When thoughts turn to a holiday in Ibiza, you may picture its edgy nightclub scene in the heart of the resort of San Antonio. However, it’s easy to get away from 24-hour partying, and escape to the more tranquil side of this popular island.
Ibiza is one of the four Spanish Balearic Islands comprising Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza, and Formentera. Located in the Mediterranean Sea, Ibiza is approximately 150 kilometres from Valencia in mainland Spain. Ibiza is easy to get to as it has its own International Airport located approximately 7 kilometres south west of Ibiza town – its capital. The island is also shown written as Eivissa, which is the Catalan pronunciation if Ibiza.
Head to the north of the island, and you will find lots of small bays backed by green pine forests. We have set out below just some of the striking colours you can expect to see on an Ibiza holiday. These will show you some of the beautiful places around the island.
Cala Portinatx
Cala Portinatx is located in the north of Ibiza, and was formerly a small fishing village. It will take you about an hour to reach this resort from the airport. Known for its peace and quiet, and popular with families, Portinatx offers some water activities to keep you entertained. You will find a small bay here with crystal clear calm water, and gently shelving sands into the sea. Cala Portinatx can be popular with day-trippers, but if you prefer to stay here for the duration of your holiday, there are some lovely hotels found here.
You can spend some time on the sandy beach, or for the more energetic there are a number of walking trails taking you along the coast. Don’t forget to take some sensible walking shoes and your camera, as you won’t want to miss out on some of the lovely scenery.
Just a few kilometres to the south west of Portinatx, you will come across Cala Xarraca. This small bay is very popular with snorkellers, and offers some wonderful photographic opportunities.
Santa Eulalia
Probably the second most popular resort in Ibiza is Santa Eulalia. Expect to find a more laidback atmosphere here. There is a lovely promenade lined with plants, bars, and restaurants. This resort is known for its food as well as its designer boutiques, and art galleries.
Why not take a walk along the marina, and stop off at one of the pavement cafes and watch the world go by. For golfers, this may be the ideal location for you, as Golf Ibiza not too far away.
If you prefer the beach scene then you won’t be disappointed. The 300 metre long beach in the heart of the town comes has sunbeds, and a variety of water sports. These include jet-skis, waterskiing, pedalos, kayaks and lots more to keep the whole family occupied. Another beach here is Mariner’s Beach which is slightly longer at 400 metres. You’ll find plenty of places to eat and drink along the promenade. From here you can follow a path along the river.
Don’t miss the views from the Puig de Missa. This hill will take you about half an hour to walk up (it’s about 52 metres above sea level). At the top you’ll find a 16th century whitewashed church, and of course a stunning view of Santa Eulalia below.
If you’re in Santa Eulalia on the first Sunday in May, you will be able to see their annual flower festival. Horse drawn carts take to the streets adorned with flowers, and the town comes out to watch the procession.
Cala Comte
This is a beach located to the south west of the island of Ibiza. Simply come here to rest on the sandy beach, and take a dip in the clear and calm sea. If you are here in the evening then you may be rewarded by a stunning sunset. Cala Comte (also known as Platges de Comte) Is about 25 kilometres from Ibiza Town and can be reached by bus, taxi, or car.
Cala Salada
Cala Salada is just a few kilometres north of San Antonio, and is a small cove surrounded by pine forests . Again, you will find crystal clear and calm water here, along with walking paths offering scenic photographic opportunities to visitors.
Ibiza Town
The historic and fortified Dalt Vila is just a climb up a steep cobbled streets, taking you to the old city walls. Here you will find the mediaeval cathedral as well as a Moorish castle, and of course not forgetting the spectacular views to the port below. Dalt Vila Is a UNESCO World Heritage site where you can enjoy walking around stone courtyards. This is an ideal opportunity to purchase a souvenir of your visit here, or perhaps visit one of the many art galleries to escape the hot summer sun.
Ibiza Town is home to a party scene – although on a small scale to that found in San Antonio. At night you can visit one of the many lively bars and restaurants, or simply wander around the port viewing boats of all shapes and sizes.
Ibiza town isn’t just a city holiday, as you will find some lovely beaches nearby.
Sant Joan de Labritja
Sant Joan de Labritja is located inland in the northern area of Ibiza, approximately 3 kilometres south of Portinatx. This is a village of small whitewashed homes with narrow streets. In the centre of the village is the 18th century Sant Joan church. Ideal for a day trip, this village brings visitors peace and quiet amidst a traditional atmosphere.
