Updated November 2026. Yes, you can sleep on Tabarca, and it is the best way to get to know the island: once the last afternoon boat leaves, only a few residents and guests remain. What is not allowed is camping or sleeping on the beach: the whole island and its marine surroundings are protected.
Places to stay on the island
According to Alicante Tourism’s official guide, these are the places to stay on Tabarca:
| Accommodation | Type |
|---|---|
| Hotel Boutique Isla de Tabarca | 3-star hotel |
| Hotel Casa del Gobernador | Hotel inside the walls, in the historic governor’s building |
| Hotel Isla Plana | 3-star hotel |
| Hotel Santacreu | 2-star hotel |
| Casa La Trancada | 1 star |
| Hostal Masín | 1-star guesthouse |
| Hostal Nueva Tabarca | 1-star guesthouse |
| B&B Cala Tabarca | Bed & breakfast |
| Pensión Nuevo Masín | Guesthouse |
There are very few beds, so in summer, on long weekends and on dates such as New Year’s Eve, book weeks in advance. Some places close for part of the winter: check they are open on your dates.
How to organise your night on Tabarca
- Boat: buy a return ticket and come back the next day. Tickets usually have an open return, but ask the ferry company when you buy.
- Car: cars are not allowed on the island. If you leave from Santa Pola, park in a free white zone (port, Parking Marina or Polamax), not in the blue zone. More in our Santa Pola boat guide.
- Luggage: you walk from the quay to your accommodation. Bring a small suitcase or a backpack.
- Dinner: fewer restaurants open in the evening than at lunchtime. Book, especially out of season.
- Services: there are few shops and they close early. Bring what you may need (medicines, cash, chargers).
What to do if you stay overnight
- Walk through the walled town and out to the lighthouse at sunset, with no crowds.
- Snorkel first thing in the morning, before the first boats arrive. See our marine reserve guide.
- Watch the sunrise from the east coast of the island.
- Visit the Nueva Tabarca Museum (Wednesday to Sunday, free entry).
Summary: you can stay in the town’s hotels, guesthouses and B&Bs, but you cannot camp. Book ahead, travel light and leave your car in a white zone in Santa Pola.
