Known as a wind surfing paradise, Tarifa is populated year round by water loving sportsmen and women. Rarely does a day go by without moderate winds creating extreme wind surfing conditions.

 

Tarifa is a year round hot spot due to its warm climate, breathtaking scenery, and charming small town life. With the Straits of Gibralter just a few kilometres from Tarifa, no trip to Spain is complete without a stop in this impressive community.

Tarifa has a rich historical base. During the 8th century, a Moorish commander, Tarif ben Maluk, landed in the area that he named Isla de Tarif. Tarif ben Maluk went on to establish Isla de Tarif as his new domain. In the 13th century, the area castle became the city’s stronghold during attacks by Christians against the city. Eventually in the 14th century, the Battle of Salado ended Muslim control of Tarifa.

Tarifa is a walled city surrounded by walls constructed by both the Islamic people and 18th century military troops. Puerta de la Almedina is the gate portion of the Islamic section of wall that surrounds Tarifa. While the entire wall is amazing, tourists all find the arched Puerta de la Almedina to be a sight worth seeing.

 

The month of February launches Tarifa’s four-week long Carnival. Parades, local culinary specialties, comedy sketches, dances, and costumes are all part of the festivities. If you are coming to Tarifa, try to organise your trip so that you can attend some of the Carnival.

 

Shoppers will delight in the indoor market where handmade pottery, fresh fruits and vegetables, fresh seafood, local artists, and other vendors gather to sell their goods to the public. In the old section of town, the indoor market is a popular shopping spot.

 

The Church of San Mateo offers impressive architectural examples of 16th and 17th century building styles. Both Neo-Classical and Gothic details can easily be picked out as you tour the church.

 

The Castle of Guzmán el Bueno is believed to have been constructed by Ab dal Rahman III in 960 A.D. It is an inspiring mix of Roman, Syrian and Byzantine military styles of architecture.

 

Many kilometres of pristine, white sandy beaches create pleasurable havens for sun lovers. Shallow ocean waters warm quickly on sunny days making this a haven for swimmers, snorkelers, and wind surfers alike. Playa de los Lances is a naturally protected site that is a popular with beach goers. Playa de los Lances hosted the 2001 World Kite Surfing Championships.

Adjacent to the old fishing quarters, La Alameda houses a statue of the town’s hero, Guzman el Bueno. Attractive gardens all create the perfect ambiance for a romantic afternoon stroll.

Due to its status as home of the world’s best windsurfing, tourism plays a key role in Tarifa’s economy. Breezy days blend nicely with the warm, sunny climate to ensure that water lovers keep coming every spring, summer, and fall.

 

Many windsurfing events are held every year in Tarifa. Not only does this boost the tourism industry, but it also provides a trickledown effect with windsurfing apparel and equipment stores opening throughout the city.

 

Fishing also plays an important part in Tarifa’s industry. Warm ocean waters make it a popular spot for many varieties of fish.

Tarifa is home to a large indoor market. With fresh vegetables and seafood in abundance, it comes as no surprise that seafood plays a major part in the areas culinary highlights.

 

La Codorniz is a large restaurant and bar that blends a bullfighting theme throughout all thirty-five seating areas. Freshly baked fish dishes are highlights of this impressive restaurant.

 

For something a little wilder, try Suk. Traditional Moroccan fare is served while belly dancers provide plenty of entertainment.

 

La Botega offers traditional Andalusian fare. In the summer months, the hotel adds live Flamenco shows to the menu. 

Summer months bustle with activity. Many area dance clubs cater to the younger crowd. Balneario is adjacent to the beach, so anyone looking for a fun time can stroll the beach and then head inside for some energetic rhythms.

 

Tarifa offers a wide array of tapas bars. La Casa Amarilla is known for their lively flamenco music, cold drinks, and local fare.

 

A newer club, Jungle Playa, is the area’s first open-air disco located directly on the beach. Enjoy the cool ocean breezes while enjoying the catchy tunes.

Wind surfing aside, Tarifa offers impressive beaches, impeccable restaurants, and plenty to see and do. Fun days and memorable nights await any lucky tourist adding Tarifa to their travel itinerary.