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

Exploring Alicante and Torrevieja: An All-Inclusive Day of Nature, History, and Charm

Taking a day trip through Alicante’s coastal gems offers a blend of natural beauty, intriguing history, and relaxing seaside vibes. This particular tour, priced at $68 per person, promises a comprehensive experience — from the unusual pink Laguna Rosa in Torrevieja to the historic fishing village of Tabarca, and the Roman port of Santa Pola.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the access to Laguna Rosa, a natural wonder with its vibrant pink hue that’s rare in Europe. Second, the captivating walk around Tabarca, known as Spain’s smallest inhabited island, where no cars are allowed, only seaside charm and crystal-clear waters. Lastly, the expert guides, like Karen and Dani, who bring local stories to life and ensure the trip feels like exploring with friends.

A possible drawback? The tour’s pace can be quite full, with limited time at each stop—so if you’re craving a deep dive or a slower, more relaxed experience, it may feel hurried. Nevertheless, the variety packed into this roughly 9-11 hour journey makes it ideal for those wanting a broad taste of this coastal area. It’s especially suited for travelers interested in scenery, history, and authentic local culture without the hassle of organizing multiple tickets and transportation.

Good To Know

• Unique Natural Sites: The pink Laguna Rosa is a highlight, offering extraordinary photo opportunities.
• Small Island Charm: Tabarca’s car-free streets and clear waters create a laid-back, Mediterranean vibe.
• Historical Insights: Santa Pola’s Roman port adds an educational touch to the day.
• All-Inclusive Value: Price covers boat trips, entrance fees, and guided tours, making it a convenient package.
• Travel Comfort: Round-trip bus and boat transfers simplify logistics.
• Time Management: You’ll get a good balance between guided visits and free time, though some reviews suggest a quick pace.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Starting Off: Convenient Pick-up and Transfer

The journey begins with a bus ride from one of three easy-to-reach locations in Alicante or Torrevieja. The 70-minute drive sets the tone, giving you a chance to relax and absorb your guide’s commentary on the surrounding area. As we found in reviews, guides like Carmen or Dan are praised for their friendliness and extensive knowledge — Carmen, for example, kept the group engaged with stories and local tips, making the early part of the day enjoyable.

The Marvel of Laguna Rosa in Torrevieja

Once you arrive at the Lagunas de la Mata y Torrevieja Natural Park, the highlight is the Laguna Rosa. Its bubblegum hue isn’t just a camera-worthy feature; it results from a natural phenomenon involving algae and high salinity, making it a rare spectacle. Visitors have remarked on the impressive and beautiful scenery, with enough time (around 40 minutes) to snap photos and soak in the views. The salt flats surrounding the lagoon lend an almost otherworldly atmosphere that sets this part of the trip apart.

The Boat to Tabarca: A Short, Scenic Ride

Next up is the boat ride from Santa Pola’s port to Tabarca, which lasts about 35 minutes. The reviews indicate that this leg is pleasant and quick — giving you just enough time to appreciate the sea breeze and the sights. The boat trip is included in the tour price, valued at around $12, making it a good deal compared to separate ticket purchases.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Exploring Spain’s Smallest Inhabited Island

Once on Tabarca, the guided walk (about 25 minutes) introduces you to the island’s pirate history and its current charm. The island’s size (roughly 1,800 meters long and 400 meters wide) makes it perfect to explore on foot. Visitors often highlight the seaside houses, the absence of cars, and the friendly locals. After the guided segment, you’re given roughly two hours of free time to enjoy swimming in the clear waters, walk along the beaches, or sample local cuisine — a highlight for many, especially the seafood lovers.

Local Tips from Guides

As one reviewer noted, guides like Dani share tips on the best spots for snorkeling and dining options. Many mention the importance of bringing sea shoes for Tabarca, as the rocky beaches can be tough on bare feet. During free time, you might find local restaurants offering tapas or fresh seafood, adding to the authentic feel of the island.

Santa Pola’s Roman Port and Salt Flats

After returning by ferry, the tour continues with a brief guided stop at Santa Pola’s Roman port, providing insights into its ancient maritime history. Then, you’re treated to a 50-minute free period — some reviews mention that this part might feel a bit rushed or unnecessary, but it’s an opportunity to wander the charming streets or grab a quick snack.

Practicalities and Logistics

The entire trip unfolds with excellent organization, with the tour covering transportation, guides, and entrance fees. The tour ends back at the starting points, making it straightforward and stress-free. The duration, around 9-11 hours, is packed but manageable, especially with engaging guides and well-timed stops.

The Honest Verdict

Based on the reviews, guides like Karen, Maria, and Dani excel at sharing local stories and answering questions, making the experience more enriching. Travelers appreciated the balance of guided tours and free time, although some wished for slightly longer in Tabarca or a more relaxed pace. The cost-effectiveness of the package, considering the boat trips, entrance fees, and guided commentary, offers good value.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for those who want a taste of coastal Spain’s natural beauty, history, and laid-back island atmosphere in one day. It suits travelers eager for scenic photography, wildlife, and local culture, especially if you’re comfortable with a full schedule and short stops. It’s not ideal for those with mobility issues or seeking a very slow-paced, in-depth exploration.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

If you’re looking for an efficient way to see some of Alicante’s top spots, this tour delivers. The Laguna Rosa alone justifies the price, offering a rare, striking landscape. The trip to Tabarca provides a lovely escape to a peaceful island with crystal waters and charming streets, perfect for a quick swim or some casual sightseeing. The guided elements enrich the experience, turning a simple excursion into a memorable adventure.

The inclusion of boat trips, entrance fees, and guided commentary makes this a hassle-free option, especially for those unfamiliar with the area or short on time. The tour’s pace can feel brisk, but with good company and knowledgeable guides, you’ll come away with a lot of great memories and plenty of photos.

This tour offers strong value and a well-rounded glimpse of Spain’s Valencian coast — ideal for those seeking scenic beauty, local culture, and a taste of island life in one day.

FAQs

What should I bring for this tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, and waterproof shoes for the rocky beaches on Tabarca. Also, consider seasickness pills if you’re prone to seasickness on boat rides.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally family-friendly, it involves walking and some boat travel. Small children who can handle these activities should be okay, but it’s best to check with the provider if you have specific concerns.

Can I stay longer in any of the stops?
The schedule provides a set amount of free time at each stop, especially at Tabarca (about 2 hours). If you want more time exploring or relaxing, you might need to arrange additional activities on your own.

How is the transportation arranged?
Round-trip bus transfers are included, with options departing from three different locations. The bus ride is comfortable and scenic, perfect for resting or listening to guides’ commentary.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not part of the package, so plan to bring snacks or a packed lunch, or enjoy local options during your free time.

Is there accessibility for travelers with mobility issues?
The tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, as walking around the stops and boat transfers may be challenging.

What’s the best time of year for this trip?
While the tour operates year-round, the best weather is generally in spring and early fall, when temperatures are comfortable for walking and swimming.

This tour strikes a fine balance between natural wonders, cultural insights, and scenic relaxation. Whether it’s your first visit to the area or a quick getaway, it offers enough variety to keep everyone engaged. Just remember to bring your camera, some seashoes, and an appetite for authentic Spanish seaside charm.

You can check if your dates are available here: