Popcorn Beach Playa del Bajo de la Burra - a sandy beach with a blue ocean in the background
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Popcorn Beach Playa del Bajo de la Burra

4.5
·3k reviews·Majanicho, Spain

Discover Fuerteventura's 'Popcorn Beach' (Playa del Bajo de la Burra), a unique shoreline covered in rhodoliths resembling popcorn.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early morning or late afternoon

Golden hour light is magical.

CrowdLow
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Popcorn Beach Playa del Bajo de la Burra - a sandy beach with a blue ocean in the background

Popcorn Beach Playa del Bajo de la Burra

Best Time

Early morning or late afternoon

Golden hour light is magical.

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Fuerteventura's 'Popcorn Beach' (Playa del Bajo de la Burra), a unique shoreline covered in rhodoliths resembling popcorn.

4.5
(3k reviews)

"A fascinating natural wonder where the sand looks like popcorn!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Off-road driving needed

The last few kilometers are bumpy and rocky. A 4x4 is recommended, or be prepared for a walk.

👟 Wear sturdy shoes

The terrain is uneven with loose stones. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The 'Popcorn' Shoreline

The 'Popcorn' Shoreline

Playa del Bajo de la Burra

Walk among millions of white, rounded rhodoliths that strikingly resemble popcorn. A truly unique natural wonder!

Volcanic Rock Formations

Volcanic Rock Formations

Along the coastline

Contrast the white 'popcorn' with dramatic black volcanic rocks, creating a visually stunning and photogenic landscape.

Coastal Exploration

Coastal Exploration

The entire beach area

Explore the rugged coastline, discover hidden coves, and enjoy the raw, natural beauty of this remote Fuerteventura spot.

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Planning Your Visit

Accessing Popcorn Beach

Reaching Popcorn Beach requires navigating some unpaved roads. While some visitors drive directly, others opt to walk the last stretch. Be prepared for a bumpy ride or a scenic walk, and always bring water and wear appropriate footwear. Reddit+1

Respecting the Unique Landscape

Popcorn Beach is famous for its rhodoliths, which resemble popcorn. These are fossilized algae and are a protected natural element. Visitors are strongly urged not to remove them to preserve the beach's unique ecosystem for future generations. TikTok+1

Best Times

When
Early morning or late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light is magical.
Crowd
Low
When
Midday
Why
See the 'popcorn' clearly.
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

¿Sabías que en Fuerteventura hay una playa con Palomitas?!🍿🌊😳 guárdate el video y añade esta parada a tu itinerario!! La playa se llama Playa de Majanicho #fuerteventura #canarias #islascanarias #canarias🇮🇨 #viaje #viajar #fyp #tipsdeviaje #travel #viajarporelmundo #playa #majanicho
@merideviaje
237 likes • 19.8K views

🚗 Off-road driving needed

The last few kilometers are bumpy and rocky. A 4x4 is recommended, or be prepared for a walk. Reddit

👟 Wear sturdy shoes

The terrain is uneven with loose stones. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring. Reddit

so there exists a beach full of popcorn... okay maybe not actual popcorn but look at how convincing the pebbles are!? #popcornbeach #fuerteventura #weirdcore #placestovisit #travelling #beachvibes #europebeaches
@packwithjack
49 likes • 1.8K views
Popcorn zamiast piasku? 🍿😱 Tą niezwykłą plażę znajdziecie na Fuerteventurze pod nazwą 📍Popcorn Beach (Playa del Bajo de la Burra). Legenda głosi, że co miesiąc z plaży ubywa aż 10 kg popcornowych kamyczków, które zabierają turyści, ale szczerze mówiąc ciężko wyobrazić sobie, że ktoś akurat śledzi wagę lub ilość kamieni na plaży, więc wrzucam to tylko jako taką ciekawostkę. Czy warto? Jak dla mnie,...
travelike.ada
2.8K likes • 176.3K views

💧 Bring plenty of water

There are no facilities. Stay hydrated, especially if walking or visiting during warmer months. Reddit+1

🚫 Don't take the 'popcorn'

These are protected rhodoliths. Admire them, but leave them on the beach for everyone to enjoy. TikTok+1

Playa el Hierro & del Bajo de la Burra also know as the Popcorn Beach covered with rhodolites stones that truly look like tasty popcorn! #fuerteventura #popcornbeach #playaelhierro #playadelbajodelaburra #travelling #podróże #podróż #canary #canaryislands #plaża
malvinadunder
0 likes • 343 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Off-road driving needed

The last few kilometers are bumpy and rocky. A 4x4 is recommended, or be prepared for a walk. Reddit

