Positioned at the southern extremity of Europe, near the African coast, Tarifa, Spain has all the right to be proud of its nickname, the ‘Windy capital.’
This Andalusian village is simple, easily approachable, and charming. Its pull is based on untouched sand coastlines and the warm blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea.
When visiting Tarifa’s historic town, you are welcome to discover the history and legends written in stone in medieval narrow streets.
Wander through complex and intricate alleys where people and time seem framed. Overwhelming the city is the Guzmán el Bueno Castle, a fortress of the 15th century.
It’s also worthwhile to visit the Puerta de Jerez, an architectural relic of the Moorish influence in Tarifa.
Its uniqueness is based on combined Spanish and North African design elements. Adjacent to it, in Gothic architecture built in the 14th century, is the Church of San Mateo, dedicated to Saint Matthew.
To see a colorful and young part of Tarifa with bars on the beach and water sports clubs,
Proceed south along the seafront promenade to Los Lances. Here, you can plunge into the atmosphere of the sea and waves.
Another fascinating site is the Isla de las Palomas, an island separating the Atlantic and Mediterranean oceans.
It was a military area, but now it invites civilians to explore the vast space and fresh air, as well as amazing views of the ocean.
Getting There
Air
The closest international airport is in Málaga, about 100 miles away, and the next closest airport is Gibraltar, about 25 miles away. You can hire a car from these airports or take a bus to Tarifa.
Train
A railway connection is available at Algeciras, 20 km from Tarifa. To get to Tarifa from Algeciras, one has to take a bus or hire a taxi.
Bus
A frequent daily bus service runs between Tarifa and the principal Spanish cities of Málaga, Seville, and Cádiz.
What is The Best Time To Visit Tarifa, Spain?
Every season has its own appeal and attractions in Tarifa. The best time to visit the town is during the spring season, from March to May.
The weather is mostly sunny, and there are fewer people in the town. At this time you can explore the historic parts of the town or walk along the sandy beaches.
The summer season in Tarifa, Spain, is from June to August. During this period, the city is a hub of tourist activities.
Sun lovers love the warm climate, and during this season, the town is also rather crowded with people enjoying the cheerful atmosphere. Still, you can get a chance to engage in numerous water activities.
In Tarifa, Spain, autumn runs from September to November. The weather is relatively cooler than during the summer, and there is less hustle and bustle.
This is the best time to visit Tarifa’s cultural sites without having to battle with summer tourists. Moreover, being caught by the autumn season in Tarifa, Spain is perfect for sporting activities in this beautiful town.
The winter season in Tarifa, Sapin, is particularly from December, January, and February. During this period, the climate is relatively cooler and the windiest.
During this season, enthusiasts of wind-based sports such as kiteboarding and windsurfing visit Tarifa, Spain, to enjoy what ‘Windy Capital’ has to offer.
Things to Do in Tarifa, Spain
1. Learn to Kitesurf
The wind at Tarifa is particularly powerful and predictable, and it is considered one of the best places in the world for kitesurfing.
Dozens of kite schools provide lessons, equipment, and certification for beginners and experienced riders.
The best kitesurfing beaches are Playa de los Lances and Valdevaqueros. The winds are steady throughout the year, but summer is the best time to learn and practice kitesurfing.
2. Join a Surf Camp
If you want to live a true kitesurfing experience, then joining a surf camp is one of the best choices you can make.
These camps provide the participants with shelter, feeding, equipment, and expert coaching and/or training.
In addition to kitesurfing, most of the camps also offer other activities, such as yoga, paddle boarding, and sightseeing tours.
3. Dolphin & Whale Watching
The Strait of Gibraltar, located a little off the coast of Tarifa, is one of the best places to spot marine life. Several boat operators arrange dolphin and whale-watching tours from April to October.
You can also expect to see orcas, sperm whales, and several types of dolphins in their natural environment.
These tours may be accompanied by expert tour guides who explain the various aspects of the marine environment and the activities of these wonderful species.
4. Hike in Parque Natural del Estrecho
This natural park occupies the coastal strip and the mountain range surrounding the town of Tarifa.
It has a rich system of trails that are ideal for all classes of hikers.
Some of the most frequently chosen trails lead to Playa de Bolonia and the summit of El Bujeo.