Cala Bassa
You will find Cala Bassa to the northwest of the island, and just over 1 kilometre from Cala Comte. The beach comprises soft white sand, and calm, crystal clear water. You can find here a variety of water sports, including jet-skis and banana boats. If you’re looking for a special place to chill out, the Cala Bassa Beach Club runs the length of the beach offering luxury sun beds in shaded areas. The Beach Club also offers 3 restaurants including sushi , traditional, and even quick bites.
Es Vedra
Es Vedra is a small rocky island to the south west of Ibiza. The island is uninhabited, and comes with a few myths and legends. It is said that sailors in the area have seen strange shadows beneath their boats, and divers hearing sounds beneath the water. It is also said that the 400 metre high rock emits an energy possibly due to it being one of the largest magnetic centres on earth. Es Vedra is known for some of the most idyllic, and magical sunsets on the island.
Hippy Market
For something completely different visit the Hippy Market found in the resort of Es Cana. Held here every Wednesday, you’ll find many colourful arts and crafts on sale including jewellery, pottery, items of embroidered clothing, among other things. The market can be busy so we would recommend you get there as early as possible.
Of course, if you want to relax on the beach for a while then Playa Es Cana is just half a kilometre from the Hippy Market. Here you will find water sports available including waterskiing and parasailing . There is also a small harbour, and you can board a ferry from here to Santa Eulalia and Ibiza Town.
If you are looking to travel to the island of Ibiza, the main holiday season is from May through to the end of October. The hottest months are July, August and September at around 26ºC. The coldest month to visit is January at around 12ºC.
Gail Hewitt is Owner and Director of Corona Holidays. Corona Holidays are specialists in tailor-made holidays to the Canary Islands, Balearic Islands, and European city breaks.If you would like to be a guest blogger on A Luxury Travel Blog in order to raise your profile, please contact us.
Gail Hewitt is Owner and Director of Corona Holidays, one of the longest established independently owned travel companies in the UK. Corona Holidays are specialists in tailor-made holidays to the Canary Islands, Balearic Islands, and European city breaks, although other European destinations are also at our fingertips. Whether you’re looking for a hotel, apartment, villa, package holiday, transfers or excursions, we provide a personalised service. Also, being an independent agent, we offer unbiased opinions and advice, and are fully financially protected.
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15 Comments
My friends who’ve been to Ibiza tell me that more people need to look beyond the media image of clubs and music. Beyond that they say that it is easy to find a quiet beautiful island.
Thank you Karen. Yes, the clubbing resort of San Antonio does tend to be what people associate with Ibiza. So much beauty elsewhere, and some wonderful luxury hotels as well.
A dozen years ago I headed to Ibiza for the club scene and hardly saw daylight. I must have grown up. If I went back now I’d want to see the quieter side of the island. This time in daylight.
Thanks Jack. I think most destinations have a resort known for its club scene, and all-day breakfasts. So much else to see, and then return home fully rested.
Over the years I’ve heard nice things about Ibiza. It’s helpful to see them all gathered together In one place with plenty of great photos.
Thanks for your comment Claire. I’ll be doing similar articles on the other islands over the coming months.
Nice title. Colour is important. I think that we travel a lot for different colours. Bluer skies, seas that are azure.
Though back in the days of the Iron Curtain what struck me most about Eastern Europe was how grey it was and the lack of colour. But it was different, a new experience, and it’s a trip that I still remember over 35 years on.
Though if you gave me a choice I’d still rather have some of Ibiza’s colour. It looks fabulous.
Thanks Suzy – more islands to come! I haven’t visited Eastern Europe yet, but hopefully some city breaks in the near future for me. Like you, given the choice I’d prefer somewhere colourful, and I’m always drawn to a turquoise sea.
It wasn’t until the other year when a friend of mine went to Ibiza that I learned about ‘the other side’ of it. My first response to her why “why?” when she told me she was going. I only ever used to think of the clubbing scenes and she’s in her 50s, and her and her husband aren’t exactly the drinking and partying types! They had a wonderful time and they said you just have to know where to go depending on what you want to get from your trip. I’ve never been so I’m not that up on the geography there but I’ll have to ask whether she went to Cala Xarraca. It looks lovely there, a little off the beaten track and quite quiet. I have a feeling Cala Salada is near where they stayed. They put photos up on Instagram and they looked a bit like this one, absolutely gorgeous.
