Writer: Helena Bergström
Updated: August 2026 | Tarifa is Spain's southernmost city and one of Andalusia's most special destinations. Here the Mediterranean and the Atlantic meet, and just 14 kilometers away the mountains of Morocco can be seen on the other side of the Strait of Gibraltar. Tarifa is known for its long sandy beaches, its charming old town and its world-famous winds that attract kite and wind surfers from all over the world.
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Tarifa in Spain
Situated where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Mediterranean Sea, Tarifa offers a unique combination of history, nature and beach life. The windy climate also makes the city a paradise for surfers of all kinds.
When we were here, the water was relatively calm, but we saw several people practising paddleboarding. Not far from the beach is also the town, where you can walk on cobblestone streets between beautiful whitewashed houses.
Tarifa Point
In Tarifa you will find Tarifa Point, which is the southernmost point of mainland Europe. Here the Atlantic and Mediterranean meet, and on clear days you can see the mountains of Morocco on the other side of the Strait of Gibraltar.
What stuck with us the most during our visit to Tarifa was the feeling of standing by the sea and looking across to Africa. The fact that a completely different country is just a few kilometers away feels almost unreal, and gives Tarifa a special atmosphere that we have not experienced anywhere else in Europe.
What is Tarifa known for?
Tarifa is perhaps best known as Europe's premier kitesurfing and windsurfing destination. The strong winds mean that colourful kites often fill the skies above Playa de Los Lances and Valdevaqueros beaches. Even non-surfers can appreciate the relaxed atmosphere, long sandy beaches and views of Africa.
But Tarifa is much more than a surf fort. Inside the old city walls, a charming historic center awaits with narrow alleys, whitewashed houses, small squares and nice restaurants. Here is also the medieval castle Castillo de Guzmán el Bueno, which reminds us of the city's strategic importance throughout history.
Tarifa is also an excellent starting point for experiencing southern Andalusia. From here you can go on a whale watching trip in the Strait of Gibraltar, visit the spectacular sandy beach of Playa de Bolonia with its Roman ruins or take the ferry across to Tangier in Morocco in about an hour.
Excursions from Tarifa
Tarifa is also a perfect starting point for excursions. From here you can go on a whale watching safari, visit Playa de Bolonia or take the ferry to Tangier in Morocco. The crossing only takes around 35-60 minutes, depending on the departure, and it is also possible to travel by vehicle.
We didn't do it during this trip, but have visited Morocco on several other occasions. You can find our Morocco tips here.
Camping Valdevaqueros – our accommodation
When we visited Tarifa we stayed at Camping Valdevaqueros on the coast, one mile north of Tarifa. Here we were in a great position, even though the weather happened to be really boring. But of course it can't always be sunny, even in Spain.
The campsite is located by the beach and is nice and well-maintained, with tall palm trees and intense greenery.
It's close to a sandy beach, but since it was raining when we were here, it wasn't time for sunbathing and swimming. Instead, we "entertained" ourselves by doing some laundry in the campsite's washing machines.
When you leave the campsite you just have to cross the road to be down on the beach. Since the weather was bad when we were here, the beach is deserted in the pictures, but on a hot summer day it could certainly be full of holidaymakers.
More 'extremes' in Europe
By the way, during this trip we have not only reached the southernmost point of Europe, but also several other ”extreme points” in Europe. It is a bit fascinating after all to stand at the edge of a place like this and look towards the horizon. Read more here:
More to see and do in Spain
Of course, there is more to see and do in Spain. Here you will find more tips and reports.
- Maria Luisa Park in Seville
- The Port of Santa Maria
- Alhambra in Granada
- Things to do in Spain – 25 tips
FAQ – frequently asked questions about Tarifa
Where is Tarifa located?
Tarifa is located in the southernmost part of mainland Spain, in Andalusia, where the Mediterranean Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean. The city is located about 100 kilometers south of Cádiz and only about 14 kilometers from Morocco.
What is Tarifa known for?
Tarifa is known for its strong winds and is considered one of Europe's top kitesurfing and windsurfing destinations. The city is also known for its long sandy beaches, its charming old town and its unique location between two seas.
Is Tarifa worth a visit?
