Living in Benidorm means having one of the best locations on the Costa Blanca for exploring the surrounding coastline. While many visitors spend their entire holiday between Levante Beach, Poniente Beach and the Old Town, long-stay visitors and digital nomads quickly discover that some of the region’s most rewarding experiences lie just beyond the city.
One of the best examples is Tabarca Island, a small Mediterranean island famous for its crystal-clear waters, historic walled village and relaxed atmosphere. Unlike many day trips that involve long drives or busy tourist attractions, Tabarca offers something different: the opportunity to completely disconnect for a day without travelling far from Benidorm.
If you work remotely, spending most weekdays behind a laptop, a change of scenery can be surprisingly valuable. Instead of checking emails from another café, Tabarca encourages you to leave your computer behind, slow down and enjoy one of the most unique places on Spain’s Mediterranean coast.
This guide explains everything you need to know before visiting the island, including how to get there from Benidorm, what to expect, how much it costs, what to do during the day and whether it’s actually worth the trip for digital nomads and long-stay visitors.
Where Is Tabarca Island?
Tabarca is located off the coast of the province of Alicante, approximately 20 kilometres south of Alicante city and a short boat ride from the fishing town of Santa Pola.
Although the island itself is relatively small—less than two kilometres long—it has a fascinating history and a completely different atmosphere from the busy Costa Blanca resorts.
Originally fortified during the eighteenth century, Tabarca still preserves its defensive walls, narrow streets and traditional Mediterranean architecture. Today, only a small number of permanent residents live on the island, creating a peaceful environment once the busiest tourist hours have passed.
Perhaps even more famous than its history is the surrounding Marine Reserve, one of the oldest protected marine areas in Spain. The exceptionally clear water makes Tabarca one of the best places on the Costa Blanca for swimming and snorkelling.
For anyone based in Benidorm, it represents an easy escape from the city’s lively atmosphere without travelling hundreds of kilometres.
Why Visit Tabarca if You Live in Benidorm?
Many visitors assume Tabarca is simply another tourist excursion. In reality, it offers something that people living in Benidorm often appreciate even more: contrast.
Benidorm is energetic, vibrant and constantly moving. During summer, the beaches, restaurants and nightlife create an atmosphere that many people love—but after several weeks or months, even the most enthusiastic remote worker sometimes wants a quieter day.
Tabarca provides exactly that.
Instead of high-rise buildings, you’ll find stone walls and small whitewashed houses.
Instead of traffic, you’ll hear the sea.
Instead of planning your day around work meetings, you’ll probably find yourself swimming, walking through historic streets or simply sitting near the harbour enjoying fresh seafood.
For digital nomads especially, this kind of mental reset can be surprisingly valuable. Taking one day away from screens often improves productivity far more than trying to work continuously every day.
In that sense, Tabarca isn’t just another place to visit—it becomes part of a balanced lifestyle on the Costa Blanca.
How to Get to Tabarca from Benidorm
Although Tabarca is an island, reaching it from Benidorm is relatively straightforward.
The journey involves two stages:
- Travelling from Benidorm to the mainland departure port.
- Taking a ferry to the island.
Fortunately, there are several ways to do this depending on your budget and preferred style of travel.
Option 1: Drive to Santa Pola (Recommended)
For most people staying in Benidorm, this is the easiest and most flexible option.
The drive to Santa Pola usually takes around one hour, depending on traffic. Once there, you’ll find several ferry companies operating regular services to Tabarca, particularly during spring and summer.
The crossing itself takes approximately 25 minutes, making Santa Pola the quickest departure point.
Travelling by car also gives you flexibility if you’d like to explore Santa Pola before or after visiting the island.
Option 2: Public Transport
If you don’t have access to a car, reaching Tabarca is still perfectly possible.
Most visitors travel first to Alicante by coach or TRAM, then continue to Santa Pola by local bus before boarding the ferry.
The journey takes longer than driving but remains an affordable option for digital nomads travelling on a budget.
One advantage of public transport is that you don’t need to worry about parking during the busy summer months.
Option 3: Ferry from Alicante
Some ferry companies also operate direct services from Alicante city.
