Tabarca Island, a small paradise located just a few kilometers off the coast of Alicante, is the perfect destination for a day trip. With its crystal-clear waters, dreamlike beaches, and relaxed atmosphere, Tabarca offers a unique experience that you shouldn’t miss. Here’s everything you need to know to enjoy your visit to this beautiful island.
How to Get to Tabarca from Alicante
To reach Tabarca Island, you’ll need to take a boat from the port of Alicante or from Santa Pola. Ferries and tour boats offer regular service throughout the day, with a journey time of about 30 to 45 minutes. We recommend booking your tickets in advance, especially during the high season, to secure your spot on the boat.
What to Do in Tabarca
Once you arrive on the island, you’ll be amazed by its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere. Here are some activities you shouldn’t miss:
1. Explore the Village
The picturesque village of Tabarca, with its narrow streets and colorful houses, is a perfect place to stroll around. Be sure to visit the Church of San Pedro and San Pablo, located in the heart of the village. You’ll also find souvenir shops and small art galleries to explore.
2. Enjoy the Beaches
Tabarca’s beaches are ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. The main beach, Playa de Tabarca, is the most popular, with clear, calm waters perfect for a refreshing dip. If you’re looking for a quieter atmosphere, you can explore some hidden coves around the island.
3. Taste the Local Cuisine
Tabarca is famous for its delicious cuisine, especially its fish stew (caldereta de pescado). Don’t miss the chance to enjoy lunch at one of the local restaurants, where you can savor typical dishes made with fresh seafood. Pair your meal with a good regional wine for the full experience.
What to See in Tabarca
Tabarca is the only inhabited island in the Valencian Community, and it’s small: about 1.8 km long and barely 400 m at its widest, so you can easily cover it on foot. These are the stops not to miss.
The Walled Village of Nueva Tabarca
The village was built in the 18th century, by order of King Charles III, to house families of Genoese origin rescued from the island of Tabarka, in Tunisia; hence the name. Much of the wall and its stone gates survive, along with the straight streets of the period. The whole village is a listed historic site (Conjunto Histórico-Artístico).
The Marine Reserve
The waters around the island form the Tabarca Island Marine Reserve, the first to be declared in Spain (1986). That’s why the water is so clear and so full of life: seagrass meadows and fish you can see with just a snorkel mask. Respect the marked areas, as fishing and diving are not allowed in the fully protected zones.
Torre de San José and the Lighthouse
Outside the walls lies “el campo”, the part of the island with no houses. A flat walk takes you to the Torre de San José, the island’s defensive tower, and on to the lighthouse at the far end from the harbour. It’s the best way to see the whole island and get away from the midday crowds.
Tips for Your Visit
Bring sunscreen: Temperatures can be high, so make sure to protect yourself from the sun.
Comfortable footwear: Be prepared to walk and explore the island, so wear suitable shoes.
Stay hydrated: Bring enough water to keep yourself hydrated throughout the day.
Tabarca in One Day: A Simple Plan
- Morning: catch one of the first boats, while the island is still quiet, and walk around the walled village and the church.
- Midday: swim at the main beach or snorkel by the rocks of the reserve.
- Lunch: order caldero tabarquino, the island’s signature dish: rice cooked in a rockfish broth.
- Afternoon: walk out to the Torre de San José and the lighthouse, then back to the harbour. Check the time of the last boat back beforehand.
Don’t Forget to Visit!
Tabarca Island is an ideal destination for a day trip from Alicante. With its natural beauty, relaxed atmosphere, and rich gastronomy, you’ll fall in love with this small paradise. Be sure to include Tabarca in your itinerary and enjoy an unforgettable experience on the Alicante coast.
To round off the trip, see our guide to the best beaches in Alicante. And if you’re basing yourself in the city, you can stay at Jome Stays Alicante Centro.