I like the sound of the Hippy Market too. I’m a sucker for buying things on holiday, I always struggle getting the suitcase done up when it’s bulging at the seems for the flight home!
Haha – yes Marlene, I’ve been in that situation with my suitcase as well!
I think a bit of an adventure away from the main resorts is always a good thing to see some of the true character of a destination, and sample the local cuisine. Hopefully the article will change some views that Ibiza is purely for 24-hour clubbing. Thank you for your comment.
Reading this reminded me of an old fantasy of mine about island-hopping through the Balearics. It all started in Barcelona when I saw an ad for the ferry to Majorca. I’ve no idea if you can take a ferry from island to island. I’ve often thought that it would be a good thing to do in spring before it gets too hot. If the other islands are as pretty as Ibiza then it would be some holiday.
Thanks Nick. Island hopping would be a great way to see all 4 of the Balearic islands. Yes, you can get a ferry from Barcelona to, say, Menorca. Then the ferry to Mallorca, then to Ibiza and over to Formentera. On the way back you can get the ferry direct from Ibiza to Barcelona. I’ll be putting together similar articles on the other 3 islands over the coming months.
Parties at the beach are the events that tourists usually look forward to whenever they visit Ibiza. However, with the pandemic that we are experiencing today, it is definitely best to consider the “more tranquil side” of Ibiza. Even without the parties, you will not get bored here because it offers a lot more than just drinking and dancing on the beach. Cala Portinatx and Santa Eulalia are known for their outdoor water activities, so for those coming over with family, this will be perfect. These places also offer accommodations that suit the needs of tourists who would like to find time for relaxation but also want to explore the area through different activities such as boating, snorkeling, or strolling. On the other hand, you can still visit the towns in the area if you would like to experience more of its party scene and local bars. They offer good quality drinks and delectable cuisine that you will surely enjoy. I’m sure we all can’t help but party after that year called 2020.
I particularly loved Portinatx, and would certainly go back there. I’m sure the island will see parties returning – let’s hope it’s the summer of 2021!
I cannot wait to get back to Ibiza. It is one of my favorite places!
Ibiza is one of the four Spanish Balearic Islands comprising Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza, and Formentera. Located in the Mediterranean Sea, Ibiza is approximately 150 kilometres from Valencia in mainland Spain. Ibiza is easy to get to as it has its own International Airport located approximately 7 kilometres south west of Ibiza town – its capital. The island is also shown written as Eivissa, which is the Catalan pronunciation if Ibiza.
Head to the north of the island, and you will find lots of small bays backed by green pine forests. We have set out below just some of the striking colours you can expect to see on an Ibiza holiday. These will show you some of the beautiful places around the island.
Cala Portinatx
Cala Portinatx is located in the north of Ibiza, and was formerly a small fishing village. It will take you about an hour to reach this resort from the airport. Known for its peace and quiet, and popular with families, Portinatx offers some water activities to keep you entertained. You will find a small bay here with crystal clear calm water, and gently shelving sands into the sea. Cala Portinatx can be popular with day-trippers, but if you prefer to stay here for the duration of your holiday, there are some lovely hotels found here.
Ibiza is one of the four Spanish Balearic Islands comprising Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza, and Formentera. Located in the Mediterranean Sea, Ibiza is approximately 150 kilometres from Valencia in mainland Spain. Ibiza is easy to get to as it has its own International Airport located approximately 7 kilometres south west of Ibiza town – its capital. The island is also shown written as Eivissa, which is the Catalan pronunciation if Ibiza.
Head to the north of the island, and you will find lots of small bays backed by green pine forests. We have set out below just some of the striking colours you can expect to see on an Ibiza holiday. These will show you some of the beautiful places around the island.
Cala Portinatx
Cala Portinatx is located in the north of Ibiza, and was formerly a small fishing village. It will take you about an hour to reach this resort from the airport. Known for its peace and quiet, and popular with families, Portinatx offers some water activities to keep you entertained. You will find a small bay here with crystal clear calm water, and gently shelving sands into the sea. Cala Portinatx can be popular with day-trippers, but if you prefer to stay here for the duration of your holiday, there are some lovely hotels found here.
You can spend some time on the sandy beach, or for the more energetic there are a number of walking trails taking you along the coast. Don’t forget to take some sensible walking shoes and your camera, as you won’t want to miss out on some of the lovely scenery.
Just a few kilometres to the south west of Portinatx, you will come across Cala Xarraca. This small bay is very popular with snorkellers, and offers some wonderful photographic opportunities.
