities can be enjoyed at the Mirador de Sotavento?
At the Mirador de Sotavento, you can practice kitesurfing, windsurfing, surfing, paddle surfing (SUP), and you can rent equipment or take classes if you are a beginner.
What is the best time to visit Fuerteventura?
The best time to visit Fuerteventura is during the spring and autumn months, when the weather is pleasant and temperatures are mild. However, Fuerteventura is a warm-weather destination all year round, so you can visit it in any season.
SUSTAINABILITY (IMPORTANT):
It is of the utmost importance to take care of the environment at all times and in all places. When visiting natural areas, we must take into account the following measures:
– ♻️ It is essential not to leave any type of waste, including cigarette butts 🚬 and food scraps 🍌. It is advisable to leave the place even cleaner than we found it.
– 🌊 It is important not to throw any objects or waste into the sea, as this causes a great impact on the marine ecosystem 🐟.
– 🌷 We must respect the flora and fauna 🐐 of the place we visit, without disturbing or feeding them (including not feeding the squirrels 🐿). We must also not pick flowers or plants from the surroundings.
– 💎 It is not appropriate to take stones (or stack them) or other elements from the natural environment, as these are part of the ecosystem and their extraction can affect its balance.
– 🚶♀️🚶♀️ It is necessary to respect the trails and not stray from them, 🥾 so as not to damage the vegetation and the soil.
-🆘 In case of emergency, we can request help by calling the emergency number 112.
Conclusion
Visiting the Mirador de Sotavento – Fuerteventura, or Mirador del Salmo, is discovering one of the most iconic landscapes on the island. It is a place that blends beach, nature, wind, colors, and tranquility in a unique way.
For us, it is one of those corners that we never stop recommending. Every time we return, we feel like we are seeing Fuerteventura for the first time. And that, for a traveler, is everything.
ℹ️ **Total Transparency**
This article contains affiliate links. If you book through these links, we may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. We only recommend services that we use on our trips and that we trust. This helps us keep this blog free and continue creating useful content for you. Thank you for your support!
🔗 Resources & Useful Links for your trip to Fuerteventura
Do you have any questions or would you like to add your own recommendations on things to do in Fuerteventura?
💬 Leave your comment or write to us, we love reading about other travelers’ experiences.
Thank you very much for being part of this adventure!— Nanu & Facu 🌎 | Recalculando Viajes 💜
