Costa de La Luz - this area of unspoiled beaches is known to savvy visitors for its hidden coves with crystal-clear turquoise waters
Explore Costa de la Luz
The Costa de la Luz (Coast of Light) is the western part of the Andalucía coastline that faces out to the Atlantic. The sand is finer and a more golden colour than in the neighbouring Costa del Sol, to the east. This area of unspoiled beaches is known to savvy visitors for its hidden coves with crystal-clear turquoise waters, wide sweeps of soft sand and groovy bars, while the reliable onshore winds and waves attract windsurfers and kiteboarders; international competitions are regularly held in Tarifa.
Many of the beaches here are backed by sand dunes and pine trees, as this part of the coast has not seen the high-rise hotel development of other areas. The temperatures are slightly milder, although some areas can experience persistent breeezes.
Stylish & contemporary hotel close to unspoilt beaches. Gardens and large pool. Ideal for families.
The areas with cliffs and coves are generally found in the Cadiz part, near Conil and around the Campo de Gibraltar.
This coast is divided into two sections: Costa de la Luz (Huelva Province), which stretches from the Portuguese border eastwards to Donaña park and the mouth of the Guadalquivir River, and Costa de la Luz (Cadiz Province), from the Guadalquivir eastwards to Tarifa, the southernmost point of the European continent.
Encompassing a 10,522ha flat landscape of sandy beaches, marshes, salt pans, freshwater lakes and tidal inlets, as well as the two natural areas of Isla del Trocadero and the Marismas de Sancti… More →
Created in 1989, the Breña y Marismas de Barbate park is Andalucia's second largest coastal reserve and has one of the most spectacular stretches of rocky cliffs along the Andalucian Atlantic… More →
El mirador del Estrecho is a viewpoint which offers exceptional views over the Strait of Gibraltar and the African Coastline
Created in 2003, the Parque Natural del Estrecho is the southernmost protected area in Europe. It is made up of a long stretch of coastline covering 18,931ha from Cabo de Gracia in the west near… More →
See and Do on Costa de la Luz (Cadiz)
Giants of the deep glide through the waters off Tarifa, in the legendary Strait of Gibraltar.
A wonderful opportunity to get close to whales, dolphins and other sea mammals, in their natural habitat in the Straits of Gibraltar. This is the area of sea where where the Atlantic Ocean and… More →
Conil de la Frontera has a number of fine beaches, including many sheltered coves, or calas. The most popular one for families, and closest to the town centre is La Fontanilla. Here is our guide… More →
Beautiful beaches of Zahara de los Atunes on the Costa de La Luz
Take a look at which 30 Costa de a Luz Cadiz and 12 Huelva beaches were awarded a Blue Flag in 2024 and check progression of awards since 2014. Destinations are listed along the coast from West to… More →
One spot you shouldn't miss along this stretch is the Laguna de los Lances, near the beach in this photography of the same name
Tarifa is a great place for birdwatching, being situated on the edge of Los Alcornocales National Park, and also on the migration route for more than 400 species of birds which fly in flocks… More →
Thanks to its ideal situation on the Strait of Gibraltar opposite Africa, where the Atlantic and Mediterranean meet, with constant winds, Tarifa is already known as the European capital of… More →
A tower of the Castle of Guzman El Bueno, originally built as an alcazar (Moorish fortress).
This impressive, solidly-built Moorish fortification, which played an important part in early Spanish history, has been recently restored. As the southern-most point of the peninsula, Tarifa was… More →
Although Zahara de los Atunes lies within the municipal district of Barbate, these beaches are so good that they deserve their own dedicated page. Playa de Zahara de los Atunes is one of the most… More →
The municipality of Barbate boasts some of the most beautiful beaches on the Costa de la Luz inlcuding los Caños de Meca and Zahara de los Atunes. The golden sand of Playa de Zahora stretches from… More →
Although these beaches are in the municipality of Chiclana de la Frontera, they are actually located some 7km away near the village of Sancti Petri. This popular beach stretches 2.5km from the the… More →
Playa La Caleta is a small beach at the far end of the Cádiz peninsula, near the Viña area and is located between two old castles: Castillo de Santa Catalina and Castillo de San Sebastián. It is… More →
Popular with Sunday day trippers, but quiet in the week. Large sand dunes to the north and military land ensure it will always remain totally undeveloped. Visit the ruins of the Roman town . The… More →
Golden sands and blue skies at Los Lances beach, Tarifa.
Discover the Tarifa beach scene - the fine golden sands, those surf-loving winds, and that very special light of the Costa de la Luz, together make an unbeatable combination. The 10 km of white… More →
Baelo Claudia, near Tarifa, is one of Andalucia´s most significant and well-preserved Roman archeological sites
Baelo Claudia, near Tarifa, is one of Andalucia´s most significant and well-preserved Roman archeological sites. The extensive ruins are situated on the Costa de la Luz, some 15km north of Tarifa… More →
Many people dream of riding a horse along the beach, with their hair flying in the wind and the waves crashing around them, feeling a great sense of freedom. Tarifa´s extensive chain of white… More →
Discover the historical gems of Tarifa town, including a walk aroung the Castle of Guzmán El Bueno
Tarifa is a small but historic town with a relaxed vibe. Its most famous monument is the castle . Other attractions are Alhameda Gardens, Plaza de la Ranita, Church of San Mateo, Jerez Gate,… More →
Courses in Cadiz & Costa de la Luz include Benalup, Montenmedio, Costa Ballena, Lomas de Sancti Petri, Montecastillo, Novo Sancti Petri A - Mar y Pinos, Arcos, and the five in… More →
If you want unspoilt, wild beaches, the Costa de la Luz is for you. From the trendy wind and kite-surfing spot Tarifa, this Cadiz coast stretches to the Guadalquivir river estuary is a haven of… More →
If you want unspoilt, wild beaches, the Costa de la Luz is for you. From the trendy wind and kite-surfing spot Tarifa, this Cadiz coast stretches to the Guadalquivir river estuary is a haven of… More →
