In the previous part of our Ibiza guide we explored the western coast of the Balearic island, up to Cova de Can Marca. Let’s set sail for the northern side, starting from Cala es Canart, a small bay unknown to most tourists, but increasingly popular among yachting aficionados who hire a boat in Ibiza. Beware, this is a nudist beach (unofficially), so make sure that you are properly dressed, or rather undressed. On the other side of this narrow peninsula you will find Cala Xarraca, a peaceful beach with a pine forest in the background, also isolated from the usual fast pace and buzz of Ibiza. Its landmark is a mud bath on the west side of the beach. Walk a few hundred meters from there and you will find yourself at S’Illot des Renclí, another tranquil beach, home to the eponymous restaurant of international fame where you can try some of Spain’s most laudable contributions to the culinary art.
The next bay on the east, located at the very top of the island, is Portinatx and its three lovely beaches: S’Arenal Gros (the biggest one), S’Arenal Petit and Playa Porto Beach. You may want to take a selfie there with the gracious lighthouse in the background, the highest one in the Balearics. The steep cliffs make a grand scenery to view from the sea. And if you have opted for a boat hire in Ibiza and you are prepared to sail the extra mile, don’t hesitate to visit Es Portitxol, a remote beach, approachable mainly by boat, that may remind you of the Greek islands with its serene beauty.
Discover Port de ses Caletes
Your next stopover could be the small cove of Port de ses Caletes, a hidden gem of unspoiled charm, ideal for those who hire a boat in Ibiza to avoid the hordes of tourists. It’s rocky, raw and above all remote, a combination rare to find on this famed island. You will not find any restaurants and bars here, just the blazing Mediterranean sun and crystal clear waters. For something more mainstream, head straight to Cala San Vicente, a typical Ballearic beach of turquoise waters and glowing sand. It’s a natural bay where you can dock at night if you hire a boat in Ibiza. The clifftop on its southern part will take your breath away, while the palm trees in the background will travel you to somehow more exotic places in the Caribbean.
And now for something completely different. Es Cana is a small town once popular among hippies whose influence is ubiquitous, most notably with the famous Hippy Market, held every Wednesday at Punta Arabí on the southern part of the town. Flower children from all over the world flocked to the island in the 60s and 70s, making a living out of selling jewels and all sorts of knick-knacks. Not surprisingly, Es Cana is still one of the most relaxed places in Ibiza. Its beach is wide and sandy, but the harbour is small and not ideal for large motorboats.
We are well into the eastern coast of Ibiza, arguably its most tranquil and easy-going side. Its largest town (along with the capital) is Santa Eulalia, a family resort famous for its gastronomic offerings and cultural life. There is the inevitable promenade in front of the beach, as well as a big marina hosting yachts. Very close to the east of the city you will find the magnificent Platja des Niu Blau, a small beach in a cove surrounded by pine trees, perfect for a short trip in your boat. Adventurous travellers may also sail to Sol d’en Serra, another hidden gem that makes a boat hire in Ibiza worth its money. A small, rocky cove approachable mainly by boat, this nearly private retreat, known only to the iniated, lends itself to a wonderful sailing trip for couples who appreciate some privacy. On the cliff towering over the beach you will find the renowned restaurant Amante where you can try Iberian specialties.
Las Salinas means luxury
We have now come a full circle, sailing from the southeast of Ibiza to the beautiful calas of the west to more easy-going eastern coast. But holidaymakers who hire a boat in Ibiza should not miss the opportunity to visit the most famous beach of the island: Las Salinas (or Ses Salines in Spanish).
This long, idyllic beach, surrounded by pine trees, is a monument to the beauty of the Med in the summer. Here you may rub shoulders with everyone who is important in the international jet set, including the occasional Hollywood star visiting on a luxury yacht. Have a sangria at one of the copious beach bars and enjoy the blazing sun. There is a wide range of options, from posh bars like Malibu, preferred by celebrities, to more relaxed ones such as Sa Trinxa, popular among tourists who love house music.
And with this final sip of sweet Spanish wine we can claim that we have travelled the length and breath of Ibiza, this pearl of the Balearic islands. Next stop? The nearby island of Formentera!
