A quaint but gorgeous town on the coast of Spain has built itself a reputation of being Europe’s answer to Bali. Tarifa, near Cadiz, is more than just a gem of culture, food and sea views, but boasts an Andulusian flair thanks to its pretty beaches that attract tourists from far and wide.
Forget the 15-hour flight to western Africa, this delight is just shy of 1,000 miles closer, and you only need to board the big bird in the sky for three hours. This makes the Spanish locale, located right on your doorstep, a more cost-effective holiday destination. But you don’t have to take the Daily Express‘ word for it. According to travel influencer, Travel with Rafa, Tarifa “feels like a tropical paradise in the middle of the Mediterranean. It feels like the Bali of Europe!”
When it comes to the food available at this lesser-known European hotspot, the town is steeped in fishing traditions which have made for a truly exquisite local cuisine.
Freshly caught fish and crab can be found at many of its restaurants, then there’s Tarifa’s wild nighlife with various busy clubs, as well as beachfront tiki bars and more.
But then enter its three iconic beaches, regarded by many as the town’s crown jewels. Playa de Bolonia, with its 30-metre-high sand dune and ancient Roman ruins, was named the second best beach in all of Spain in 2024.
Visitors can not only visit to catch some rays and top up on their sun tan, but observe its rich history with ruins of a forum, a marketplace, thermal baths, queducts,a theatre, and a basilica all nearby.
Los Lances, another beach, is often ruled by kitesurfers, and it boasts sunsets that could easily be confused for delicately taken stock photographs.
Last but not least is Valdevaqueros. This is a hub for surfers and holds the coveted beach bar, Tumbao, that plays great music and serves the most refreshing drinks to really give you that holiday high.
“If you have been to Tarifa and have not visited Tumbao, then you have not been to Tarifa,” a customer wrote on Tripadvisor.
“Do not miss this magical place, staff and atmosphere is 100 per cent. It’s a special place with a charm rarely found.”
Tarifa is also home to over seven species of dolphins, while whales are also present in its waters, making it the ideal trip for marine sightings and of course some snorkelling.
So why don’t you pay this wonder of the world a visit. Not only is it cheaper than Bali, but it has a rich story, great people, fun bars, and beaches that are a sight to be behold.