The best beaches of Ibiza

From Cala Xarraca to Es Portixol

Cala Xarraca

The most courageous visitors will choose to head for Cala Xarraca. Its beach is renowned as an excellent diving spot. Sheltered from the wind, the bay sparkles with crystal-clear waters.

Its winding paths invite you to discover the beauty of the mountains and the coastline of the north of Ibiza. Cala Xarraca also has a small restaurant, where visitors can enjoy lunch with their feet in the sand.

For an even more rewarding experience, you can head to the natural mud baths further on. Immerse yourself in the mud for a few moments before rinsing off in the clear Mediterranean water to regain the softness of a baby's skin.

• What's it best known for? For an exceptional diving spot, and the skin care offered by mud baths.

• Where? It is on the north coast, near Portinatx, and accessible by road.

Cala Benirras

Every Sunday in summer, the sandy beach of Benirras hosts the drumming of hippies during the "fiesta de los tambores". Fires are built on the sand to celebrate the end of the day. It's a ritual not to be missed if you want to discover the island's bohemian spirit.

Benirras' second must-see spectacle is the sunset. Watch the sky take on pink or orange shades, before giving way to the stars and the glow of campfires lit on the sand.

• For what? For swimming and the unique experience of Sunday drumming and campfires.

• Where? In the north-west of the island, a ten-minute drive from Sant Miquel.

Es Portixol

From Sant Miquel, walk for around 30 minutes through the pine trees to reach the magnificent backdrop of Es Portixol beach. You can also get there by boat, a great opportunity to drop anchor in front of this fine sand surrounded by pink granite and turquoise water.

Put your towel down near the fishermen's huts and enjoy the mesmerising atmosphere of this beautiful beach in the north of Ibiza.

You can take advantage of the small natural pools that have been carved out between the rocks over time and by the elements. Even better than a Jacuzzi!

• For what? For swimming and paddleboarding, it is ideal in calm waters.

• Where? 6 kilometres east of Sant Miquel, accessible by footpath or boat.

From Cala Mastella to Cala de s'Aigua Blanca

Cala Mastella 

This beach is home to the island's best straw huts, known as 'chiringuitos'. The smell of stewed fish breezes through the air, and time seems to stand still. The view of the sea is worthy of a stage play, with the boats playing their part to perfection.

If you get the chance to spend some time here, discover the hidden gem of the beach, Pou de Lleo, a peaceful reserve much loved by regulars.

• What's there to do? Try tasty local fish dishes and enjoy a lazy atmosphere.

• Where? On the east coast, near the village of Sant Carles de Peralta.

Cala Saladeta

On the bay of Cala Salada, north of Sant Antoni de Portmany, lies the magnificent beach of Cala Saladeta.

It provides an ideal spot for those wishing to relax away from the crowds. It's one of the favourite destinations for Ibizans, who don't mind walking a little to spend the day here.

When the sun is out, you can cool off by diving into the turquoise water, snorkelling, or enjoying a picnic on the warm sand.

• For what? For the crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and snorkelling, far from the hustle and bustle of the city. 

• Where? On the island's west coast, north of Sant Antoni de Portmany.

Cala de s'Aigua Blanca

This is one of the island's most popular beaches, illuminated at first light by the sun's golden rays. Its waters are rich in iron, giving rise to magnificent aurora borealis displays. 

The beach is divided into two parts: on one side, tourists who want to enjoy the sun and swim, and on the other, a wilder nudist area.

• For what? For sunbathing and snorkelling, and its iron-rich waters.

• Where? It is on the east coast of the island and accessible from Sant Carles de Peralta.

From Cala d'Hort to Es Cavallet

Cala d'Hort

This beach in the south of Ibiza is one of the most famous on the island, thanks in no small part to its charm and the beauty of its landscapes, such as the islet of Es Vedrà.

Visitors will be delighted to find two excellent fish and paella restaurants on site, as well as several small fishermen's huts that give the area a picturesque atmosphere. The beach, with its calm, clear waters, is ideal for snorkelling and swimming.

• For what? For panoramic views, relaxation and seafood.

• Where? On the west coast, opposite the island of Es Vedrà.

Platja Ses Salines

Thanks to its incredibly clear waters and the pine trees that line its shores, Ses Salines beach offers an absolutely sublime panorama. Its cosmopolitan atmosphere and the many straw huts on the sand attract celebrities of all kinds.

The nightlife here is vibrant, often energised by the sets of famous DJS. But the beach is also much appreciated for its untouched natural setting.

Bordered by fragrant pine trees and sand dunes, it is part of the Ses Salines Natural Park. Its shallow waters are perfect for swimming and paddleboarding.

• For what? For socialising, partying and swimming.

• Where? It is in the south of the island and close to Ibiza airport.

Es Cavallet

The road leading to Ses Salines leads to a wild stretch of sand, reputed to be a nudist beach with a gay atmosphere.

There are three beach restaurants: Chiringay, El Chiringuito and La Escollera. These are relaxing places where you can enjoy typical Mediterranean dishes.

The beach at Es Cavallet is an ideal place to try out body surfing, thanks to its wild character and sometimes strong waves.

It attracts many visitors who appreciate its welcoming atmosphere. Its status as a nudist beach and its gay clientele make it a place of freedom and personal expression.

• What's it all about? For its intimate atmosphere and good restaurants.

• Where? It is in the south of the island, near Ses Salines.

From Es Bol Nou to Cala Jondal

Es Bol Nou

Also known as Sa Caleta, this little cove lined with reddish cliffs is ideal for days when the south wind isn't blowing.

You can even extract clay from the beach walls, which have excellent therapeutic properties, and are often used to make natural masks for toning the skin. 

The transparent waters and the beauty of the area invite you to relax. Its restaurant, Sa Caleta, serves local seafood cuisine and has a small, peaceful garden area where guests can relax after eating.

A trip to Es Bol Nou beach is a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and reconnect with nature.

• What for? For swimming in the calm waters and the skin care the local clay offers.

• Where? It is in the south of the island, near the airport, and accessible by the southwest road.

Cala Jondal

Situated to the south of Ibiza, this is one of the island's prettiest beaches, even if the sand is scarce. This is where you'll find the famous Blue Marlin beach club, the best-selling champagne bar on the island. There are also some excellent fish and paella restaurants.

Bordered by a green cliff and smooth pebbles, Cala Jondal is renowned for its chic yet relaxed atmosphere.

The evenings are punctuated by music and entertainment. During the day, you can enjoy a peaceful setting overlooking the yachts anchored offshore.

• What's it for? For luxury and relaxation, with anchored yachts and top-of-the-range beach bars.

• Where? It is on the south coast of the island and just a few kilometres from the airport.

And where else?

Other beaches in the south of Ibiza not to be missed: 

• Cala Tarida, for sunsets and family activities.

• Platja d'en Bossa, for beach clubs and nightlife.

• Cala Vedella, for diving, peace and quiet.

• Cala Carbo, for a discreet atmosphere and relaxation.

• Cala Molí, for privacy and sunbathing.

• Cala Corral, for diving and exploring.

• Cala Codolar, for breathtaking views and tranquillity.

• Ses Figueretes, for a seaside stroll and local atmosphere.

• Es Xarcu, for a romantic getaway and exquisite seafood cuisine.

• Es Torrent, for an exclusive setting and crystal-clear waters.

• Platja des Codolar, for tranquillity away from the crowds and a unique lunar landscape.