Tarifa Tides: A Family Adventure on a Budget!

Tarifa, where endless family fun meets the beauty of Spain's southern coast.

14 October 2023

Tarifa, Spain offers the perfect destination for a family-friendly trip with its beautiful beaches, charming town, and exciting activities. Families can spend their days enjoying the sandy shores, participating in thrilling water sports like windsurfing or kitesurfing, and exploring Tarifa's historic sites and museums. With its relaxed atmosphere and welcoming locals, Tarifa promises a memorable vacation that caters to every family member's interests.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Sandy Toes and Salty Kisses in Tarifa

  • Start your day at the beautiful Playa de los Lances, where the golden sand meets the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea.
  • Take a stroll along the Paseo de la Playa, a charming promenade lined with vibrant beach bars and cafes, perfect for a refreshing pit stop.
  • Head to the charming Old Town and wander through its narrow cobblestone streets, stumbling upon hidden gems like the Church of San Mateo.
  • Embrace the windsurfing spirit and join a beginner-friendly class at one of the renowned surf schools in town.
  • Treat yourself to a mouth-watering seafood dinner at Restaurante El Varadero, where the freshest catch of the day is grilled to perfection.
  • End your first day in Tarifa with a relaxing sunset stroll along Punta de Tarifa, the southernmost point of mainland Europe.
Day 2

Adventure Awaits at Tarifa's Natural Wonders

  • Embark on an exhilarating whale watching tour in the breathtaking Strait of Gibraltar, home to a diverse marine life including dolphins and orcas.
  • Discover the rugged beauty of the Natural Park of the Alcornocales, a haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts with its lush forests and scenic trails.
  • Take a thrilling dune buggy ride along the picturesque beaches and sand dunes of Valdevaqueros, feeling the adrenaline rush through your veins.
  • Enjoy a picnic surrounded by the stunning scenery of the Bolonia Dunes, a protected area boasting pristine beaches and ancient Roman ruins.
  • Visit the enchanting Baelo Claudia, an archaeological site showcasing the remains of a Roman city, and channel your inner historian.
  • Indulge in a delectable dinner at Restaurante El Lola, renowned for its fusion of traditional Spanish and Moroccan cuisine.
Day 3

Tarifa's Cultural Charms and Gastronomic Delights

  • Start your day with a visit to Castillo de Guzmán el Bueno, a historic fortress offering panoramic views of the coast and the town.
  • Immerse yourself in Tarifa's artistic scene at the Estudio de Arte Sautivo, a vibrant gallery showcasing local talent.
  • Discover the mysteries of the Straits of Gibraltar at the fascinating Casa de la Memoria, a museum dedicated to the region's maritime history.
  • Treat yourself to a delightful lunch at Restaurante Mandrágora, renowned for its creative tapas and cozy atmosphere.
  • Spend the afternoon exploring the quirky boutiques and artisan shops in the heart of Tarifa, picking up unique souvenirs to remember your trip.
  • Bid farewell to Tarifa with a toast at Café Del Mar Tarifa, a chilled-out beachfront spot perfect for enjoying the sunset with a refreshing cocktail.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Tarifa, Spain by plane is to fly into Gibraltar International Airport (GIB) and then take a taxi or bus to Tarifa, which is approximately 41 kilometers away. Alternatively, you can fly into Malaga Airport (AGP) and then take a combination of train and bus to Tarifa.

Car

Driving to Tarifa by car is convenient as it allows for flexibility and scenic views along the way. You can take the AP-7 and A-381 highways from Malaga or the A-48 highway from Cadiz to reach Tarifa.

Train

Currently, there is no direct train connection to Tarifa. However, you can take a train to Algeciras, which is the nearest city with a train station, and then take a bus or taxi to Tarifa.

Boat

There are ferry services available from Tangier, Morocco to Tarifa. You can take a ferry from Tangier Ferry Port to Tarifa Ferry Port. The duration of the ferry crossing is around 35 minutes.

Bus

To get to Tarifa by bus, you can take a direct bus from Malaga, which departs from Malaga Bus Station and arrives at Tarifa Bus Station. The journey takes approximately 2.5 - 3 hours.

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