From Alicante/Benidorm: Tabarca Island & Santa Pola Salinas

If you’re looking to escape the busy beaches of Alicante or Benidorm and experience a quieter, more authentic side of Spain’s Valencian Coast, the From Alicante/Benidorm: Tabarca Island & Santa Pola Salinas tour offers a compelling mix of landscape, history, and seaside charm. This full-day adventure takes you through stunning salt flats, a lively marine reserve, and the only inhabited island in the Valencian Community, all with the benefit of knowledgeable guides and well-planned logistics.

What we love most about this trip is how it combines natural beauty with cultural history. The salt flats are a photographer’s dream, with their shimmering white landscape and vibrant birdlife, while Tabarca Island’s small-town charm and crystal-clear waters are perfect for relaxing, swimming, or snorkeling. The second thing that stands out is the expert guidance, which elevates the experience from a simple sightseeing trip to an insightful exploration of the region’s unique environment and history.

One possible consideration is the length of the day—with 8 to 10 hours, it’s a full commitment, but for those who enjoy a mix of outdoor activity and cultural sightseeing, it’s well worth it. The tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate nature, history, and seaside tranquility. However, it’s worth noting that it’s not designed for those with mobility challenges, given the walking and boat transfers involved.

If you enjoy guided excursions that offer both education and leisure, and you’re comfortable with a full day of travel, this tour will suit you well. It’s especially popular among travelers who appreciate authentic local experiences and want to explore beyond the typical tourist spots.

Key Points

• Balanced mix of natural landscapes and historical sites provides a well-rounded experience.
• Expert guides make the journey more insightful and engaging.
• Boat rides with underwater windows add a fun and unique perspective on marine life.
• The tour is well-organized, with clear timing and transportation.
• It caters to those interested in birdwatching, salt production, and coastal scenery.
• Not suitable for travelers with mobility issues or wheelchair users.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Out: Convenient Pickup and Comfortable Transportation

The tour begins either from Alicante or Benidorm, with pick-up at centrally located spots such as the Alicante Bullring or other designated meeting points. The roundtrip transportation is in an air-conditioned bus, which means you’re not only comfortable but also free to relax as you leave behind the busy town centers for a more serene natural experience. The journey to Santa Pola takes approximately 45 minutes, giving you time to settle in and chat with fellow travelers.

Exploring the Salt Flats of Santa Pola: A Unique Landscape

Your first stop is the Salinas de Santa Pola, a major salt production area that’s been active for centuries. Here, we loved the way the guides explained the history and process of salt extraction—an industrial process that’s still visually stunning today. The salt flats shimmer in the sun, creating a landscape that looks almost otherworldly.

You’ll have about 45 minutes to explore this environment, which is also a haven for birdlife, especially various species of waders. Photographers will find plenty of opportunities with the reflective white salt fields contrasting against the vibrant green flora and the blue sky. The area’s natural beauty and industrial heritage make it a fascinating spot for those interested in nature and local industry.

Scenic Boat Ride to Tabarca Island

Next up is the journey to Tabarca Island—about a 30-minute boat ride. This isn’t just any boat trip; it’s one that provides a real sense of drifting across the Mediterranean. The boat features underwater windows, offering a window into the marine life below. During reviews, travelers noted how fun and different this is—an opportunity to see fish and seaweed without getting wet.

Once on the island, you’re greeted with free time of roughly three and a half hours. This allows you to stroll the narrow streets, admire the old medieval walls, and soak up the peaceful atmosphere of the only inhabited island in the Valencian Community. The island’s fascinating history as a pirate hideout adds an intriguing layer to your visit.

More Great Tours Nearby

Exploring, Relaxing, and Snorkeling on Tabarca

Many travelers choose to walk around the small town, enjoying its quaint houses, local cafes, and vibrant atmosphere. If you’re feeling active, snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters is a highlight—many reviews praise the stunning underwater visibility and marine biodiversity. Bring your own snorkel gear or rent from local vendors, as it’s not included.

