The small island of Tabarca is actually an archipelago formed by three islets: La Cantera, La Galera, and La Nao, which surround Isla Plana or Nueva Tabarca. This entire group is located about 4.3 kilometers from the cape of Santa Pola, in the Mediterranean Sea, and is actually a district of Alicante, a city about 22 kilometers away. Today we explain what it is and what to see in Tabarca.
The island, not the islets, has an area of about 30 hectares, about 18 football fields, and its total dimensions are 1800 meters in length by 400 meters in width. The name Isla Plana derives from its low altitude, as it does not exceed 15 meters above sea level.
Currently, just over 50 people live in this territory permanently, although there are more in summer. However, during the first half of the 20th century, it housed more than 1000 people.
Index
- 1 TABARCA ISLAND: MAP
- 2 History and Charm of the Village of Tabarca
- 3 Video of Tabarca
- 4 Exploring Nature and Coves of Tabarca Island
- 5 Tourist Activities in Tabarca: What to Do
- 6 Points of Interest to See in Tabarca
- 7 Exploring the Island: Beyond the Obvious
- 8 Boat Schedules to Tabarca from Santa Pola and Benidorm
- 9 Conclusion
TABARCA ISLAND: MAP
History and Charm of the Village of Tabarca
From its origins, this island was fortified by King Charles III to accommodate slaves rescued in Algiers, the initial population coming from the Tunisian island of Tabarka. Its old town and fortress are silent witnesses to those times, while today, surnames like Manzanaro, Parodi, Pomata, or Chacopino recall its former inhabitants. If you’re more interested in history, you can check out a very interesting article about Tabarka.
Video of Tabarca
Exploring Nature and Coves of Tabarca Island
The natural ensemble of Tabarca is surprising. Trails leading to coves such as Cala Illa, Cala Blanca, and Cala del Francés invite you to immerse yourself in the serenity of their crystal-clear waters, providing an ideal landscape for nature lovers.
Tourist Activities in Tabarca: What to Do
Tourism is the driving force of this island. During summer, numerous visitors arrive daily, ready to enjoy beaches, coves, snorkeling, and diving. These activities represent the major attractions that Tabarca offers.
Points of Interest to See in Tabarca
The island of Tabarca harbors a palpable historical richness in every corner.
Port La Caleta, the first encounter upon arriving by boat, not only reveals the port but also houses the Museum of Nueva Tabarca, located in the historic building of the Almadraba. This former fishing structure, now converted into a museum, narrates the fascinating history of the island from its roots to the present, offering a detailed vision of its evolution over time.
The Wall and its three gates is a must-see in Tabarca. The San Rafael Gate, also known as Levante or La Caleta Gate, represents one of the emblematic accesses to the walled enclosure of Tabarca. This entrance, loaded with history, leads to the Carloforte square, linking the island with its Italian past and the relationship with Alicante over the years. We leave you a map to help you locate and find the three gates.
On the other hand, the San Miguel Gate, located near the Prince’s Bastion at the northern end of the island, is another historical vestige that recalls the maritime past and the direct connection with the old piers. Its ancient walls still whisper stories of daily life from past eras, offering a window into the island’s maritime past. On the left end, you’ll find the Trancada Gate or San Gabriel Gate.
The Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul, the only temple on the island, adds a touch of spirituality and architectural beauty to Tabarca. Built at the end of the 18th century in a Baroque style, this church, located near the sea, stands out for its fleur-de-lis design, presumably inspired by the coat of arms of King Charles III. The name Saint Peter and Saint Paul echoes the history of the island, formerly known as Isla Plana de San Pablo.
Exploring the Island: Beyond the Obvious
Let’s talk about Tabarca’s beaches. Cala del Francés, Plaza Mayor, and Tabarca Beach are destinations that complete the visit. These places, with their characteristic charm, reflect the Mediterranean essence and offer opportunities to discover the island’s history and natural beauty. We leave you an image of Tabarca Beach on the left.
The “Touristy” part of Tabarca
The “less Touristy” part of Tabarca
In this part of the island, you’ll find less touristy coves and beaches, such as Playa Seca or Playa Peladilla, as well as other elements like the Tower of San Josep or the Lighthouse.
Now that you know what to see in Tabarca, there are other attractions to discover, such as the small nearby islets, the lighthouse, the walls, or Punta Falcón. The invitation is clear: discover them for yourself and enrich your experience in this corner of the Mediterranean.
Boat Schedules to Tabarca from Santa Pola and Benidorm
We leave you the schedules, typically until October 31st. The price is around 10 euros for adults and 9 for children if taken from Santa Pola and tickets are purchased online. More updated information on the official website.
| Origin/Destination | Summer | Rest of the Year |
|---|---|---|
| Santa Pola to Tabarca | Daily departures: 10:00 AM, 11:30 AM, 5:00 PM | Single departure: 11:00 AM |
| Tabarca to Santa Pola | Daily returns: 1:30 PM, 4:30 PM, 6:00 PM | Single return: 4:00 PM |
| Benidorm to Tabarca | Single departure: 9:00 AM | Single departure: 10:30 AM |
| Tabarca to Benidorm | Single return: 4:00 PM | Single return: 5:30 PM |
Conclusion
Tabarca, with its historical charm and natural beauty, stands as a fascinating destination in the Mediterranean Sea. From its ancient fortifications to its crystal-clear water beaches, the island invites visitors to immerse themselves in its pirate legacy, explore its cultural heritage, and enjoy the serenity of its coastal landscapes.
Whether exploring historical points of interest such as La Caleta, the New Tabarca Museum, or the ancient gates that gave access to its walled enclosure, or diving into nature through its idyllic coves and beaches, Tabarca offers a unique experience for all travelers.
Planning a visit during summer to take advantage of tourist activities or choosing other times of the year to enjoy its calmer atmosphere allows each traveler to discover the island according to their preferences. We recommend that you stay in one of our accommodations in Benidorm, go one day by car to visit the pink lagoon of Torrevieja (for a while) and spend the day in Tabarca.
In summary, Tabarca captivates with its deep-rooted history, marine landscapes, and Mediterranean charm, being a destination that promises to surprise and leave an indelible mark on those who decide to explore it.