Yes, Tarifa is well worth a visit. The combination of a historic town centre, beautiful beaches, relaxed atmosphere and proximity to Africa makes the city one of Andalusia's most special destinations.
What is there to see and do in Tarifa?
Stroll through the whitewashed old town, visit the Castillo de Guzmán el Bueno, relax at Playa de Los Lances or Playa de Bolonia and watch the kitesurfers out on the sea. Many also choose to go on a whale watching safari or take a day trip to Morocco.
Can you see Africa from Tarifa?
Yes. On clear days, the mountains of Morocco are clearly visible from Tarifa, and the distance across the Strait of Gibraltar is only about 14 kilometers.
How to get to Morocco from Tarifa?
Ferries run from Tarifa to Tangier in Morocco. The crossing takes approximately 35-60 minutes and is a popular option for a day trip or a longer trip.
Is Tarifa good for swimming?
Yes, Tarifa has several long sandy beaches with clear water. However, be aware that the wind is often strong, making the place popular with surfers but sometimes less calm for swimming.
When is the best time to visit Tarifa?
Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and are perfect for sightseeing and hiking. Summer is the peak season with warm weather, many visitors and excellent conditions for kite and windsurfing.
Is Tarifa suitable for campervan travellers?
Yes, Tarifa is a popular stop for campervan travellers. There are campsites and motorhome parking in the area, and the town is a good base for exploring the Costa de la Luz and southern Andalusia.
How many days do you need in Tarifa?
One to two days is enough to discover the city's main attractions. If you want to enjoy the beaches, try water sports or do excursions in the area, three to four days is a good option.
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English (UK) 
Svenska
BP says:
Much better weather in Tarifa today:-)
Are you going to check Gibraltar?
13 February 2015 - 22:05
Kattas Betraktelser says:
Great and congratulations. Another milestone completed. Keep up the good work!
13 February 2015 - 22:46
Ditte says:
Can understand you! I've also visited Morocco a couple of times and am completely satisfied with it. Maybe you look over to Gibrlatar for a while?
Now we have got back the nice weather and have today had +20 and brilliant sun. Hope you also got a taste of the sun.
13 February 2015 - 23:20
Rolle o Carina says:
Looks nice, we put it on the list to visit.
in a few years time !!!
13 February 2015 - 23:20
admin says:
BP, we had a very nice view of Gibraltar when we passed by. But there was no trip there...
Katta, now that we passed by the sites, we wanted to see them!
Ditte, we went past Gibraltar and had a nice view, but that's all we did...
Rolle and Carina, a little cool feeling to know that Africa is there on the other side! Yes, nice and we were lucky with the weather today.
13 February 2015 - 23:49
Marie says:
Looks lovely! Is it as nice a town as I think? We had to rationalise Tarifa at Christmas unfortunately.
14 February 2015 - 2:25
Anki says:
Looks so wonderful to do as you do ... go where the nose points and where you feel like at the moment. Have a nice trip!
14 February 2015 - 7:35
admin says:
Marie, we mostly walked around the beach and the pier and just quickly peeked in through the gate to the Old Town. Nice white houses, but nothing that we experienced as extremely special. We were mostly attracted by the sea and the view towards Morocco!
Anki, this is fantastic and the best thing we have done!!!
14 February 2015 - 9:16
Znogge says:
I would definitely take the boat over but I have never been to Morocco. Husse here refuses...
14 February 2015 - 10:20
admin says:
Znogge, sorry he refuses! Morocco is fascinating and there is a lot to see. The coolest thing was to get out into the Sahara (not with a motorhome then.... we have not been there with the motorhome at all). But Morocco can also be a bit tiring with all the salesmen and I think we would need different insurance than we have now...
14 February 2015 - 10:59
Steve says:
You are well on your way to ringing in Europe. It's a great adventure you are on and one that I am grateful to be part of.
14 February 2015 - 11:14
Matts Torebring says:
We missed that place on our trip. An almost magical place to experience. So close to other continents, but still a good distance away. Hugs
14 February 2015 - 20:35
admin says:
Steve, it's so nice to have you "join us" on our journey!
Matts, you miss a lot of places all the time, so do we. But of course it was a bit cool to see how close it actually is to Africa!
14 February 2015 - 21:30