Tabarca island in Alicante
Knowing what to see and do on Tabarca island will ensure you have a fabulous holiday. Set in the middle of the Costa Blanca, this charismatic island, just two kilometres long, has everything. A historical heritage, unique beaches, water sports, wild nature and excellent cuisine.
Wondering how to get to Tabarca island? Tabarca island can only be reached by boat, so forget every other option. The quickest way is to get to Tabarca island from Santa Pola; this route takes no longer than 35 minutes. Or, if you prefer, it will take just under an hour from Alicante and 75 minutes from Benidorm.
What to see on Tabarca island: cultural heritage and the old town
The instant you get off your boat and step foot on Tabarca island, you’ll sense that you’re somewhere very special. In fact, the walls that surround its urban centre are a legally protected cultural and historical site.
Walking around the setting and meandering through the urban area is truly amazing. The San José tower, dating back to 1790, the San Pedro and San Pablo church, and the cemetery stand out among its charming buildings.
Beaches, idyllic coves and water activities
Tabarca island in Alicante features an incredible selection of water sports and excellent places to swim. The main beach, which is 200 metres long and very near the port, is usually crammed with people during peak season.
Wild, with blue water and a charming setting is the Faroleta beach, which you will find much more peaceful.
In regards to coves, Platja Gran, Punta Falcó, La Peladilla and La Calera all share an untamed feel. You will love their contrasting colour palettes of intense blues and incredible ochres.
Once you’re on Tabarca island, getting to somewhere where you can do water sports is incredibly straightforward. Enjoy the wide selection of options, including paddleboarding, snorkelling, kayaking, chartered fishing and all kinds of outings by boat, including sailboats.
Scenery and monuments to see on Tabarca island
A comfortable stroll will take you to one of the most photogenic, enjoyable places in Tabarca. Its lighthouse was built in 1854 and it has a charming square, original base that is ideal for all kinds of photographs. Make the most of this visit and have a look at the biological laboratory it houses.
The area around it is also spectacular, surrounded by small coves and magnificent cliffs.
Tabarca island and its Mediterranean flavours
If you’re still wondering what to do on Tabarca island, Alicante, and you like to eat well, we have another great idea. Sample the cuisine! It combines the best of the Mediterranean with its coastal flavours, rices and excellent citrus fruits, and it adds a delicious local-inspired bonus.
You really must try its most popular dish: the traditional Tabarca rice dish. This typical dish, originating from local fishermen, is split into two dishes eaten one after the other. First, the fish is cooked in a cast-iron pan along with some delicious potatoes and seasoned with homemade salsa alioli. Then, a delectable rice dish is prepared with the fish stew.
Grilled squid is one of the most iconic of the island’s coastal delicacies. Of course, if you like seafood, you’re bound to fall in love with Tabarca.
And a good land and sea paella is a must in this destination, with it just waiting to be devoured.
Outings and tips to enjoy the experience to the full
It might sound like it goes without saying, but we recommend you do one of the island’s sea routes and outings.
In 1986, the seabeds in this area were selected the top Marine Reserve in Spain. So, if you don’t go diving, make the most of the boats with a glass bottom and underwater vision to enjoy this natural spectacle.
Below are some tips for making the most of your stay:
- Enjoy the evenings to stroll along the coast, and around the streets and walls. The views of the sun hiding behind the horizon are simply unparalleled.
- If you want to dine in a restaurant, make a booking before you reach the island or as soon as you disembark. They get full to overflowing and have limited spaces!
- Going to enjoy it with children? Make sure you bring everything on this list of things to pack: hat or cap, diving kit, jelly shoes, sun cream, pushchair and a good supply of water.
Come and see Tabarca island, Alicante, and experience the Mediterranean in full
Now that you know where Tabarca island is and what attractions it has to offer, are you coming to Alicante? It is one of the most beautiful, complete and entertaining provinces in the Mediterranean.
At Fidalsa, we have dozens of fabulous tourist accommodation options available for every kind of visitor. You now know what to see on Tabarca island and why this particular paradise is within reach. Actually, the same is true for the whole of Alicante. When are you coming?
