In beautiful Tarifa, surfing is a unique experience. Although the area generally receives less swell than nearby Palmar due to its orientation, when the waves arrive, they offer exceptional quality. Ideal conditions occur with a west swell or, even better, a southwest swell, especially during storms in the Canary Islands. Tarifa sometimes withstands south winds, making it an excellent choice when conditions are not as favorable elsewhere.
Next to Tarifa Island, we find the famous "foso" (ditch) that can offer both lefts and rights. About 100 meters away, you'll find the waves of Balneario. These beaches are known for their "beach break" type with a sandy bottom. They are often fast and hollow, but on good days, you can enjoy spectacular barrels. The spot handles south and southeast winds as well as waves up to 4 meters high. The water is characterized by its stunning color, making you feel like you're in a natural pool.
With a rocky bottom, this spot requires some caution as the waves can be powerful. Here, you'll find both lefts and rights to explore. Right in front of Camping Torre de la Peña, there are also fun waves for those interested in longboarding and SUP.
This area offers a "point break" right-hander. The waves here often peel, making it more suitable for longboarders and SUP enthusiasts, although occasionally, it can deliver excellent and long rides. To enjoy the best conditions, a substantial swell is required, and it's ideal with a north or northeast wind or on windless days.
Discover the thrilling world of surfing in Tarifa, where the beauty of nature meets a passion for the waves. Get ready for an unforgettable experience in this surf paradise in the south of Spain!
To reach Tarifa, a beautiful city at the southern tip of Spain, you can follow these recommendations:
Malaga Airport is one of the largest in the region and is located approximately 160 miles (260 km) north of Tarifa. From here, you can rent a car or take a bus that will take you to Tarifa in about 2-3 hours.
By Plane - Jerez Airport (XRY)
Jerez Airport is about 80 miles (130 km) west of Tarifa. Similar to Malaga, you can rent a car or take a bus to get to Tarifa.
There is no train station in Tarifa, but you can take a train to Algeciras station, which is about a 20-minute drive from Tarifa. From various cities in Spain, you can take a train to Algeciras and then a taxi or bus to Tarifa.
You can take a direct bus from many Spanish cities to Tarifa. Check the bus schedules and available routes, as there are regular connections from cities like Malaga, Seville, and Cadiz.
If you prefer the flexibility of traveling by car, you can rent one at the airport or in your hometown and drive to Tarifa. The city is connected by road to Spain's network of highways and autovías. From Malaga, for example, you can take the AP-7 highway and the A-7 autovía to reach Tarifa.
