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Elche & Tabarca Island – Culture & Snorkeling Day Tour
Discover two gems of the Costa Blanca in one unforgettable day! Explore the historic city of Elche in Spain, home to the famous palm grove and Huerto del Cura, then sail to Tabarca Island for a guided walk and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. A perfect mix of culture, nature, and Mediterranean charm.
If you're searching for one of the best day trips from Alicante that offers a unique combination of culture, history, and breathtaking natural beauty, this Elche and Tabarca Island tour is the perfect choice. This full-day adventure takes you through some of the most fascinating spots in the southern Costa Blanca, combining inland treasures with the tranquility of the Mediterranean Sea.
Your journey begins in the historic city of Elche in Spain, famous worldwide for its sprawling Palm Grove—the largest palm oasis in Europe and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walking through this vast grove is like stepping into a serene natural sanctuary where you can appreciate the unique relationship between humans and nature that has been preserved for centuries. The Huerto del Cura botanical garden is a must-visit highlight, showcasing exotic and native plants in a peaceful setting, and the Basilica of Santa María offers not only religious significance but also beautiful architecture and a glimpse into local traditions, including the famous Misteri d’Elx festival celebrated annually.
After absorbing the cultural richness of Elche in Spain, you’ll head to the coastal town of Santa Pola Spain, a lively fishing village that offers fresh seafood and stunning sea views. Here, you’ll enjoy a delicious, traditional Mediterranean lunch prepared with locally sourced ingredients, giving you a real taste of the region’s culinary delights.
The afternoon is dedicated to the natural beauty of the Tabarca Island marine reserve. A short ferry ride takes you to this tranquil island, known for its crystal-clear waters, rich marine life, and historical charm. You’ll explore the fortified village, walk along ancient walls, and soak in breathtaking views of the Mediterranean horizon. After a refreshing coffee break by the sea, prepare for an unforgettable guided snorkeling session at Playa Rata, where you can observe the vibrant underwater world protected by the marine reserve. All snorkeling equipment is included, making it easy for everyone to join in this immersive experience.
This carefully crafted tour is perfect for couples, families, and small groups seeking an authentic taste of Alicante’s cultural heritage and natural wonders. Whether you’re visiting Alicante, Elche, or nearby towns, this tour offers a balanced day of discovery and relaxation that you won’t forget.
👉 Book your spot today and uncover the contrast of Elche in Spain’s palm forests and the refreshing waters of Tabarca Island. 💙
✨ Want to learn more about our philosophy and local team? Visit our About Us page and get to know who's behind your next adventure.
🕐 Itinerary
Itinerarios
09,00
Hotel Pick-up
🚐 Your guide will collect you from your accommodation in Alicante, Elche, Santa Pola or nearby towns.
09,30
Explore Elche in Spain
🌴 Visit the iconic Palm Grove, enjoy a peaceful walk through the Huerto del Cura, and admire the architecture of the Basilica of Santa María.
12,30
Lunch in Santa Pola Spain
🍽️ Enjoy a full Mediterranean meal with fresh local products in the port area of Santa Pola, right by the sea.
14,00
Ferry to Tabarca Island
⛴️ A short and scenic boat ride takes you to Tabarca Island, where the clear blue water greets you upon arrival.
16,00
Guided snorkeling session at Playa Rata
🤿 Enjoy the calm waters of Playa Rata, where you’ll explore the marine life of the Tabarca reserve with your guide and provided snorkeling gear.
18,00
Return ferry to Santa Pola
⛴️ Relax and enjoy the views on your way back to the mainland.
19,00
Return to your hotel
🚐 We’ll drop you off at your accommodation after a full day of cultural and aquatic discovery.
✅ Includes
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🚐 Private round-trip transportation
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🗣️ Local bilingual guide (English/Spanish)
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🌴 Entry to Huerto del Cura (Elche)
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🍽️ Full traditional lunch and drink in Santa Pola Spain
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⛴️ Round-trip ferry to Tabarca Island
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🏝️ Guided walking tour on the island
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🤿 Snorkeling equipment + guided session at Playa Rata
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🛡️ Basic travel insurance
❌ Excludes
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☕ Coffee or extras on Tabarca
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💶 Personal purchases (souvenirs, snacks)
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💸 Tips for guide or ferry staff (optional)
✅ Tours are private or semi-private, always in small groups of 8 people or fewer. You’ll enjoy a personalized experience, away from the crowds.
✅ Yes. Pick-up and drop-off are included from accommodations in Alicante or Valencia city. We'll confirm the location after booking.
✅ Recommended: comfortable shoes, swimwear (for water activities), sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and a water bottle. A phone or camera is a must!
✅ We adjust the plan to ensure safety and enjoyment. If the sea is rough, we’ll switch to a safer alternative like kayaking, paddleboarding, or a coastal hike.
✅ Yes. All full-day tours include a Mediterranean lunch with drinks. Vegetarian, vegan or gluten-free options are available upon request.
✅ Payment is required at the time of booking. We accept PayPal and credit/debit cards through secure checkout. No cash payments on the day.
✅ Free cancellation up to 48 hours before the tour. After that, a 50% fee applies. No-shows are non-refundable.
✅ Yes. Our experiences are designed for all ages. We adapt the pace and difficulty to your group — just let us know your needs in advance.
✅ The guide speaks Spanish and English. We do our best to communicate clearly and make everyone feel comfortable.
✅ Yes, to a point. If you have special interests or needs, we’ll do our best to adjust the itinerary — just ask when booking.
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