Ibiza, Balearic Islands, Spain

Ibiza Overview

Ibiza, known as the ultimate party capital of the world, holds many surprises beyond its neon lights and foam parties. This Balearic gem offers a diverse range of experiences that go beyond its reputation. While it’s true that the clubs of San Antonio and Ibiza Town host some of the biggest names in dance music, Ibiza is also an excellent choice for a family holiday. Resorts like Santa Eulalia and Cala Llonga provide a relaxed atmosphere that everyone can enjoy.

Ibiza holidays encompass everything you could desire – abundant sunshine, picturesque countryside, vibrant towns, family-friendly resorts, and pristine white beaches. If you seek relaxation and a sun-kissed tan, Ibiza is the ideal destination. This island’s diversity ensures that every type of holiday can be catered for.

Certainly, if you’re in search of a party scene, few places compare to San Antonio. Boasting renowned clubs like Gatecrasher, Space, Pacha, and Privilege, this town has been entertaining clubbing enthusiasts for nearly 40 years. Grab your glowsticks and prepare for foam-filled nights as Ibiza pulsates to the beats of the industry’s biggest DJs throughout the summer.

Venture further north, and you’ll discover a more tranquil and laid-back side of Ibiza. Santa Eulalia offers an ideal setting for a family getaway, with expansive beaches, a charming promenade, and a variety of hotels offering all-inclusive or self-catering options to suit your preferences. Other resorts, such as Cala Llonga, ensure that both you and your little ones are well entertained under the sun for a week or two.

For couples seeking a serene escape, the laid-back vibes of Portinatx on the northern coast will captivate your hearts. Embark on scenic hikes through magnificent countryside or simply unwind on peaceful beaches.

San Antonio

Beach Getaways: The beach is the epicenter of activity in San Antonio, offering lively ambiance. However, if you seek a more tranquil setting, you can venture a few kilometers away to quieter beaches like Cala Gracionetta. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and recover from a night of revelry!

Entertaining Escapes: San Antonio holidays provide an array of entertainment options, ranging from exhilarating water sports to exciting activities like crazy golf and outdoor bowling. And let’s not forget the famous bungee rocket! Positioned between the renowned clubs Eden and Es Paradis, this thrilling ride propels you into the air at high speed, sending your adrenaline levels soaring!

Party Paradises: San Antonio holds the crown for the world’s best bars and clubs, making it the ultimate choice for clubbing holidays in Ibiza. If you crave renowned DJs, stylish venues, and cutting-edge sound systems, San Antonio holidays are simply unbeatable.

San Antonio Activities

Boat Excursions: Located near a bay, boat rides are a prominent feature of holidays in San Antonio. You can embark on a quick trip using the frequent water service to explore the quieter bars along San Antonio Bay. For a more exhilarating experience, opt for a longer boat ride to discover the secluded beaches of Ibiza that are inaccessible on foot. Additionally, there are glass-bottom boat rides available, allowing you to observe the colorful marine life while staying dry.

Thrilling Adventures: If you crave excitement during the day as much as the lively nights, San Antonio offers a range of high-octane water sports. Parasailing, jet-skiing, and windsurfing are popular options for adrenaline seekers on their San Antonio holidays. Alternatively, you can enjoy the thrill of banana boat rides and doughnuts, which are easier to handle but equally enjoyable.

San Antonio Beaches

San Antonio Beach: The main beach in San Antonio is a long stretch of sandy shoreline that caters to a young and lively crowd, particularly during clubbing holidays. This beach is a popular choice due to its vibrant atmosphere and the presence of excellent bars and cafes along the coast. At the western end, you can find Bar M (owned by the Manumission clubbing franchise) and Attica, where you can soak up the sun while enjoying the latest dance and chill-out tunes.

Cala Gracio: Located just a few kilometers along the southern coast of Ibiza, Cala Gracio offers a serene and peaceful beach experience, in stark contrast to the bustling atmosphere of San Antonio holidays. This beach is a calm and tranquil haven, with a smaller and more enclosed area. The surrounding pine-covered landscape adds to the pleasant setting of Cala Gracio.

