Costs on a family holiday can quickly spiral out of control, which is why I suggest to parents trying to budget that they head for a beach holiday. Sun, sea and sand are free to enjoy, so you only need to splash for sun cream and a few ice creams instead of costly activities! The kids can make sandcastles, play games and paddle in the ocean whilst mum and dad enjoy some much-needed relaxation and catch some rays.
There are dozens of great beach holiday destinations to choose from, but I think that Santa Eulalia in Ibiza is the pick of the bunch. You may think that Ibiza lives for pumping clubs and all night parties (which, in some parts, it is!), but Santa Eulalia is not a part of this scene and actually a very pretty and quiet resort. This is also somewhat of a hidden gem as parents do not think to come to Ibiza for a holiday – shh, keep it a secret!
Beach-hopping? Read our guide on Ibiza’s stunning secret beaches here.
The Resort
Santa Eulalia is located on the east coast of Ibiza and is the third largest town on the island. It has benefited from a lot of investment from local authorities and the business community in recent times to attract those seeking a peaceful holiday. This shows, as it boasts a pristine seafront promenade lined by palm trees that also features an impressive fountain and neatly maintained miniature gardens.
Instead of nightclubs playing thumping electronic music, you will find a wide choice of charming family-friendly restaurants and cafes, as well as many shops and markets that are great for strolling through on a warm day.
There are some cultural places to visit and activities to try, but if you are looking to keep costs down then you will be mainly concerned with one aspect – the beaches.
The Beaches
Santa Eulalia Beach
A very neat, tidy and inviting beach found below the promenade, Santa Eulalia Beach is a terrific spot whether you are looking to chill out or splash around in the clean and shallow waters. Along the 300m stretch of white sand, you will find sun loungers, parasols, showers, lifeguards; everything you could need is available from the promenade. In terms of activities, I recommend that you hire a pedalo and take it out to enjoy the great views looking back at Santa Eulalia. Another aspect that parents will appreciate here is the fact that the area is entirely smoke-free, ensuring that the air, beach and surrounding area is very clean.
Mariner’s Beach
Found to the south of the resort and at the mouth of the river (the only one in Ibiza!), at 400m Mariner’s Beach is the longer of the two and often the quieter – this makes it a good option if you want some gentle paddling and sunbathing. The water is shallow and safe for the kids to frolic around in, while the sand is fine and ideal for making sandcastles. There are a few restaurants on the promenade, or the town centre is just a 10-minute walk.
Insider Tip – Take a leisurely stroll from the tiny harbour along the path which takes you along the riverbank and over the restored Roman bridge. This will take you to the lovely neighbouring village of Siesta, which has a very welcoming and friendly atmosphere.
Tourist Train
A brilliant way to see the great beauty of the island whilst also entertaining the kids is on the Tourist Train. This departs from the Santa Eulalia promenade in front of the jetty at 10:30 am every day except Wednesdays. It takes roughly 3 hours, costing €16 for adults, €8 for under 12s, while under 3s travel free.
The train takes you on a fun winding trip through the hills, valleys and pinewoods of Ibiza which allows you to enjoy the sunshine, cooling breeze and wonderful smells of the countryside. You are treated to stunning views of the island from the high points, so be sure to bring a camera! There are a handful of stops along the way, where you can jump off and take a stroll or pick up a snack.
Insider Tip – Bring sun cream, plenty of water and some snacks to save money.
How to Get There
Flying with little ones is always a concern, particularly if it’s their first time; Ibiza (IBZ) is just a two-hour flight from London, so you will touch down before you known it. Additionally, Ibiza is a popular destination so there are plenty of affordable direct flights from airlines like Ryanair, Monarch and easyJet.
To save yourself a headache, it is worth organising transportation from the airport to your hotel in advance. Book with Shuttle Direct and a friendly local driver will meet you at the airport, put your bags in the back and get you to your hotel in around half an hour.
Where to Stay:
Apartmentos Bon Lloc –These spacious and family-friendly apartments are perfectly situated a 1-minute walk from the beach, so you can even pop back for a bit of shade/spot of lunch during the day. This also means that you are right next to the promenade and all the shops, restaurants and cafes found here. Each apartment comes with a kitchen, seating area, air conditioning and free Wi-Fi. If you are on a beach holiday, you really cannot beat this location and other guests have also commented that it is excellent value for your money.
Aparthotel Tropic Garden – It may not be as close to the beach (although still just a 10-minute walk), but this all-inclusive property does feature an outdoor and indoor pool, as well as a buffet restaurant and lounge bar. The modern apartments each come with a living area, balcony or terrace, air con, free Wi-Fi and television. As it is all-inclusive, you do not have to worry about strictly budgeting each day and you can enjoy plenty of food and refreshments, making it great value for money.
About Shuttle Direct:
Passage between airports, hotels and train stations can be an oversight when planning your holiday, which is why it is important to book transfers with Shuttle Direct, one of Europe’s leading transfer providers.
Book online today and a friendly driver will be waiting for you at the airport to take you to your destination.
