What to see and do in Tabarca
Tabarca is more than beach and snorkelling: it is the only inhabited island in the Valencia region, with a little-told history. Its name comes from the Tunisian island of Tabarka, home to the Genoese families that King Charles III rescued from captivity and resettled here in 1770, renaming the place Nueva Tabarca. To protect them he had the walls built that still surround the old town, and since 1986 its waters have been Spain's first Marine Reserve.
The heritage: what to see on the island
The walled old town and its 3 gates
The 18th-century Baroque walls surround the old town, crossed by three gates: San Rafael (Levante), San Gabriel (la Trancada) and San Miguel (Tierra). The whole island has been a listed Historic-Artistic Site since 1964.
Tower of San José
The island's most imposing building, from the 18th century, at the western end. In the 19th century it was used as a state prison.
Church of St Peter and St Paul
A single-nave church from the late 18th century, in the heart of the village.
Governor's House
The island governor's former residence, now restored and turned into a hotel.
The lighthouse
Opened in 1854 at the eastern tip of the island, with open-sea views. A nice walk from the village.
Nueva Tabarca Museum
Housed in the old Almadraba building (a tuna-fishing warehouse), it tells the story of the island's relationship with the sea.
Llop Marí Cave
A sea cave beneath the walls, on the southern side of the island, reachable by small boat — complete with its own sea-monster legend.
Plaza de la Carolina
The central square of the old town, named after King Charles III, founder of Nueva Tabarca.
What to do
Snorkelling in the Marine Reserve
Tabarca's waters have been a Marine Reserve since 1986: crystal clear and full of life. Snorkelling from the beach and coves is free, and it is simply a must. If you want gear and a guide, there is a trip that combines it with the crossing from Santa Pola.
🤿 Book snorkel tour
Try the "caldero"
The island's signature dish is the "caldero": rockfish rice, cooked the traditional seafaring way. Most village restaurants serve it. In high season it's best to book a table several days in advance; the rest of the year, at least as soon as you step off the boat.
A full day covers the whole island. To enjoy the sunset without day-trippers, consider staying overnight. And first, check the timetables and FAQ.
CHECK SCHEDULES & BOOK