Tabarka is recognised as one of the top diving destinations on the Tunisian coast. The rocky seabed around the Tabarka Rocks and the offshore reefs holds sponges, sea fans, octopus and a variety of bream, grouper and sea bass. Visibility is typically good, and depths accessible to sport divers range from shallow reef to walls dropping to 30–40 metres.
Several dive centres in the town offer guided dives and PADI courses. The area around the Needles — the rock stacks west of town — is the most popular site, combining dramatic underwater topography with reliable fish sightings. Snorkelling is also worthwhile around the shallower rocky areas near the port.