Aguas Verdes is a settlement on the Atlantic coast of Fuerteventura, in the municipality of Betancuria in the Canary Islands. Its shore of dark volcanic rock is broken by natural pools that fill with clear seawater and are used for swimming and snorkelling when the tide allows. The coast here is known for heavy surf and a rough coastal path, and crabs live in large numbers on the rocks.
Aguas Verdes Natural Pools
Local name: Aguas Verdes
Natural rock pools of clear seawater on Fuerteventura's wave-battered west coast, with crabs on the rocks
- Entrance
- Free; there is no ticket.
- Accessibility
- Not accessible by wheelchair: no step-free parking or entry, and the pools are reached by walking and climbing over rock. Hard going for anyone with limited mobility.
- Parking
- No car park is marked near the shore. Do not drive all the way down: the last stretch is hard to drive back up.
- Difficulty
- Walking and climbing over uneven volcanic rock to reach the pools; the coastal path is dangerous and exposed to the waves.
- Transport
- No bus stop nearby; a car is needed.
- Advance booking
- Not needed.
- Hours
- Open at any time; using the pools depends on the tide.
- Address
- Playa de Sta. Inés, 2, 35637 Betancuria, Las Palmas, Spain
What makes it special
The ocean does the talking at Aguas Verdes. Big Atlantic waves break hard against the rocks, the roar carries across the whole shore, and in the pools the water lies clear enough to see straight to the bottom.
The rocks themselves are worth the time: ridges and hollows to climb around, and crabs everywhere once you start looking. The pools are good for a swim or a snorkel. The water is cold in May, though fine for a short dip. The shore rarely feels crowded, and the view along the coast is the reward for the scramble.
Good to know
- Check tide times before you go if you plan to use the pools.
- There are no toilets and no drinking water nearby. Bring water with you.
- Reaching the pools means walking and climbing over rock, and the coastal path is dangerous.
- There is no shelter on the rocks, so rain ends a visit early.
- Pack a mask: the pools are clear enough to snorkel.
Getting there
Aguas Verdes is a trip by car: there is no bus stop nearby, and no car park is marked near the shore. The road drops down towards the sea. Leave the car before the very bottom, because the last stretch is hard to drive back up.
From the car the rest is on foot over rock, with some climbing to reach the pools. The coastal path along the shore is dangerous, so take it slowly and watch every step, especially where spray has wet the rock.
Best time to visit
Best: a dry day with a calm sea, timed by the tide tables — check them before you set out.
Avoid: heavy swell and rain.
The pools sit on an open Atlantic shore that takes very big waves, and there is nowhere to shelter on the rocks when rain comes in.
Sun & daylight
Nearby Places
Similar Places
Aguas Verdes Natural Pools on the map
The shore takes very high Atlantic waves and the coastal path is dangerous. Check the tide before entering the pools, stay well back from breaking water and never turn your back on the sea.
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Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in the Aguas Verdes pools?
Yes, the pools are used for swimming and snorkelling. The water is cold in May but fine for a short swim. Check tide times first and take great care on the rocks.Can I drive all the way down to the shore?
Better not. The last stretch of road is hard to drive back up, so leave the car before the bottom. No car park is marked near the shore.Is Aguas Verdes suitable for people with limited mobility?
No. Reaching the pools means walking and climbing over rock, the coastal path is dangerous, and there is no wheelchair access.Are there toilets or a café?
There are no toilets and no drinking water nearby. Bring water and anything else you need.Can I get there by bus?
There is no bus stop nearby. You need a car.