👟 Wear sturdy shoes

The terrain is uneven with loose stones. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring. Reddit

💧 Bring plenty of water

There are no facilities. Stay hydrated, especially if walking or visiting during warmer months. Reddit+1

🚫 Don't take the 'popcorn'

These are protected rhodoliths. Admire them, but leave them on the beach for everyone to enjoy. TikTok+1

🌬️ Wind protection

It can get quite windy. Pack an extra layer of clothing for comfort. Reddit

📸 Photogenic spot

The unique 'popcorn' sand and volcanic rocks make for stunning photos. TikTokInstagram

What Travellers Say

4.5
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Popcorn Beach is a unique natural wonder, praised for its fascinating 'popcorn'-like rhodoliths and dramatic volcanic rock formations. Visitors appreciate its photogenic qualities and the adventurous journey to reach it. However, the unpaved access roads and lack of facilities require careful preparation.

"Remote and rugged beach with unique white coral-like fragments and black volcanic rock formations. The last few kilometers require off-road driving, and parking is limited. Not ideal for swimming, but a fascinating and photogenic place to explore for nature lovers, especially those into geology or unique coastal landscapes."

Dima Baranetskyi

"Well worth the visit but be mindful that 2/3 miles leading to the beach, the road is bumpy with lose rocks/stones"

P C

"The “Popcorn Beach” 🏖️
About 15min drive from Corralejo and you will be pleased to see that beautiful view. Great tourist attraction. Yes the “sand” really looks like little popcorns and makes you smile when you see it. The beach is not too big but the view is very nice. Half an hour will be enough time to see and enjoy if you are just passing by as a tourist.

Noticed on the way there that some people were walking towards it. It is possible to reach it by walking but prepare yourself with water and suitable shoes. It is quite windy so have in mind some extra top clothes.
I am really happy that I had the chance to visit this place 🤩"

Maya Koleva

What People Like

Unique 'popcorn' sand
Photogenic landscape
Adventurous access

What People Dislike

Bumpy access road
No facilities
Not for swimming

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Popcorn Beach, also known as Playa del Bajo de la Burra or Playa del Mejillón, is located on the north coast of Fuerteventura, near Corralejo. The final stretch to the beach involves driving on unpaved, rocky, and sandy roads, which can be challenging for standard vehicles. Some visitors recommend a 4x4, while others suggest parking and walking the last 2-3 miles. TikTokReddit+1

Yes, it's possible to reach Popcorn Beach by walking, especially if you park your car further away. Be sure to bring plenty of water and wear suitable footwear, as the walk can be long and the terrain uneven. Reddit

The road leading to Popcorn Beach is largely unpaved and can be quite bumpy with loose rocks and stones. It's advisable to drive slowly and carefully, or consider walking if your vehicle is not suited for off-road conditions. Reddit

Yes, Popcorn Beach is situated on the northern side of Fuerteventura, a relatively short drive from the popular tourist town of Corralejo. TikTok+1

No, Popcorn Beach is a remote natural site with no facilities. Visitors should come prepared with their own food, water, and any other necessities. Reddit+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Popcorn Beach is a natural attraction and does not require an entrance fee or ticket. It's free to visit and explore. TikTok

As a natural beach, Popcorn Beach is accessible at all times. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and to fully appreciate the unique landscape. TikTok

There are no official limits on visitor numbers, but due to its remote location and limited parking, it can feel less crowded than more accessible beaches. Reddit

While specific regulations can vary, generally dogs are allowed on Fuerteventura's beaches, but it's always best to check local signage or guidelines. Ensure your dog is on a leash if required and cleans up after them. TikTok

Due to the unpaved roads and uneven terrain, Popcorn Beach may be challenging for individuals with significant mobility issues. Careful planning and assistance might be necessary. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The best times for photography are during the golden hours – early morning and late afternoon. The soft light beautifully highlights the texture of the rhodoliths and the contrast with the volcanic rocks. TikTokInstagram

The beach's unique 'popcorn' like rhodoliths, combined with the stark black volcanic rocks and the vast ocean backdrop, create a visually striking and unusual landscape that photographers love. TikTokInstagram

Drone regulations can change and vary by location. It's essential to check the latest drone laws for Fuerteventura and Spain before flying. Always fly responsibly and respect privacy. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal views. A macro lens can be useful for close-ups of the intricate rhodoliths. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance colors and reduce glare. TikTok

The entire beach offers unique photographic opportunities. Look for areas where the white rhodoliths contrast sharply with the dark volcanic rocks, or capture the waves interacting with the unusual 'sand'. TikTokInstagram

