The island of Tabarca, located off the coast of Alicante, is a unique and picturesque tourist destination in the Spanish Mediterranean. As a small, sheltered island, it does not have large supermarkets like those found on the mainland. However, there are a few options to buy basic goods and food during your stay.
Options to supermarkets in Tabarca:
- Small local shops
There are small shops and grocery stores on the island where visitors and residents can buy staple foods, drinks and some basic goods. These shops are usually open during the high season (spring and summer), when the influx of tourists is highest. - Restaurants and bars
Tabarca is known for its gastronomy, especially for its famous caldero tabarquino (a typical rice dish with fish). If you can’t find certain products in the shops, eating in one of the restaurants can be an excellent option. Many of these establishments offer take-away food. - Provisioning from the mainland
As Tabarca is about 20 minutes by boat from Santa Pola, many residents and tourists prefer to bring their shopping from supermarkets on the mainland. If you are staying for several days in Tabarca, it is advisable to bring the essentials from the mainland.
Useful tips:
- Bring what you need: Although you will find the basics, it is best to bring specific products such as medicines, special foodstuffs or personal hygiene items from the mainland.
- Opening hours: Being a small place, shops may have reduced opening hours, especially outside the tourist season.
- Carrying supplies: If you’re travelling with a group or family, take advantage of boats that allow extra luggage to carry what you need.
