Choose from 7 Fun Things to Do in Ibiza
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Cala Bassa
One of Ibiza’s most beautiful stretches of sand, Cala Bassa has become known as one of the island’s top beaches. Favored by locals and visitors alike, it’s a long crescent-shaped white sand bay with calm, turquoise waters that are great for water activities. Crowds are diverse and range from small children playing in the sand to adrenaline-seeking jet skiers and boaters. Many consider Cala Bassa to have the most vibrantly turquoise waters on the whole island.
Cala Bassa is a beautiful spot to relax and take in the natural coastal beauty, but it also has its fair share of facilities. From sun beds and beach chairs to restaurants, bars, showers, and lifeguards, the beach has a little bit of everything. Not to be overlooked, the Cala Bassa Beach Club offers up some of the DJs, dancing, and nightlife that Ibiza is famous for. The beach is a frequent stop of catamarans and boat tours of the island.
Practical Info
Cala Bassa is a 15 minute car or bus ride from San Antonio, or on the water by ferry. The nearest town is Sant Agnes de Corona, about five miles away. There’s a designated swimming area that is safe from water activities.
Address: Cala Bassa, Ibiza, Spain
Hours: 24/7
From $ 290
D'Alt Vila (Old Ibiza Town)
Sitting pretty on a hilltop in Ibiza Town (Eivissa), the fortified Dalt Vila (Upper Town) has been occupied since Phoenician times. Behind its chunky defensive walls and 16th-century bastions lies a maze of cobbled streets that slope up to the cathedral at the summit, where views of the glistening coast await.
The Basics
The tranquil, history-filled streets of Dalt Vila showcase a quieter side of Ibiza—one at odds with its party-hard reputation. Because of its narrow lanes, Dalt Vila is best explored on foot, with many walking tours of Ibiza Town passing through here. Visitors can also join guided scooter tours and zoom by top attractions such as the Ibiza Cathedral, Museu Puget, and Convento de San Cristobal, or rent a scooter and zip around Dalt Vila independently with the aid of a map.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Dalt Vila is a must for history buffs and culture enthusiasts.
- The cobbles can prove challenging for flip-flops, so be sure to wear sturdier shoes.
- Dalt Vila is not wheelchair-friendly, with most routes featuring cobbles, uneven surfaces, or steps.
How to Get There
The main entrance to Dalt Vila is the Portal de Ses Taules, which is accessible via a ramp leading from Ibiza Town’s Mercado Viejo (Old Market). Ibiza Bus runs multiple routes connecting Ibiza Town to other major island destinations, including Sant Antoni de Portmany, Santa Eulària, and Sant Jordi.
When to Get There
Dalt Vila—like the rest of Ibiza—attracts more crowds during the summer months, from June through September. One of the best times to visit is during the second weekend in May, when the family-friendly Medieval Festival takes place in Dalt Vila, with medieval-inspired market stalls and demonstrations of traditional crafts.
Historical Highlights of Ibiza Town
Visitors with an interest in Ibiza Town’s lengthy history may want to visit the Necròpolis del Puig des Molins, an ancient burial site with more than 3,000 tombs, some of which date back as far as the 7th century BC. The sturdy walls that encircle the Dalt Vila, meanwhile, are a good spot for an evening stroll. Circumnavigating the entire 1-mile-long (2-kilometer-long) ramparts on foot usually takes around an hour, and is best done at night, when they are impressively lit.
Address: Ibiza Old Town, Spain
From $ 36
Ibiza
The glittering disco ball of the Mediterranean, Ibiza is famed for its stylish clubs, scantily clad starlets, world-class DJs, and powdery white beaches. Its auto-tuned siren song calls out to every hennaed hippy and jet-set D-lister able to hold his or her liquor, tempting each to make their way across the sapphire sea and dance into an international playground of exceptional beauty.
Of course, Ibiza is much more than its infamous party scene. With a rich history hearkening back to the Phoenicians, it has its share of ancient edifices, and even a few museums. Diving, sailing, hiking, and bicycling are just a few of the healthy ways to work off your hangover. For a change of scenery, take a boat over to less developed Formentera Island, known for both its natural and naturist beauty.
