Tarifa, Spain: Surf, Sunsets, and Adventure Awaits
Embrace the wind and surf through endless possibilities in Tarifa, Spain
14 October 2023
Pablo Escudero
Spain Travel Writer
Tarifa, located in southern Spain, is a vibrant coastal town renowned for its stunning beaches and strong winds, making it a hot spot for water sports enthusiasts, particularly kiteboarding and windsurfing. In addition to its beautiful coastline, Tarifa boasts a charming old town filled with whitewashed buildings, narrow streets, and cozy cafes, providing a delightful ambiance for strolling and exploring. Nature lovers will also appreciate the opportunity to witness the migration of whales and dolphins in the Strait of Gibraltar, making Tarifa a versatile destination for beach lovers, adventure seekers, and wildlife enthusiasts alike.
Travel plan
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- Check into the funky boutique hotel Arte Vida, adorned with whimsical artwork and situated near the beach.
- Ride the waves like a fearless pirate with a surf lesson at Playa Los Lances. Yo-ho-ho, you've got this, matey!
- Reward yourself with a scrumptious seafood lunch at Las Rejas, where the fish is so fresh it practically swims onto your plate.
- Take a leisurely stroll through the charming old town and explore the ancient Castle of Guzman El Bueno.
- Savor the magical sunset at Mirador de la Alameda, where the golden hour paints the entire sky in a melange of fiery colors.
- Treat yourself to a divine dinner at El Lola, a hidden gem serving up mouthwatering tapas with a modern twist. Prepare for a flavor explosion!
- Fill up on a delectable breakfast at Café Azul, where the aroma of freshly ground coffee and warm croissants beckons you inside.
- Hop on a ferry to Tangier, Morocco for a day trip to experience a captivating mix of vibrant souks, intriguing cultural sights, and tantalizing aromas.
- Return to Tarifa and embrace the windy vibes by kiteboarding at Playa Valdevaqueros. Hold on tight and embrace the adrenaline!
- Refuel with a late lunch at Hurricane Beach Club, where the views of the beach and the impressive dishes will leave you in awe.
- Explore the untamed beauty of Parque Natural del Estrecho on horseback, trotting along sandy trails with the wind in your hair.
- Unwind with a relaxing massage at Vellisimo Spa Center. Let the expert hands transport you to a state of pure bliss.
- Breakfast on the rooftop of Misiana Hotel, with breathtaking views of the Strait of Gibraltar and the bustling port below.
- Embark on a thrilling whale-watching excursion, keeping your eyes peeled for majestic orcas and playful dolphins.
- Grab a quick and flavorsome bite at Chiringuito Agua, a beachside gem serving up mouthwatering paella and ice-cold sangria.
- Hike to the famous Tarifa Lighthouse, where you can soak in panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and Atlantic Ocean colliding.
- Go on a daring rock-climbing adventure at El Bujeo, where the jagged cliffs and challenging routes will make your heart skip a beat.
- Indulge in a delightful dinner at La Cocotte, known for their creative cuisine blending the best of Andalusian flavors with international influences. Bon appétit!
- Note: Remember to check the opening hours and availability of activities and attractions before traveling. Stay curious, stay safe, and embrace the essence of Tarifa!
Length of stay
Type of trip
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.