Alicante’s coastal wonders come alive on this captivating excursion to Tabarca Island and Salinas. Travelers embark on a scenic journey, exploring the striking pink waters of Salinas de Santa Pola before setting sail to the historic island of Tabarca. With ample time to immerse in the island’s charming ambiance, visitors can uncover its rich history, relax on its pristine beaches, and even enjoy snorkeling opportunities. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or a history buff, this excursion promises an unforgettable day of discovery along Alicante’s captivating coastline.
This experience made our list of the 5 Best Tours In Torrevieja.
Key Points
- This 8.5-hour excursion from Alicante offers a visit to the iconic pink salt flats of Salinas de Santa Pola and the natural wonders of Tabarca Island.
- The tour includes roundtrip transportation via bus and catamaran, with 4.5 hours allotted for exploring Tabarca Island’s historic town and beaches.
- Highlights of the excursion include observing the unique pink hue of the Salinas, spotting marine life during the boat ride, and immersing in Tabarca Island’s cultural heritage.
- Customers generally appreciate the convenience of the included transportation and the knowledgeable local guide, though some desire more time at Salinas or a more diverse itinerary.
- The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, providing flexibility for travelers.
Overview and Pricing
This excursion from Alicante to Tabarca Island and Salinas offers savings of up to 15%, with prices ranging from $75.37 to $64.45 per person and a duration of 8.5 hours.
Travelers can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, as well as a reserve now and pay later option.
This comprehensive tour provides an opportunity to discover the unique beauty of the Salinas of Santa Pola, known for their distinctive pink hue from the algae, and to explore the historic town and natural wonders of Tabarca Island.
With a range of activities, from relaxing on the beach to snorkeling in the Mediterranean waters, this excursion promises an unforgettable experience.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Torrevieja.
Itinerary and Transportation
The excursion begins at the Alicante Bullring, where travelers hop on a bus for the 45-minute journey to the Salinas de Santa Pola.
After a 35-minute visit to the iconic salt flats, the group boards another bus for a 20-minute ride to the Santa Pola port.
From there, they embark on a 50-minute catamaran cruise to the charming Tabarca Island.
Visitors then have 4.5 hours to explore the historic town, relax on the beach, or enjoy swimming and snorkeling in the Mediterranean waters.
The return journey retraces the same route, with the catamaran sailing back to Santa Pola and the bus transporting the group to the Alicante Bullring.
Highlights and Activities
What sets this excursion apart are the unique highlights and activities it offers. Visitors can discover the captivating beauty of the Salinas de Santa Pola, known for its striking pink hue from the presence of algae. They’ll then embark on a boat ride with underwater windows, providing an opportunity to spot diverse marine life. On Tabarca Island, guests can explore the historic town and natural wonders, with options for relaxation at the beach, swimming, or snorkeling in the refreshing Mediterranean waters. Strolling along the ancient walls of Tabarca and wandering through the charming town complete this immersive cultural experience.
Activity | Description |
---|---|
Salinas de Santa Pola | Discover the unique pink hue from algae |
Boat Ride | Observe marine life through underwater windows |
Tabarca Island | Explore the historic town and natural beauty |
Relaxation | Enjoy the beach, swimming, and snorkeling |
Inclusions and Exclusions
Included in the excursion price are the roundtrip bus transportation, visit to the Salinas de Santa Pola, roundtrip boat ticket to Tabarca Island, and services of a local official guide, along with hotel pickup and drop-off.
However, the cost of food, drinks, and snorkel equipment aren’t included. Plus, the excursion may not be suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.
-
The Salinas de Santa Pola offer a unique opportunity to witness the vibrant pink hue of the water, a result of the high concentration of algae.
-
Explore the historic town and natural beauty of Tabarca Island, with options for relaxation, swimming, and snorkeling in the Mediterranean waters.
-
Ensure to bring sun protection, comfortable clothing, and a form of identification for a seamless experience.
Meeting Point and What to Bring
The meeting point for the excursion is the bus stop at Plaza de Toros.
Travelers should bring a sun hat, swimwear, towel, food, sunscreen, water, comfortable clothes, and a passport or ID card (copy accepted) for the day’s activities.
The trip includes a visit to the Salinas de Santa Pola, known for their pink hue from algae.
Participants will then take a boat ride with underwater windows to the historic Tabarca Island, where they’ll have 4.5 hours to explore the town, relax on the beach, or go swimming and snorkeling in the Mediterranean waters.
