The Tabarca Marine Reserve is a true paradise for sea lovers. Its transparent and protected waters are home to a great variety of underwater life that makes every dive or snorkeling trip different. If you want to know about the fish of Tabarca, the list is extensive. It includes from common Mediterranean species to other more curious and little seen in other areas of Alicante.
With Dive Academy you have the opportunity to know this world first hand. We organize excursions to dive in Tabarca with expert guides, so you can enjoy not only the visual spectacle, but also all the information about each species that you will find.
Marine fauna in Tabarca
Tabarca was the first Marine Reserve declared in Spain (1986) and today remains an example of protected biodiversity. Its posidonia meadows, rocky bottoms and sandy areas offer shelter and food to a multitude of species.
Doradas
The gilthead bream is one of the most recognizable Tabarca fish thanks to its silvery body and the characteristic golden spot between the eyes. They are curious fish, which tend to approach divers with a certain confidence, especially if they do not feel threatened.
In the reserve, gilthead seabream move in small groups through rocky areas and posidonia, where they search for crustaceans and mollusks. On sunny days, their metallic sheen shines even brighter underwater.
Sargos
The bream are very common on the island, and can be identified by their dark vertical bands. They like to swim close to rocks and in shallow water, so they are easy to see on snorkeling trips.
There are several species of bream in Tabarca, being the common bream and the common bream the most abundant. They are active during the day and feed on small invertebrates.
Brunettes
Moray eels are nocturnal predators that usually hide in crevices during the day, revealing only their heads and sharp teeth. Although they can
appear intimidating, they do not attack divers unless they feel threatened or are disturbed.
Their elongated and mottled body makes them unmistakable. Seeing a moray eel in Tabarca is an exciting moment for any diving lover.
Octopuses
The common octopus is another of the protagonists that you can meet on your trip to Tabarca. They are masters of camouflage, capable of changing color and texture to blend in with their surroundings.
During snorkeling and diving trips, they are often found among rocks or inside empty shells, watching with their big eyes. They are intelligent and very curious animals, even able to interact with divers.
Ocean sunfish
The sunfish, or Mola mola, is a much less frequent species, but occasionally surprises those who venture to dive in Tabarca in deeper waters. Its body is flat, round, and can reach impressive sizes.
They usually approach the surface to warm up in the sun, and although they are not fast, their size and shape make them a spectacular sight.
Stars and sea urchins
In addition to fish, Tabarca is home to a large number of marine invertebrates such as sea urchins and starfish. They can be seen in shades of red, orange and purple.
These animals play an important role in the balance of the ecosystem. They are found mainly in rocky bottoms and posidonia areas, and are part of the usual landscape that you will see on any trip to Tabarca.
What about marine vegetation?
The marine vegetation of Tabarca is as relevant as its fauna. The posidonia oceanica meadows stand out, considered the “lungs of the Mediterranean”. This thanks to its ability to produce oxygen and provide shelter to many species of fish and invertebrates.
This plant, which is not an alga, but a marine phanerogam, is one of the reasons why the visibility in Tabarca is so good and its waters are so clean.
What else is there to see in Tabarca?
In addition to the underwater world and fish, Tabarca has other attractions that make it very special. The island has a charm on land that is worth discovering. Its small historic center, with cobbled streets and whitewashed houses, preserves the spirit of the ancient community of fishermen and coastal defenders.
You can visit its walls and entrance gates, such as the Puerta de Levante and Puerta de Tierra, which recall the strategic importance of the island in past centuries. Also noteworthy is the church of San Pedro and San Pablo, built in the eighteenth century, which dominates the skyline from almost any point.
Do not miss its coves and beaches. Among the best known are the beach of Tabarca, with calm and crystal clear waters. Also, small rocky coves ideal for those seeking more privacy, perfect for recharge your batteries after diving in Tabarca.
Gastronomy is another attraction. The lobster stew is the star dish, but you can also taste rice, fresh fish and seafood caught in the area. And if you want to relax, many visitors take the opportunity to stroll around the island at sunset, when the atmosphere becomes calmer and the light creates a unique landscape.
Is it worth visiting Tabarca Island?
Definitely yes. In addition to the great variety of fish, Tabarca has many attractions, which you will be able to observe. The island offers a unique natural environment, clean and crystalline waters, and a tranquility that is not always easy to find on the Mediterranean coast.
The protection of the reserve ensures that the fauna remains in good condition and that visitors can enjoy a healthy, living ecosystem.
Enjoy Tabarca with Dive Academy
At Dive Academy Santa Pola we offer you guided snorkeling and diving trips in the Tabarca Marine Reserve. We will provide you with all the necessary equipment and the company of expert instructors who will show you the best spots and species.
You will live up close the experience of swimming with sea bream, bream, octopus and, with a little luck, some sunfish. Book your place to dive in Tabarca with Dive Academy and discover for yourself the richness of its marine fauna.
Come and enjoy Tabarca, the Mediterranean awaits you!