Cala Gracioneta: Situated only one kilometer away from San Antonio, Cala Gracioneta provides a small and secluded beach that offers a completely different ambiance. Preferred by the locals, this beach allows you to immerse yourself in the Spanish culture, with the sound of Spanish language frequently heard (after all, you are on holidays in Spain, even if it’s the Balearic Islands!). While the golden sandy stretch is limited, the clear and shallow water is delightfully warm. It’s a perfect spot to unwind after a lively night out during your holidays in San Antonio.

San Antonio Bay

Relaxing Getaways: Situated just a little further along the crescent-shaped coastline from its livelier neighbour, San Antonio Bay offers a slightly more tranquil atmosphere. However, you’ll still find a good selection of bars in San Antonio Bay that remain open until the early hours. Additionally, holidays in San Antonio Bay tend to be more affordable compared to those in San Antonio.

Magnificent Beach Escapes: One notable advantage of San Antonio Bay holidays over staying in San Antonio Town is the stunning beach. The sand is soft and golden, and the water remains shallow for a considerable distance, making it perfect for families on their Ibiza holidays. Furthermore, the beach in San Antonio Bay is typically less crowded, providing you with more space to stretch out and relax during your stay.

San Antonio Bay Activities

Water Sports: Despite having its own separate beach from the main San Antonio Town Beach, San Antonio Bay provides a range of water sports activities. Whether you’re on holidays in San Antonio Bay, inclusive of all amenities, you’ll have access to various water activities, including parasailing and windsurfing. With the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea, which you can experience during your all-inclusive holidays in Ibiza, you can also embark on a boat excursion for an incredible scuba diving adventure further out at sea.

San Antonio Bay Beaches

San Antonio Bay: San Antonio Bay is renowned for its beach holidays, offering a tranquil alternative to the livelier atmosphere of San Antonio Town. With its golden sand and calm, shallow waters, it provides the perfect setting for relaxation and is especially well-suited for family holidays.

San Antonio: If you’re seeking a livelier beach experience, you can venture to San Antonio Town Beach. You have the option to take a leisurely 20-minute walk around the bay or conveniently hop on the frequent boat service that crosses the water. The sand is similar to that of San Antonio Bay, but you can expect louder music and a younger crowd enjoying their holidays in San Antonio Town.

Cala Bassa: While slightly further away, Cala Bassa is well worth the travel time. It can be reached in approximately 15 minutes by car or 20 minutes by boat. This beach boasts gently sloping soft white sand and clear waters, making it one of the top beaches in Ibiza holidays. Don’t forget to bring your goggles or snorkel, as you’ll have the opportunity to observe numerous little fish swimming in the sea during your holidays in San Antonio Bay.

Cala Llonga

Beach Getaways: Cala Llonga holidays are designed to provide exceptional beach experiences, and the coastline in this area is truly remarkable. The water flows into its own secluded cove, surrounded by rocky headlands and a hill adorned with trees.

Thrilling Adventures: Cala Llonga is an excellent choice for activity-based holidays. With the Ibiza national golf course just three miles away, it is a fantastic destination for golf enthusiasts. Additionally, for family holidays, there is a delightful playground and a nearby water park to keep everyone entertained. The beach in Cala Llonga also offers a wide range of water sports, including windsurfing and waterskiing, catering to those seeking exciting aquatic experiences.

Activities In Cala Llonga

Children’s play area: Located directly on the beach, there is a small wooden playground in Cala Llonga that offers hours of fun for young children on family holidays. It’s conveniently situated for parents who want to relax and soak up the sun during their Cala Llonga holidays.

Fairground: Close to the beach in Cala Llonga, you’ll find a lively fairground that will surely capture the excitement of your kids. From dodgems to a mini big wheel, there are attractions that make Cala Llonga a perfect choice for family holidays.

Road train: A mini road train operates in Cala Llonga, providing convenient transportation throughout the area during your holidays. It’s a great way to explore the local holiday resorts along the east coast of Ibiza if you’re looking for a change of scenery and activities. Plus, it offers an affordable and efficient mode of travel.

