Climate in Tarifa

The city has a peculiar climate. It has hot days in summer, which are sometimes refreshed by a light Atlantic breeze. But because of the high humidity, the chill is much more noticeable at night. In winter the temperature rarely drops below +9°C, but this is when the rainy season in Tarifa begins. The rains can fall for several days in a row, accumulating an average annual rainfall of up to 700 mm. But even Tarifa's rainy seasons leave the city attractive for tourism.

The city's coastline is where the waves of the Mediterranean Sea meet the waves of the Atlantic Ocean. This is what creates the special conditions for surfers. The two types of winds are in constant opposition over the area, creating periodic subtle ebb and flow.

The cooler Ponente blows from the west, bringing air currents from the Atlantic Ocean. It is succeeded by the eastern continental lenvante, which warms with caring warmth. Either of these can suddenly subside and immediately change to the opposite.

It can't be said that they create noticeable tides offshore, but the size of the waves does depend on which wind is prevailing at the moment. From around 3pm to 5pm, the Atlantic poniente dominates, so the waves are huge - a surfer's dream. Levante brings a light breeze, calms the waves and gives tourists a chance to swim. The ocean tides follow the same rules.

Beauty and Wildlife Fees

The city's unique location makes it a place of pilgrimage not only for surfers, but also for wildlife researchers, and especially ornithologists. It is on the rocky shores of the suburb that flocks of migrating birds gather. Here in spring and fall they rest for some time and gain strength before flying across the Strait of Gibraltar. Tourists can also observe them. Special excursions are organized for them to the Los Alcornocales Natural Park, the 30-meter Bolognese Dune natural monument and the park area of Los Lances beach.

The wildlife of Tarifa is also of interest to tourists and explorers due to the features of the Strait of Gibraltar. Whales and dolphins migrate through it. You can observe them from yachts and boats, which organize thematic excursions. The vegetation in Tarifa is as much a natural part of the city as the ancient fortresses. The beaches of Playa Chica, Los Lances, Valdevaquero, Bolonia Beach and Punta Paloma are natural reserves where you can not only relax by the warm waters, but also be impressed by Tarifa's majestic nature.