Nor the beaches crowded with sunbathers found in Chipiona, Matalascañas, or Torremolinos; nor the more unspoiled landscapes—the beaches of Bolonia, Zahara, Cuesta Maneli, or La Isleta del Moro; nor does it possess the charm of downtown Cádiz—and yet, Sanlúcar de Barrameda offers a less crowded summer retreat, with world-class cuisine and its characteristic charm, the decadence, beauty, and fertility of the Marco de Jerez region.
Just over an hour from Seville, this destination often goes unnoticed, yet it is clearly a haven of peace, gastronomy, history, and home to one of the most spectacular traditions in all of Andalusia.
Much more than just a beach: a stroll through its stately charm
Dozens of churches and convents are scattered throughout the town’s streets, which also boasts palaces—in fact, one of the Casas de Cargadores de Indias has been designated a Site of Cultural Interest and a Historic-Artistic Complex—and fortresses.
With a glorious history tied to the arrival in the Americas and the resulting trade routes and exchanges, Sanlúcar has managed to preserve that spirit that lives on in the streets—in the bustling Barrio Alto, its Mercado de Abastos , and the countless dining options, from wine cellars to bars.
A city of monuments, picturesque shaded squares where you can linger before sunset, stroll through Bajo de Guía, and much more than just sandy beaches to treat yourself to a special getaway facing Doñana
And there’s so much more to it.
A spectacle unique in the world: races on the sand
If there’s one thing that makes Sanlúcar de Barrameda world-famous—literally, since its horse races have been declared of International Tourist Interest—it’s its horse races on the beach.
Every August, when the tide goes out and reveals a vast stretch of wet sand, riders and their horses compete against the backdrop of Doñana National Park and the setting sun.
The 181st edition of the Sanlúcar de Barrameda Horse Races will be held in August 2026 over two sessions: the first on the 8th, 9th, and 10th, and the second on the 21st, 22nd, and 23rd.
It’s a completely free spectacle that you can enjoy right on the beach, betting a few cents at the legendary children’s booths set up by local kids or soaking up the atmosphere from the official boxes.
The show takes place at sunset with views of Doñana, and those interested can purchase tickets from the Royal Horse Racing Society of Sanlúcar for the grandstand area, priced at €20 per person.
Where shrimp and manzanilla are a way of life
There are plenty of culinary highlights in Sanlúcar, a place that’s easily defined by its culinary delights. Its seafood cuisine ranks among the best in the country, thanks to two standout products: Sanlúcar shrimp and Manzanilla.
The heart of the Barrio Alto and unfiltered fried seafood
In the Barrio Alto neighborhood, the trio of taverns awaits, bound to captivate you: a visit to Los Aparceros is a must to try their ajo campero; the papas aliñás at La Herrería de Paco Félix; and the fried seafood platter at Bar Navarro.
Local stews, grilled dishes, and the temple of wine
Other classics, in the Bajo de Guía neighborhood, include Chiringuito Alfonsito, where you’ll be blown away by its grilled fish, and Venta La Marisma, known for its cuchareo and rice dishes. In the Plaza del Cabildo, the shrimp tortillas at Casa Balbino are well worth a stop.
And on a first visit, of course, head to the legendary Der Guerrita tavern in the Barrio Bajo—a sanctuary where you can pair the finest wines of the Marco de Jerez with chickpeas and cuttlefish or marinated tuna that will take you to heaven.