Santa Eulalia
Probably the second most popular resort in Ibiza is Santa Eulalia. Expect to find a more laidback atmosphere here. There is a lovely promenade lined with plants, bars, and restaurants. This resort is known for its food as well as its designer boutiques, and art galleries.
Why not take a walk along the marina, and stop off at one of the pavement cafes and watch the world go by. For golfers, this may be the ideal location for you, as Golf Ibiza not too far away.
If you prefer the beach scene then you won’t be disappointed. The 300 metre long beach in the heart of the town comes has sunbeds, and a variety of water sports. These include jet-skis, waterskiing, pedalos, kayaks and lots more to keep the whole family occupied. Another beach here is Mariner’s Beach which is slightly longer at 400 metres. You’ll find plenty of places to eat and drink along the promenade. From here you can follow a path along the river.
Don’t miss the views from the Puig de Missa. This hill will take you about half an hour to walk up (it’s about 52 metres above sea level). At the top you’ll find a 16th century whitewashed church, and of course a stunning view of Santa Eulalia below.
If you’re in Santa Eulalia on the first Sunday in May, you will be able to see their annual flower festival. Horse drawn carts take to the streets adorned with flowers, and the town comes out to watch the procession.
Cala Comte
This is a beach located to the south west of the island of Ibiza. Simply come here to rest on the sandy beach, and take a dip in the clear and calm sea. If you are here in the evening then you may be rewarded by a stunning sunset. Cala Comte (also known as Platges de Comte) Is about 25 kilometres from Ibiza Town and can be reached by bus, taxi, or car.
Cala Salada
Cala Salada is just a few kilometres north of San Antonio, and is a small cove surrounded by pine forests . Again, you will find crystal clear and calm water here, along with walking paths offering scenic photographic opportunities to visitors.
Ibiza Town
The historic and fortified Dalt Vila is just a climb up a steep cobbled streets, taking you to the old city walls. Here you will find the mediaeval cathedral as well as a Moorish castle, and of course not forgetting the spectacular views to the port below. Dalt Vila Is a UNESCO World Heritage site where you can enjoy walking around stone courtyards. This is an ideal opportunity to purchase a souvenir of your visit here, or perhaps visit one of the many art galleries to escape the hot summer sun.
Ibiza Town is home to a party scene – although on a small scale to that found in San Antonio. At night you can visit one of the many lively bars and restaurants, or simply wander around the port viewing boats of all shapes and sizes.
Ibiza town isn’t just a city holiday, as you will find some lovely beaches nearby.
Sant Joan de Labritja
Sant Joan de Labritja is located inland in the northern area of Ibiza, approximately 3 kilometres south of Portinatx. This is a village of small whitewashed homes with narrow streets. In the centre of the village is the 18th century Sant Joan church. Ideal for a day trip, this village brings visitors peace and quiet amidst a traditional atmosphere.
Cala Bassa
You will find Cala Bassa to the northwest of the island, and just over 1 kilometre from Cala Comte. The beach comprises soft white sand, and calm, crystal clear water. You can find here a variety of water sports, including jet-skis and banana boats. If you’re looking for a special place to chill out, the Cala Bassa Beach Club runs the length of the beach offering luxury sun beds in shaded areas. The Beach Club also offers 3 restaurants including sushi , traditional, and even quick bites.
Es Vedra
Es Vedra is a small rocky island to the south west of Ibiza. The island is uninhabited, and comes with a few myths and legends. It is said that sailors in the area have seen strange shadows beneath their boats, and divers hearing sounds beneath the water. It is also said that the 400 metre high rock emits an energy possibly due to it being one of the largest magnetic centres on earth. Es Vedra is known for some of the most idyllic, and magical sunsets on the island.
Hippy Market
For something completely different visit the Hippy Market found in the resort of Es Cana. Held here every Wednesday, you’ll find many colourful arts and crafts on sale including jewellery, pottery, items of embroidered clothing, among other things. The market can be busy so we would recommend you get there as early as possible.
Of course, if you want to relax on the beach for a while then Playa Es Cana is just half a kilometre from the Hippy Market. Here you will find water sports available including waterskiing and parasailing . There is also a small harbour, and you can board a ferry from here to Santa Eulalia and Ibiza Town.
If you are looking to travel to the island of Ibiza, the main holiday season is from May through to the end of October. The hottest months are July, August and September at around 26ºC. The coldest month to visit is January at around 12ºC.