The crossing usually takes between 50 and 60 minutes, depending on the vessel and sea conditions.
This option can be attractive if you already plan to spend time in Alicante before visiting Tabarca.
Should You Book in Advance?
Outside the busiest months, buying tickets on the day is often possible.
However, during:
- weekends,
- public holidays,
- July,
- and August,
ferries regularly sell out.
If you’re planning your visit during peak season, booking your ferry in advance is highly recommended. It’s also worth checking weather conditions, as rough seas can occasionally lead to timetable changes or cancellations.
Best Time to Visit Tabarca Island
One of the biggest advantages of living in Benidorm is that you don’t need to visit Tabarca during the busiest weeks of the year.
Unlike tourists who often have no choice but to travel in July or August, long-stay visitors and digital nomads have much more flexibility. That flexibility can completely change your experience of the island.
Spring (March to May)
For many people, spring is the ideal time to visit Tabarca.
Temperatures are comfortable for walking, restaurants begin opening more regularly, and the island feels peaceful without being empty.
The sea may still be a little cool early in the season, but if your goal is to explore rather than spend the whole day swimming, spring offers an excellent balance.
Summer (June to August)
Summer is when Tabarca becomes most vibrant—but also most crowded.
The water reaches its warmest temperatures, making it perfect for swimming and snorkelling, while cafés and restaurants operate at full capacity.
However, ferries can become busy, especially on weekends, and the narrow streets fill quickly during the middle of the day.
If you visit during summer, catching one of the earliest ferries is highly recommended.
You’ll enjoy a much quieter island for the first few hours before the largest crowds arrive.
Autumn (September and October)
Many Costa Blanca residents consider early autumn one of the best times to visit.
The sea remains pleasantly warm after the summer, temperatures become more comfortable for walking, and visitor numbers begin to fall.
For remote workers living in Benidorm, September often feels like discovering the island all over again.
Winter (November to February)
Winter offers a completely different experience.
Some restaurants and tourist services operate with reduced schedules, and ferry frequencies may also decrease.
On the other hand, you’ll experience Tabarca at its most authentic, with quiet streets and a slower pace of life rarely seen during the summer months.
If you’re looking for a peaceful coastal walk rather than a beach day, winter has its own charm.
Things to Do on Tabarca Island
Despite its small size, Tabarca offers enough activities to comfortably fill an entire day without feeling rushed.
The island isn’t about ticking attractions off a list—it’s about slowing down and enjoying the atmosphere.
Wander Through the Historic Walled Village
The first thing you’ll notice after stepping off the ferry is that Tabarca feels very different from mainland Costa Blanca towns.
Stone walls surround much of the historic centre, while narrow streets lead past small houses, traditional restaurants and quiet squares.
Rather than following a strict route, simply wandering through the village is one of the best ways to appreciate its character.
Unlike larger tourist destinations, everything is within walking distance, making exploration relaxed and effortless.
Swim in Crystal-Clear Mediterranean Waters
For many visitors, the island’s greatest attraction is the sea itself.
Thanks to the protected marine reserve, the water around Tabarca is remarkably clear, often allowing visibility several metres below the surface.
The main beach is the most accessible option and is ideal for relaxing or taking a refreshing swim during the warmer months.
If you prefer quieter spots, walking a little further around the island often rewards you with smaller rocky areas where the atmosphere becomes much calmer.
Discover One of Spain’s Oldest Marine Reserves
Tabarca isn’t only beautiful above the water.
The island is surrounded by one of Spain’s oldest marine reserves, created to protect its rich underwater ecosystem.
This protection has helped preserve a wide variety of marine life, making snorkelling one of the island’s signature experiences.
Even beginners often enjoy exploring the shallow waters close to the shore.
Colourful fish, underwater rock formations and excellent water clarity make this one of the best snorkelling locations on the Costa Blanca.
If you already own a snorkel mask, bringing it from Benidorm is usually worthwhile.
Walk Around the Entire Island
One of Tabarca’s biggest surprises is how compact it is.
Walking around the island takes roughly an hour at a relaxed pace, depending on how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.
