From Alicante/Benidorm: Tabarca Island & Santa Pola Salinas

Discovering Santa Pola Salinas & Tabarca Island: A Practical, Authentic Day Out

This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the Valencian Community’s natural beauty and maritime history. It’s a great way to escape the busy beaches of Alicante and Benidorm for a day, combining nature, history, and a taste of local life. I’ve seen firsthand how visitors appreciate the mix of outdoor activity, educational stops, and leisure time on the island, making it a balanced experience for most travelers.

What genuinely stands out are the knowledgeable guides—you’ll often hear how well-organized and informative they are, with Olga and Belen receiving particular praise. The salt flats at Santa Pola are surprisingly photogenic, offering a unique landscape that few get to see up close, and the boat ride to Tabarca feels like a highlight itself, especially with the underwater windows revealing marine life. One small but important consideration: the tour’s pace can be quite full, with about 3.5 hours free on Tabarca, so you’ll want to plan your swimming or exploring carefully.

A possible drawback is that this tour isn’t suitable if you have mobility issues or use a wheelchair, given the walking involved and access limitations at some stops. Also, snacks and meals aren’t included, so packing food and drinks is a smart move, especially for a day that lasts between 8 and 10 hours. Still, for the price and what’s included—a roundtrip bus, boat rides, guided commentary, and free time on Tabarca—the value is solid, especially considering the positive reviews praising the organization and the guides’ expertise.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Natural and historical appeal: Combines salt flats with a historic Mediterranean island.
• Expert guides: Guides like Olga and Belen are praised for their knowledge and friendliness.
• Unique landscapes: The salt flats are a striking environment not found everywhere in Spain.
• Marine discovery: Underwater windows on the boat add a fun, educational touch.
• Flexible free time: You get about 3.5 hours on Tabarca for swimming, strolling, or exploring.
• Logistical convenience: Roundtrip transportation and all major transfers are included, simplifying the day.

The Journey Begins: Transport and Logistics

Starting your day either at the Alicante Bullring or in Benidorm, you’ll board a comfortable, air-conditioned coach—a relief in the summer months. The drive to Santa Pola takes approximately 45 minutes, giving you a scenic glimpse of the Valencian coast en route. The tour’s structure is straightforward, which means you can relax and enjoy the ride without worrying about navigation or timing.

Once at Santa Pola, the first stop — the Salt Flats of Santa Pola — is a highlight. Here, you wander among the expansive white landscapes where salt has been harvested for centuries. The environment is surprisingly beautiful, with reflections and the chance to observe various bird species thriving in this habitat. Plus, you’ll learn how salt production impacts the region’s economy and ecology — an educational aspect that adds depth to the experience.

Exploring Santa Pola Salt Flats: A Natural Masterpiece

This stop offers about 45 minutes of free time, enough to soak in the scenery, take photos, and maybe spot some of the local birdlife. The salt flats also serve as an important habitat for migratory birds, adding a touch of ecological significance to what might seem like just a scenic spot. Many reviews highlight how well-organized and engaging the guide is during this part, offering insights into the salt industry’s history.

Keep in mind, the salt flats are a working landscape, so don’t expect pristine beaches or tropical scenery—what you get instead is a stark, beautiful expanse with a sense of timelessness. If you’re into photography or nature, this is a surprisingly rewarding stop.

Transitioning to Tabarca: Water Taxi and Marine Life

Next, it’s time to board the water taxi that will whisk you across the bay to Tabarca Island, about a 45-minute ride. The boat is equipped with underwater windows, which are a fun feature, allowing you to see fish swimming beneath as you glide across the water. Several reviews mention how the boat ride itself is a memorable part of the day—adding a sense of adventure and a close-up view of the Mediterranean.

This part of the tour breaks up the day nicely, providing a change of scenery and a chance to relax before exploring the island. The staff on these boats are professional, and the short journey gives you enough time to find a comfortable spot and enjoy the sea breeze.

Walking Through Tabarca: A Small Island with Big Charm

Once on Tabarca, you’ll have about 3.5 hours to explore at your own pace. The island is the only inhabited spot in the Valencian Community, and its streets are lined with quaint houses, local shops, and historic walls. You’ll see the old fortifications that once protected the island from pirates—an intriguing slice of history. Walking along the narrow streets, you’ll notice the blend of old and new, with local restaurants offering fresh seafood and small cafes perfect for a break.

Many visitors say that the highlight is simply soaking up the atmosphere—reading about the island’s past as a pirate hideout, wandering along the shoreline, or snorkeling in the clear waters. If you’re keen to swim or snorkel, the water’s calm and transparent, making it an ideal spot for observing marine life.

Returning by Water Taxi and Coach

After your free time, you’ll reboard the boat for the return trip to Santa Pola, which again features underwater views if you’re lucky. The journey offers a different perspective of the coast and marine environment. Once back at Santa Pola, a short coach ride returns you to your starting point, wrapping up a full, rewarding day.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience works best for curious travelers who enjoy a mix of nature, history, and leisurely exploration. If you’re interested in seeing a unique salt production landscape, learning about the local ecology, or simply relaxing on a Mediterranean island, this trip ticks those boxes. The guides receive high praise for their knowledge—Olga and Belen are noted for making the day both informative and enjoyable.

However, if you have mobility issues or prefer less walking and standing, be aware that some parts of the tour involve a bit of walking, and the island’s terrain is uneven. Also, since lunch and drinks aren’t included, bringing snacks or planning a budget for meals is advisable.

Price and Value Analysis

For the price—which covers bus transportation, boat rides, and guided commentary—the tour offers good value. The convenience of roundtrip transport and the included boat tickets save the hassle and potential expense of organizing these yourself. The free time on Tabarca is generous, enabling you to customize your experience—whether relaxing on the beach or exploring the town.

While snorkeling equipment isn’t included, you might find the waters inviting enough for a quick dip if you bring your gear. The tour’s flexibility makes it attractive for those wanting a structured day without the hassle, especially given the positive reviews praising the guides’ expertise and the scenic stops.

Final Thoughts

This tour presents an engaging way to discover two distinct highlights of the Valencian coast: the salt flats of Santa Pola and Tabarca Island’s charming harbor and natural beauty. It’s well-suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor environments, cultural sights, and a relaxed pace, with enough free time to make the experience personal.

The guides’ professionalism and the scenic boat rides are standout features, making the day both educational and enjoyable. Just remember to pack essentials like sunscreen, swimwear, and snacks, and be prepared for a full day out. If you’re seeking a mix of nature, history, and seaside leisure, this trip offers a sincere taste of what makes this part of Spain special.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
No, the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off. You need to meet at the designated starting point, either the Alicante Bullring or in Benidorm.

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts between 8 and 10 hours, depending on the day’s schedule and traffic conditions.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring your own or buy options on Tabarca.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, water, comfortable clothes, and any snacks or food you prefer. Sun protection is essential.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While suitable for most, the tour involves a fair amount of walking and standing. Kids who enjoy the boat ride, swimming, and exploring will find it fun, but check accessibility if mobility is an issue.

Can I snorkel during the free time on Tabarca?
Snorkel equipment isn’t included, but the waters are clear and calm, making it a good spot if you bring your own gear.

Is there a limit to the number of participants?
The tour is offered in a group setting, but specific group sizes aren’t stated. It’s generally a small to medium-sized group.

What language is the guided tour in?
Guides operate in both Spanish and English, so you can expect explanations in either language.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans shift.

This day trip from Alicante or Benidorm balances scenic beauty, history, and leisure, making it a worthwhile outing for those wanting an authentic taste of Valencian coastal life.