Tarifa and Playa de Los Lances – a mecca for surfers and vanlifers

Tarifa – where two seas meet

Tarifa is a unique place where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Mediterranean Sea. Their meeting point lies at the end of the causeway leading to Isla de Las Palomas. Standing there, you can see the Atlantic to your left and the Mediterranean to your right. This phenomenon creates a unique climate and perfect conditions for water sports.

Playa de Los Lances – a paradise for surfers

Playa de Los Lances is one of the longest beaches in Spain, stretching 7.25 km in length and 120 m in width. The beach is divided into two parts: Los Lances Norte – wild and peaceful, and Los Lances Sur – closer to town, with more infrastructure. It's an ideal spot for kitesurfing and windsurfing thanks to the consistent Levante and Poniente winds.

Vanlife and beachside parking

Next to Playa de Los Lances there is a paved, free parking lot that has become a hotspot for vanlifers and surfers. It’s a meeting place for people from around the world who share a passion for travel and water sports. For those seeking more amenities, there’s Camping Rio Jara with full facilities.

Beach bars and local cuisine

Right by the beach is chiringuito Agua – a wooden boho-style bar with ocean views. It’s the perfect place to relax after a surf session. Other recommended spots in Tarifa include:

• Bar El Frances – a popular tapas bar in the town center.
• Chilimosa – a vegetarian fusion restaurant.
• Surla – a spot for healthy breakfasts and beachside lunches.

Restaurant prices are reasonable: tapas from €2.50, main dishes from €12, coffee around €1.50, beer €2.50–3, and cocktails in beach bars around €8.

Surf schools and rentals

Tarifa offers many surf schools for beginners and advanced riders. Example prices:

• Group lesson (2 hours): €35–50
• 3-day package: €120–140
• Private lesson: €70–90
• Board and wetsuit rental: €20–25 per day

Popular schools include Free your Mind, Addict Kite School, and Surf Tarifa School.

Beach walk to the town

From the parking lot by Playa de Los Lances, you can walk along the beach to the center of Tarifa in about 30–40 minutes. It’s a scenic coastal walk with ocean views and surfers in action.

Attractions in Tarifa

Tarifa is not only a beach destination but also a charming town rich in history. Don’t miss:

• Castillo de Guzmán el Bueno – a castle with views of Africa.
• Puerta de Jerez – the main gate to the old town.
• Old Town – narrow streets, white houses, and numerous bars.
• The promenade – ideal for evening walks.
• The sea meeting point – where the Atlantic and the Mediterranean meet.

How to get to Tarifa

Tarifa is well connected:

• From Malaga – about 160 km (2 hours drive).
• From Algeciras – 20 km, bus connections available.
• Nearest airports: Malaga, Seville, Jerez.

Where to stay

Accommodation options in Tarifa:

• Vanlife – free beachside parking.
• Campsites – Camping Rio Jara with full facilities.
• Hotels and hostels – in the town center, close to attractions.

Summary

Tarifa is a place where nature, sport, and culture come together. Whether you’re a surfer, van traveler, or a tourist seeking relaxation – Tarifa has something for you.