Along the way you’ll discover:
- dramatic rocky coastline,
- panoramic Mediterranean views,
- small coves,
- old defensive structures,
- and quiet viewpoints overlooking the sea.
Unlike many hiking routes on the Costa Blanca, this walk is relatively flat and accessible for most visitors.
Photography & Best Viewpoints
Even if photography isn’t your hobby, Tabarca offers some of the most photogenic coastal scenery in the province of Alicante.
Some of the best viewpoints include:
The Harbour
The colourful fishing boats, transparent water and historic walls create the classic postcard view of Tabarca.
Early morning is usually the best time for soft natural light.
The City Walls
Walking along the old fortifications provides elevated views across both the village and the surrounding sea.
These are excellent places to appreciate the island’s unique layout.
The Rocky Eastern Coast
Moving away from the harbour reveals a much wilder landscape.
The contrast between limestone cliffs and the deep blue Mediterranean makes this one of the island’s most spectacular areas.
Sunset (If You’re Taking a Late Ferry)
If your return ferry leaves towards the evening, you’ll experience a completely different atmosphere.
As day visitors begin leaving, the island becomes noticeably quieter.
Watching the late afternoon light reflect across the sea is one of the most peaceful moments you can experience on Tabarca.
A Different Kind of Day Trip
One of the reasons Tabarca stands out isn’t because it offers endless attractions.
It’s because it encourages you to slow down.
Unlike many excursions where visitors rush from one landmark to another, Tabarca invites you to spend time doing very little:
reading by the sea,
taking an unhurried swim,
enjoying a long lunch,
or simply walking without checking your phone every few minutes.
For people who spend most weekdays working on a computer, that slower rhythm often becomes the most memorable part of the visit.
Sometimes the best day trips aren’t the ones where you see the most—they’re the ones where you finally stop thinking about work for a while.
Where to Eat on Tabarca Island
Although Tabarca is a small island, you’ll find a surprisingly good selection of restaurants, cafés and small bars, particularly around the harbour and within the historic village.
Seafood naturally dominates most menus, and for many visitors, lunch becomes one of the highlights of the day rather than simply a break between activities.
Unlike Benidorm, where dining options are almost endless, Tabarca offers a much more traditional Mediterranean experience. Restaurants tend to focus on fresh local ingredients instead of large tourist menus, making the island an excellent place to enjoy regional cuisine.
If you’re planning to visit during summer, especially on weekends, booking a table in advance is highly recommended. The island becomes busy around lunchtime, and the most popular restaurants can fill up quickly once the ferries arrive.
Try the Famous Caldero Tabarquino
If there’s one dish associated with the island, it’s Caldero Tabarquino.
This traditional fishermen’s meal consists of rice cooked in a rich fish broth, usually served with locally caught fish. It’s simple, authentic and one of the best ways to experience Tabarca’s culinary heritage.
Even if you normally avoid large lunches, trying Caldero is part of the experience and something many visitors remember long after returning to Benidorm.
Fresh Seafood and Mediterranean Cuisine
Besides Caldero, many restaurants serve:
- grilled fish
- seafood paella
- octopus
- squid
- prawns
- fresh salads
- Mediterranean tapas
Because supplies arrive from the mainland, prices are generally a little higher than equivalent restaurants in Benidorm.
However, most visitors feel the setting easily justifies the difference.
Eating lunch while overlooking the harbour or the turquoise Mediterranean is part of what makes the trip memorable.
How Much Does a Day Trip to Tabarca Cost?
One of the pleasant surprises about visiting Tabarca is that it doesn’t have to be an expensive excursion.
Your total budget will largely depend on whether you choose a simple beach day or a leisurely lunch at one of the island’s restaurants.
A realistic budget for one person might look something like this:
- Ferry tickets
- Transport from Benidorm
- Lunch
- Drinks
- Ice cream or coffee
- Optional snorkelling equipment (if you don’t bring your own)
For most people, a comfortable full-day visit falls somewhere between a modest budget and a more relaxed treat-yourself day.