🎫 🌿 Nature & Environment

The 'popcorn' pieces are actually rhodoliths, which are rounded, fossilized algae. They are a unique geological formation that gives the beach its distinctive appearance. TikTokInstagram+1

Rhodoliths are a protected natural element. Removing them damages the delicate ecosystem and diminishes the unique beauty of the beach for future visitors. It's crucial to leave them in place. TikTok+1

Popcorn Beach is not ideal for swimming due to its rocky terrain and the presence of sharp rhodoliths. It's more of a place for exploration and appreciating the unique natural formations. Reddit

While the main attraction is the geological formations, you might spot seabirds along the coast. The surrounding marine environment is rich, but direct wildlife sightings on the beach itself are less common. TikTok

Popcorn Beach is formed by the accumulation of rhodoliths, which are calcified algae that have been rounded by ocean currents over time. These are then washed ashore, creating the 'popcorn' effect. TikTokInstagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Popcorn Beach offers a unique and engaging experience for families, though it requires some planning. The 'popcorn' sand is a huge hit with children, sparking imagination and fun. However, the journey involves driving on bumpy, unpaved roads, so ensure your vehicle is suitable or be prepared for a walk. Reddit It's crucial to emphasize to children the importance of not taking the rhodoliths; explain that they are special natural treasures that must stay on the beach. TikTok Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities. The beach is more for exploring and marveling at nature than for swimming, so focus on the adventure of discovery. Reddit

📸 Photographers & Nature Enthusiasts

For photographers and geology buffs, Popcorn Beach is a dream destination. The striking contrast between the white rhodoliths and the dark volcanic rocks provides endless opportunities for capturing unique landscapes. TikTokInstagram Visiting during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset will offer the most dramatic lighting for your shots. TikTok Remember to bring your macro lens to capture the intricate details of the rhodoliths. The remote nature of the beach means fewer crowds, allowing for uninterrupted creative time. Reddit

🚗 Adventurous Road Trippers

If you enjoy a bit of off-road adventure, Popcorn Beach is a perfect stop. The drive itself, with its rocky and sandy tracks, adds to the thrill of discovering this hidden gem. Reddit Be sure your vehicle is up for the challenge, or embrace the walk as part of the experience. Pack essentials like water and snacks, and prepare to be rewarded with a truly unique natural spectacle that stands out from typical beach destinations. TikTokReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Understanding the 'Popcorn'

The star attraction of Playa del Bajo de la Burra, famously dubbed 'Popcorn Beach', are the millions of small, white, rounded fragments that litter its shores. These aren't actual popcorn, but rather rhodoliths. Rhodoliths are free-living, multi-cellular algae that accumulate calcium carbonate, forming hard, nodular structures. Over time, ocean currents and wave action shape them into smooth, pebble-like forms that bear a striking resemblance to popcorn. TikTokInstagram+1

These formations are a testament to the unique marine environment of Fuerteventura. The process of their formation and accumulation on the beach is a slow, natural phenomenon. Many visitors are fascinated by this geological quirk, with some TikTok videos even humorously questioning if they can be eaten. TikTok+1 However, it's crucial to remember their ecological significance. As one Reddit user pointed out, these are natural wonders that should be preserved. Reddit

Preservation is key when visiting Popcorn Beach. The natural beauty of this place is fragile. Taking even a small handful of rhodoliths contributes to the erosion of this unique landscape. Social media content strongly emphasizes the importance of leaving these natural treasures undisturbed for future generations to marvel at. TikTok+1

Navigating to and Experiencing Popcorn Beach

Reaching Popcorn Beach is part of the adventure, as it's not your typical easily accessible tourist spot. Located on the northern coast of Fuerteventura, the journey often involves navigating unpaved roads. Many visitors report that the final few kilometers require driving on bumpy, rocky, and sandy terrain. Reddit+1 While some opt for a 4x4 vehicle, others manage with standard cars by driving slowly and carefully, or by parking further away and walking the remaining distance. Reddit

Once you arrive, the experience is one of raw, natural beauty. The beach itself is characterized by its unique 'popcorn' shore and contrasting black volcanic rocks. It's not an ideal spot for swimming due to the rough terrain and the presence of the rhodoliths. Instead, it's a place for exploration and photography. Visitors often spend time walking along the shore, admiring the unusual landscape, and capturing its unique visual appeal. TikTokInstagramReddit

Practical advice from travelers highlights the need for preparation. Bringing plenty of water is essential, as there are no facilities nearby. Wearing sturdy, comfortable shoes is also highly recommended due to the uneven ground. Some visitors also note that the area can be quite windy, so packing an extra layer of clothing is a good idea. Reddit+1

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