Things To See In Ibiza, Spain
Ibiza is known for its clubbing, techno dancing, and party atmosphere, but there’s much more to it. I arrived during off-season to explore its natural beauty and found an endless list of places to go and things to see in Ibiza.
Ibiza Island
This is one of the Balearic Islands, southeast of Spain, along with Mallorca, Menorca, Formentera, and a few other small islands.
With more than 80 beautiful beaches and terrain that ranges from fine, white, sand to rocky coastline, it has a lot to offer. This island is a great vacation spot for anyone, whether you like to party all night or explore it’s natural side. Or, also, both.
The island is small, only 21 miles (35 km), at it’s longest, so easy to explore, without a car. If you don’t have a car, I suggest staying in Ibiza city center on the east side or San Antoni, on the west side. Both for their central location and the numerous bus routes.
Note: The beaches on the west side get Ibiza’s gorgeous sunsets.
Crystal Clear Water
The meditteranean here is various shades of blue, green and turquoise, sometimes all at once. It’s also crystal clear, due to a local seaweed called Neptune grass, that helps oxygenate and purify it.
Ibiza City, Ibiza
Most of the population lives in the main city, also called Ibiza, or Eivissa, in Spanish. It’s also were you will find the most restaurants, shops and a better idea of traditional Ibizan life.
The city center has an UNESCO World Heritage walled city, Dalt Vila, overlooking the main harbor. Built in the Middle Ages for protection, it’s full of charming cobblestoned streets, lined with restaurants, shops and homes.
The locals are very relaxed and friendly. Notice the local playing his 🎸on the balcony below.
Other Things to See
Although I didn’t visit all 80 beaches, the list below shows other favorite places I visited and things to see in Ibiza, outside it’s city center.
When selecting beaches, keep in mind that if you prefer beaches with sunsets, those are on the west side. In addition, as a general rule, the beaches towards the north are more rustic, with rocky beaches, while those towards the south are sandy, with gentler waves. This, however, is not always true.
For a more comprehensive list of beaches, and other things to see in Ibiza, click here.
San Antonio’s Sunset Strip
San Antonio is beautiful. It’s one of the famous party beaches on the west side of the island. It’s also known as The Sunset Strip, due to the many nightclubs along the promenade. They come to life after the sun goes down.
Crowds gather nightly to watch the sunset. Because of this, it’s best to find your spot on the beach, or make reservations early.
Cala Llonga Beach
Cala Llonga is a beautiful beach (one of my favorites) and bay on the east side of Ibiza. Because it’s quieter and more remote, it’s perfect for a day trip. It’s also just over 6 miles (10 km) from Ibiza city center, making it convenient too.
With it’s more secluded nature and few restaurants, this location is more about relaxing. However, busses run to the party spots from here too, if you want a mix of both.
There are several other beaches nearby including Sol d’en Serra, an even smaller, quieter bay, and Saint Eulalia, with its busy restaurant lined promenade.
Es Vedra
Es Vedra is an uninhabited nature preserve 1.5 miles (2.5 km) off the southwestern coast. A stunning vision from the island, it’s shrouded in legends.
Without a car, getting to the lookout point at Torres De Savinar is challenging. Read my post, How To Get to Es Vedra, for more information.
Portinatx
Portinatx is on the quieter, northern tip of Ibiza. It’s remote, rustic, rocky coast is beautiful. There is also a large sandy beach, however. Lined with several restaurant options, this area is best for a day trip or families wanting to avoid avoid the crowds.
Furthermore, if you’re into hiking, there’s a lovely hike along the rocky coast to Moscarter Lighthouse and beyond.
Formentera
Formentera is another of the Balearic Islands is only a 30-60 minute ferry ride from Ibiza. This small island has minimal development and over 12 miles (20 km) of idyllic, clear, turquoise water with stunning beaches. Because of this, I suggest it as a must-do day trip.