Ibiza is also beginning to market its family-friendly resorts, perfect for the heavily tattooed couple eager to show their children that perfect beach where they first fell in love. If they could only remember which one it was. Cheers!
Practical Info
Ibiza (Eivissa in Catalan) is a seasonal destination, with some 80% of visitors arriving between May and October. Many flights to Ibiza Airport (IBZ) are cut back during the off-season. Direct flights serve Alicante, Barcelona, Belfast, Birmingham, Dublin, Edinburgh, Frankfurt, London, Madrid, Munich, Naples, Paris, Rome and Zürich, among many others.
Ferries serve destinations on the Spanish mainland, including Alicante, Barcelona, Denia, and Valencia. Several companies offer boat transportation between Ibiza and the neighboring island of Formentera.
You can rent a car on the island, but this isn't usually recommended; some roads are poor, and drivers may be intoxicated (not you, of course).
Address: Spain
Admission: Free
From $ 36
Cala Comte
Surrounded by sand dunes and rocky cliffs, Cala Comte ranks among Ibiza’s most spectacular (and popular) beaches. Visiting families come to swim in the calm, clear waters, while protected coves and enclaves appeal to sunbathers who prefer to go au natural. The beach is known as the best spot on the island to watch the sunset.
The Basics
Cala Comte beach is situated on the western coast of Ibiza and comprises two main beaches and a smaller cove. The western side of the beach is family friendly, while the cove known as Cala Escondida tends to be swimsuit-optional. One popular way to enjoy the beach is aboard a catamaran beach-hopping tour. These full-day excursions typically stop at Cala Comte and Cala Bassa and offer plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and sunset viewing.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Cala Comte is a must-visit for families and those looking for a safe and beautiful swimming spot.
- Don’t forget to bring sun protection; there isn’t much shade at this Ibiza beach.
- Beware of incoming tides; they’ve been known to wash away belongings.
- Catamaran tours often include snorkeling gear.
How to Get There
The easiest way to get to Cala Comte is by taxi or car, but it’s also possible to catch a bus or ferry from San Antonio. These run throughout the summer season. The beach is about a 25-minute drive from Ibiza Town and a 10-minute drive from San Antonio.
When to Get There
Due to its western-facing orientation, the beach gets busiest in the late afternoon hours with beachgoers coming to watch the sunset. The best season to enjoy Cala Comte is between May and October, when temperatures are warm enough to swim.
Sunset Ashram
The two main beach areas of Cala Comte are divided by Sunset Ashram, a restaurant perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the water. Diners come to feast on Indian and Mediterranean cuisine while taking in the spectacular sunsets. Nightly DJs lend the spot a party vibe throughout the summer.
Address: Spain
From $ 290
San Antonio Bay
The glittering coastline of San Antonio bay is best known for its gorgeous beaches, tranquil coves, and family-friendly resorts. In contrast, the nearby town of San Antonio is a clubber’s paradise with round-the-clock parties.
The Basics
Visitors come to San Antonio Bay for the beaches, and there are plenty of ways to explore the coast. The bay’s small islands offer ample opportunities for an island-hopping cruise, and a number of notable snorkeling and scuba diving sites dot the bay. Thrill-seekers can try their hand at water sports such as parasailing, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding; zip along the shore on a Jet Ski; or try adrenaline-fuelled activities such as flyboarding.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Beaches in San Antonio bay typically have sunbeds and parasols available to rent, lifeguard-patrolled swimming areas (in peak season), restrooms and showers, and beachside bars, shops, and restaurants.
- As well as sunscreen, a hat, and some cash (for beachside amenities and activities), carry your passport (or a photocopy)—it’s often required for credit card payments or booking activities.
- Most of the bay’s beaches are wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
San Antonio Bay is located on the western coast of Ibiza. San Antonio town is the gateway to the bay’s beaches with buses, ferries, water taxis, and taxis running to the many beach resorts. From Ibiza International Airport, it’s about a 45-minute bus ride or a 25-minute taxi ride to San Antonio.
