Image by Comunitat Valenciana
Just a short boat ride from the bustling coast of Alicante, Isla de Tabarca offers British travellers a serene slice of Spanish island life. This tiny, car-free island, the only inhabited one in the Valencia region, charms visitors with its crystal-clear waters, historic ruins, and laid-back vibe. Unlike the crowded beaches of the Costa Blanca, Tabarca feels refreshingly untouched, making it a favourite for those seeking peace and natural beauty. Its designation as a marine reserve ensures protected waters teeming with marine life, perfect for snorkelling and swimming. For Brits craving a mix of culture, history, and seaside relaxation, Tabarca delivers an authentic Mediterranean experience without the tourist hustle.
Why British Travellers Love Isla de Tabarca
British visitors are drawn to Tabarca’s unspoiled charm and accessibility. The island’s compact size means everything is within walking distance, from the quaint village to secluded coves. The waters here are some of the clearest in Spain, ideal for families with children paddling in shallow bays or snorkellers exploring underwater reefs. The lack of cars adds to the tranquil atmosphere, allowing travellers to unwind fully. Day trips from Alicante or Santa Pola make it easy to visit, yet the island never feels overcrowded, even in summer. For those tired of busy resorts, Tabarca offers a glimpse of traditional Spanish island life, where fresh seafood is served in family-run tavernas and the pace slows to match the lapping waves.
What Makes Isla de Tabarca Unique
Tabarca’s uniqueness lies in its rich history and ecological significance. Once a refuge for Genoese sailors in the 18th century, the island’s walled village, Nueva Tabarca, retains a timeless feel with its stone houses and fortified gates. The entire island is a protected marine reserve, safeguarding vibrant sea life and pristine waters. Unlike other Mediterranean spots, Tabarca balances cultural heritage with natural wonders—explore 18th-century ruins like the Church of St. Peter and St. Paul, then dive into waters so clear you can spot octopus and bream. The island’s tiny population, around 50 residents, ensures an intimate, village-like atmosphere where visitors feel more like guests than tourists.
Top Things to Do in Tabarca
Begin your visit in Nueva Tabarca, strolling through cobbled streets lined with whitewashed houses. Climb to the top of the San José Tower, a 19th-century lighthouse, for panoramic views of the Mediterranean. The Tabarca Museum near the main square offers insights into the island’s pirate-era past and marine conservation efforts.
The main beach, Playa de la Guardia, is a crescent of pebbles and sand with gentle waters perfect for swimming. For quieter spots, head to the island’s northern coves like Cala del Francés or Cala de la Galera, where rocky outcrops provide shade and snorkelling opportunities. Join a guided boat tour around the island to learn about its ecology or visit the Marine Reserve Visitor Centre to understand efforts to protect local wildlife.
Fun Activities
Snorkelling and diving are Tabarca’s star attractions. Rent gear from kiosks near the harbour and explore underwater meadows of posidonia seaweed, home to starfish and damselfish. Kayaking around the island’s perimeter reveals hidden caves and quiet bays, while birdwatchers can spot shearwaters and Audouin’s gulls nesting on cliffs.
Hiking enthusiasts will enjoy the coastal path circling the island, a leisurely hour-long walk with views of Alicante’s skyline. For history buffs, the Puerta de Levante gate and remnants of the island’s defensive walls offer photo-worthy backdrops. As the sun sets, join locals for a stroll along the harbour, where fishing boats unload the day’s catch.
Nearby Restaurants
Dining on Tabarca revolves around fresh seafood. Restaurante Casa Juan, located on Calle de la Taberna, 3, is famed for its caldero tabarquino, a hearty fish and rice stew cooked over open fires. Restaurante La Trancada at Calle del Sol, 12, serves grilled squid and garlic prawns on a terrace overlooking the sea. For a casual bite, Bar El Puerto near the harbour dishes up crispy fried anchovies and cold beers.
In nearby Santa Pola, Restaurante Dársena at Avenida del Puerto, 45, offers paella with panoramic marina views. Back on the mainland in Alicante, Nou Manolín at Calle Villegas, 3, is a must for tapas like stuffed mussels and Iberian ham.
How to Get There
Most British travellers fly into Alicante-Elche Airport, which has direct flights from London Gatwick, Manchester, and Birmingham. From Alicante, take a 15-minute drive to the port of Santa Pola or Alicante Marina, where ferries depart hourly to Tabarca. The boat ride takes about 30 minutes from Santa Pola or one hour from Alicante, adult costing €23 for a return ticket and children under 4 years old travel for free. Day trips often include time to explore the island, with the last ferry returning at 4pm.
Recommended Nearby Hotels
For those wishing to stay close to Tabarca, Santa Pola and Alicante offer convenient options. Hotel Spa Porta Maris in Alicante, located at Plaza del Puerto, 3, combines sea views with a rooftop pool. In Santa Pola, Hotel Playas de Santa Pola at Avenida de Valencia, 1, provides beachfront access and family-friendly rooms. For a boutique stay, Hotel Hospes Amerigo in Alicante’s old town, at Calle de Rafael Altamira, 7, blends historic architecture with modern luxury.
Isla de Tabarca is a Mediterranean jewel that rewards visitors with simplicity and beauty. For British travellers, it’s a chance to swap crowded coasts for an island where history, nature, and tranquillity reign—all just a short hop from the Costa Blanca’s bustling hubs. Whether snorkelling in sapphire waters or savouring seafood by the harbour, Tabarca promises an escape that feels worlds away from everyday life.
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