What to do when the east wind blows hard in Tarifa: 10 ideal plans

Tarifa is an incomparable destination, world-renowned as a wind paradise and home to kitesurfing and windsurfing. But when the Levante wind blows hard, we can't always fully enjoy the activities on its beaches. The good news is that, just a short drive away, The wind may be very little or even non-existent. depending on the conditions. Therefore, from Tarifa Cozy House We've prepared a special selection of 10 perfect alternatives to continue enjoying your vacation even when the strong winds dominate Tarifa.

Discover these ideal plans for all tastes and make the most of every day in Tarifa and its surroundings:

1. Protected beaches near Tarifa

For those days when the wind is making the main beach difficult, we recommend visiting these wonderful nearby options, sheltered from the strong winds:

• Getares Beach (Algeciras): This is the beach with the least chance of wind in the area, and we'll explain why: Located 20 minutes from Tarifa, this beach is on the Mediterranean side of the Strait, and the Venturi effect is not as strong as on the Atlantic coast due to its geographical location. Here, you can expect winds of 0 knots, while in Tarifa, the winds can reach 30 knots. It's ideal for families, with all the services and amenities you need, such as restaurants and shops, right on the beach. How to get there here.

• Germans Beach (Zahara de los Atunes): A little further away towards CadizThis beach stands out for its natural beauty and tranquility, making it ideal for days with strong easterly winds. We recommend staying as close as possible to the Camarinal lighthouse. If you're interested in spending the day in Zahara de los Atunes, here's more about this beautiful town:

        Zahara de los Atunes: A Treasure on the Cadiz Coast

2. Bahía Park Water Park (Algeciras)

During the summer, this water park is a great option. It features water rides for all ages, refreshing pools, and rest and dining areas, ideal for enjoying a day away from the wind. Over 45,000 m², 3,000 m² of water surface, and star attractions such as Great Niagara, Snake Hole or the Jurassic River; it opens every summer between June and September and features the largest pool-jacuzzi in Andalusia.

3. Honey River Route (Algeciras)

For lovers of hiking and nature, the route of Honey River It offers unique landscapes and natural pools perfect for swimming, protected from the coastal wind. A 2.4-km route (50 min, easy difficulty) within the Los Alcornocales Natural Park ends at the Chorrera waterfall and several pools where you can swim, barely noticing the wind. If you'd like to see a video of the area, click here. here.

4. Cultural visit to the white villages

Take advantage of these days to explore the province's white villages. They're ideal places to relax, enjoy the local cuisine, and learn about its rich history:

Vejer de la Frontera (A Historic-Artistic Complex since 1976) dazzles with its whitewashed streets, flowery patios and excellent cuisine. Addition Medina Sidonia (Roman and Andalusian history) and Castellar de la Frontera (medieval castle and views of the Strait) for a perfect cultural route.

5. Shopping + indoor leisure (Algeciras / Palmones)

• Puerta Europa Shopping Center: more than 80 sports, fashion and accessories stores, restaurants, Yelmo Premium Cinemas (With Junior room) and the arcade Galaxy Park (VR WOW!, air-hockey, redemption machines).

• Mega Ozone Bowling Campo de Gibraltar (Palmones Industrial Estate): 24 Hyper-Bowling lanes, a 4,000 m² indoor karting track, a HOOP trampoline park, VR simulators, and a large Gastro Plaza; 12,000 m² of indoor fun.

6. Gibraltar in 45 min

Climb to the Rock's viewing platform, visit St. Michael's Cave, greet the Barbary apes, and enjoy duty-free shopping on Main Street while the Rock itself blocks the east coast. Make sure you have the necessary documentation for your trip: EU nationals can enter Gibraltar with a valid ID. All other visitors must present a valid passport. Visa information can be found at the following link: http://gibraltarborder.gi/visa

For more information on Gibraltar, click here: https://gibraltar.com/es/

7. Sotogrande & Marbella – glamour without wind

• Sotogrande: fine sand and exclusive atmosphere in the recently awarded Puerto Sotogrande Beach (Blue Flag 2025).

• Marbella: Stroll through Puerto Banús and enjoy the Nagüeles Beach (Golden Mile, blue flag, all services).

8. Estepona, the “Garden of the Costa del Sol”

Pedestrianized old town with more than 20,000 flower pots – a colorful promenade – the urban Rada Beach (2.5 km) and the family Cristo Beach, a 600 m cove protected by a breakwater and always calm waters. Click here to know how to get there.

9. Express getaway to Tangier

The Tarifa-Tangier Ville ferry takes just 1 hour, barring occasional cancellations due to extreme wind speeds. Check with the different companies to find the best ferry and time to travel, as well as what documentation is required. There are physical offices across from the port of Tarifa, and virtual offices can be found on the companies' official websites:

Two shipping companies operate the direct route today Tarifa ⇆ Tangier Ville —all with electronic ticketing and boarding in just 40 minutes:

• Baleària (balearia.com). The company reopened the line in May 2025 with the catamaran Hail Mary Two and part, for the moment, four times a day; their plan is to expand to six rotations during the summer peak.

• Africa Morocco Link – AML (aml.ma). He Marrakesh Express performs up to six daily departures In high season, with the first boat leaving at 8:00 a.m. and the last at 8:00 p.m.

  Documentation and entry procedures

  Cozy House Tip: Buy a "flexible" ticket to change time if the wind requires it, and bring a printed copy of your passport: the port police will check it before boarding. This way, your trip to Africa will be as smooth as the journey!

10. Jerez de la Frontera — sherry, horses, and indoor flamenco

89 km (≈ 1 h 20 min by car) from Tarifa, Jerez de la Frontera offers a cultural day without worrying about the wind:

• Tio Pepe WineriesGuided tour among century-old casks and a mini-train through the gardens, with a tasting of fino and oloroso wines; tours from Tuesday to Sunday, by reservation.

• Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art: The show “How Andalusian Horses Dance” (Wednesday and Friday, 12:00 p.m.) can be enjoyed in a covered, air-conditioned riding arena.

• Uncle Pepe Festival (July-August): International music among sherry butts—from Gloria Gaynor to Jethro Tull—to round off the day with art and good wine.

With these 10 You will have alternative plans for each day, no matter how strong the east wind blows. From Tarifa Cozy House We can help you manage your tickets, book your tastings, or notify you of the maritime forecast before you embark to Tangier. Just ask us and enjoy the paradise of Cádiz without letting the wind make decisions for you!