Is living on Tabarca Island a good idea?
In winter, only a few people live on the island, and it’s more calm and peaceful. Even in summer, if you know where to go, you can still find quiet corners. But during peak season, the island becomes lively. Why?
Michal Wykowski
8/1/20251 min read


Recently, one of my clients asked if we have any properties on Tabarca Island, nearby Santa Pola and whether it’s a good option for someone looking for a quieter, more private place to live.
The question caught my attention, because Tabarca really is a special place. It’s the smallest inhabited island in Spain. There are no cars, and you can only get there by boat. It’s just 1.8 kilometers long and 400 meters wide, but it offers:
• A rich history, including defensive walls, a baroque church, the old governor’s palace, and once, even pirates lived there
• A protected nature area, Spain’s first marine reserve, created in 1986
• Crystal-clear water and lots of sea life, making it a great spot for snorkeling
Can you really get away from it all there?
Outside the busy summer months, most likely yes. In winter, only a few people live on the island, and it’s more calm and peaceful. Even in summer, if you know where to go, you can still find quiet corners. But during peak season, the island becomes lively. Why?
• It’s close to Santa Pola and Alicante, so it’s easy to reach by boat, perfect for a day trip
• Its charm, whitewashed houses, narrow streets, and no traffic
• Its natural beauty, great snorkeling and sea views
• The local food, especially caldero tabarquino, a rice and fish dish with aioli that tastes amazing on the island
Tabarca is not just a pretty island. It’s also about the kind of life you want to live.
Are you looking for total peace and quiet, or a place full of history and character that you’ll want to come back to?
If your dream is to live by the sea, close to city life but with room to breathe and relax, Costa Blanca has many great options.
And Tabarca? It’s definitely worth a visit. We can find properties for sale there. Could it be your dream place? Let’s talk and explore the possibilities together.