The excursion also includes roundtrip bus and boat transportation, as well as a local official guide.
Customer Feedback – Transportation
Based on the customer feedback, travelers generally rated the transportation aspects of the excursion at 4.2 out of 5 stars.
While the roundtrip bus and boat rides were efficient in traversing the route, some customers desired more detailed explanations from the guide during the transportation portions of the tour.
Customers appreciated the convenience of the included bus and boat transfers, which allowed them to focus on enjoying the scenery without the hassle of driving or navigating the journey themselves.
However, a few reviews mentioned that more commentary from the guide during the transportation segments could have enhanced the educational and informative value of the excursion.
Customer Feedback – Value for Money
Customers generally rated the value for money of the excursion at 3.8 out of 5 stars, suggesting that while the overall experience was positive, some felt the pricing could have been more competitive.
Many noted that the inclusion of transportation, boat tickets, and a local guide made the excursion a convenient package.
However, some customers expressed a desire for more time at the Salinas de Santa Pola or additional activities to justify the cost.
The varied feedback indicates that while the excursion provides a comprehensive experience, some travelers may have preferred a more diverse itinerary or lower price point.
Customer Feedback – Highlights
Reviewers consistently praised the knowledgeable and engaging guide, who brought the history and natural wonders of the excursion to life. Many highlighted the breathtaking beauty of the Salinas de Santa Pola, describing the striking pink hue of the salt flats as a remarkable sight.
Travelers also enjoyed the boat ride to Tabarca Island, particularly the underwater viewing windows that allowed them to spot marine life along the journey.
Feedback highlights include:
-
The opportunity to explore the historic town and natural beauty of Tabarca Island, with options for relaxation, swimming, and snorkeling in the Mediterranean waters.
-
The overall value and unique experience of the excursion, despite some desires for more time at the Salinas.
-
The guide’s ability to provide a deeper understanding and appreciation for the region’s cultural and environmental significance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Equipment?
Yes, you can bring your own snorkel equipment. The excursion doesn’t include snorkel gear, so bringing your own allows you to explore the waters around Tabarca Island at your own pace.
Is There a Minimum Group Size Required?
There’s no minimum group size required for this excursion. You can book as an individual or with a group, and the tour operates regardless of the number of participants. The tour provider accommodates bookings of all group sizes.
Can I Extend My Stay on Tabarca Island?
Yes, you can extend your stay on Tabarca Island. The excursion includes 4.5 hours of free time on the island, but you can choose to stay longer and return on your own schedule. Additional fees may apply for extended stays.
Are There Any Additional Fees or Taxes Not Included?
The excursion’s price doesn’t include any additional fees or taxes. It covers roundtrip transportation, boat tickets, and a local guide. Travelers should expect to pay for their own food, drinks, and any optional activities like snorkeling equipment.
Can I Request a Specific Language for the Guided Tour?
Yes, you can request a specific language for the guided tour. The excursion offers multilingual guides, so you can likely arrange for the tour to be conducted in the language of your choice, such as English, Spanish, or another preferred language.
Recap
This excursion from Alicante to Tabarca Island and Salinas offers an engaging day of exploration for nature and history enthusiasts.
Travelers can enjoy a scenic bus ride, vibrant pink waters, a catamaran cruise, and ample time to discover Tabarca Island’s charming town, beaches, and snorkeling opportunities.
With convenient transportation and knowledgeable guides, this 8.5-hour adventure provides a memorable experience that delivers good value for money.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Tours in Torrevieja
More Tour Reviews in Torrevieja
Not for you? Here's more things to do in Torrevieja we have recnetly reviewed
- 5 Best Tours In Torrevieja
- 11 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Torrevieja
- 2 Best Jet-Ski Experiences In Torrevieja
- Torrevieja: Sunset Onboard Exclusive Boat + Cava
- Rent Your Boat in Torrevieja
- Boat Ride and Bathing in the Sea
- Torrevieja: Sunset Onboard in Exclusive Boat + Cava.
- Wine Tour Through the Vineyards With Tasting by Salt Lake
- Torrevieja: Guided Tour on Board a Private Boat.
- Electric Bicycle Tour Through the Natural Parks of Torrevieja
- 2 Best Sailing Experiences In Torrevieja
- 2 Best Canoe And Kayak Experiences In Torrevieja