From Alicante/Benidorm: Tabarca Island & Santa Pola Salinas

Discovering Alicante/Benidorm: A Complete Guide to the Tabarca Island & Santa Pola Salinas Tour

If you’re visiting the Valencian Community and craving an escape from the busy beaches of Alicante or Benidorm, this tour promises a blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and marine adventure. Combining visits to Santa Pola’s salt flats with a boat trip to Tabarca Island, it offers a well-rounded day of sightseeing, photography, and relaxing by the sea.

One of the standout features we love about this experience is the expert local guides who bring the history and ecology of the area to life, making the journey both informative and engaging. Plus, the boat ride with underwater viewing windows truly sets this tour apart — it’s not just a ferry, but a mini aquatic adventure.

That said, there are some considerations worth noting. The tour lasts 8 to 10 hours, so it’s a full day, which might be tiring for some, especially if you prefer shorter excursions. Also, it’s not suitable for people with mobility issues or wheelchair users, so plan accordingly.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love nature, history, and a bit of seaside fun, and who don’t mind a packed schedule to see some of the most interesting spots in the region.

Key Points

• Educational and scenic: Learn about salt production at Santa Pola’s salt flats while enjoying stunning landscapes.
• Marine adventure: The boat ride to Tabarca features underwater viewing windows, allowing a glimpse of the marine life.
• Historical charm: Wander through the small, fortified town of Tabarca, once home to Barbary pirates.
• Beach and snorkeling: Relax on the island’s beaches or take the opportunity to snorkel in clear waters.
• Guided experience: Knowledgeable guides, including Olga and Belen, enhance your understanding of the area.
• Full-day activity: Expect a long but rewarding excursion with multiple stops and transport segments.

The Full Experience: A Deep Dive into the Tour

Starting Out: From Alicante/Benidorm

The tour begins early, with pickup points at Alicante’s Bullring or in Benidorm at designated meeting spots—both conveniently located and easy to find. The comfortable, air-conditioned bus whisks you away towards Santa Pola, setting the tone for a smooth day of exploration.

Santa Pola Salt Flats: A Natural and Industrial Marvel

The first stop is Salinas de Santa Pola, one of Europe’s key salt production areas. Here, you’ll step into a landscape that’s both a working industrial site and a beautiful habitat. The salt flats stretch out in shimmering white, contrasting sharply with the blue sky and often vibrant birdlife.

Why it matters: Salt has been harvested here for centuries, and the process remains fascinating. You’ll discover how salt is extracted and learn about its importance to the local economy and ecology. Reviewers like Wiktoria appreciate the well-organized visit and the chance to snap stunning photos of the environment, flora, and fauna, including notable bird species.

Timing tip: The 45-minute free exploration offers enough time to snap some pictures and soak in the scenery without feeling rushed.

Transition to the Sea: Boat Ride to Tabarca

Next, the group heads to Santa Pola’s port for the boat trip to Tabarca Island. This 30-minute ride is a highlight, especially thanks to the underwater viewing window in the boat, which allows you to spot fish and marine life without getting wet. Several reviews mention this feature as a unique and engaging element that enhances the experience.

What you’ll see: Expect to catch glimpses of the underwater world, possibly a variety of fish, and the chance to relax and enjoy the Mediterranean breeze. The boat’s friendly crew and the scenic route make this segment enjoyable, especially if you’re prone to seasickness (be sure to bring your precautions).

Exploring Tabarca Island: The Small Jewel of the Mediterranean

Once on the island, you’re granted approximately 3.5 hours of free time, enough to explore the fascinating natural and cultural sights. The island is the only inhabited site in the Valencian Community, and it’s packed with history, from ancient walls to charming streets lined with local restaurants.

Historical insights: As you stroll through the town, you’ll see remnants of its pirate past, specifically the Barbary pirates who once used it as a base. The walls surrounding the town are notable and have a tangible sense of history.

Activities you might enjoy: Walking through the narrow streets, relaxing on the beaches, swimming, or trying some fresh seafood in one of the local eateries. Many reviewers, like Roger, highlight their guide Belen’s knowledge and friendly demeanor, which adds depth to the visit.

Snorkeling & Beach Time: The clear waters beckon for a dip, and if you’ve brought your own gear, snorkeling is a great option to see the vibrant marine life up close.

Returning to Santa Pola and Heading Back

After soaking up the sun and exploring, you’ll take the boat back to Santa Pola, then hop back on the bus for the return journey to Alicante or Benidorm. The entire day lasts roughly 8 to 10 hours, making it a substantial but rewarding day out.

Practical Details and Value

The tour includes roundtrip transportation, the salt flats visit, and boat tickets. The guides are officially licensed, speaking both Spanish and English, ensuring clear communication and cultural insights.

While the price covers these essentials, note that food, drinks, and snorkel equipment are not included, so planning for meals or bringing your own gear is recommended. The tour is also not suitable for guests with mobility issues or those needing wheelchair access.

Why This Tour Works Well

This experience shines with its combination of nature, history, and leisure. The guides, especially Olga and Belen, are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the outing engaging and easy to follow. The boat ride’s underwater windows are a unique highlight, providing a memorable touch that sets this tour apart.

The visit to the salt flats is both visual and educational, offering a glimpse into an age-old industry that’s still vital today. Meanwhile, Tabarca Island’s small, fortified town provides a perfect snapshot of Mediterranean life—full of character, history, and scenic beauty.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for history buffs, nature lovers, and those looking for a relaxed day at the sea. It’s perfect if you enjoy guided excursions with plenty of opportunities for photos and learning. Family travelers with older children will find it engaging, but those with mobility challenges or seeking a shorter outing might want to consider alternative options.

Final Thoughts

This full-day trip offers a well-balanced mix of cultural discovery, natural beauty, and seaside relaxation. The guides’ local expertise and the boat’s underwater features make it particularly memorable. With a manageable price point considering what’s included, it provides excellent value for anyone wanting to see a different side of the Valencian coast.

If you’re eager to explore salt flats, spot marine life, or wander through a charming island town, this tour ticks many boxes. Just remember to bring your sun protection, swimwear, and an appetite for adventure.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included? No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off; you’ll meet at specified points in Alicante or Benidorm.

How long is the boat ride? The boat trip from Santa Pola to Tabarca lasts about 30 minutes.

Can I snorkel during the tour? Snorkeling is not included but is optional on your free time on the island if you bring your own gear.

Are meals included? Food and drinks are not covered in the tour price, so plan to bring snacks or have a meal afterward.

Is this tour suitable for children? It’s generally suitable for older children, especially those who enjoy water activities and walking around small towns.

Do I need to bring anything special? Yes, bring sun protection, swimwear, a towel, water, and comfortable clothing for walking and relaxing.

Are there any mobility restrictions? The tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

What is the duration of the entire tour? Expect the full experience to last approximately 8 to 10 hours.

What languages are guides available in? Guides speak both Spanish and English, ensuring clear explanation regardless of your language preference.

How much free time do I get on Tabarca Island? You have about 3.5 hours to explore, relax, swim, or enjoy local food.

This detailed review aims to help you decide whether this day trip aligns with your travel style. From scenic salt flats to charming island streets, it offers a varied, engaging look at what makes this part of Spain so special.