We´re spoilt for choice, as there are so many lovely beaches within very easy reach… but here is our Top 5 of the Costa de la Luz beaches:
1. Playa de Zahora, Los Caños de Meca – despite car parking being an issue at weekends in the peak of the Summer, this beach is absolutely idyllic, and it´s only 10 mins from Vejer. Its waters are calmer than nearby El Palmar so it´s perfect for families with young children. The views are stunning, and we love the Restaurante Sajorami right on the front… all very chilled and laid-back. Not one for those wanting night-life!
2. El Palmar, Vejer – A most spectacular virgin beach only 10 mins from the centre of Vejer… this stretch is long and totally unspoilt. It´s beautiful and never gets too busy – you can always find car parking, even in the height of summer. As it´s a very open beach, the water can get a little rough on windy days, so families with small children beware. Amazing for those wishing to surf, windsurf or kitesurf.
3. Playa de Sancti Petri, Chiclana – a little up the coast from the built-up golf hotels galore development of Novo Sancti Petri (thankfully the only developed part of the whole Costa de la Luz) is this gem of a beach. It´s about 20 mins from Vejer, but it´s well worth the drive. It has calm waters, brilliant little ´chiringuitos´for cold beers, and a little port where you can hire canoes.
4. Zahara de los Atunes – just north of Tarifa is this lovely and unspoilt village. The beaches here are rugged and beautiful, and totally unspoilt. The waters are crystaline and the sand is fine and white. The surrounding countryside is stunning. The village of Zahara is sleepy out of season, and full of hustle and bustle in the summer – people who holiday here tend to be Spanish. There are some fabulous fish restaurants here.
5. Playa de la Fontanilla, Conil – This long sandy beach is popular with the locals, and doesn’t suffer from strong currents, which makes it ideal for children. Being so close to Conil means that you also have access to some wonderful restaurants and bars. It does get very busy at peak hours in the summer.