How to get to the island
From Benidorm to Tabarca
From Benidorm, there are two convenient ways to get to Tabarca: by taking a combination of transport to Santa Pola (the nearest port, with boats every 30 minutes in summer) or to Alicante (with a regular ferry service all year round). We’ll explain both options so you can choose the one that suits you best.
Your journey step by step
How to travel from Benidorm
We show you the fastest and most affordable route: by car or bus to Santa Pola and then by boat to Tabarca. You can also choose to travel to Alicante by TRAM or ALSA bus and take the boat from there.
Total travel time: approx. 1h 30 min via Santa Pola · Alternative: 2h 30 min via Alicante (regular ferry all year round)
Book your tour online
Trips to Tabarca near Benidorm
The following excursions depart from Santa Pola or Alicante, the two ports accessible to those coming from Benidorm. Book online with free cancellation and the best price.
Quick guide to prices and times
Comparison of options from Benidorm
Before booking, understanding the difference between the two available routes will help you make up your mind. This is a guide to compare prices based on the point of departure.
| Port of departure | Mode of transport | Journey duration | Approximate price | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Santa Pola | Tabarquera (water taxi) | 15–20 mins | €15–€25 | All year round · every 30 mins in summer |
| Alicante | Regular ferry service | 50 mins | €21 – €22 | All year round · reduced fares in winter |
The most economical option
Vía Santa Pola. The ferry ticket is cheaper and the journey is shorter. You’ll need to travel to Santa Pola by car or bus (45–55 minutes from Benidorm).
Option without a car
It’s easier to get to Alicante by public transport: TRAM L9 Benidorm–Alicante (1 hour 20 minutes) and a regular ferry service to the port. Perfect if you're travelling without your own car.
Discounts and special rates
- Children aged 4 to 12: standard reduced fares apply. Children under 4 usually travel free of charge.
- Groups: please check with the shipping company for special rates if you are travelling with a group.
- Over-65s: some companies offer discounts without advertising them, so ask when booking.
Practical tips
Things you should know before travelling to Tabarca from Benidorm
Benidorm offers two possible routes to Tabarca. Before you decide, consider your time, budget and whether you have a car. Here are the key points for planning your perfect day on the island.
Santa Pola is the cheapest option
Whether you have a car or don’t mind taking the bus, head to Santa Pola (55 km, 45–55 mins) and board the ferry there. It’s the cheapest option, with departures every 30 minutes in summer.
Alicante, perfect for those without a car
If you’re travelling without a car, the TRAM L9 takes you from Benidorm to Alicante in 1 hour 20 minutes. Regular ferries to Tabarca depart from the port of Alicante all year round.
ALSA coach as an alternative
ALSA runs several daily services between Benidorm and Alicante. If you plan your journey carefully, you can coordinate these with the Alicante–Tabarca ferry timetable.
Parking in Santa Pola
If you’re driving to Santa Pola, there are several car parks near the harbour. In August, arrive 30–45 minutes early to find a space without any hassle.
Goes well with the Palmeral de Elche
If you’re driving to Santa Pola, Elche and its Palm Grove (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) are on the way. It’s the perfect way to round off the day after visiting Tabarca.
Book online in advance
Benidorm welcomes millions of tourists in the summer. Ferries to Tabarca fill up quickly in July and August: book online several days in advance.
Frequently asked questions about
how to get to Tabarca from Benidorm
How do I get to Tabarca from Benidorm?
You have two main options: combine transport (car, ALSA bus or TRAM) to Santa Pola and board a local ferry, or travel to Alicante and take the regular ferry. The route via Santa Pola is quicker and cheaper; the route via Alicante is more convenient if you don’t have a car.
What’s the quickest way to get to Tabarca from Benidorm?
Via Santa Pola by car. It’s 55 km (45–55 mins) to the port, and from there the ferry takes just 20 minutes. Approximate total journey time: 1 hour 30 mins.
What is the cheapest way to get to Tabarca from Benidorm?
Travelling by car or bus to Santa Pola and boarding the ferry there is the cheapest option. A ticket from Santa Pola to Tabarca costs around €15–25, plus the cost of the journey from Benidorm.
How long does it take to get to Tabarca from Benidorm?
Via Santa Pola, approximately 1 hour 30 minutes in total. Via Alicante (tram or bus + ferry), around 2 hours 30 minutes. The ferry from Alicante takes 50 minutes, compared to 20 minutes from Santa Pola.
Can you get to Tabarca from Benidorm by public transport?
Yes. The TRAM L9 connects Benidorm with Alicante in 1 hour 20 minutes, and there is a regular ferry service from the port of Alicante to Tabarca. You can also take the ALSA bus, which runs several times a day to Alicante.
Can you drive from Benidorm to Tabarca?
You cannot reach Tabarca by car (it is a car-free island). However, you can drive from Benidorm to Santa Pola (55 km via the AP-7 or N-332) and board the ferry to Tabarca. There are car parks near the port.
How much does it cost to get to Tabarca from Benidorm?
It depends on the route: the Tabarquera from Santa Pola costs €15–25, and the ferry from Alicante costs €21–22 (plus your journey to the port). Children aged 4–12 usually pay a reduced fare, and those under 4 travel free of charge.
Experience Tabarca to the full
Don’t just stick to the tour
Once in Tabarca, you can go snorkelling in the Marine Reserve, dive amongst seagrass beds, hire a jet ski or take a private boat trip. Book online to get the best deals.
SEE ACTIVITIES IN TABARCA →