by Nestled off the southeastern coast of Spain, Tabarca Island is an idyllic destination that offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and cultural charm. Known as the Pirate Island due to its history of pirate attacks in the past, Tabarca is now a protected marine reserve, making it a haven for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. In this detailed travel guide, we will walk you through how to travel from New York to Tabarca Island, where to stay, what to do, and essential travel tips to make your visit unforgettable.
Best Time to Visit Tabarca Island
The best time to visit Tabarca Island depends on your preferences for weather and crowd levels. Here’s a breakdown:
- Spring (March to May): This is one of the most pleasant times to visit, with mild temperatures and fewer tourists. Spring brings blooming flowers and the perfect weather for walking and hiking.
- Summer (June to August): The peak tourist season, when the island gets busier and the weather is hot and sunny. This is the best time for beach lovers but expect higher prices and crowds.
- Autumn (September to November): Similar to spring, autumn offers mild temperatures, fewer tourists, and lower accommodation prices. It’s perfect for a relaxed experience.
- Winter (December to February): While cold, winter offers a peaceful retreat. Some services may be closed, and it’s less ideal for beach activities, but it’s perfect for exploring the island in solitude.
How to Get from New York to Tabarca Island
Tabarca Island does not have its own airport, so you will need to fly into the nearest major city and then take a ferry to the island.
Step 1: Fly from New York to Alicante
The closest airport to Tabarca Island is Alicante-Elche Airport (ALC), located about 11 km (7 miles) from the port in Alicante. There are no direct flights from New York to Alicante, but you can fly with one stopover in major European hubs like Madrid, Barcelona, or London.
- Direct Flights to Madrid/Barcelona: Major airlines such as Iberia, American Airlines, and Delta offer direct flights from New York’s JFK or Newark airports to Madrid or Barcelona. From these cities, you can take a connecting flight to Alicante.
Step 2: Getting from Alicante to Tabarca Island
Once you arrive at Alicante-Elche Airport, you can make your way to Alicante Port, the departure point for ferries to Tabarca Island.
- By Taxi or Shuttle: The quickest way to get to Alicante Port is by taking a taxi, which takes about 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can take an airport shuttle or a local bus to the port.
- By Train: Alicante’s central train station is well connected, and from there, you can catch a tram or bus to the port, though a taxi is often faster and more convenient.
Ferry to Tabarca Island
Ferries to Tabarca Island run regularly from Alicante Port, with services provided by several ferry companies, including Naviera Dénia. The ferry ride takes about 30 minutes. It’s recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during the busy summer months.
- Operating Season: Ferry services to Tabarca are available year-round, though the frequency of ferries may decrease in the winter.
- Booking Ferry Tickets: Tickets can be booked online or purchased directly at the Alicante Port. During peak seasons, booking ahead is highly recommended to ensure a spot.
What to Do on Tabarca Island
Tabarca Island may be small, but it’s packed with natural beauty, historical sites, and plenty of activities for all types of travelers.
1. Explore the Island’s Historic Sites
- The Old Town of Tabarca: The island’s historic town, with its narrow streets and colorful houses, is a beautiful place to wander. Tabarca was originally a fortified settlement to defend against pirates, and remnants of its defensive walls are still visible today.
- Fortress of San José: This historic fortress was built in the 18th century to protect the island from pirate attacks. It’s a great spot to learn about the island’s history and enjoy panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea.
- Tabarca’s Church: The church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul is located in the heart of the island. Built in the 18th century, it’s a peaceful place to visit for some history and a bit of quiet reflection.
2. Enjoy the Pristine Beaches
Tabarca Island is home to several beautiful beaches, making it an excellent destination for beach lovers. Some of the most popular beaches include:
- Playa de la Isla: This is the main beach on the island, known for its crystal-clear waters and beautiful views. It’s perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
- Playa de los Nidos: A more secluded beach, great for snorkeling. The waters here are calm, and the underwater life is abundant.
3. Snorkeling and Diving in the Marine Reserve
Tabarca Island is part of the Tabarca Marine Reserve, a protected area known for its rich marine life. The clear waters around the island make it a fantastic spot for snorkeling and diving. You can rent equipment or join guided tours to explore the underwater world, which includes colorful fish, seahorses, and other marine creatures.
4. Hike Around the Island
Although Tabarca is small (only 2 square kilometers), it offers some beautiful walking paths that take you around the island’s rugged coastline and scenic viewpoints. Popular hiking routes include the path from the port to the lighthouse and the walk to the old fortress.
5. Enjoy Fresh Seafood
Tabarca Island is famous for its fresh seafood, particularly caldereta de langosta (lobster stew), which is a local specialty. Many of the island’s restaurants and eateries serve this dish, often accompanied by other Mediterranean seafood delights like grilled sardines and paella. Dining with a view of the Mediterranean is a unique experience that you won’t want to miss.
Where to Stay on Tabarca Island
Tabarca is a small island with limited accommodations. However, you can still find a few options for staying overnight.
- Hotel Tabaire: This is the main hotel on the island, offering basic but comfortable rooms with stunning sea views. It’s ideal for those who want to stay on the island for a night or two.
- Guesthouses and Rentals: There are also small guesthouses and vacation rentals available on the island, providing a more private and local experience.
For more extensive options, consider staying in Alicante before or after your trip to the island. Alicante has a wide range of accommodations, from budget hotels to luxury resorts.
Essential Travel Tips for Visiting Tabarca Island
- Language: Spanish is the official language. While some people on the island speak English, especially in tourist areas, it’s helpful to know a few basic phrases in Spanish.
- Currency: The Euro (€) is the official currency of Spain. You’ll find ATMs on the mainland in Alicante, but there are no ATMs on Tabarca, so be sure to bring enough cash for your trip.
- What to Pack: Bring comfortable walking shoes for hiking, a swimsuit for beach days, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the beautiful views. If you plan on diving or snorkeling, you can either bring your own equipment or rent it on the island.
- Booking Ferries: Especially in the summer, ferries can get busy. It’s a good idea to book your tickets in advance, either online or at the port.
Conclusion
Tabarca Island offers a perfect combination of history, natural beauty, and relaxation. Whether you’re exploring its historic streets, enjoying the pristine beaches, or discovering the underwater world of its marine reserve, the island has something for everyone. With this travel guide, you’ll be ready to embark on an unforgettable journey from New York to Tabarca Island. Enjoy your adventure on the Pirate Island of Spain!Nestled off the southeastern coast of Spain, Tabarca Island is an idyllic destination that offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and cultural charm. Known as the Pirate Island due to its history of pirate attacks in the past, Tabarca is now a protected marine reserve, making it a haven for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. In this detailed travel guide, we will walk you through how to travel from New York to Tabarca Island, where to stay, what to do, and essential travel tips to make your visit unforgettable.
Best Time to Visit Tabarca Island
The best time to visit Tabarca Island depends on your preferences for weather and crowd levels. Here’s a breakdown:
- Spring (March to May): This is one of the most pleasant times to visit, with mild temperatures and fewer tourists. Spring brings blooming flowers and the perfect weather for walking and hiking.
- Summer (June to August): The peak tourist season, when the island gets busier and the weather is hot and sunny. This is the best time for beach lovers but expect higher prices and crowds.
- Autumn (September to November): Similar to spring, autumn offers mild temperatures, fewer tourists, and lower accommodation prices. It’s perfect for a relaxed experience.
- Winter (December to February): While cold, winter offers a peaceful retreat. Some services may be closed, and it’s less ideal for beach activities, but it’s perfect for exploring the island in solitude.
How to Get from New York to Tabarca Island
Tabarca Island does not have its own airport, so you will need to fly into the nearest major city and then take a ferry to the island.
Step 1: Fly from New York to Alicante
The closest airport to Tabarca Island is Alicante-Elche Airport (ALC), located about 11 km (7 miles) from the port in Alicante. There are no direct flights from New York to Alicante, but you can fly with one stopover in major European hubs like Madrid, Barcelona, or London.
- Direct Flights to Madrid/Barcelona: Major airlines such as Iberia, American Airlines, and Delta offer direct flights from New York’s JFK or Newark airports to Madrid or Barcelona. From these cities, you can take a connecting flight to Alicante.
Step 2: Getting from Alicante to Tabarca Island
Once you arrive at Alicante-Elche Airport, you can make your way to Alicante Port, the departure point for ferries to Tabarca Island.
- By Taxi or Shuttle: The quickest way to get to Alicante Port is by taking a taxi, which takes about 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can take an airport shuttle or a local bus to the port.
