Ibiza is an island that has been made famous by its nightlife and prestigious clubbing scene but there is much more to this beautiful island than parties, music and DJs. The island has some stunning beaches; many with beautiful clear waters and silky soft sand perfect for lazing on and soaking up the sunshine. There is miles of coastline on the island, much of which has actually escaped the influx of resort development so you can rest assured that if you prefer a wild, more secluded beach far from the madness of the more popular ones, you will not be disappointed.
Ibiza’s Secret Beaches
Cala Llentrisca
This beautiful beach is one of our favourites because you can enjoy the stunning sunshine until late into the afternoon. Although the beach itself is quite narrow, the lack of tourists means that there is plenty of space. In the centre of the crescent shaped bay is an old timber jetty that is perfect for using as a diving platform. There is something magical about the azure blue waters that lap the sandy shoreline on this beach and you are bound to be impressed by the almost fluorescent colours that dance on the waters and bounce off the sand. This is the perfect ‘get away from it all’ beach and as you lay sunbathing on the sand, tiny fishing boats bob on the gentle waves out at sea. Picture postcard scenery is what this beach is all about.
Cala Tarija
Tucked away from the main tourist area, this hidden gem with its pure white sands lies among the rocky cliffs that are dotted with little coves. One of the coves can only be reached by getting your feet wet which makes it even more secluded. The little bays here face south and so get the most stunning afternoon sunshine, and they are also blessed with beautiful unpolluted waters that gently lap the shoreline. The beaches here are a favourite with locals but still remain relatively quiet and definitively undiscovered by the majority of tourists.
Es Portitxol
Shaped like a teardrop, this stunning beach epitomises the island’s coastal beauty. Nestled into a natural harbour between the cliffs, the bay can only be reached down a rough, rocky path. This little path adds to the charm of the beach and as you walk down towards the sea you will be following in the footsteps of the fishermen, pirates and other invaders that used this route. Fishermen are often seen here passing the time of day and it is here that many of them store their boats.
How to Get There
Ibiza’s airport, Aena, serves all the resorts on the island and flights arrive direct from London, Barcelona, Gran Canaria, Madrid and Valencia. Of course you can also fly here from other major cities but you may have to include a stop over on your journey. From the airport, Shuttle Direct offer transfers to all of the major resorts on the island and their professional service can even be booked in advance. Whether you choose a private or shared transfer, Shuttle Direct will have you at your ultimate destination as quickly and efficiently as possible.
Where to Stay
Hostel Talamanca – Close to the Talamanca Beach, this friendly guesthouse is a great budget accommodation option. It offers a peaceful location next to the Botafoch and Ibiza Nueva marinas. Rooms all have air-conditioning and are very comfortable, providing a tranquil haven away from the crowds. The staff here is more than happy to help you plan your stay and you can reach the city centre on foot or on the regular ferry service. Paellas and other local fare are served in the hostel’s restaurant and there is a fresh sardine barbeque twice a week.
Torre del Mar Hotel – This mid priced hotel is located on Playa d’en Bossa Beach and has an outdoor pool, tennis facilities and even a spa, with sauna, hot tub, Turkish bath and gym. Free Wi-Fi is available in the Torre del Mar Hotel rooms and every room, beautifully bright and airy, has flat screen TV and air conditioning. Safes and minibars are also provided and all have balconies with views of either the mountains or the sea. Guests here can enjoy mini golf, a games room and of course, delicious cuisine in the hotel restaurant. Lighter snacks can be bought at the poolside bar and there is even room service too.
Car hire is available from the front desk, which is manned 24 hours a day.
Hard Rock Hotel Ibiza – Right on the beach at Playa d’en Bossa, Hard Rock Hotel Ibiza is a five star hotel that is modern, spacious and rather exclusive, boasting its own private beach club with beach bar and areas for serious chilling out. Hosting weekly concerts outdoors (free to guests), the hotel also has 2 outdoor pools, a spa with hot tub and sauna, and a gym.
Throughout, the hotel is decorated with music memorabilia and every room has TV, minibar, private facilities and even blackout curtains. Wi-Fi is provided for a small fee. On site there are 2 restaurants and several bars, as well as a place for teenagers to hang out and entertainment for the younger ones.