Rather than worrying about exact prices—which may change from season to season—it’s better to think of Tabarca as an affordable day trip rather than a luxury destination.
What Should You Bring?
One mistake many first-time visitors make is assuming they’ll easily find everything they need once they arrive.
While there are restaurants and a few small shops, Tabarca is not a place with endless services.
Packing a few essentials beforehand makes the day much more enjoyable.
A good checklist includes:
- Swimming costume
- Beach towel
- Comfortable walking shoes or sandals
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Hat or cap
- Reusable water bottle
- Snorkelling mask (if you own one)
- Portable phone charger
- Light jacket during spring or autumn evenings
If you’re planning to spend several hours outdoors, staying hydrated is especially important during the warmer months.
Practical Tips Before You Go
After spending time on the island, most visitors agree that a little planning makes a big difference.
Here are a few simple tips that can improve your experience.
Take an Early Ferry
The first ferries of the day offer two important advantages.
You’ll enjoy cooler temperatures for walking around the island, and you’ll experience Tabarca before the largest groups of visitors arrive.
The difference in atmosphere between 10:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. during summer can be remarkable.
Book Ahead During Peak Season
July, August and public holidays are extremely popular.
Booking your ferry in advance avoids disappointment and gives you greater flexibility when planning your day.
Bring More Water Than You Think You’ll Need
Shade on the island is limited.
Although cafés and restaurants are available, carrying enough drinking water is one of the easiest ways to stay comfortable throughout the day.
Wear Comfortable Footwear
Although Tabarca is small, you’ll probably spend more time walking than you expect.
The historic streets are charming but can be uneven in places, while exploring the coastline involves rocky paths rather than smooth promenades.
Comfortable footwear makes the day much more enjoyable.
Respect the Marine Reserve
One of the reasons Tabarca remains such a special destination is the protection of its natural environment.
If you decide to go snorkelling, avoid disturbing marine life, never leave rubbish behind and help preserve the island for future visitors.
Responsible tourism benefits everyone.
Common Mistakes First-Time Visitors Make
Most people leave Tabarca with wonderful memories, but there are a few mistakes that can easily be avoided.
Arriving Too Late
By midday during summer, ferries, beaches and restaurants become considerably busier.
Starting early gives you a much more relaxed experience.
Expecting a Full-Day Theme Park
Tabarca isn’t designed around attractions or organised entertainment.
Its appeal lies in simplicity.
If you’re expecting dozens of activities, you may be disappointed.
If you’re looking for beautiful scenery, good food and a slower pace of life, you’ll probably love it.
Bringing Your Laptop
This may sound surprising on BenidormNomads…
…but Tabarca is one of the few places where I’d actually recommend leaving your computer behind.
The island isn’t about answering emails between coffees.
It’s about giving your mind a genuine break from work.
Sometimes your productivity benefits far more from a day of complete disconnection than from trying to squeeze a few extra hours of work into an already beautiful destination.
Underestimating the Sun
Even on mild spring days, the Mediterranean sun can be much stronger than many visitors expect.
Sunscreen, a hat and regular water breaks are simple precautions that make a noticeable difference.
Is Tabarca Worth Visiting for Digital Nomads?
Absolutely—but perhaps not for the reasons you might expect.
If you’re looking for a place to answer emails from a beachfront café or spend the day working remotely, Tabarca probably isn’t the best destination. While mobile coverage is generally available in many areas, the island isn’t designed as a remote workspace, and that’s precisely what makes it special.
For digital nomads living in Benidorm, Tabarca offers something that can be difficult to find in everyday life: genuine disconnection.
Instead of checking notifications every few minutes, you can spend the day swimming in crystal-clear water, exploring historic streets, enjoying a long Mediterranean lunch and simply slowing down.
Ironically, taking one day away from work often helps you return feeling more productive than trying to work every single day without a proper break.
In that sense, Tabarca isn’t a coworking destination—it’s a recharge destination.
Who Will Enjoy Tabarca the Most?
Although almost anyone can appreciate the island, some visitors tend to enjoy it more than others.
Tabarca is particularly well suited to:
- Digital nomads looking for a genuine day off.