Golfing holidays: Just three miles away from Cala Llonga, you’ll find the only golf course in Ibiza, making it an ideal destination for golfing holidays. Established in 1992, the course remains in excellent condition, and many of the greens offer breathtaking views of the nearby mountains.

Aqualandia: Set against a backdrop of tree-lined mountains, Aqualandia features vibrant colored slides for thrilling water fun. Whether you dare to take on the super-steep kamikaze chute or ride the waves on the river rapids, there are several activities specifically designed for children on family holidays in Cala Llonga.

Beaches In Cala Llonga

Cala Llonga Beach: The sandy shoreline of Cala Llonga is renowned for its soft and inviting texture, making it a pleasant experience to walk barefoot. However, what truly sets Cala Llonga apart as a beach holiday destination is its breathtaking scenery. Nestled within a deep cove, the beach is enveloped by hills covered in lush pine trees and bordered by rocky formations. The elevated headlands serve as natural barriers, ensuring gentle winds and calm waves, creating an ideal environment for young children to enjoy a safe and enjoyable paddle in the sea.

Ibiza Town

Rich in History: For those seeking a dose of culture, holidays in Ibiza Town are perfect as it is home to the main attractions on the island. The old center, nestled within medieval city walls, exudes a captivating charm with its cobblestone streets, drawbridges, and ornate churches.

Glamorous Escapes: Ibiza Town boasts the presence of the best and most renowned clubs in Europe, if not the entire world. Pacha, with its original super club located in the heart of Ibiza Town, has become a global brand.

Stylish Getaways: If you have a penchant for luxury and upscale shopping, Ibiza Town holidays are an excellent choice. The town offers designer boutiques where you can indulge in high-end shopping experiences. Additionally, at the base of the old city walls, you’ll find unique one-off design stores and vintage shops, adding a touch of originality to your shopping adventures.

Activities In Ibiza Town

Water sports adventures: Despite Ibiza Town’s urban and cosmopolitan ambiance, it surprisingly boasts proximity to a variety of beautiful beaches. Playa d’en Bossa, in particular, stands out as a hotspot for water sports enthusiasts. Its vibrant coastline attracts numerous windsurfers, enticed by this exhilarating and popular wave spot. So, if you seek an active and thrilling experience during your holidays in Ibiza Town, engaging in water sports at Playa d’en Bossa is an excellent choice.

Beaches In Ibiza Town

Talamanca: While Ibiza Town may not be immediately associated with beach holidays, there are actually several beautiful beaches located within a kilometer of the resort. One such beach is Talamanca, a gently curving bay that offers breathtaking views of Ibiza Town. It provides a picturesque setting for sunbathing during your holidays, with soft sand and shallow waters that are perfect for families. The best part is that entry to the beach is free, allowing you to enjoy affordable holidays without breaking the bank.

Figueretas: Situated less than a kilometer away from the town center, Figueretas is the closest beach to Ibiza Town. This small sandy beach is adorned with palm-lined promenades, creating a charming atmosphere for leisurely strolls. In the evenings, the promenade comes alive with street vendors, adding to the vibrant ambiance. One of the advantages of Ibiza’s beaches is that they usually don’t charge an entry fee, so you can enjoy the beach experience at affordable prices, opting for reasonably priced sunbeds and parasols if desired. This makes affordable holidays in Ibiza Town a realistic option.

Playa d’en Bossa: Known as the home of the renowned Bora Bora Bar, Playa d’en Bossa is the ultimate destination for partygoers. Throughout the day, lively beach bars pump out dance music, creating an energetic atmosphere. However, despite its reputation as a party hub, Playa d’en Bossa also offers quieter sections with soft sand, making it suitable for families with young children. This unique mix of party enthusiasts on clubbing holidays and families on vacation adds an interesting dynamic to the beach scene. Additionally, the beach is located near the airport, providing the excitement of witnessing low-flying planes landing, adding to the overall experience.

