Hotels in El Puerto de Santa María

Historic centre and Ribera del Marisco

The old town brings together the merchants’ palaces, San Marcos castle, the Prioral church and the bodegas, all within walking distance. By the river are the fried-fish shops and seafood bars of the Ribera, perfect for dinner without worrying about the car, and the catamaran to Cádiz leaves from the quay by the Galeras fountain. It is the area for those who want to see the town and get around the bay without driving.

Many central streets are narrow and one-way. If you arrive by car, the simplest plan is to leave it in a public car park and forget about it.

Best-rated in this area: Hostal Costa Luz, with a score of 8.4 from 886 reviews.

La Puntilla and Puerto Sherry

On the west bank of the Guadalete mouth, La Puntilla beach is a stroll from the centre and surrounded by pine wood. A little further on, the Puerto Sherry marina has restaurants by the pontoons. It combines beach and town without a car, and appeals to families with young children for its wide sand.

Best-rated in this area: Kampaoh El Puerto de Santa María, with a score of 8.3 from 431 reviews.

Valdelagrana

Across the river, Valdelagrana is a long beach with a promenade full of bars, ice-cream parlours and apartment blocks. It has a local train stop and sits beside the marshes of the Bahía de Cádiz Natural Park, good for walking or cycling. In summer it has a lively family holiday atmosphere.

Best-rated in this area: Campomar Playa, with a score of 7.8 from 3,476 reviews.

Vistahermosa and Fuentebravía

Towards Rota, the coast fills with villas, pines and coves such as Fuentebravía. It is the most residential and peaceful part of the municipality. You will need a car to get to the centre or the bodegas, but in return you get less crowded beaches and houses with gardens. It is a good choice for long family stays, away from the summer noise of the centre.

Best-rated in this area: Apartamentos Soho Boutique Vistahermosa, with a score of 8.4 from 59 reviews.