Guide to Isla Cristina

'Beloved by Spanish holidaymakers, bright and buzzing Isla Cristina promises sun-drenched days on its sensational beach and fabulous fish restaurants.'

When it comes to lively beach holidays, Isla Cristina is up there with the best of them. Once an island but now joined to the mainland, this buzzing modern resort is a popular beach break destination for Spanish holidaymakers and increasingly, Brits too. It's easy to see why. Running for eight kilometres, its beach is a wonder to behold. It's cushiony-soft sands are lapped by sapphire-coloured seas and every now and then, dotted with friendly beach bars. If you've come to surf or windsurf, there are excellent places to hit the waves and if you've come with your paperback or MP3, simply seek out a sunbed. Alternatively, flip-flop a bit further on where you'll come across quieter, dune-fringed swathes that seem a world away from everywhere and everyone. After doing your bit on the beach, mooch around the souvenir shops and take a siesta before stepping out for the evening. As the sun burns out, grab a grandstand cafe seat at the picturesque port area and watch the fishing boats unload their catches. Famous for its salted fish and canned tuna, Isla Cristina still makes its living from the sea. Then peruse the menus of the scores of good fish restaurants, and tuck in to local specialities like 'raya en pimenton' – fresh skate fried with peppercorns – as the stars light up above. Don't forget to explore the surrounding countryside while you're here. If you're into nature, make for the local maritime reserve to observe flocks of flamingos, spoonbills and storks amid the marshland. Or if culture's more your bag, drive to Huelva, from where Christopher Columbus once sailed.

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