Tarifa, Andalusia, Spain: The Surfer's Paradise
The southernmost point of Europe has a character all of its own. Tarifa is a small town that has been attracting holidaymakers from all over the world for many years. Whether you are a kitesurfer or looking for an alternative type of holiday, tourism is booming in this part of the Costa de la Luz, and for good reason.
Our 5 Top Attractions in Tarifa
Beaches
Mirador del Estrecho de Gibraltar
Castillo de Guzmán el Bueno
Isla de las Palomas
Puerta de Jerez
Things to See in Tarifa's Old Town
Tarifa is a small town with a relaxed atmosphere that has experienced its fair share of history. This is largely due to its location at the southernmost point of the European continent. The Romans settled in the area many centuries ago, while the town's modern name goes back to Tarif ibn Malik, a Berber military commander who attacked the town in 710. Various powers repeatedly fought over Tarifa and laid siege to the town, and the old town still offers plenty of reminders of this turbulent past.
Town gate
Fortress and observation tower
Churches
Cafés, restaurants and squares
Shopping
The Puerta de Jerez dates back to the Middle Ages and was one of four entrances to the town, which was otherwise enclosed by a Moorish city wall. The towers of the only remaining gate date from a later period, while the plaque commemorates King Sancho IV's victory over the Moors in 1292.
The Castillo de Guzmán el Bueno is another reminder of Tarifa's turbulent history. The fortress was built by the Moors in 960 AD, but also contains Roman elements, including part of the wall, as well as Christian additions such as the Iglesia de Santa Maria.
Other sights include the churches of Iglesia de San Mateo, Santuario de la Virgen de la Luz and Iglesia de San Francisco de Asis, as well as the Castillo Santa Catalina, built in 1931 in the style of the 16th century. Overlooking Playa Chica and the Mediterranean, this is not actually a castle but an observation tower that has become something of a symbol of Tarifa.
Calle Segismundo Moret leads to Isla de Tarifa, also known as Isla de las Palomas, a peninsula featuring further fortifications and the southernmost point of continental Europe. However, the mainland old town is also well worth exploring on foot. Calle Batalla del Salado is home to numerous small shops, while La Alameda is lined with bars, restaurants and cafés where you can stop for a drink or a meal.
The Jardines de Miramar on Calle Amargura, next to the town hall, offer views across the Strait of Gibraltar towards the Atlantic and as far as Morocco. Not far away is Plaza de la Ranita, officially known as Plaza de Santa Maria or Plaza Alfonso XII. Here, you will find a fountain decorated with elaborately carved frogs.
Activities and Guided Tours in Tarifa
The Best Beaches in Tarifa and the Surrounding Area
Surfers are drawn to Tarifa because of the wind, which can be felt on almost every day of the year. However, the stunning beaches are also a highlight for anyone who simply wants to enjoy the sea and this beautiful coastline. Some of the best-known beaches include:
Playa de los Lances
Playa Chica
Playa Valdevaqueros
Punta Paloma Playa
Playa de Bolonia
Only the first two can be reached on foot from Tarifa. To get to the other beaches, it is worth hiring a rental car.
Bolonia Beach is famous for its dunes, while at Punta Paloma, the local cattle are another unusual attraction. Valdevaqueros, meanwhile, is a true paradise for windsurfers and kitesurfers, while quad biking and horse riding excursions are also available.
One of our insider tips is Playa de la pequeña Lulú in Barbate. As its name suggests, this is a small coastal cove that is less well known among tourists, allowing you to enjoy a swim alongside the locals.
Tarifa Accommodation
Museums in Tarifa
Tarifa does not have a huge number of museums, but there should still be something of interest among this small selection.
Centro de Interpretación de Cetaceos
Casa de la Cultura de Tarifa
Museo Arqueológico Baelo Claudia
More Things to See and Do in Tarifa
From the Mirador del Estrecho de Gibraltar, you can enjoy wonderful views from mainland Europe towards Jbel Musa and the Moroccan coast. Jbel Musa is one of the mountains of the Atlas range and is traditionally associated with Mount Moses.
There are plenty of other treasures to discover in the surrounding region. Baelo Claudia is an ancient Roman settlement that you should definitely visit during your trip. Concerts are occasionally held in the old amphitheatre at night, making for a truly unique experience.
Numerous hiking trails lead to unexpected places. One example is the Cueva de Buda, a small cave decorated with Buddha figures. Another is the Tumbas Antropomorfas de Betis, a group of anthropomorphic tombs.
Exploring the Parque Natural del Estrecho will take you to places such as Punta de Oliveros, Torre de Guadalmesí and Molino de Guadalmesí.
Tarifa is also an excellent base for day trips to Morocco and dolphin-watching excursions. However, it is worth keeping an eye on the wind conditions, as spending your holiday feeling seasick would certainly be less enjoyable. Spanish courses are also available.
Cheap Flights to Tarifa
Which airport is best for travelling to Tarifa, Spain, depends on your travel plans. Málaga is further away and a rental car is recommended, but it gives you the opportunity to explore the Costa del Sol along the way. Jerez de la Frontera is closer and has a train connection to Cádiz, from where buses run to Tarifa. Another option is Seville.
Food and Drink in Tarifa
Places to Visit Nearby
Gibraltar
FAQ
Is Tarifa a beautiful town?
Tarifa in Spain is a beautiful little town that has played an important role in the history of the region and is also significant because of its exceptional wind conditions. Explore the old town with its narrow streets, independent shops, cafés, bars and restaurants. Enjoy the views across the Strait of Gibraltar and the relaxed atmosphere of this unique destination.
Is Tarifa expensive?
Accommodation can become quite expensive during the high season, but Tarifa is still not a particularly expensive destination overall. A complete kitesurfing set, including a kite, can be hired from around €50 per day.
Can you swim in Tarifa?
Absolutely! Tarifa, Spain, is known for its beautiful beaches, offering white sand, dunes and much more. On andalusian-adventure.com, you can find an overview of the most popular beaches that have helped make this destination a surfer's paradise.
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