Audio Guide of Tabarca Beach

The island does not have fixed 'opening' hours because it is a natural area, but ferries from Alicante or Santa Pola run daily in high season (from April to October) from around 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. You can book a ferry ticket with companies such as Naviera del Mediterráneo; the journey takes about 45 minutes from Santa Pola. For more details and updated schedules, check the official Alicante Tourism website or call +34 965 14 87 40.

Access to the island and its beach is free, but you must pay for the ferry: a round trip from Alicante costs about €25–30 per adult, and from Santa Pola around €20. Children’s fares and reduced rates are available, including options with audio guides or packages. Check current prices at Tabarca.es to avoid surprises.

Half a day to a full day is recommended to enjoy the beach, the village, and snorkeling. You can spend the morning on the beach and the afternoon exploring, returning before the last ferry. If you are traveling with family, allow at least 4–5 hours so you do not have to rush.

The island was a refuge for Berbers in the 8th century and later a colony of Christian fishermen; its 18th-century walls were built to defend against Barbary pirates. It has been a Marine Nature Reserve since 1986, noted for its fishing heritage and the Church of Saint Roch. Its significance lies in being the only inhabited island in the Spanish Mediterranean islands.

Summer (June to September) is ideal for swimming and snorkeling, with warm waters, but arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and find parking at the port. In spring or autumn, the weather is milder and there are fewer tourists. Check the forecast on AEMET for Santa Pola.

The main access is by ferry, which is accessible, but on the island the cobbled paths and uneven ground limit mobility; there is a ramp to the main beach, but it is not fully adapted. I recommend contacting the Santa Pola tourist office (+34 966 66 25 03) for assistance or adapted tours. For more information, visit Alicante Tourism Accessibility.

Nearby, in Santa Pola (just a ferry ride away), you can visit Santa Pola Lighthouse or the Sea Museum. In Alicante, a 20-minute drive from the port, highlights include Santa Bárbara Castle and the seafront promenade. Combine your visit with a tour of these areas for a full day on the Costa Blanca.

Book the ferry in advance in high season, bring sunscreen, water, and comfortable footwear for the rocky paths; snorkeling is essential, so bring your gear or rent it there. Eat at local restaurants to try fideuà, and respect the nature reserve by avoiding plastic bottles. If you are traveling in a group, consider an audio guide from IAudioguia to enrich the experience.