In this blog article, you will find everything you need to know for a perfect trip to Tarifa in Spain!
Whether you are plannign to visit for kitesurfing and looking for fun things to do in between or simply planning a perfect beach holiday this Tarifa Travel Guide has you covered!
How to get to Tarifa
Things to do in Tarifa
Accommodations in Tarifa
Best food places in Tarifa
Kitesurfing Tarifa
Tarifa to Morocco
How to get to Tarifa
Tarifa is located on the ‘Costa del Luz’, in the province of Cadiz, Andalusia. The two biggest and closest airports are Sevilla and Malaga. The closest one is Jerez, but it is quite small, so fewer flights are available unless you travel from countries nearby or from the North of Spain.
I highly recommend renting a car in one of the airports and driving to Tarifa because it will be much easier and transport is very useful to get from Tarifa Old Town to the best kitesurfing and beach spots. You can use public transport, but if you want to save time and energy having the freedom of your own transport is ideal. There are beaches by Tarifa town, so you can do without a car if you are only staying around the city center but all the best kitesurfing beaches and beach bars are a 5/10 minute drive away.
Things to do in Tarifa
Kitesurfing: Of course, the main activity that attracts adrenaline seekers around the world is kitesurfing. It is popular due to its consistent strong winds and expansive beaches, making it an ideal location for both beginners and experienced kitesurfers. The town's unique geographical position at the southernmost point of mainland Europe creates a natural wind tunnel effect, offering perfect conditions for kitesurfing nearly year-round. This, coupled with Tarifa's vibrant kitesurfing community and numerous schools, has established it as a premier global destination for the sport.
Windsurfing: As per the same reason as above, Windsurfing is also a very popular activity to do in Tarifa.
Rock Climbing at Beti Mount: Dive into the adventure of rock climbing at Beti Mount, a spot where climbs are complemented by stunning scenic views. Ideal for climbers of all levels seeking to test their skills, Beti Mount provides a picturesque backdrop for a day spent scaling heights and taking in the natural beauty of Tarifa.
Mountain Biking: Experience the rush of mountain biking through Tarifa's diverse landscapes. From coastal trails to forested paths, the area offers routes for all skill levels, ensuring an adventurous ride through nature.
Horse Riding: Gallop along the beautiful beaches or through the countryside of Tarifa on horseback. Horse riding offers a unique perspective of the area's scenic beauty, making for a memorable experience.
Yoga on the Beach: Unwind with a session of beach yoga, a perfect way to relax and connect with nature. Keep an eye out for local offerings once you arrive; your accommodation might have the latest information on where and when classes are held.
Whale Watching: Embarking on a whale-watching tour in Tarifa is not just an opportunity to see these magnificent creatures up close; it's a chance to witness the majesty of nature in its purest form. The waters off the coast of Tarifa are a prime spot for encountering various species of whales, including orcas, sperm whales, and pilot whales. The best time to go whale watching in Tarifa is between April and October, with peak sightings often occurring in the warmer months. During this period, the Strait of Gibraltar becomes a bustling marine corridor for migratory routes, offering enthusiasts a higher likelihood of witnessing these majestic animals. This awe-inspiring experience not only connects you with the marine ecosystem but also offers insights into the conservation efforts dedicated to these gentle giants.
Hiking: My personal favorite activity is hiking, and in my video, I showcase my top three trails. However, I use the ‘All Trails’ app to find all my routes in Spain, including Tarifa. It's user-friendly and helps you discover the best hiking paths to suit your preferences.
More activities in Tarifa!
Accommodations in Tarifa
Tarifa has something for everyone's taste. You can find 5* hotels, hostels, and stylish AirBnBs, but the most popular place where to stay in Tarifa is camping. I personally have stayed at cabins in several different camping spots and all of them have been up to standard.
Here are some of the most popular accommodation spots in Tarifa between locals and visitors:
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Best food spots in Tarifa
The best dining options are primarily found in Tarifa's Old Town, though a select few gems can be discovered just beyond its limits. Similarly, for nightlife, the Old Town is the place to be post-dinner, as it hosts the finest bars, making it the heart of Tarifa's evening entertainment.
My top food places in Tarifa are:
For breakfast, I highly recommend Banti! Banti is located outside the old town, on the main way to all the beaches. Also, in case Banti is closed, next to it recently opened a really lovely food place too.
Food and drink wise, most of the beach bars by the beach are great. As I mentioned in the video, my top 3 are:
Kitesurfing Tarifa
I am far from an expert to talk about kitesurfing, but I just wanted to mention 2 spots that are specifically popular among kitesurfers: Playa de Los Lances & Valdevaqueros.
Also, WindFinder is a great page to track the wind and plan the best days for kitesurfing!
Tarifa to Morocco
As I mentioned in the video Tarifa is a great point from where to travel to Morocco, specifically Tangier. Tarifa has a big port offering commercial ferries to Tangier at least twice a day there and back.
If you want to get some ideas for travel in Morocco, check out my Morocco Travel Guide!