Tabarca, Mediterranean beach in Tabarca Island, Spain

Tabarca is the main beach on the island of Tabarca, lying on its southern shore facing the open sea. The cove is about 200 metres long, with golden sand and a shallow entry into clear water. A line of low white buildings and the small harbour stand just behind the beach.

The island received fortifications in the 18th century under King Charles III to defend against pirate attacks along the coast. These defensive structures remain visible today and mark the island's former strategic importance.

The village on Tabarca grew from a settlement of Genoese fishermen resettled by King Charles III in the 18th century, and their descendants still keep boats in the small harbour beside the beach. Look for the church of San Pedro and the low whitewashed houses grouped inside the old walls.

Boats reach the island from Santa Pola and Alicante, with summer crossings running about every two hours. The beach lies a short walk from the landing jetty. Crossings depend on weather and season, so confirm departure times before setting out.

The reserve covers the waters around Tabarca and was Spain's first marine reserve, created in 1986. It protects seagrass meadows of Posidonia oceanica and rocky reefs, and the island's name is linked to the tuna traps once worked here. Look for the small cross-shaped marker on the seabed used to moor boats without anchoring on the seagrass.