The Caleta de Fuste natural swimming pool is one of Fuerteventura’s jewels. Also known as the Krabbenfelsen or Piscina Natural or Secret Pool, this magnificent rock-surrounded pool offers a unique (but not easy) swimming experience, in a breathtaking volcanic setting.
Here are some useful tips to help you prepare for your visit and have a wonderful time!
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Why visit the piscina natural de Caleta de Fuste?
Is the natural swimming pool worth a visit? Our opinion:
Yes, the Caleta de Fuste Natural Pool is well worth a visit. This natural pool offers a unique bathing experience, surrounded by volcanic rock formations. We were particularly impressed by the emerald color of the water when it’s calm at low tide (which unfortunately isn’t always the case). The crystal-clear water allows you to observe the underwater rocks.
This is one of Fuerteventura’s most beautiful natural pools.
Our favorite moments
Photographers will particularly appreciate the striking contrasts between the volcanic black of the rocks, the deep blue of the ocean and the brilliant turquoise of the natural pool. But for the best shots, you need low tide at a time when there aren’t too many bathers…
A LITTLE MORE patience
All the photos, maps, information and addresses you need to make your stay in the Canaries a success will soon be available in a single ebook!
If you’d like to be notified when our guide to the Canaries is published, please subscribe:
How to get to the Caleta de Fuste Natural Swimming Pool: access and map
Where is the natural swimming pool?
- On the east coast of Fuerteventura
- Close to the small tourist town of Caleta de Fuste
- 10min walk along the promenade to reach the promontory from the town (to the north).
- Here’s a map to help you find your way to Caleta de Fuste:
OUR TIPS FOR RENTING A CAR IN Fuerteventura
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- A small car is all you need.
- But you can also choose a larger one if you wish, as the parking spaces are rather large.
- Demand is high, so book early.
How to get there? Access road
The easiest way to reach the natural pool is by car. From Puerto del Rosario, head south on the FV-2 and follow the signs for Caleta de Fuste. Once in the city, head north along the coast on Avenue Maritima. We recommend free parking along this avenue, near the northern tip of the small peninsula.
If you’re already staying in Caleta de Fuste or are arriving by public transport, you can easily get there on foot from the town center. Follow the sidewalk north along the coast. Please note that there are no signs indicating the natural pool, so use a map or GPS coordinates to find your way.
Parking
Free parking is available along Avenida Maritima, north of Caleta de Fuste. From here, it’s just a few minutes’ walk to the tip of the peninsula, then off the trail to venture over the volcanic rocks towards the ocean.
WHERE TO STAY IN Caleta de Fuste
Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels
Near the main beach:
Hotel Barcelo Royal Level Adults-only – See prices, photos and availability
Hotel Barcelo Royal Level – Family-club – See prices, photos and availability
Near the Golf course:
Hotel Elba Palace, 5 stars – See prices, photos and availability
Useful tips: duration, schedules, difficulties…
Best time to visit, opening hours and prices
The best time to visit the natural pool is undoubtedly at low tide, when the water is calm and crystal-clear. We strongly recommend that you check the tide tables before your visit, as the pool is only really visible and accessible when the tide is out. At high tide, the waves completely submerge the basin, making it invisible and dangerous for bathing.
To get the most out of the experience, plan to arrive about an hour before low tide. Here you can observe how the basin gradually calms down as the tide recedes.
The natural swimming pool is open 24/7, and the visit is completely free of charge. However, if you want to avoid the crowds, opt for the early hours of the day, or visit during the week rather than at weekends.
Length of visit and main difficulties
If you’ve come just to take photos, 30 minutes may be enough, but if you want to swim and relax, allow at least 1 hour.
The main difficulty lies in access to the pool. You’ll have to walk on volcanic rocks that can be sharp and slippery, especially near water. We strongly advise you to wear suitable closed shoes (no flip-flops) to access the site, and water shoes for swimming.
Look at the photo below to see what you have to get down, and the rocks really aren’t flat! Watch your ankles!
Please note: you won’t be able to see the pool from the road. You have to walk a little on the rocks!
Visiting with children
Visits with young children require constant supervision. Sharp rocks and the absence of marked trails pose a risk for young children. We recommend this tour for children aged 6-7 and over, able to walk carefully on the rocks.
Bear in mind that depths vary and the water can be quite cool, even on sunny days.
Catering, Toilets and Facilities
There are no facilities on the site of the natural swimming pool. No toilets, no showers, no drinking water, no parasols or deckchairs. We advise you to come well-prepared with water, sun protection and, if necessary, a small towel.
HAVE FUN WITH THESE activities
- Dolphin watching
- Boat to Lobos Island
- Buggy tour
- But also; surfing lessons, 4WD tour in Cofete, windsurfing, scuba diving…
Route from Caleta de Fuste
We highly recommend walking from Caleta de Fuste beach. The path is very pleasant, with the sound of the waves against the rocks.
An emerald or turquoise pool
The most striking feature of this natural pool is undoubtedly its emerald color, which contrasts magnificently with the surrounding black volcanic rock. Unfortunately, it’s not always visible. You need a low tide and cloudless sunshine.
This chromatic phenomenon is particularly striking at low tide, when the water becomes perfectly calm. Turquoise and emerald hues intensify under the Canarian sun.
Ponds
You’ll see other ponds around the pool, but these have stagnant water.
So they’re not for bathing. But the colors of the algae should delight nature and geology enthusiasts.
Volcanic rock formations
The geological environment around the natural pool is just as fascinating as the pool itself. Volcanic rock formations bear witness to Fuerteventura’s geological history. We were impressed by the basalt columns surrounding the pool, with their geometric shapes.
If you’re a geology enthusiast or simply curious, you’ll enjoy observing the different textures and colors of the rocks, which range from deep black to shades of reddish brown depending on their mineral composition.
Salt
And between the rocks, notice the small white deposits.
It’s salt where the water has evaporated.
We even saw someone picking up salt along the path to the pool.
Subscribe to our Newsletter
- Get away from it all with Region Lovers’ beautiful destinations!
- Once a month
- Advertising-free
Other nearby attractions
You can combine your visit to the Caleta de Fuste Natural Swimming Pool with these nearby attractions:
- Caleta de Fuste beach, a protected golden sandy beach ideal for families (15min walk)
- The port of Caleta de Fuste, where you can watch the boats and perhaps book a sea excursion (15-minute walk).
- Corralejo dunes, a spectacular 10km stretch of white sand (45min drive)
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit the natural pool?
The best time to visit the natural pool is at low tide, when the water is calm and crystal-clear. We recommend consulting the tide tables before your visit and arriving before low tide. The site is accessible all year round thanks to Fuerteventura’s mild climate, but prefer sunny days to take full advantage of the water’s colors.
Is the water cold in the natural pool?
Yes, the water can be quite cool, even in the summer months. As a natural pool fed by the Atlantic Ocean, the water temperature is similar to that of the surrounding sea.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Fuerteventura
- Best of
Most beautiful landscapes
Best things to do in Fuerteventura
Most beautiful beaches
Cities and villages
Natural pools
Boat tours
Secret places, off the beaten track
- Practical advice
25 tips for a successful trip to Fuerteventura
How to get around
How to rent a car in Fuerteventura
Driving tips
Best excursions
Itineraries: 3 days – 4 days – 5 days – 1 week – 10 days
