Tabarca Island

Its waters are a Marine Reserve of the Mediterranean due to its excellent quality and the biodiversity of its flora and fauna.

Tabarca is the only inhabited island of the Valencian Community, located off the coast of Alicante, approximately eleven nautical miles away and near the cape of Santa Pola. More than just an island, it is a small archipelago that includes Tabarca as well as the islets of La Cantera, La Galera, and La Nao. The island stretches roughly 1,800 meters in length and up to 400 meters at its widest point.

Its shores once served as a refuge for Barbary pirates. In the 18th century, Charles III ordered the fortification and establishment of a village to house several Genoese fishing families who had been held captive in the Tunisian city of Tabarka. The walls surrounding its urban core have been declared a Historic-Artistic Site and a Cultural Heritage Asset.

Accessible Beaches

The city of Alicante provides a bathroom assistance service for people with reduced mobility during the summer season.

Tourist Offices in Tabarca

Service available during the summer season

Teléfono
+34 965 177 201
+34 965 125 633
Correo
info@alicanteturismo.com
turismo@alicanteturismo.com

Punta Falcón. isla de Tabarca 7

Tabarca Snorkel Guide

Everyone who has gone snorkeling in Tabarca agrees that its seabeds are exceptional. It stands out not only for the clarity and visibility of its waters but also for its astonishing biodiversity. A wide variety of marine life, including groupers, gilthead breams, sea bass, white seabreams, octopuses, and many other species, fills these unique underwater landscapes with vitality.

Here are some tips to ensure that your outing is as safe, enjoyable, and respectful as possible.

  • Avoid entering the water when it is murky, has waves, or strong currents.
  • Always carry a buoy. Not only will it mark your position, but it can also serve as a flotation aid if needed.
  • Be mindful of boats, especially during the summer season.
  • It is advisable to use a life vest.
  • Respect plants and animals, no matter how insignificant they may seem.
  • If we see plastic waste, we will try to remove it to prevent animals from ingesting it.
  • Avoid feeding the fish as it creates improper eating habits.
  • Avoid touching or disturbing wildlife, including refraining from bothering octopuses or taking starfish out of the water.
  • Do not remove any living creatures from the seabed. If we want souvenirs, it’s better to photograph them.

Nueva Tabarca Museum

Invierno
Miércoles a domingo:
11:00 – 14:00h
15:30 – 16:30h
Verano
Miércoles a domingo:
11:00 – 14:00h
16:00 – 18:30h

TeléfonoCorreo
+34 965 960 175
+34 965 148 111
+34 965 148 112
museotabarca@alicante.es
conserjeria.museotabarca@alicante.es

Free access

Organize the visit to Tabarca Island

“The typical visit is usually a day trip. There are multiple departures, more or less frequent depending on the season, from the port of Alicante in a comfortable maritime journey of approximately one hour. Access is also possible from Santa Pola or Benidorm.

Once on the island, visitors can enjoy coves and beaches with crystal-clear waters and a charming fishing harbor. The area offers excellent dining options, including the chance to taste the caldero, the island’s traditional dish. A walk through the town center and a visit to the island’s museum are highly recommended. Visitors can also stay overnight on the island, thanks to the recent opening of new accommodations.

Alicante.Reserva_Marina_Tabarca5

Off-season you can visit the island from Santa Pola.

The Municipal Board of Tourism and Beaches is not responsible for any potential changes to rates and schedules that may occur.

On the map

Weather

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Information about Alicante’s beaches: Weather forecast, sea conditions, warnings, and details about the weather and temperatures.