For those seeking relaxation, the island’s beaches provide a peaceful spot to unwind under the sun. The guides are helpful giving suggestions on where to swim or find good local food. Several reviews highlighted the knowledgeable guides, like Olga and Belen, who made all the difference with their insights and friendly demeanor.

Return Journey and Final Reflection

The trip back to Santa Pola by boat again offers a scenic view from the water, giving you another chance to observe marine life through the underwater window. The bus ride back to Alicante or Benidorm takes around 45 minutes, giving you time to process the day’s highlights or chat with fellow travelers.

Deep Dive into the Value

While the tour costs a bit more than a simple ferry or bus trip, it packs in a full day of diverse experiences—salt flats, marine life, historic walls, and seaside leisure. The inclusion of roundtrip transportation, boat tickets, and a knowledgeable guide means you don’t have to worry about extra planning or logistics. The small group setting and organized itinerary make for a relaxed, intimate experience, avoiding the chaos of larger tours.

The guides seem to be a standout feature, with multiple reviews praising their information and friendliness. This adds depth and context to what could otherwise be a straightforward sightseeing day. The boat ride with underwater windows is a fun, memorable touch, especially for families or anyone interested in marine environments.

Price vs. Experience

Given the comprehensive itinerary and all included transport and activities, this tour offers good value, especially when compared to booking individual components separately. You’re paying for the convenience of a full-day, guided experience that takes you off the beaten path.

Practical Tips

• Bring sun protection: hat, sunscreen, sunglasses.
• Pack your swimwear and towel if you plan to swim or snorkel.
• Carry some snacks and water—although there are local cafes on Tabarca, a little extra fuel helps.
• Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the salt flats and the town.
• Be prepared for the boat ride; if you’re prone to seasickness, consider taking precautions.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who appreciate nature, history, and authentic seaside towns. It’s perfect if you want a full day of varied activities—from birdwatching and salt production to relaxing by the beach or exploring historic walls. It’s also ideal for those who enjoy guided tours with knowledgeable and friendly guides, making the experience enriching without the hassle of planning every detail.

However, it’s less suitable for those with mobility issues or those who prefer a shorter, less active day. The boat rides and walking on uneven surfaces might be challenging for some.

The Sum Up

The From Alicante/Benidorm: Tabarca Island & Santa Pola Salinas tour delivers a well-rounded, engaging experience combining natural beauty, history, and leisure. It’s a fantastic way to see some of the less-commercialized highlights of the Valencian Coast, with highlights like the salt flats’ shimmering landscape, the vibrant marine life seen through underwater windows, and the tranquil charm of Tabarca Island.

The tour’s value lies in its organized structure, expert guides, and inclusive approach, making it a reliable choice for travelers wanting to explore beyond the usual beaches. It offers a chance to slow down, observe, and appreciate the region’s unique environment and history—an authentic day out that’s both educational and enjoyable.

This experience suits those who love nature, coastal scenery, and small-town charm, especially if guided by enthusiastic locals. Whether you’re a dedicated photographer, a history buff, or simply someone wanting a peaceful escape from the crowds, this trip checks many boxes.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children who enjoy outdoor activities, swimming, and boat rides will likely find it enjoyable, but always check the specific tour details with the provider for age restrictions.

Are meals included in this tour?
No, food and drinks are not included. You’ll have free time on Tabarca to grab lunch or snacks from local restaurants or bring your own.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat trip to and from Tabarca takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes each way.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
No, snorkeling gear is not included, so you should bring your own if you want to explore underwater.

What should I bring for the salt flats visit?
Bring sun protection, comfortable shoes, a camera, and perhaps binoculars for birdwatching.

Can I visit the salt flats independently?
Yes, but this tour simplifies logistics, provides guided insights, and includes transportation, making it a more relaxed way to visit.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility challenges?
No, it’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to walking and boat transfers.

Will I have free time on the island?
Yes, approximately three and a half hours to explore, relax, snorkel, or enjoy a meal.

In all, this tour offers a genuine, well-curated taste of Valencia’s coastal treasures—perfect for anyone eager to combine natural beauty with local history, all without the fuss of extra planning.

You can check availability for your dates here: