San Antonio, Ibiza, is an electric place to visit, especially if you love your clubbing and nightlife. Home to its very own Sunset Strip, this buzzing town might be a haven for dance-loving night owls, but it is also a place that can be enjoyed during the daytime hours too.
Here is my guide to some excellent ways you can while away 24 hours in San Antonio. You might not want to fit everything into such a short space of time, but if you are up for the challenge, it is certainly possible. Whatever you choose to do will not disappoint.
Es Far de ses Coves Blanques
Only 45 minutes from San Antonio, Es Far de ses Coves Blanques is famous for its old lighthouse. Right on the breakwater, the lighthouse that was working until the mid-nineteenth century is now the location of the Sea Interpretation Centre. Hosting wonderful exhibitions throughout the year, this is a spot worth making a trip out to, especially if you like to escape the crowds.
Cala Salada
A great place to stop on the way back from the lighthouse and only 15 minutes from town, Cala Salada is a stunning sandy beach lapped by crystal waters and surrounded by a lush pine forest. Sunbeds and parasols are available to hire and there are plenty of amenities, should you need them. You’ll find lots of locals hanging out here and, as the waters are calm and clear, there is lots of opportunity for swimming. With plenty of walks leading out away from the beach, this is a spot at which you can spend as much or as little time as you like.
Ocean Beach Ibiza
If you want to splash out and enjoy a little luxury while you are visiting San Antonio, then Ocean Beach Ibiza is the place to head to. Designed to provide a one-off, indulgent party experience in the day, this beautiful place lies on the S’Arenal waterfront. As music plays around the outdoor pool and DJs regale you with their dancing beats, you can unwind and indulge at this chilled-out party that oozes a ‘cool’ vibe and a sophisticated atmosphere. There is a restaurant onsite as well as evening entertainment, and you can even book a massage treatment if you want to treat yourself.
I am a big fan of the ‘Pearl Ibiza’ cocktail bar; enjoying a sunset Martini here means I feel like I am out for the evening without having to face the full-on party scene. To see exactly what is on offer at this fabulous spot, and to book tickets for the many music events running through summer, check out the website.
Platges de Comte
A short 15-minute drive from San Antonio, this beautiful beach (one of my very favourites) can also be reached by ferry. Stunning waters and gorgeous shoreline greet you on arrival here, as do wonderful views of the many islands that are dotted around Ibiza’s coastline. Made up of two stretches of sand and a smaller cove used by naturalists, this beach is haven for swimmers. The best time to come is early morning or late afternoon if you want to avoid the crowds. I enjoy watching the sunset from here too. It is one of the best spots on the island and you are guaranteed to get some incredible photos of the famous Ibiza horizon.
Illa des Bosc
A pretty little island northwest of Ibiza, Illa des Bosc is only a 40-minute trip from San Antonio and definitely worth the effort, if only to sample the delicious food at S’Illa des Bosc. Showcasing the fabulous fish caught offshore, this great little restaurant is one of my favourites. Offering wonderful rice dishes and delicious desserts, S’Illa des Bosc is another brilliant place to come to for the most intimate of Ibiza sunsets.
Illa Conillera
Another charming island northwest of the mainland, this pretty spot is a 40-minute trip from the main town. Made famous by its photogenic stature and its appearance on many Ibiza postcards, this island is place of peace and tranquillity. Full of legend and a place steeped in history, Illa Conillera today is a lovely place to visit and home to some wonderful restaurants.
San Antonio Sunset Strip
Cocktails and sunsets go hand in hand – nowhere could be better to enjoy both than on the most famous street in the town. After dinner, or indeed before, head to Sunset Strip, the vibrant waterfront promenade known for its fabulous cafes, bars and pumping music, as well as it most spectacular sunsets. There really is no better way to end a long day on the beach or seeing the sights. It is great for people watching too.
San Antonio and its surrounding area has plenty to keep you occupied for a few days but if time is short, consider my seven suggestions and you can’t go far wrong.
How to Get to San Antonio
The great news for sun seekers heading to San Antonio is that flights to Ibiza Airport are really easy to come by. With so many budget airlines offering the direct two-hour flight, you can grab a bargain and be choosy about when you want you want to travel.
Shuttle Direct are the go-to transfer company if you are looking to make your onward travel to your hotel as seamless as possible. With a book in advance option, you can rest assured that the driver of your shared or private transfer will be waiting for you on arrival, leaving you free to start your holiday refreshed and relaxed.
About Shuttle Direct
As the leading provider of airport transfers in Europe and North Africa, we at Shuttle Direct take great pride in offering a professional and competitively-priced service. With drivers meeting you on arrival and whisking you off to your chosen destination in style, you can look forward to seamless onward travel. Book in advance too and you will have nothing more to worry about!
