Tarifa is a beautiful sandy beach town in the province of Cadiz, southern Spain. It’s a renowned windsurfing and kitesurfing destination, but there’s plenty for families to enjoy too. The broad, sandy beaches are perfect for days spent building sandcastles, flying kites and paddle-boarding, whilst the ancient city walls offer shade and a great vantage point to people-watch. For those looking for a little more action, there are a number of adventure parks dotted around Tarifa where you can zip-wire, rock-climb and abseil your way through the treetops. In the evenings, the town comes alive with a lively atmosphere, great restaurants and bars, and live music spilling out into the streets.
10 Fun & Kid-Friendly Things To Do In Tarifa, Spain
1. Visit the Tarifa Wildlife Rescue Centre:
The Tarifa Wildlife Rescue Centre is a great place to take kids to learn about the local wildlife and the efforts being made to protect it. There are a variety of animals at the centre, including many that are native to the area, and the staff is very passionate about their work.
2. Explore the old town:
Tarifa’s old town is a great place to explore with kids, as there are plenty of narrow streets to wander, and plenty of shops and restaurants to pop into. Be sure to check out the old town walls and the castle for some great views.
3. Visit the beaches:
Tarifa is well-known for its beaches, and they are definitely a great place to take kids. There are a few different beaches to choose from, each with its own unique vibe. Playa de los Lances is a great option for families, as it has a wide, sandy beach with plenty of space to play.
4. Take a ferry to Morocco:
One of the most unique things about Tarifa is its proximity to Africa. You can actually take a ferry from Tarifa to Morocco, and it’s a great way to introduce kids to a different culture. The ferry ride itself is also quite an adventure.
5. Go kitesurfing:
Kitesurfing is a popular activity in Tarifa, and it’s a great way to get kids excited about the outdoors. There are a few different kitesurfing schools in town, and most offer lessons for all levels.
6. Ride horses on the beach:
Horseback riding on the beach is a Tarifa tradition, and it’s a great way to explore the coastline. There are a few different companies that offer horseback riding tours, and most of them cater to all levels of experience.
7. Visit the Tarifa Bird Sanctuary:
The Tarifa Bird Sanctuary is a great place to take kids to see a variety of different birds up close. The sanctuary is located on the outskirts of town, and it’s a great way to spend an afternoon.
8. Take a boat tour:
There are a few different companies that offer boat tours in Tarifa, and it’s a great way to see the coastline from a different perspective. The tours typically last a few hours, and they’re a great way to relax and enjoy the scenery.
9. Go SUPing:
SUPing, or stand-up paddleboarding, is a great activity for kids of all ages. There are a few different companies that offer SUP rentals, and most of them also offer lessons.
10. Play in the parks:
Tarifa has a few different parks, and they’re great places for kids to run around and play. Parque de Isabel La Católica is a particularly popular option, as it has a playground, a fountain, and plenty of green space.
