Tostón Lighthouse

Tostón Lighthouse stands on the northwestern coast of Fuerteventura, right next to the village of El Cotillo, within the municipality of La Oliva. You'll also see it called El Cotillo Lighthouse — both names refer to the same active navigational light and are used interchangeably in local and travel references.

Where exactly is it located?

The lighthouse sits on an exposed, rocky stretch of coastline near El Cotillo, a small fishing settlement on the island's west side. Administratively, the site falls within La Oliva, the municipality covering Fuerteventura's northern reaches. From this clifftop position, the light has long kept watch over vessels passing through the narrow strait that separates Fuerteventura from Lanzarote.

What is the lighthouse for?

Tostón Lighthouse is one of three lights — together with those at Pechiguera and Punta Martiño — that mark the La Bocayna strait. This narrow channel divides Fuerteventura from neighboring Lanzarote and can be tricky for shipping because of strong currents and regular inter-island traffic. The lighthouse remains operational, warning vessels away from the rocky shoreline and helping guide safe passage through the strait.

How do you get there?

The natural starting point is El Cotillo itself, a fishing village on Fuerteventura's west coast with straightforward road access from the rest of the island. From the village center, a short coastal stretch leads to the lighthouse, walkable or reachable by car — the area is a popular vantage point, especially around sunset. Given the exposed, clifftop setting, sturdy footwear and an allowance for strong wind are worth planning for, as both are typical of this part of the island.

What will you see when you arrive?

The lighthouse itself is a distinctive white tower rising from a rocky cliff, facing the open Atlantic and the La Bocayna strait. On clear days, the outline of Lanzarote is visible across the water. The real draw here is the landscape as much as the structure: raw volcanic coastline, waves breaking against the rocks, and an open ocean horizon that contrasts with the quieter, low-key character of El Cotillo village nearby.

When is the best time to visit?

The lighthouse and its surroundings can be visited year-round, but the clifftop setting rewards a visit on a clear day, when visibility toward Lanzarote is at its best. Late afternoon and early evening, as the sun drops toward the Atlantic horizon, is the time most visitors choose for photos and views.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Tostón Lighthouse and El Cotillo Lighthouse different places? No, they're the same lighthouse — both names are used for the single light standing beside the village of El Cotillo.

What does the lighthouse do? Together with the lights at Pechiguera and Punta Martiño, it marks the La Bocayna strait between Fuerteventura and Lanzarote, helping ships navigate the narrow passage safely.

Is the lighthouse near beaches or other attractions? It stands right next to El Cotillo, a fishing village on Fuerteventura's west coast, with open views across the ocean toward Lanzarote.

Is the lighthouse still active? Yes, Tostón Lighthouse is an active lighthouse that still serves a navigational role today.