Ibiza Beach Guide
Even though Finca Can Martí is embedded in the lush, Es Amunts hills of the north of Ibiza, the idyllic island beaches are not far away.
However, since the Cala’s can differ a lot from one to the next, it might be handy to look into your criteria of the perfect beach day. Considering simple factors like sunlight; on what side does the sun rise or set, wind direction; possibly affecting waves and jellyfish, accessibility; can you park nearby or would you prefer a hike, are you beaching with or without the kids, does a sandy or rocky underground hold your preference, which day of the week, season or year is it,…
Therefore, in order to help you pick your favourite for the day, we have created a little guide for you…
IN THE NORTH
THE CLOSEST BEACH ACCESS FROM FINCA CAN MARTÍ IS NOT MUCH MORE THAN A 5 MINUTE DRIVE AWAY; ONLY A FEW KILOMETRES DOWN THE ROAD DIRECTION PORTINATX YOU FIND THE FOLLOWING THREE BEACHES:
Cala Xarraca
The larger of the three, a sandy, bit more busy family beach sporting amazing views, a perfect location for snorkelling. There is a restaurant which serves a more traditional Spanish kitchen and bocadillos to take away.
S’illot Des Rencli
A privileged, preserved spot with crystal clear water, a small sand stretch surrounded by rocks and the option for more privacy around the fisher huts nestled in the cove. For who likes seafood we recommend to try the fabulous fish soup in the local restaurant one level up.
Cala Xuclar
Tiny but exceptional sandy cove with a cosy chiringuito right on the beach. The little restaurant is only up and open during summer season and serves amazing fish and cocktails. Super sunset spot. Make sure to book your table in advance as everyone loves dining with their feet in the sand.
All beaches above are facing north-west, have little stretches of sand surrounded by rocks and / or boat houses but are quite small in size therefore to avoid disappointment during high-season it is recommended to go early in the day, as for example limited parking can be an issue. Booking your restaurant table in advance might be a good idea in season.
Portinatx
If you follow the Portinatx road till the end, you will find the touristy village of Portinatx with its three beaches. The first two are fine sand beaches, ideal for families, the third tiny one is also used as a fishing port. If you love walking, a hike along the cliffs towards the famous black and white lighthouse is a nice suggestion.
Cala D’en Serra
Heading more east, you might want to check out a rather special little cove called Cala D’en Serra, wild and untouched besides the unfinished structure of an old hotel. It consists of a small sand stretch facing east. Access and parking are a bit of a challenge as the road down to the beach is quite steep but it is worth the effort if you come early enough.
Benirrás
For a classic Ibiza sunset experience, Benirrás beach is the best choice and only a couple of minutes away towards the south-west. The legendary beach with the sunset drummers and a uniquely shaped rock called “God’s finger” guarding the bay comes with many attractions; if you fancy a meal for example, there are three restaurants completely different from menu and style to price range. In high season and on Sundays, access by car is limited.
Puerto de San Miguel
For families and larger groups, the longer sandy beach stretch of San Miguel might be a good option. You find plenty of restaurants (El Chiringuito Pascual is a nice sea food option) as well as water sports possibilities around the beach. Unfortunately the growing tourism in the ’70 gave rise to some hard to miss hotels ungracefully hugging the bay. On the lefthand side of the beach there is a path leading to a little hidden beach for more natural views.
IN THE EAST
THE EAST SIDE OF THE ISLAND AND ITS BEACHES HAVE AGAIN A BIT OF A DIFFERENT LOOK AND FEEL; THEY ARE IN GENERAL A BIT WIDER AND QUITE A FEW COME WITH FINE SAND.
Cala San Vicente
First up is Cala San Vicente (20 minute drive), a family style, wide, sandy beach with some hotels and restaurants behind it. Parking should be easy. The restaurant called On the Beach could be a nice addition to your beach day. Here you can enjoy a tasty cocktail or a nice organic burger right by the seaside.
Aguas Blancas
A bit further down the east coast, direction San Carlos, you find Aguas Blancas, once a beautiful, almost exotic looking long sandy beach with fine sand, yet since a couple of years the stretch of sand seems to be shrinking. There is a simple chiringuito on both ends where you can order some snacks, a sandwich or a drink.
Pou Des Lleó
Driving further down the coast, following some windy roads with stunning views, there’s the outstanding bay of Pou Des Lleo with two excellent traditional fish restaurants (Restaurante Salvadó and Restaurante Pou Des Lleó)ánd a chiringuito. Make sure to book in advance. The beach itself is a small pebble beach with easy access however if you don’t mind walking a bit you have the option of discovering amazing hideouts with some of the most clear water on the island.
Cala Boix
The next cala on the way is Cala Boix, famous for being the only beach with grey sand and amazing turquoise, crystal clear water. There is a little chiringuito on the beach that serves drinks and little refreshments. You access the beach going down the stairs from the parking next to Restaurante Cala Boix, a traditional Spanish fish restaurant.
Cala Mastella
When you continue following the coastal road through the pine-forest, sporting incredible views once again, you end up in Cala Mastella. A small, secluded beach with a little stretch of sand. Crossing the rocks on the lefthand side of the bay, brings you to the legendary restaurant El Bigotes famous for the local fish dish called Bullit de Peix. Make sure to book well in advance!
