Sitting way down on the southernmost point of continental Europe, the laid-back town of Tarifa could be written off as just a mildly interesting geographical fact. Fortunately, there’s much more to this cute Spanish beach town, where travelers of every stripe will find things to do. Wind sports such as kitesurfing and windsurfing will no doubt entertain active types, while whale watching, beach-hopping, and exploring historical sites round out the best ways to spend a visit in Tarifa.
While summer is the obvious choice for a beach destination like Tarifa, the spring months of March, April, and May can be just as good a time to visit the town. Most windsurfing centers are open by March, and the weather is already starting to lose its chill. March to July are also great months for seeing whales and dolphins off the coast, with sperm whales and fin whales often seen at this time.
Tarifa is not a large town, so visitors should find that walking is usually the most convenient way to get from A to B. However, you’ll either need to get a car or take advantage of the summer minibus services to reach some of the beaches in the municipality such as Playa de Valdevaqueros and Playa de Bolonia. Another alternative is to rent a bicycle and ride to the beach, giving you more flexibility and saving you from worrying about parking.
Bars in Tarifa are mostly contained to Carnicería Street and Guzmán el Bueno Street in the town center and operate into the late hours, so reconsider staying on these streets if you want an early night’s sleep. The one thing to not avoid in Tarifa is seafood, as restaurant menus in Tarifa greatly favor the bountiful fish, octopus, prawns, and lobsters caught locally.