Gail Hewitt is Owner and Director of Corona Holidays. Corona Holidays are specialists in tailor-made holidays to the Canary Islands, Balearic Islands, and European city breaks.
If you would like to be a guest blogger on A Luxury Travel Blog in order to raise your profile, please contact us.
My friends who’ve been to Ibiza tell me that more people need to look beyond the media image of clubs and music. Beyond that they say that it is easy to find a quiet beautiful island.
Thank you Karen. Yes, the clubbing resort of San Antonio does tend to be what people associate with Ibiza. So much beauty elsewhere, and some wonderful luxury hotels as well.
A dozen years ago I headed to Ibiza for the club scene and hardly saw daylight. I must have grown up. If I went back now I’d want to see the quieter side of the island. This time in daylight.
Thanks Jack. I think most destinations have a resort known for its club scene, and all-day breakfasts. So much else to see, and then return home fully rested.
Over the years I’ve heard nice things about Ibiza. It’s helpful to see them all gathered together In one place with plenty of great photos.
Thanks for your comment Claire. I’ll be doing similar articles on the other islands over the coming months.
Nice title. Colour is important. I think that we travel a lot for different colours. Bluer skies, seas that are azure.
Though back in the days of the Iron Curtain what struck me most about Eastern Europe was how grey it was and the lack of colour. But it was different, a new experience, and it’s a trip that I still remember over 35 years on.
Though if you gave me a choice I’d still rather have some of Ibiza’s colour. It looks fabulous.
Thanks Suzy – more islands to come! I haven’t visited Eastern Europe yet, but hopefully some city breaks in the near future for me. Like you, given the choice I’d prefer somewhere colourful, and I’m always drawn to a turquoise sea.
It wasn’t until the other year when a friend of mine went to Ibiza that I learned about ‘the other side’ of it. My first response to her why “why?” when she told me she was going. I only ever used to think of the clubbing scenes and she’s in her 50s, and her and her husband aren’t exactly the drinking and partying types! They had a wonderful time and they said you just have to know where to go depending on what you want to get from your trip. I’ve never been so I’m not that up on the geography there but I’ll have to ask whether she went to Cala Xarraca. It looks lovely there, a little off the beaten track and quite quiet. I have a feeling Cala Salada is near where they stayed. They put photos up on Instagram and they looked a bit like this one, absolutely gorgeous.
I like the sound of the Hippy Market too. I’m a sucker for buying things on holiday, I always struggle getting the suitcase done up when it’s bulging at the seems for the flight home!
Haha – yes Marlene, I’ve been in that situation with my suitcase as well!
I think a bit of an adventure away from the main resorts is always a good thing to see some of the true character of a destination, and sample the local cuisine. Hopefully the article will change some views that Ibiza is purely for 24-hour clubbing. Thank you for your comment.
Reading this reminded me of an old fantasy of mine about island-hopping through the Balearics. It all started in Barcelona when I saw an ad for the ferry to Majorca. I’ve no idea if you can take a ferry from island to island. I’ve often thought that it would be a good thing to do in spring before it gets too hot. If the other islands are as pretty as Ibiza then it would be some holiday.
Thanks Nick. Island hopping would be a great way to see all 4 of the Balearic islands. Yes, you can get a ferry from Barcelona to, say, Menorca. Then the ferry to Mallorca, then to Ibiza and over to Formentera. On the way back you can get the ferry direct from Ibiza to Barcelona. I’ll be putting together similar articles on the other 3 islands over the coming months.
Parties at the beach are the events that tourists usually look forward to whenever they visit Ibiza. However, with the pandemic that we are experiencing today, it is definitely best to consider the “more tranquil side” of Ibiza. Even without the parties, you will not get bored here because it offers a lot more than just drinking and dancing on the beach. Cala Portinatx and Santa Eulalia are known for their outdoor water activities, so for those coming over with family, this will be perfect. These places also offer accommodations that suit the needs of tourists who would like to find time for relaxation but also want to explore the area through different activities such as boating, snorkeling, or strolling. On the other hand, you can still visit the towns in the area if you would like to experience more of its party scene and local bars. They offer good quality drinks and delectable cuisine that you will surely enjoy. I’m sure we all can’t help but party after that year called 2020.
I particularly loved Portinatx, and would certainly go back there. I’m sure the island will see parties returning – let’s hope it’s the summer of 2021!
I cannot wait to get back to Ibiza. It is one of my favorite places!