- By Train: Alicante’s central train station is well connected, and from there, you can catch a tram or bus to the port, though a taxi is often faster and more convenient.
Ferry to Tabarca Island
Ferries to Tabarca Island run regularly from Alicante Port, with services provided by several ferry companies, including Naviera Dénia. The ferry ride takes about 30 minutes. It’s recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during the busy summer months.
- Operating Season: Ferry services to Tabarca are available year-round, though the frequency of ferries may decrease in the winter.
- Booking Ferry Tickets: Tickets can be booked online or purchased directly at the Alicante Port. During peak seasons, booking ahead is highly recommended to ensure a spot.
What to Do on Tabarca Island
Tabarca Island may be small, but it’s packed with natural beauty, historical sites, and plenty of activities for all types of travelers.
1. Explore the Island’s Historic Sites
- The Old Town of Tabarca: The island’s historic town, with its narrow streets and colorful houses, is a beautiful place to wander. Tabarca was originally a fortified settlement to defend against pirates, and remnants of its defensive walls are still visible today.
- Fortress of San José: This historic fortress was built in the 18th century to protect the island from pirate attacks. It’s a great spot to learn about the island’s history and enjoy panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea.
- Tabarca’s Church: The church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul is located in the heart of the island. Built in the 18th century, it’s a peaceful place to visit for some history and a bit of quiet reflection.
2. Enjoy the Pristine Beaches
Tabarca Island is home to several beautiful beaches, making it an excellent destination for beach lovers. Some of the most popular beaches include:
- Playa de la Isla: This is the main beach on the island, known for its crystal-clear waters and beautiful views. It’s perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
- Playa de los Nidos: A more secluded beach, great for snorkeling. The waters here are calm, and the underwater life is abundant.
3. Snorkeling and Diving in the Marine Reserve
Tabarca Island is part of the Tabarca Marine Reserve, a protected area known for its rich marine life. The clear waters around the island make it a fantastic spot for snorkeling and diving. You can rent equipment or join guided tours to explore the underwater world, which includes colorful fish, seahorses, and other marine creatures.
4. Hike Around the Island
Although Tabarca is small (only 2 square kilometers), it offers some beautiful walking paths that take you around the island’s rugged coastline and scenic viewpoints. Popular hiking routes include the path from the port to the lighthouse and the walk to the old fortress.
5. Enjoy Fresh Seafood
Tabarca Island is famous for its fresh seafood, particularly caldereta de langosta (lobster stew), which is a local specialty. Many of the island’s restaurants and eateries serve this dish, often accompanied by other Mediterranean seafood delights like grilled sardines and paella. Dining with a view of the Mediterranean is a unique experience that you won’t want to miss.
Where to Stay on Tabarca Island
Tabarca is a small island with limited accommodations. However, you can still find a few options for staying overnight.
- Hotel Tabaire: This is the main hotel on the island, offering basic but comfortable rooms with stunning sea views. It’s ideal for those who want to stay on the island for a night or two.
- Guesthouses and Rentals: There are also small guesthouses and vacation rentals available on the island, providing a more private and local experience.
For more extensive options, consider staying in Alicante before or after your trip to the island. Alicante has a wide range of accommodations, from budget hotels to luxury resorts.
Essential Travel Tips for Visiting Tabarca Island
- Language: Spanish is the official language. While some people on the island speak English, especially in tourist areas, it’s helpful to know a few basic phrases in Spanish.
- Currency: The Euro (€) is the official currency of Spain. You’ll find ATMs on the mainland in Alicante, but there are no ATMs on Tabarca, so be sure to bring enough cash for your trip.
- What to Pack: Bring comfortable walking shoes for hiking, a swimsuit for beach days, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the beautiful views. If you plan on diving or snorkeling, you can either bring your own equipment or rent it on the island.
- Booking Ferries: Especially in the summer, ferries can get busy. It’s a good idea to book your tickets in advance, either online or at the port.
Conclusion
Tabarca Island offers a perfect combination of history, natural beauty, and relaxation. Whether you’re exploring its historic streets, enjoying the pristine beaches, or discovering the underwater world of its marine reserve, the island has something for everyone. With this travel guide, you’ll be ready to embark on an unforgettable journey from New York to Tabarca Island. Enjoy your adventure on the Pirate Island of Spain!