Cala Llenya
Families and larger groups might find their favourite beach in the next bay, approaching Santa Eulalia, called Cala Llenya. Fine, white sand with easy accessible clear water and a chiringuito for a nibble or a drink. What more does one want?
Cala Nova
Neighbouring Cala Llenya, there is another wide, sandy beach, with shallow and clear waters. It features a couple of nice restaurants such as Restaurante Cala Nova which offers incredible views and fresh fish, Aiyanna which is great for drinks and Amorigen, known for its homemade pizzas occasionally accompanied by live music. On a windy day Cala Nova turns into a surfers paradise because of its big waves.
Cala Olivera
On the other side of Santa Eulalia there is Cala Olivera. A tiny beautiful hidden yet popular beach with a traditional Chiringuito serving delicious fresh Sardines.
IN THE SOUTH
SOME OF THESE BEACHES ARE WITH PEBBLES (SO NO SAND) WHICH ADDS TO THE WATER BEING MESMERISINGLY CLEAR – BUT ALSO A BIT MORE CHOPPY WHEN THE WIND COMES FROM THE SOUTH. THIS AGAIN IS ONE OF THE BUSIER PARTS OF THE ISLAND, SPECIALLY IN HIGH-SEASON SO TRY TO ARRIVE AT THESE BEACHES EARLY IN THE DAY.
Cala Jondal
Cala Jondal is a pebble stone bay with a few trendy chiringuitos such as Casa Jondal and the well known Blue Marlin. They set the tone when it comes to the typical “southern” vibe and crowd to be expected on the beach.
Sa Caleta
Very nice, sandy beach not far from Ibiza airport. The Sa Caleta restaurant is an excellent option for lunch. Most of their veggies are sourced locally at organic farms. On windy days expect some waves as it is a beloved spot for suffers.
Cap des Falco
Located in the Natural Park of Ses Salines, you reach Cap des Falco after a scenic drive in between the traditional salt lakes. It’s not so much a beach as such but rather an amazing, unique location to watch the sun set while having a drink or a bite at the Experimental Beach restaurant.
Ses Salines
A long, white stretch of sand awaits you, as well as a choice of decent places to eat but unfortunately access to either one is restricted during high season so for sure make a reservation and arrive early. Our local favourite Sa Trinxa Chiringuito, a great place for who wants to hear some traditional ibiza beach tunes while sunbathing in one of the most popular spots on the island.
Es Cavallet
Another long stretch of fine sand surrounded by protected land as it is also part of the Nature Reserve of Ses Salines. The sea on this side is however often more choppy because of eastern winds and ferry traffic. One of the very few seaside restaurants that is open all year La Escollera is located here. The menu offers a wide variety ranging from meat and fish to vegetarian dishes. When booking make sure to ask for a seafront table.
Cala Bonita
Beautifully preserved sandy beach with quite a “sophisticated” chirinquito. A perfect option for when you are near Ibiza town and feel like escaping for a swim in crystal clear waters.
If you would like any further recommendations for your perfect beach escape, please don’t hesitate to ask us and we will try to help you find your favourite bay!
IN THE WEST
THIS SIDE OF THE ISLAND IS OFTEN ONE OF THE BUSIEST SO MAKE SURE TO ARRIVE EARLY ENOUGH. THE WEST SIDE FEATURES A MIXTURE OF SANDY AND ROCKY BEACHES YET ALL WITH STUNNING SUNSET VIEWS.
Punta Galera
Special looking, stunning rocky beach with amazingly clear waters and probably one of the best sunset views. To go to Punta Galera from Finca Can Martí by car takes you about 35 minutes but the route is a very scenic one leading you from traditional towns like San Miguel or Santa Gertrudis through the heart of cute Santa Agnes, the almond tree paradise, to San Antonio.
Cala Salada and Saladeta
Probably amongst the most beloved beaches of the west, Cala Salada and Saladeta offer a great beach experience and sunset but it’s not that easy to park nearby. In high season, you will have to park your car near San Antonio and take the shuttle bus.
Cala Gracióneta
Small, beautiful beach near the more touristy, party-focused San Antonio. It features a very nicely decorated Chiringuito with food worth the drive from the North.
Cala Bassa
One of the farthest away beaches from Finca Can Martí. It truly is a stunning bay but expect it to be more than comfortably crowded during summer season and it is almost impossible to park your car.
Cala Comte
Cala Comte is another beautiful gem but also expect lots of people in the summer months. Cala Escondida, the eco-friendly Chirinquito is definitely worth the detour though; a fantastic place to have a cocktail while watching the sun go down. If you are looking for a seafood lunch by the sea S’Illa des Bosc restaurant is one to try.
Cala D’hort
Facing the magic rock of Es Vedrà, this sand and pebble beach has a very magical vibe but as you might guess it can get pretty busy during touristy season and therefore offer very limited parking during peak time. Make reservations for lunch if you would like to have a bite; both Es Boldado and El Carmen restaurants are good choices with an amazing view for fish lovers.
If you would like any further recommendations for your perfect beach escape, please don’t hesitate to ask us and we will try to help you find your favourite bay!