Bolonia beach, Cadiz

The Costa Chill-out of Cadiz

Cádiz

Positive energy on the Costa de la Luz


The south of Spain is full of good vibes, light and energy, a place to relax and gaze at the sea from a Bali bed or enjoy the sunset under a jaima tent; an area with a huge amount of unspoilt beaches and settings that naturally combine hippie and chic to a soundtrack of reggae, techno, salsa, and even flamenco. This is the coast that runs from Chiclana to San Roque (about an hour’s drive), in the province of Cadiz.

Beaches and bars for relaxing

One of the best known beaches is La Barrosa, in Chiclana, where you can easily find DJ sessions organised by the locals. This beach continues onto La Loma del Puerco and Novo Sancti Petri. It is quieter and is known for its chill-out spots, with Bali beds waiting for you at sunset.Between the towns of Conil de la Frontera and Vejer de la Frontera there are 14 kilometres of relaxing beaches. There is something for everyone: There is a lot of variety, from the little coves of Roche to the long stretch of unspoiled sand of El Palmar (about 5 kilometres long) with beach clubs and magical twilights. In terms of bars and restaurants in the area, there are the beach bars where you can eat on swings, relax on deck chairs or sofas while enjoying a cocktail at sunset, or you can enjoy spots on the beachfront with swimming pools. 

Playa Zahora beach, Los Caños

A little further south, some of the best beaches are at and Zahara de los Atunes. Peace, relaxation, nature, and beautiful sunsets will be your companions by the sea. And there are plenty of chill-out bars with live concerts, a casual atmosphere and lovely views.Another iconic beach is Bolonia, a wild paradise where you will find lounge terraces where you can relax. The Valdevaqueros area and the Los Alemanes and Lances beaches are also sandy stretches where people go to relax.Finally, the Mediterranean coast of Cadiz boasts one of the most glamorous enclaves of southern Andalusia, the exclusive Sotogrande residential complex, with renowned beach clubs where you can listen to live music or enjoy relaxing massages. Good beaches include Guadalquitón (not crowded, even in summer) and Sotogrande.

Playa Zahora beach, Los Caños

Things to bear in mind

The Costa de la Luz is very busy in the warmer months and many businesses are only open from May to October. Also, every year new places open with captivating chill-out options.This area occasionally experiences strong winds, known locally as “viento de Levante”. If you want to go to the beach when the Levante wind is blowing – “hace Levante” – you can do so safely in the coves of Roche or Fuente del Gallo beach in Conil (sheltered by the cliffs). The “Levante” is often milder in La Barrosa (Chiclana) or the city of Cadiz and its beaches, such as La Caleta.

Playa Zahora beach, Los Caños