What is the Tabarca Marine Reserve?
- It is a protected maritime zone off the coast of Alicante, designed to conserve ecosystems, marine fauna and flora, and regulate uses such as fishing, diving, and anchoring.
- Within the reserve there are integral zones (more restrictive) and reserve zones (with some permitted activities).
- The main regulation governing the reserve is Order APA/102/2019 of January 23, which establishes the public use regime and restrictions.
- Order ARM/2094/2010 also applies to anchoring and mooring at diving sites.
- Activities are regulated by area (integral or not) and require authorization when not expressly permitted.
Key rules and what you can and can’t do
Here’s a clear explanation of what’s allowed, what’s not, and under what conditions in 2025:
Here’s a clear explanation of what’s allowed, what’s not, and under what conditions in 2025:
| Activity | Allowed? | Conditions/applicable regulations |
|---|---|---|
|
Recreational Fishing |
No | Recreational fishing is prohibited throughout the marine reserve. |
| Professional/artisanal fishing | Sometimes permitted, with restrictions | In open waters, the use of certain gear (coarse fishing, trolling) is permitted with authorization. In inland waters, hook-and-eye gear is permitted, but not longlines. |
| Scuba diving (recreational) | Allowed with authorization | In certain authorized areas and upon request, observing maximum quotas. |
|
Boat Anchoring |
Very Restricted / Prohibited | Anchoring is not permitted except in emergencies. The use of mooring buoys at dive sites is subject to authorization. |
| Extraction of flora, fauna, or materials | Prohibited | Extraction of organisms (algae, shells, etc.) or seabed material is not permitted, except with strict authorization. |
| Navegación libre / tránsito de embarcaciones | Permitido | La navegación está permitida, con respeto de límites de velocidad y zonas definidas. |
| Use of mooring buoys for divers | With authorization | Boats transporting divers must use designated buoys, with prior permission. |
| Fishing gear on dive boats | Prohibited | Fishing gear is not permitted on recreational diving vessels. |
What you need to keep in mind (easy summary)
- If you’re a tourist and snorkeler, you can swim freely in permitted areas (snorkeling without special authorization), always making sure not to take anything out of the sea.
- If you want to scuba dive, you need authorization and to use authorized areas.
- Do not carry nets, hooks, or fishing tools if you are on a dive boat.
- Do not anchor where unauthorized, except in an emergency.
- If you see areas marked with buoys, use them as safe diving zones when permitted.
- Recreational fishing is strictly prohibited throughout the reserve.
- During authorized seasons, the local brotherhood may use traditional arts in outdoor areas with permits.
Frequently asked questions about the regulations of the Tabarca Marine Reserve
Can I snorkel without permission?
Yes, you can snorkel without permission, as long as you do so in designated areas and do not touch or remove anything from the seabed. Respect protected areas and avoid disturbing marine wildlife.
Do I get fined if I fish from the shore?
Yes. Recreational fishing is strictly prohibited within the Tabarca Marine Reserve, whether from a boat or from land. The penalty may be financial or administrative.
Can I anchor my boat near the island?
No. Anchoring is prohibited except in emergencies, and mooring is only permitted at authorized buoys (usually assigned to diving vessels with prior permission). If you’re traveling by boat, please inquire before approaching the island.
