Tabarca Island, the only inhabited island in the Valencian Community and located just 9km from the coast of Alicante. It is a dream destination for diving lovers thanks to its protected marine reserve, but it was not always like this.
For decades, the island was a refuge for Barbary pirates from North Africa who attacked Christian ships and even made raids on the coast of Alicante. It was in 1760 when King Charles III ordered the island to be fortified and repopulated with families of Genoese fishermen in order to dislodge the Berber pirates.
Today, the island is a charming enclave on the Mediterranean coast, a must-see destination for diving enthusiasts of all levels of experience.
With its protected Marine Reserve and rich history, this charming enclave offers a perfect escape for a weekend full of underwater adventures and relaxation. Here we leave you some tips to make the most of your diving trip to Tabarca.
Where to stay
The accommodation offer in Tabarca, although limited, is quite charming. The Isla de Tabarca Boutique Hotel is an excellent option with elegant rooms that offer panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea.
If you are looking for something cheaper, the Hotel Nueva Tabarca is an excellent alternative.
You can also look for accommodation in Alicante, Santa Pola or Torrevieja and take the ferry to the island. Ferry services are frequent and take you to the island in about half an hour. Normally it is not necessary to book a trip, just getting the ticket and showing up 15 minutes before departure is enough.
Discover marine fauna and flora
Since its designation in 1986 as Spain's first marine reserve, the island of Tabarca has served as a model of marine conservation in the Mediterranean. This categorization as a marine reserve implies that the area is legally protected to preserve its biodiversity and marine resources. Thanks to these protective measures, Tabarca has become an exceptional diving destination, especially appreciated by experienced divers seeking to explore exceptionally healthy and well-preserved marine environments.
Reserve management includes the regulation of activities such as fishing, which helps maintain ecological balance and ensures the long-term health of marine habitats. As a result, Tabarca is home to a rich diversity of marine species, providing an almost pristine setting for diving enthusiasts.
A crucial component of this ecosystem is Posidonia oceanica, a marine plant that plays a vital role in the marine environment. Not only does it act as an important carbon sink, helping to mitigate climate change, but it also forms dense underwater forests that provide habitat, food and breeding grounds for numerous marine species. These "forests" contribute significantly to the clarity and quality of the water, making it ideal for diving and observing marine life.
The Tabarca Marine Reserve is, therefore, more than a simple diving destination; is a living example of how marine protection can benefit both nature and human activities related to the sea. This place offers visitors the unique opportunity to observe up close the positive effects of marine conservation practices.
Essential diving spots
The island has several diving spots that attract both beginners and experienced divers, thanks to its marine diversity and transparent waters.
There are 2 different diving areas, internal and external waters. For the former, authorization from the Alicante Fisheries Department is required and permits must be requested 7 days in advance with the usual documentation (qualification, ID, insurance and medical certificate).
The “yes or yes” dives are:
- La Llosa : Known as Merolandia, it is the star dive of the reserve. It is a small seamount about 22-25 m deep where large groupers take refuge, barracudas flock in large schools, it is not unusual to find sea eagles and in its many holes large octopuses, moray eels or some conger eel.
- Los Farallones : Easy shallow dive suitable for all levels, this place is known for its calm, clear waters, full of marine life.
- Tabarca reef : a reef that has recently been incorporated into the reserve. Posidonia everywhere and many small caves where you can look for creatures. We find scorpionfish, scorpions, flabellinas, royal mullets, gobies, etc.
Don't complicate things, contact a diving center and they will take care of everything. There are no centers in Tabarca, but you can find good centers in Santa Pola and Alicante. Our experience withBuceo Altair in Alicante was magnificent.
Other activities on the island
When you're not underwater, Tabarca has a lot to offer:
- Guided tours : Did you know that Tabarca has a pirate past? Learn about the rich history of the island through a guided tour. You can reserve your place on a visit with expert guides at Quality Tours Mariola
- Gastronomy : Despite the small size of the place, you can find several restaurants with a very good gastronomic offer, here you have a good selection. Don't leave without trying the typical dish, caldero, a local fish and rice stew.
- Walk : yes, just walk, you are in a privileged environment so relax walking and enjoy, don't worry, it is only 1.8km long
Plan your perfect getaway!
If you don't want to worry, we recommend that you look for an organized diving getaway. Being a reference point for diving on the Spanish coast, there will be no shortage of clubs that organize “all-inclusive” trips to Tabarca. All our trips with the friends of Buscabucear.com have been unforgettable, check out their website in case they have something planned.
What do I wear!
To complement your perfect trip to the island of Tabarca, be sure to visit our store where you are sure to find the perfect garment.
Unisex t-shirts and women's t-shirts of various styles, all with designs inspired by the beauty and diversity of the marine world, sweatshirts for cool spring or fall afternoons and the best accessories to complete your outfit.
Remember that all our garments have been made with ethical and sustainable production criteria, you also have a whole range of garments made of environmentally friendly organic cotton.
Tabarca awaits you with its crystal clear waters and charming surroundings. Don't miss the opportunity to explore one of the best diving destinations in the Mediterranean. Book your trip today and immerse yourself in the adventure!