At El Bujeo, you can see the Strait of Gibraltar and the Moroccan coast on a clear day. The Parque Natural del Estrecho is also endowed with lots of trees and other vegetation.
As a result, it’s the best place for people who like nature and wildlife.
5. Go Rock Climbing
Betis has cliffs that are popular for climbing such as the San Bartolo cliffs. It has over 280 routes and any climber no matter the level of his experience can find a route to tackle.
Furthermore, it’s a place of sport climbing and bouldering, and the limestone crags provide the best opportunity.
The Betis surroundings are very picturesque, and the climb offers a magnificent view of the surrounding countryside and the sea.
Still, many local guides and climbing schools provide courses and guided climbs.
6. Eat Like a Local
Food enthusiasts will have the time of their lives exploring the culinary scene in Tarifa’s old town.
Wake up to a Spanish breakfast: a plate of toast rubbed with tomatoes and drizzled with olive oil and a café con leche.
You may want to grab a bite in between at bars like Bar El Frances, or you can have seafood at restaurants like El Ancla.
Alternatively, a local red tuna is a must-try, especially during the Ruta del Atún festival held in May.
7. Visit Baelo Claudia
Adjacent to Tarifa, there is an ancient Roman town named Baelo Claudia. It has very well-preserved structures, which can be easily reached by car.
Also, the site has a basilica, a market, thermal baths, and a theater.
A visitor center gives meaning to the structures, and a brief history of the ruins brings the structures to life.
Bolonia Beach, with sand dunes and clear water, is ideal for swimming after the visit is over. It is also located nearby.
8. Watch the Sunset at Playa de los Lances
One of the best places to watch the sunset is at Playa de los Lances due to its large stretch of sandy beach.
It’s the chiringuitos, the small beach bars where one can take a drink or have a meal while the sun sets.
The sky is painted with bright colors that perfectly blend with the sea; hence, it comes in handy for photographers.
9. Go Diving
The area around Tarifa consists of the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, which makes marine life abundant.
Scuba diving is done in wrecks, reefs and underwater caves that are alive with life forms.
The dive centers in Tarifa provide lessons for novices, and boat or shore dives for qualified divers.
Possible and expected attractions include octopuses, groupers and the beautiful nudibranchs.
10. Take a Bike Ride
Cycling in Tarifa is fun because of the many terrains and beautiful views.
Road cyclists can ride along the coastal lines or inland, while mountain cyclists can experience a number of tracks.
The first suggested trail is the drive from Tarifa to Bolonia along the coast with a stop at the Roman site. Self-guided and bike rental shops and guided bike tours are easy to come by.
Where To Stay
If you are planning to spend a night in Tarifa, book a room at the Hotel Dos Mares or Hurricane Hotel to experience luxurious accommodation.
Both establishments provide luxurious facilities, beautiful scenery, and a tranquil environment.
For the mid-range category, La Residencia Tarifa and Room Tarifa are some of the best places you could visit.
These hotels are cheap but, at the same time, comfortable; guests can have a good rest with all the amenities they might need.
For low-budget travelers, Hostal Las Margaritas and La Cocotera Boutique Hostel provide comfortable and cheap accommodations.
Such hostels are suitable for those who decide to travel on a tight budget but do not want to live in a pigsty and do not mind meeting new people.
The eating-out market in Tarifa is well-developed and offers a great variety of restaurants for different types of customers.
El Lola is famous for its tasty tapas and rather boisterous atmosphere; therefore, it is a perfect place for those who want to try genuine Spanish dishes.
As for seafood lovers, La Pescadería serves delicious dishes with a beautiful view of the harbor that is a perfect addition to the meal.
Surla is a perfect place for breakfast and lunch. Notably, its international food will satisfy almost every taste. Whether you are in the mood for a breakfast that will stick to your ribs or a light, tasty lunch, Surla has it all.
The Bottom Line
Tarifa in Spain is a perfect destination for tourists of history, lovers of beautiful nature, and fans of an active way of life.
You can have fun on the beach or hike through the rocks. Still, you can choose to visit the marvelous countryside of the Guzmán el Bueno Castle and go to the wind sports center at the Playa de los Lances.
Overall, Tarifa is open all year round and offers activities for all seasons, history, and culture, as well as meeting points in Europe and Africa.
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