When to Get There
High season in Ibiza runs from June to September, when the clubbing season is in full swing, and tours and accommodation can book up quickly, especially in the busiest month of August. Budget travelers or those hoping to avoid the crowds should consider an off-season visit—many resorts offer more favorable prices in May and October, and the weather should still be hot enough to accommodate swimming, sunbathing, and boat tours.
The Beaches of San Antonio Bay
From San Antonio town, the easiest-to-reach beaches include Es Puet beach, which has shallow water ideal for swimming or families with children; while ferries run to S'Estanyol and Playa Pinet beaches with ample water sports options. Scenic Cala de Bou has a number of seafront bars from which to watch the sunset. At the western edge of the bay, Port d'es Torrent is often less crowded and is a popular spot for snorkeling or for walks through the coastal pine forests.
Address: San Antonio Bay, Ibiza, Spain, Spain
From $ 87
Es Vedranell and Western Inlets
Located on the south-west side of the island, es Vedranell and the western inlets are a cluster of protected areas featuring sandy beaches, azure waters, varied terrain (including the infamous and iconic Es Vedra mountain that has become synonymous with images of Ibiza) and wildlife.
The western inlets include: Cala d´Hort, Cap Llentrisca i Sa Talaia Natural Park and the Es Vedrà, Es Vedranell and Els Illots de Ponent Nature Reserves. Spend time here exploring the 10 islets in the area, which are packed with birds – including the Audoin gull and Elearnor falcon, lizards and more. Or, grab a seat on the beach and keep a look out for dolphins frolicking off the coast.
To get in touch with the past, the area also features the remnants of a Punic-Roman settlement and La Torres des Savinar, an old lighthouse.
The western inlets include: Cala d´Hort, Cap Llentrisca i Sa Talaia Natural Park and the Es Vedrà, Es Vedranell and Els Illots de Ponent Nature Reserves. Spend time here exploring the 10 islets in the area, which are packed with birds – including the Audoin gull and Elearnor falcon, lizards and more. Or, grab a seat on the beach and keep a look out for dolphins frolicking off the coast.
To get in touch with the past, the area also features the remnants of a Punic-Roman settlement and La Torres des Savinar, an old lighthouse.
Address: Spain
From $ 80
Formentera
The sleepiest and smallest of Spain’s Balearic Islands, Formentera is the ultimate Mediterranean coastal idyll. Free from the all-night clubs and persistent touts of neighboring Ibiza, Formentera has a mellow, leisurely vibe. The island’s biggest lure is its natural beauty—escape to its white sands, clear waters, and scenic walking paths.
The Basics
Unspoiled and relatively undeveloped Formentera can be visited as part of a day trip from Ibiza. Some visitors go as part of lively catamaran cruises, disembarking at Formentera for a couple of hours’ free time during which they explore at will. Alternatively, you can make your own way to Formentera and then rent a scooter on the island. Scooters provide an easy and hassle-free way to travel between the islands’ secluded beaches, and the island’s relatively flat terrain makes riding easy.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bring sunscreen and a hat, as the sun can be very strong here, especially between 12pm and 3pm.
- Lodging is available on the island during the summer season.
- Note that some of the island’s beaches are clothing-optional.
How to Get There
Formentera, just 2 miles (3.5 kilometers) from Ibiza, can be reached only by sea. Three different companies (Trasmapi, Mediterranea Pitiusa, and Balearia) operate ferry services that depart from the harbor in Ibiza Town and dock at La Savina in Formentera. The ferry journey takes around 35 minutes. Water taxis and charter boats also take visitors across to the island from Ibiza.
When to Get There
In Formentera, tranquility reigns in June and early September. July and August are busier so if you plan on going then, plan on arriving earlier in the day to beat the crowds. From mid-September on, some shops and restaurants on Formentera begin to close up for the off-season.
Best Beaches on Formentera
Formentera’s greatest feature is its spectacular coastline. Es Pujols encompasses several hotels and the busiest beaches. During summer, buses run from the port to Playa de Ses Illetes, a water sports–friendly beach lined with charming fish restaurants, and to the quieter Playa de Llevant, a spacious and serene sand-dune–backed strip of sand with crystal-clear waters and views across to Ibiza.
Address: Spain
From $ 29