The glittering coastline of Costa de la Luz is a true jewel within the Andalucian crown: with a name translating to “Coast of Light”, it’s an apt description for a place drenched in golden sunshine. Stretching out over 200 kilometres along the Atlantic, this beautiful region offers a more off-the-beaten track alternative to its famous Mediterranean neighbour, the Costa del Sol.
Up until now this hidden gem has traditionally been the preserve of local families looking to get away from it all, and with good reason. It’s the ideal choice for travellers looking for authentic Spanish holidays with sunshine, exceptional food, culture and sports surrounded by the stunning natural landscapes that are unique to the area.
You can get ahead of the travel curve withJet2holidays, the UK’s number one tour operator, who are now offering direct flights to nearby Jerez from Birmingham, Leeds Bradford and Manchester airports, with London Stansted launching this Summer.
Booking with Jet2holidays is the easiest way to make your Costa de la Luz adventure effortless from start to finish. Known for its award-winning customer service, great value, and flexible options designed for every kind of traveller, Jet2holidays offer a range of perks including a low £60pp deposit*, flexible payment options (including PayPal Pay in 3 interest-free payments** and Pay Monthly***).
Families can make extra savings via Free Child Places†, while all packages are ATOL-protected, and include return flights, a generous 22kg baggage allowance and 10kg hand luggage, 2 to 5 star accommodation and return transfers‡.
With holidays available with a range of board options including self-catering, there is so much flexibility to explore Costa de la Luz on your own terms. Jet2holidays stays are carefully selected for quality, comfort and location: from boutique hotels in historic towns to beachfront villas perfect for a week of sun and sea or something more adventurous.
Here’s our guide to just some of the local highlights, from gorgeous shores and picturesque villages to compelling cuisine and culture…
A coastline with character
If you think you know southern Spain, the Costa de la Luz might just surprise you. Backed by swathes of pine forest, abundant wildlife and sand dunes rather than high rises, this area feels timeless and full of character. But make no mistake, there is so much to see and do.
Explore cobbled streets in Conil de la Frontera, home to tiny boutiques and family-run tapas bars where you can sample fresh gambas (prawns) grilled in olive oil with chilli and garlic, and tinto de verano, a more casual option than Sangria, made from Grenache red wine, soda water and sliced oranges.
Try La Fontanilla for some of the freshest fish right on the sand. Or why not explore the picture-perfect Vejer de la Frontera, nestled in the hillside. An unmissable white washed town with a spectacular tiled fountain, delve into its vibrant foodie scene then enjoy the shade offered by the ancient town walls on a gentle stroll after a long lunch.
Cuisine and culture
Jerez de la Frontera is the birthplace of sherry, and its centuries-old bodegas open their doors for tastings to reveal just how much variety there is in this local treasure. Opt for crisp finos and rich olorosos, truly delicious accompanied by some finely sliced jamon iIberico. Andalucía is the birthplace of the tapa tradition, the familiar small plates with drinks. Ever sociable, the idea has always been to encourage a shared dining experience by moving from bar to bar for food, drink and conversation. The Andalucian connection between food and culture is well-forged but also unique; almonds, rice and saffron come from an ancient Moorish influence, adding depth and diversity to dishes.
When evening falls, the rhythm of flamenco fills the air: in Jerez, this isn’t just a performance, it’s a living tradition, often breaking out spontaneously in small bars where locals sing, dance and clap to a sound that could only belong to Andalucía. Head to Tabanco El Pasaje, the city’s oldest sherry bar, famed for its authentic drinks and live flamenco and see where the night takes you!
Perhaps the most famous feria – or festival – in that area is the Feria del Caballo: a spectacular showcase of equestrian culture wrapped in elaborate 18th century costume and traditional clothing, celebrated every year around May. Featuring numerous events, including international show jumping and dressage competitions, carriage driving contests, traditional foods and nightly dancing in public casetas (tented pavilions). The event lasts an entire week and is a must-experience attraction, even if just to see the famous horse ballet.
Al fresco adventures
Beyond the beaches and coastal towns, Costa de la Luz also offers a remarkable variety of landscapes for walking, cycling, wildlife spotting and sports. Home to six national parks within the region, there are ample opportunities to spot migratory birds, wild horses and even Iberian lynx in their natural habitat. UNESCO World Heritage Site Donana National Park is a must-visit – straddling the provinces of Seville and Huelva, it’s particularly easy to weave into a holiday itinerary.
If your taste for the outdoors leans towards the aquatic, head to Tarifa close to Cadiz: famous for high winds and high adrenaline sports, you can indulge in some kitesurfing or windsurfing. When it’s time to take a break from the water, the Moorish-influenced old town is especially lovely with boutiques to explore and bars to relax in.
Golfers will find several beautifully-designed courses near Novo Sancti Petri and its historic castle, while cyclists and walkers can enjoy peaceful routes through cool pine groves and along coastal paths throughout the region.
And right now, you can save a whopping £100pp^ on all holidays in the Jet2 sale, so it’s the perfect time to lock in that trip you’ve been dreaming about!
For more travel information and inspiration and to book your Costa de la Luz getaway, visit Jet2holidays. After all, nothing beats a Jet2holiday…
*On bookings made ten weeks or more before departure. Full payment required by balance due date.
** Spread the cost over three interest-free payments. Available when booked online, for holidays under £2,000, departing within ten weeks.
*** See www.jet2holidays.com/part-payment for full details.
†One free child place per two paying passengers. Subject to availability. T&Cs apply, please see jet2holidays.com/promotions#FCP2025 for further details. ‡Unless otherwise stated.
^T&Cs apply: jet2holidays.com/promotions