Alicante/Torrevieja: Excursion to Tabarca by ferry, Santa Pola, and Laguna Rosa

If you’re considering a day trip out of Alicante that mixes nature, history, and a bit of seaside charm, this tour to Tabarca, Santa Pola, and the Laguna Rosa in Torrevieja might just hit the spot. While I haven’t been on this exact trip myself, I’ve looked into what travelers are saying and what the itinerary offers, and it seems like a well-rounded experience with some real highlights.

What I really like about this tour? First, the chance to see Europe’s only pink lagoon — it’s such a distinctive sight. Second, the visit to Tabarca, the smallest inhabited island in Spain, promises a relaxing, picturesque escape with its sea views and quaint streets. One thing to keep in mind: the day is quite packed, meaning you’ll be on the move most of the time, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy structured days and don’t mind a schedule. It’s perfect if you want a taste of multiple attractions without planning each stop yourself.

Key Points

• Unique landscapes: The Laguna Rosa offers a rare, photogenic scene you won’t find elsewhere in Europe.
• Charming island: Tabarca is small but full of character, with crystal-clear waters and no cars, making it ideal for easy exploring.
• History and culture: Santa Pola’s Roman port and pirate roots add a layer of interest.
• Value for money: The tour includes boat trips, guided visits, and entry fees, giving you a lot of experiences for around $68.
• Time-efficient: In just one day, you cover all three spots with organized transport and guided commentary.
• Some downsides: The schedule can feel tight, especially with free time in Santa Pola that some reviews find unnecessary.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from This Tour

This trip is designed to give you a full picture of the region’s natural beauty and historical sites without the hassle of planning multiple separate excursions. You’ll start from Alicante, heading towards Torrevieja, then on to Santa Pola, and finally to the island of Tabarca. The itinerary is structured but flexible enough to allow you to enjoy each stop.

Visiting Laguna Rosa in Torrevieja

We loved the way this trip begins with a visit to Lagunas de la Mata y Torrevieja Natural Park. The salt flats here are striking, especially the pink lagoon, which gets its color from natural mineral phenomena. Photos here are a must — the contrast between the white salt and the vibrant pink is truly eye-catching. Visitors note that this landscape is quite original, and some mention that the guide provides explanations about the salt flats, enhancing the experience.

Reviews mention that the salt lake is “impressive and beautiful,” with plenty of time to take pictures. The 40-minute guided tour helps you understand the significance of the salt production and the unique environment. For many, this stop is a highlight thanks to its visual impact and the chance to snap some memorable photos.

The ferry to Tabarca

Next, the journey takes you to Santa Pola’s port for the boat ride to Tabarca. The ferry trip lasts about 35 minutes and is generally pleasant, with plenty of opportunities to relax on deck and enjoy the sea breeze. Since the island is quite small — just 1,800 meters long and 400 wide — you’ll be able to see most of it during your short guided tour.

Tabarca has a distinct charm as the smallest inhabited island in Spain. Its streets are free of cars, and the houses have that classic seaside feel. The island’s pirate history adds a fun layer of intrigue, making it more than just a pretty spot. Once ashore, you’ll have around 2 hours of free time, which many reviews say is enough to explore, take photos, or relax by the water.

What you’ll do in Tabarca

The guided tour of about 25 minutes covers the main sights, but many visitors appreciate having free time afterward. You can swim, snorkel, or just enjoy the scenery. The waters are crystal-clear, perfect for a quick dip or some underwater photography. The town’s cafes and eateries are known for their fresh seafood, and you might find some excellent tapas or local delicacies to enjoy before heading back.

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Santa Pola’s port and castle

Once back on the mainland, there’s a brief guided visit of Santa Pola’s port and castle. The tour is quick — around 10 minutes — but enough to get a sense of this historic port town with Roman roots. Some reviews suggest that the castle isn’t particularly interesting, so if history isn’t your main focus, this part might feel like a quick photo opportunity rather than a deep dive.

Free time and practicalities

The tour wraps up with about 50 minutes free in Santa Pola, giving you the chance to grab a snack or explore a little on your own. Keep in mind that some travelers have found this stop less engaging, feeling that the time could be better spent elsewhere in the itinerary. Still, it’s a good opportunity to stretch your legs and enjoy the seaside atmosphere.

Transportation and logistics

The entire day is managed smoothly thanks to the provided round-trip bus transfer and organized boat trips. The tour typically starts from three convenient locations in Alicante, making it accessible whether you’re staying downtown or nearby. The duration ranges from 9 to 11 hours, so be prepared for a full day, especially if the weather’s hot.

Cost and value

At around $68 per person, this tour offers pretty good value when you consider that boat trips, entrance fees, and guided visits are included. The reviews consistently praise the experience as worth the price, especially given the quality of guides and the variety of sights encountered.

Authentic Experiences and Tips from Reviewers

Multiple reviews mention how knowledgeable guides make all the difference. Guides like Carmen, Karen, and Dani are praised for their local insights, stories, and helpfulness. For example, one traveler said, “Dani kept us engaged during the entire tour with interesting facts about the salt lake and the local culture,” highlighting how good guidance enhances the trip.

Travelers also appreciate the stunning views and photo opportunities, especially at Laguna Rosa and Tabarca. Some mention bringing sea shoes for snorkeling and swimming in Tabarca, which is a good tip if you want to get into the water.

A notable point from reviews is the balance of structured visits and free time. While most find the schedule well-paced, some suggest that the stop in Santa Pola after the boat trip could be trimmed or replaced, as it might not add much to the overall experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys cruising along scenic coastlines, exploring small historic towns, and marveling at natural phenomena, this tour checks many boxes. It’s great for nature lovers, photographers, and those curious about local history. It’s especially suitable if you don’t mind a busy schedule and want an organized day without the hassle of planning.

However, it’s not ideal for people with mobility issues or those who prefer a more relaxed, unstructured day. The boat trips and walking around the island involve some standing and gentle movement, but it’s manageable for most.

This Alicante/Torrevieja excursion offers a practical way to see some of the most captivating sights in the region in a single day. The combination of the pink salt lagoon, the historic charm of Santa Pola, and the quaint beauty of Tabarca makes it a well-rounded trip. The tour’s organized nature means you won’t have to worry about logistics — just show up with some comfortable shoes, swimwear, and a sense of adventure.

While some might find the itinerary a little rushed or the free time in Santa Pola a bit limited, most reviews point to the value, scenic beauty, and knowledgeable guides making this a worthwhile outing. If you’re after a day filled with striking landscapes, local history, and seaside leisure, this tour could be a perfect fit.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup. You’ll need to meet at the designated starting locations in Alicante.

How long is the boat ride to Tabarca?
The ferry trip from Santa Pola to Tabarca lasts about 35 minutes, providing a pleasant, relaxing crossing.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, light clothes, and waterproof shoes are recommended. Also, seasickness pills if you’re prone to seasickness.

Can I explore Tabarca on my own?
Yes, after the guided visit, you have about 2 hours of free time to explore, swim, or relax at your own pace.

Are there any restrictions?
This tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users. Pets are not allowed, except for assistance dogs.

What’s included in the price?
Round-trip bus transfer, boat trip to Tabarca, entry to Laguna Rosa, and guided visits in Tabarca and Santa Pola are included. Meals, drinks, and hotel pickup are not.

If you’re looking for a well-organized, scenic, and culturally enriching day near Alicante, this tour seems like a solid choice. Perfect for those who want to see a bit of everything — natural wonders, historic sites, and a charming island — without the hassle of planning each step.

You can check availability for your dates here: