If you’re thinking about visiting Tarifa, there’s one thing you need to know: here, the wind sets the rhythm. Tarifa isn’t just about beaches and sunshine. It’s a place where every day depends on the wind, the waves, and the freedom to move.
If you’re coming to kitesurf, where you stay matters more than you might think. Being stuck in one spot can mean missing out on the best sessions. Having the freedom to move makes all the difference.
In this guide, we’ll show you all the accommodation options in Tarifa — hotels, hostels, campgrounds — but we’ll also tell you about the option we recommend most for a true Tarifa experience: fully-equipped camper vans.
After living here for more than 20 years, we know what really works. Here’s everything you need to plan your stay and enjoy Tarifa the way it should be enjoyed: free, simple, and close to the action.
1. Fully equipped Camper Van – Total Freedom in Tarifa
Traveling by camper van is hands down the best way to experience Tarifa like a local. If you’re coming for kitesurfing, there’s nothing better than waking up near the beach, checking the wind, and deciding your plan in seconds.
A full-equipped camper van gives you total independence. No hotel bookings, no schedules. You can follow the wind, move between spots depending on the conditions, and sleep under the stars whenever you want. If you’re coming to learn kitesurf or surf in the south of Spain, we’ll adapt the times of the lessons to your itinerary.
Our campers come with everything you need:
- A comfortable bed to rest after a long session on the water.
- A fully equipped kitchen so you can cook anywhere, anytime.
- An outdoor shower to rinse off after a day at the beach.
- Solar panels so you stay fully self-sufficient.
- Plenty of space to store your boards, kites, and gear safely.
Tarifa also has several easy and safe spots to park your camper. Some beach bars (chiringuitos) let you stay overnight if you grab a drink or meal, and there are official camper areas close to the main kitesurf beaches like Valdevaqueros and Playa de los Lances.
Traveling in a camper isn’t just convenient — it’s the best way to adapt to the wind, explore different beaches, and truly live Tarifa at your own pace, with no schedules and no stress.
2. Hotels and Resorts Close to the Beach
If you prefer a little more comfort or you’re traveling with family, staying at a hotel can be a good option. In Tarifa, there are several hotels and resorts that really understand what kitesurfers need: easy beach access, places to store gear, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Recommended Hotels for Kitesurfers
- Hotel Arte Vida: One of the most popular places. Right on the beach, with a kitesurf school, restaurant, and a surfer vibe all year round.
- Hotel Dos Mares: A favorite among riders. Direct beach access, large gardens, its own kite school, and a peaceful setting.
- Hotel Tarifa Lances: A more modern option, closer to the town center. Perfect if you want to combine beach sessions with city strolls.
These hotels are used to hosting kitesurfers and offer secure storage for your gear. They also provide services designed for people who spend most of their day outdoors at the beach.
Just a tip: if you plan to visit during high season (summer or Easter), it’s a good idea to book early. Hotels near the main spots fill up quickly.
3. Hostels and Surf Houses – Rider Atmosphere
If you’re looking for a good vibe, meeting other riders, and affordable accommodation, the hostels and surf houses in Tarifa are a perfect choice. Here, everything revolves around the wind, the waves, and enjoying life outdoors.
Recommended hostels and surf houses
- Surfers Residence: Located in the town center, within walking distance to everything. Offers private and shared rooms, a relaxed vibe, and lots of surfers and kiters.
- The Wild House: A cozy surf house close to the beach, great for those who want to live outside all day. Friendly atmosphere and shared activities.
- South Hostel Tarifa: A larger option with common areas perfect for meeting people. Good prices, rental services, and easy access to the main kitesurf spots.
These places usually have storage for boards, gardens or terraces to relax, and often organize communal BBQs or small events. They’re ideal if you’re traveling solo, with a small group, or just want to dive into the local kitesurfing culture.
Just a tip: during high season, these spots fill up quickly. Booking a bit in advance is a good idea.
4. Tourist Apartments
If you prefer more independence or plan to stay several days, renting a tourist apartment in Tarifa can be a great choice. You’ll have your own space, a private kitchen, and the freedom to set your own schedule.
Why choose an apartment in Tarifa?
- More privacy compared to a hostel or surf house.
- Perfect for longer stays or for couples, families, or small groups.
- The option to cook your own meals and save money on eating out.
Recommended areas for renting
- Playa de los Lances: Great if you want to stay close to the main kitesurfing spots.
- Historic town center: Ideal for those who want to enjoy the nightlife, bars, and restaurants within walking distance.
- Valdevaqueros: Perfect if you want to be even closer to the kite action, in a more natural setting.
Tarifa offers apartments of all sizes and budgets, from simple studios to penthouses with sea views. Just a tip: during high season, the best places get booked quickly. Planning ahead is key if you want something near the beach or in the old town.
5. Campings and Glamping
If you love being close to nature and are looking for a simpler or alternative type of stay, camping and glamping in Tarifa are great options. You’ll be near the beaches, surrounded by nature, and just a short distance from the best kitesurfing spots.
Recommended campgrounds in Tarifa
- Camping Río Jara: Very popular among kitesurfers. Located right next to Playa de los Lances, perfect for walking to the spot. Basic services, shady areas, and a relaxed vibe.
- Camping Tarifa: A simple, no-frills option also close to the beach. Great if you’re looking for something practical and budget-friendly.
Glamping options
- Glamping in Valdevaqueros: Luxury tents set in nature, ideal for those who want more comfort than a regular tent but still want to stay connected to the outdoors.
Most campgrounds offer spaces for pitching your own tent, renting bungalows, or parking your camper van. Many also have restaurants, small shops, and common areas to relax after a long kitesurfing or surfing session.
Just a tip: during the summer months, it’s highly recommended to book in advance. Tarifa gets very busy in high season and the best spots fill up quickly.
6. Local Tips for Choosing Accommodation in Tarifa
After living more than 20 years in Tarifa, we know that choosing the right accommodation can make a huge difference to your trip. Here are some practical tips to help you make the best decision.
Think about the wind
In Tarifa, the wind rules everything. If you want to make the most of your kitesurf or surf sessions, pick a place that allows you to move easily between spots. Being stuck in one place can be frustrating if the wind conditions change.
Location matters
- Near Playa de los Lances: Great if you want quick access to main kitesurf spots and beach bars.
- Historic town center: Perfect if you want to combine beach sessions with restaurants and nightlife.
- Valdevaqueros area: Best for nature lovers who want to stay right by the kite beach.
Book early in high season
During summer and Easter, Tarifa gets very busy. If you want to stay close to the beach or the main kitesurf spots, it’s important to book early to get the best options.
Stay flexible
If you really want to enjoy Tarifa like a local, choose accommodation that gives you freedom to move. Camper vans, apartments, or hostels with easy access to beaches are great choices to follow the wind and make the most of every day.
7. The Best Accommodation in Tarifa for Surfers
After looking at all the options, one thing is clear: if you want to truly enjoy Tarifa, follow the wind, and live like a real rider, nothing beats the freedom of a full-equipped camper van.
With a camper, you wake up wherever you want, right by the best kite or surf spots. No hotel schedules, no complicated logistics. You move with the wind, choose your beach, and change plans if the conditions shift. That’s exactly how we live here after years in Tarifa.
At Kitecamper, we have designed adventure packs that include everything you need: a fully equipped camper van, your kitesurf or surf lessons, and local support so you can focus 100% on riding and relaxing.
If you want an accommodation in Tarifa that offers real comfort, total flexibility, and a true connection with the ocean and the wind, the choice is simple: a full-equipped camper with Kitecamper.