- Couples wanting a peaceful Mediterranean escape.
- Nature lovers who enjoy walking and coastal scenery.
- Snorkelling enthusiasts.
- Photographers interested in traditional villages and seascapes.
- Slow travellers who prefer quality experiences over ticking attractions off a list.
If your ideal day involves slowing down rather than rushing between landmarks, you’ll probably fall in love with the island.
Who Might Be Disappointed?
Honesty is important.
Tabarca isn’t the right destination for everyone.
You may leave slightly disappointed if you’re expecting:
- Large sandy beaches with plenty of facilities.
- Shopping streets or nightlife.
- A packed itinerary full of attractions.
- Luxury beach clubs.
- A place to spend the entire day working remotely.
The island’s charm lies in its simplicity.
The less you expect constant entertainment, the more likely you are to appreciate what makes Tabarca unique.
A Perfect One-Day Itinerary from Benidorm
If you’re wondering how to organise your visit, here’s a relaxed schedule that works particularly well for long-stay visitors.
08:00 – Leave Benidorm
Set off early to avoid traffic and enjoy a relaxed journey towards Santa Pola.
09:30 – Board the Ferry
Arriving a little early allows time to collect tickets and enjoy the harbour before departure.
10:00 – Explore the Historic Village
Walk through the old streets while the island is still relatively quiet.
Take your time rather than following a strict route.
11:30 – Swim or Go Snorkelling
Spend the late morning enjoying Tabarca’s famous crystal-clear waters.
This is often the highlight of the day.
14:00 – Long Mediterranean Lunch
Choose a local restaurant overlooking the harbour and enjoy fresh seafood or traditional Caldero Tabarquino.
There’s no need to rush.
16:00 – Coastal Walk and Photography
Explore the quieter parts of the island, discover rocky viewpoints and simply enjoy the slower pace.
18:00 – Return Ferry
Head back towards the mainland before making the relaxed drive back to Benidorm.
Many visitors arrive home pleasantly tired, sun-kissed and feeling as though they’ve been away for much longer than a single day.
BenidormNomads Verdict
One idea we’ve repeated throughout this guide is that Tabarca shouldn’t be judged as a tourist attraction alone.
Instead, it should be viewed as part of the Costa Blanca lifestyle.
For anyone living in Benidorm, it’s one of those places that reminds you why you chose this part of Spain in the first place.
Our Ratings
🏖 Relaxation: ★★★★★
🌊 Swimming: ★★★★★
🤿 Snorkelling: ★★★★★
📷 Photography: ★★★★★
🍽 Food: ★★★★☆
🚶 Walkability: ★★★★★
💻 Remote Work Suitability: ★★☆☆☆
💰 Value for Money: ★★★★☆
🚗 Accessibility from Benidorm: ★★★★☆
🌿 Overall Atmosphere: ★★★★★
Overall Rating
⭐ 9.4 / 10
Perfect for:
- Digital nomads needing a genuine break from work.
- Couples.
- Nature lovers.
- Photographers.
- Anyone wanting to experience a different side of the Costa Blanca.
Less suitable for:
- Visitors looking for nightlife.
- Shopping enthusiasts.
- People expecting a packed schedule of attractions.
- Those planning to work remotely throughout the day.
Living in Benidorm offers much more than beaches, skyscrapers and year-round sunshine.
One of its greatest advantages is having easy access to places that feel completely different, yet are close enough to enjoy in a single day.
Tabarca is one of those rare destinations that doesn’t need spectacular attractions or endless activities to leave a lasting impression.
Its charm comes from slowing life down.
From wandering without a plan.
From swimming in protected waters.
From enjoying lunch without checking the time.
And from remembering that sometimes the most productive thing you can do is take a proper day off.
Whether you’ve just arrived in Benidorm or have been living here for several months, Tabarca deserves a place on your Costa Blanca bucket list.
You may arrive expecting a pleasant island excursion.
There’s a good chance you’ll return with something much more valuable—a renewed appreciation for the slower Mediterranean lifestyle that makes this region such a special place to live.
Continue Exploring the Costa Blanca
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