Tabarca is the only inhabited island off this coast and the whole of it sits inside a marine reserve — which is why the water is a different colour from the mainland beaches. The boat leaves Torrevieja marina in the morning and comes back mid-afternoon, so it is a full day out rather than a quick hop.
Prices and timings
| Ticket | Return |
|---|---|
| Adult | 25 € |
| Child 4-12 | 15 € |
| Under 4 | free |
Prices and conditions are indicative and subject to confirmation. We confirm them in writing when you book. Last reviewed: September 2026.
Crossing takes about an hour each way. Daily sailings from June to September, weekends and holidays in spring and autumn. Morning departures fill first, particularly in August.
What you actually do there
The island is small enough to walk end to end in a couple of hours. One end has the walled village, built in the 18th century to house families brought over from Tabarka in Tunisia; the other is flat and open, with the better coves. The main beach is right where the boat drops you.
Snorkelling is the reason most people come back. The reserve means no fishing and no anchoring, and you can see the bottom clearly from the shore — bring your own mask, because hire on the island is patchy.
Eating there
There are a handful of restaurants, mostly doing caldero, the local rice and fish stew. Book ahead in summer — they are few and they fill. Out of season several close entirely, so take food with you if you are going in November or February.
What to bring
Water shoes for the rocky bits, sun cream, a hat and more water than you think. There is very little shade anywhere on the island. If you burn easily, a rash vest is more use than repeated sun cream.
Shorter alternative
If an hour each way sounds long — or you have young children — the crossing from Santa Pola takes 25 minutes and costs 9 € booked online. Santa Pola is half an hour from Torrevieja by road. Different boat, same island.
Common questions
Can we come back on a different boat?
The return is fixed to the afternoon sailing. If you want flexibility, the Santa Pola crossing runs an open ticket.
Does anyone get seasick?
Occasionally, in an easterly wind. Sit amidships and stay on deck if you are prone to it.
Is it any good in winter?
The island is lovely and empty, but sailings drop right down and most restaurants shut. Message us and we will tell you what is running that week.
Can we take the dog?
On this route, ask us first — it varies by operator. From Santa Pola, dogs travel free.
Message us on WhatsApp — we will come back with availability and the final price.