Sail off to Tabarca for a great day out or weekend away

Tabarca is a small island floating in the Mediterranean Sea. The island's population surges from just 55 inhabitants in winter to over 4,000 visitors a day in summer, all of whom are seeking to experience the island's natural beauty, friendly atmosphere and incredible waters.

What to do on Tabarca

The only way to reach this natural treasure is by boat. You can hop on board a connection from Santa Pola port and then start your journey over the waters towards the beauty that is island de Tabarca.

The island has the most beautiful, crystal clear waters that are ideal for snorkelling and diving. With your head under the surface, you will be immersed in the Natural Marine Reserve and all the incredible sea life that lives here.

Other ways to explore the seascape are by Jet Ski, Kayak or Paddle Board. All unique experiences that will enable you to really soak up the beauty of this heavenly slice of the Mediterranean.

Tabarca is just 1.8km long and 400m wide. The island village is surrounded by a wall as its coast was historically a refuge for Berber pirates. During your time on the island, you simply have to take a look at these walls, which have been declared an Historic and Artistic Conservation Site and a Site of Cultural Interest. Tabarca is in fact a small Archipiélago made up of the Isla de Tabarca plus a further three islets called La Cantera, La Galera and La Nao.

Though the island may be small, it is home to a large number of interesting sights and a museum (free admission) that speak of its historical past, the ancient gates of San Rafael, San Miguel and San Gabriel. the beautiful church of San Pedro y San Pablo, the old cemetery, the islands lighthouse. and the Frenchman's house built on the edge of a cliff.

After a day of sun, sea and sand, there is nothing quite like tucking into a delicious rice dish, specifically caldero tabarquino, which is made from fish caught in Santa Pola bay. Simply Delicious!

Spending a night in Tabarca will allow you to enjoy the magical sunsets and sunrises from the island, away from the usual hustle and bustle during the day.

✓ Boutique Hotel Isla Tabarca. Located in the former Governor's House.

✓ La Trancada. Charming rural house, an old fisherman's house from the 18th century.

✓ Hostal Masin. Located very close to the Central Beach.

Buy your tickets in advance online. Tabarkeras is one long standing ferry companies from Santa Pola (since 1975) to the island. If instead you prefer to enjoy a day of sailing you can book a 6-hour catamaran excursion (from Alicante).