The town covers a portion of the south-west of the Ebro Delta, including el Trabucador isthmus and la Banya peninsula, which close off a salt water lagoon known as the Port dels Alfacs.

It was founded by Charles III of Spain as a port to serve trade with the Spanish colonies, and constructed in the neoclassical style of the period.

La Ràpita is part of the Taula del Sénia free association of municipalities.

It is known for the production of rice and salt, and is also an important fishing port, particularly for shellfish and prawns, and a tourist centre.

In the early years of the present century, the town experienced a huge urban development due to the construction of many apartments and residential buildings.