Is that popcorn? No your eyes are not deceiving you. Welcome to Playa del Bajo de la Burra. It is also known as Popcorn Beach. Here you will find what appears to be a beach covered in popcorn. This beach is not your typical beach. Forget sand or pebbles.
Playa del Bajo de la Burra is covered in small white algae fossils. These fossils are called rhodoliths. They look like popcorn and give the beach its nickname. Originally, they are red. Over time these algae turn white. The waves push them ashore. This gives them their unique shape.
You will find examples of these popcorn pieces in other destinations too. But Playa del Bajo de la Burra in Fuerteventura is definitely one of the most impressive examples.
Playa del Bajo de la Burra is located to the north of Fuerteventura. It is close to Corralejo in the La Oliva municipality. From Corralejo, you can hike to the beach. The hike takes about one hour around the coast. Alternatively, you can drive to Playa del Bajo de la Burra. Head west towards El Cotillo. Then turn off toward Majanicho. Majanicho is a small fishing village. The village touches the beach. The roads are better than expected. Many roads leading to the coast are simply dirt tracks.
The beach is a perfect spot for a sunset picnic. The village was quaint and cute with light blues shining through. We were greeted by a plethora of different seabirds.
Walk around to the North of the beach. Here the sand begins to grow and turn into popcorn. The popcorn was rather sharp. The shoreline has multiple rock pools. Explore them and see the fun little invertebrates that live within them. Large black crabs patrol the boulders. Translucent shrimps jump around the pool.
Playa del Bajo de la Burra is one of those places that you should not miss in Fuerteventura. The white and black colors of the rhodoliths and the rock dance with each other. This generates a picture of unique beauty. The beach is also known as Caleta del Barco or Playa del Mejillón. It lies between Majanicho and Corralejo.
The temptation to take rhodoliths home as souvenirs is very great. The authorities put up big signs. They indicate the prohibition of removing them from the beach. Do not take the rhodoliths home. Leave them in their place. Do not alter the ecosystem of the place. Allow others to enjoy this unique environment just as you have done.
Please do not take any of it away if you visit the beach. It is starting to disappear. Visitors are taking souvenirs home with them. This is also illegal.
Remember to respect this unique environment. Enjoy the popcorn-like algae. Leave only footprints behind. Playa del Bajo de la Burra is a testament to nature’s artistry. It offers a unique experience for everyone.