How to get to the island
From Jávea to Tabarca
From Jávea, a visit to Tabarca makes for a great day trip if you’re spending your holiday in the Marina Alta. There is no direct ferry from Jávea, so the most common option is to drive to Santa Pola (the quickest and cheapest option) or to Alicante and board the ferry from there.
Your journey, step by step
What is the route like from Jávea
Here’s the quickest and cheapest route: drive to Santa Pola and take the ferry to Tabarca. From Jávea, you can also choose to go to Alicante if you prefer the regular ferry, although the total journey time is slightly longer.
Total journey time: approx. 1 hour 50 minutes via Santa Pola · Alternative route: 2 hours 30 minutes via Alicante (regular ferry service all year round)
Book your tour online
Trips to Tabarca near Jávea
The following excursions depart from Santa Pola or Alicante, the two ports most easily accessible from Jávea. Book online with free cancellation and secure your place during the high season.
Quick guide to prices and times
Comparison of options from Jávea
There is no direct ferry from Jávea to Tabarca. Here are the two available routes, with their approximate journey times and prices, so you can choose the one that best suits your budget and preferences.
| 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 cheapest and quickest option
Vía Santa Pola. The ferry ticket is cheaper and the crossing is the shortest. It involves a 90 km drive (1 hour 20 minutes) from Jávea via the AP-7 or N-332.
Option with more navigation
Vía Alicante. The driving distance is similar (110 km), but you get to enjoy a 50-minute boat trip. A good option if you want to experience travelling by boat.
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 Jávea
There is no direct transport from Jávea to Santa Pola or Alicante, so almost all visitors travel by car, either their own or a hire car. Here are the key points for planning a perfect day in Tabarca.
A car is almost essential
Public transport from Jávea to Santa Pola and Alicante is very limited. The usual way to get there is by car – either your own or a hire car – via the AP-7 or the N-332.
Santa Pola: recommended route
This is the quickest and cheapest option. Drive 90 km (1 hour 20 minutes) to the port, park and board the ferry. The crossing takes just 20 minutes.
Alicante: a good alternative
If you’d like to make the most of the boat trip, Alicante offers a 50-minute journey on a regular ferry service. The distance by car from Jávea is similar (110 km).
Pair with Montgó or Benitatxell
Make the most of your journey to visit places near the AP-7: Denia, Calpe and the Peñón de Ifach are lovely places to stop if you’re travelling with plenty of time to spare.
Set off early during the high season
In July and August, there may be traffic jams on the AP-7. Set off before 9:00 am to avoid heavy traffic and ensure a smooth journey.
Book online in advance
It’s a long journey from Jávea, so it’s best to book your place on the ferry before you set off. Booking online means you won’t face any surprises when you arrive at the port.
Frequently asked questions about
how to get to Tabarca from Jávea
How do I get to Tabarca from Jávea?
From Jávea, the most common option is to drive to Santa Pola (90 km, 1 hour 20 minutes) and take a local ferry from there (20 minutes). Alternatively, you can drive to Alicante (110 km) and take the regular ferry (50 minutes). There is no direct ferry from Jávea.
What’s the quickest way to get to Tabarca from Jávea?
Via Santa Pola by car. It is 90 km (1 hour 20 minutes) to the port, plus a 20-minute boat journey. Total journey time: approximately 1 hour 50 minutes. This is the most direct and economical option.
How long does it take to get to Tabarca from Jávea?
Via Santa Pola: approximately 1 hour 50 minutes in total. Via Alicante: around 2 hours 30 minutes (1 hour 30 minutes by car + 50 minutes by ferry). Please allow extra time for boarding and parking.
Is there public transport from Jávea to Santa Pola or Alicante?
Very limited. There are a few intercity buses to Alicante with connections, but none go directly to Santa Pola. The most practical way to get there from Jávea is by car, whether your own or a hire car.
How much does it cost to get to Tabarca from Jávea?
A return ferry ticket from Santa Pola costs around €15–25. From Alicante, it costs €21–22. Add the cost of fuel and parking depending on the route you choose.
Can you drive from Jávea to Tabarca?
You can’t reach Tabarca by car (it’s an island with no motor traffic). But you can drive from Jávea to Santa Pola via the AP-7 (the quicker route) or the N-332 (the coastal road, which is longer but offers better views).
Is it worth the trip from Jávea?
Yes, even if it’s a long day. Tabarca is Spain’s first Marine Reserve and its surroundings are unique. Many visitors from Jávea take the opportunity to combine their day out with a stop in Elche or Alicante on the way back.
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 →