Portinatx

Scenic Delights: Portinatx, pronounced as ‘Port-ee-natch,’ offers an abundance of beauty, making it a captivating holiday destination. With its breathtaking sea views, pristine white sands, and hillsides adorned with pine trees, Portinatx is a preferred choice for beach holidays. Its picturesque charm is further exemplified by the fact that even the famous fifties’ movie, South Pacific, was filmed here.

Tranquil Getaways: Located on the northern tip of the island, Portinatx holidays provide a peaceful escape far removed from the lively clubbing scene of Ibiza. With only a small selection of shops and restaurants, visitors have the freedom to fully immerse themselves in the untouched natural landscape. While there are a few bars in Portinatx, they do not stay open as late as those in San Antonio or Ibiza Town, ensuring a serene atmosphere throughout your stay.

Activities In Portinatx

Hiking adventures: The northern coast of Ibiza offers an array of fantastic hiking opportunities, making it an ideal destination for hiking holidays. It’s remarkable to witness the abundant wildlife in this less-developed region, in contrast to the bustling holiday destinations in the south. One of the most notable trails stretches 10km from Portinatx to Punta de Xarraca. While the path may be rocky, the breathtaking views of the glistening blue sea, lush inland forests, and steep cliffs make the journey truly rewarding.

Beaches In Portinatx

S’Arenal Gros: Portinatx is a popular choice for beach holidays due to its stunning S’Arenal Gros beach, featuring soft white sands and crystal-clear waters. The beach is embraced by imposing rocky headlands, offering a breathtaking view that stretches as far as the eye can see. In addition to its natural beauty, S’Arenal Gros provides opportunities for water sports and pedaloes, ensuring that beach holidays here are both enjoyable and visually captivating.

S’Arenal Petit: With all the attractions of S’Arenal Gros, S’Arenal Petit offers an added sense of privacy. This beach boasts the same soft white sand and tranquil waters, but it is nestled in a more secluded location. While S’Arenal Gros can sometimes feel exposed, as it attracts tourists from other parts of Ibiza on coach trips, S’Arenal Petit provides a leafy cove with shade from pine trees and rocky headlands, creating a peaceful and intimate beach setting.

Playa Porto: As the smallest beach in Portinatx, Playa Porto offers an even greater level of tranquility. Surrounded by forest-filled hills on all sides, this secluded beach provides a serene escape from the crowds. Nearby, a charming retro-styled striped lighthouse adds to the picturesque scenery, making Playa Porto a hidden gem for those seeking a peaceful beach experience during their Portinatx holidays.

Santa Eulalia

Authentic Experiences: Despite being a highly sought-after destination for holidays in Ibiza, Santa Eulalia has managed to preserve its traditional allure. Expect to encounter charming white-washed houses lining cobbled rural roads and lush green forests, creating an authentic atmosphere.

Relaxing Escapes: Santa Eulalia holidays exude a tranquil ambiance that sets the stage for a romantic getaway. The town’s sophisticated and elegant vibe, coupled with its expansive white sandy beach, make it an ideal choice for couples considering holidays in Ibiza.

Gourmet Delights: Santa Eulalia holidays offer a plethora of upscale dining options. In fact, it boasts the finest selection of restaurants in Ibiza. From international cuisine to innovative fusion dining experiences, there is a wide variety of high-class restaurants to satisfy even the most discerning palates.

Activities In Santa Eulalia

Ibiza en Globo: Experience a truly unique activity during your holidays in Santa Eulalia! Take to the skies in a hot-air balloon and witness the beauty of Ibiza from a whole new perspective. With a one-hour flight, you’ll have ample time to enjoy the breathtaking views, sip on champagne, and capture incredible photos of Ibiza from a bird’s-eye view. The hot-air balloon flights depart from Santa Eulalia, so you won’t have to venture far to embark on this unforgettable adventure.

Go-Karts Santa Eulalia: Located just outside Santa Eulalia, Go-Karts Santa Eulalia offers a thrilling experience for the whole family. Race around the 300-meter track in speedy go-karts that range up to 400cc, ensuring an exhilarating ride. Whether you’re a seasoned driver or a first-time go-kart enthusiast, this fun-filled activity guarantees laughter and excitement during your family holidays in Santa Eulalia.

