Its proximity to Acebuche, Doñana's main reception center, makes Matalascañas a convenient lodging base for park visitors. In general though, it's a rather incongruous and ugly sprawl of hotels and vacation homes, very crowded at Easter and in summer, and eerily deserted the rest of the year (most hotels close November-March). There are some nice beaches for relaxation, and the local ocean waters are good for windsurfing.