Spain Vacation: Experience the Costa De La Luz In 2023

Somewhat quieter than the busy Costa del Sol, Spain’s Costa de la Luz has just as many attractions, if not more. With its great beaches, historic and exciting cities and delicious cuisine, the Coast of Light should be your next summer destination.

Water sports, golf and nature hikes on the Costa de la Luz

For those travelers seeking an active vacation, with access to water sports, golf, bird spotting and more, the Costa de la Luz is perfect. For instance, the city of Tarifa is known for the best wind conditions and kite-surfing beaches in Andalucía.

In fact, Tarifa is often dubbed the windsurfing capital of Europe. Here, the Playa Valdevaqueros and Playa Los Lances have the perfect waves. Meanwhile, for those who prefer to catch the action under the waves, the stretch of the Mediterranean coast near Guardiaro is renowned for scuba diving and snorkeling.

For those who prefer to explore nature, the beautiful National Parks in the Bay of Cádiz and Laguna de Fuente de Piedra, close to El Rompido, are ideal for nature and wildlife walks and bird-spotting excursions. Those who prefer to practice their swing can enjoy a selection of golf courses along the coast.

Visit the beaches

Meanwhile, for those who want a perfect spot on the sand overlooking the ocean, the Costa de la Luz has a number of beach towns to visit. The most popular are La Antilla, El Romido, Matalascañas and Punta Umbria.

Travelers should bear in mind that beaches on the Cádiz coastline tend to be windswept, and it isn’t pleasant to get sand in your eyes. Despite this, the coast is worth a visit for its quaint fishing villages, towering cliffs and beautiful coves. Of particular interest are the towns of Caños de Meca, Conil de la Frontera, Zahara de los Atunes, Bolonia and Valdevaqueros in Tarifa.

Traditional Spanish style on the Costa de la Luz

While the Costa de la Sol is packed with concrete apartment blocks, sometimes towering into the sky, the Costa de la Luz is less developed. In fact, the villages and smaller towns on the coast and in the mountains are still pretty and traditionally Spanish.

Meanwhile, the region is especially famous for its seafood, where you can experience the catch of the day, caught by local fishermen. What makes Cádiz fascinating is that the local cuisine is influenced by Roman, Phoenician and Moorish flavors. Head to the Plaza del Tio la Tiza in the fishing district to experience delicious tapas and more.

Moreover, the Costa de la Luz has no shortage of history, with its architecture, museums and Roman and Moorish ruins. In Tarifa, explore the remains of a Roman city and the Moorish style of the medina, complete with a military fortress.

In Jerez de la Frontera, sample the famous sherry and learn about its rich equestrian heritage. Meanwhile, for a truly Spanish evening out, the area was the birthplace of Flamenco, with its colorful and dramatic dancing and guitar music.

For those seeking a quieter beach experience, plenty of history, nature and good food, the Costa de la Luz is the perfect choice for 2023.