Beaches In Santa Eulalia

Santa Eulalia Beach: The main beach in Santa Eulalia is situated along the town’s waterfront, offering a pristine stretch of powdery white sand. Unlike the mountainous coves commonly found in Ibiza, this beach boasts a flat skyline, providing a refreshing change of scenery. The clean and palm-tree lined promenade that runs alongside the beach is a delightful spot for a leisurely stroll, whether it’s day or night.

Mariner’s Beach: Among the beaches in the Balearic Islands, Mariner’s Beach in Santa Eulalia stands out as the only one connected to a river. With its clean and shallow waters, it is an ideal beach for families on holidays in Ibiza. Follow the river along a paved walkway, and you’ll discover the Roman Bridge, which dates back to 70 AD.

Calo de S’Alga: Tucked away in a secluded location, Calo de S’Alga is a tranquil rocky cove that offers a peaceful beach experience. Measuring just 30 meters in length, this small beach remains relatively quiet, making it a serene getaway during your Ibiza holidays.

Es Cana

Vibrant Market: The presence of the Hippie Market has transformed Es Cana from a quiet coastal village into a lively resort known for its beach holidays. Taking place every Wednesday since the 1960s, the Hippie Market offers a wide array of unique handmade crafts, including jewelry, pottery, and vibrant clothing, adding a touch of bohemian charm to Es Cana holidays.

Superb Beach Escapes: With its delightful sandy coastline, Es Cana has become an increasingly popular destination for beach holidays, and it’s easy to see why. The crystal-clear and shallow waters extend quite far out, making it an ideal spot for families with young children on their holidays, as they can safely enjoy the sea.

Activities In Es Cana

Es Cana Hippie Market: The renowned Es Cana Hippie Market is a must-visit attraction for those on holidays in Ibiza. Originating in the 1960s, the market was initially a gathering of local hippies who sold items they had collected during their own travels to destinations like Goa and Thailand. Over time, the market has expanded beyond its humble beginnings, offering a diverse range of stalls where you can find interesting and unique items. The market is set in a spacious, leafy area, so it’s advisable to bring a hat or shawl to shield yourself from the bright sun during your visit.

Children’s Play Area: Located in the heart of the resort, a newly built play park provides a convenient and enjoyable stop for families on their way to and from the beach. Children on family holidays in Es Cana can spend a few hours having fun and engaging in playful activities at this play area.

Water Sports Activities: Es Cana holidays offer a variety of water sports options, as most of the beaches in the area are well-equipped with facilities. For the adventurous souls, activities like parasailing and waterskiing are available. If you prefer a more relaxed experience, you can opt for rides on fun doughnuts and banana boats. Additionally, Cala Martina features its own windsurfing school, catering to both beginners and experts in this exhilarating water sport.

Beaches In Es Cana

Es Cana Beach: The essence of summer holidays is captured perfectly on the beautiful beach of Es Cana. Stretching out in a large expanse of golden sand, this crescent-shaped beach offers a delightful setting for sun-seeking vacationers. The beach is conveniently dotted with bars and restaurants, ensuring that you’re never too far away from refreshments while enjoying the sun during your holidays.

Cala Martina: Located a short distance away at the southern end of Es Cana, Cala Martina is a quieter alternative to the main beach frequented by visitors on holidays in Es Cana. Its smaller size, spanning just 100 meters, adds to its charm. The beach is embraced by towering green trees on both sides, creating a serene and picturesque atmosphere. With affordable rates for sun beds and parasols, it’s an economical choice for a relaxing sunbathing experience during your holidays in Es Cana.

S’Argamassa: Tucked away in a secluded corner, S’Argamassa is a petite beach embraced by a dense forest of fragrant pine trees. Despite its small size, this beach attracts a considerable number of visitors during the summer holidays, especially due to its proximity to several major all-inclusive hotels. To fully appreciate the beauty of this beach, it’s advisable to arrive early and secure your spot in this enchanting setting.