I first visited Ibiza as a 21 year old, a few short weeks after I graduated from university. It was a fabulous holiday with wonderful friends, celebrating the end of our student days. I recently went back – over a decade later – with my young family. It could not have been a more different trip, and it was a chance to explore the quieter, relaxed side of the Balearics party isle.
This trip was in collaboration with Jet2. My flights and hotel stay were provided by Jet2holidays. You can find the full range of Jet2holidays to Ibiza here. All views are my own, and all recommendations as extensively researched and genuine as ever!
IBIZA – FOR A QUIET FAMILY HOLIDAY?!
Ibiza – also known as the White Isle – is seemingly an island with two identities. It has a reputation as the hedonist clubbing capital of Europe, as Ibiza draws all of the world’s most famous DJs to its iconic summer season.
But Ibiza is much more than just a party destination. Clubs generally open around mid June, and run until September. Peak season for Ibiza clubbers is usually July and August, when the biggest names perform. Which leaves at least another 8 months of the year.
Ibiza has beautiful coves with turquoise water so crystal clear that it is impossible to resist a dip. There are medieval villages and picturesque churches to explore, and the freshest seafood and traditional tapas to sample. All with a laid back vibe offering a much more relaxed holiday than the headline grabbing parties suggest. There is also some *serious* luxury to be enjoyed in Ibiza if you want to treat yourself for a trip to celebrate a special occasion – or perhaps even a European island hopping honeymoon. The most exclusive of exclusive beach bars, days floating from beach to beach on majestic yachts, and boutique hotels that will make you believe you are waking up in the Pinterest board of dreams!
GETTING TO IBIZA
Ibiza Airport (IBZ) is well-connected to other European cities, with multiple airlines offering competitive prices. We flew to Ibiza with Jet2 – a British airline offering scheduled and charter flights from the UK. Check here for current timetables and flights to Ibiza with Jet2. Jet2 offer packages to Ibiza, including hotels and transfers. From the UK, the flight to Ibiza is about 2 and a half hours.
For a slower pace of travel, ferries run from Valencia (check out my full guide to this gorgeous city here), Barcelona and Dénia year round. There are also ferry connections to the other Balearic islands. Ferries are operated by Balearia.
A quick additional travel tip… Jet2holidays fly from London Stanstead, which is not always the easiest to get to without a car for a very early flight. We therefore stayed the night before, and booked a hotel and parking via Holiday Extras. They are available for booking via my money saving obsession TopCashback with 12% cashback for an even better deal!
GETTING AROUND IBIZA
Ibiza is fairly well served for bus routes, between the main towns and resort centres. Tickets are purchased on board, from the driver, in cash. Some change is available, but most will be unable to take anything larger than a €20 note so it is easier to make sure you have small coins. Most journeys cost around €2-4, in one direction. Children under 5 travel for free, and pushchairs must be folded when on the bus.
Hiring a car will offer you more flexibility, to get to the remoter areas in northern Ibiza in particular. There are several companies offering rentals directly from the airport, so prices are competitive if you book in advance. We tend to use Europcar whenever we rent a car, as we have found them to be reliable, and have felt comfortable hiring baby car seats. Their free membership programme offers discounts and reward points, which is you travel frequently adds up fairly quickly.
WHEN TO TRAVEL TO IBIZA
The shoulder seasons are the perfect time to visit Ibiza. Spring and early Summer (May to June) and early Autumn (September to October) offer lovely warm weather for long days at the beach, but without the scorching summer heat. Prices are lower, and hotels and restaurants will have greater availability.
Generally, for a quieter, slower trip or family holiday I would recommend against travelling during the peak party season. But if you are in Ibiza between June and September I strongly recommend heading to the north of the island, and leaving the party goers to congregate closer to the clubs in the south.
Another tip for flying to Ibiza in the summer months – try to select seats at the front of the plane. Airlines tend to seat larger groups (such as hen and stag parties) together towards the back of the flight.
NORTHERN IBIZA’S BEST BEACHES
Cala Benirras – one of my favourite beaches on Ibiza. On our most recent visit, we returned several times we love it so much! It is a smaller cove, with steep cliffs either side creating a sheltered beach with shallow, calm waters perfect for swimming and suitable for young families. Much of the beach is tiny pebbles rather than sand, but one you are a few steps into the sea it is all soft sand underfoot. There is some good snorkelling around the rocks to the left of the beach, out from the fishermen’s huts. There are several restaurants at the edge beach, but are set far enough back it doesn’t distract from the laid back, natural vibe of Cala Benirras.
Aguas Blancas – a long stretch of sandy beach on the north coast of Ibiza. It is a relatively steep walk down to the beach, with wooden steps leading down onto the sand. Aguas Blancas is officially a nudist beach, although the whole range of dress options are accepted!
Cala Llyena – a wide stretch of white sand surrounded by pine trees. There is a small kiosk, and sunbeams for rent. The waves can be a bit choppy on a windy day, but on a calm day it is great for families as the water is shallow for a long way out.
Cala Saladeta – gorgeous, untouched sandy beach with amazingly turquoise water. Aim to come to Cala Saladeta in the later afternoon, to avoid the walk across the exposed rocky path in the peak sun and heat. there is no infrastructure, so bring shade and a picnic.
Cala Xarraca – crystal clear turquoise water and a sandy beach on the north eastern coast. The clear water and rocky areas are good for snorkelling. Rocky paths run along the cliffs either side of the beach, leading to other secluded coves and some interesting caves to explore. There are also natural mud pools here – be sure to wear swimwear you don’t mind getting marked! There is a small restaurant, serving classic Spanish dishes and seafood.
Cala Mastella – a beautiful tranquil gem of a bay, with one of Ibiza’s smallest beaches. The famous fish restaurant here books out weeks in advance (more below!), but if you come in the morning before the 12pm lunchtime opening, you are likely to have the cove almost to yourself, even in the height of the summer. Be sure to bring your water shoes and snorkelling gear. The rocky sea bed keeps the water crystal clear and makes for excellent snorkelling. This really is an idyllic spot.
IBIZA’S MOST CHILLED BEACH CLUBS
My favourite beaches across northern Ibiza tend to be those that are more secluded, and without much infrastructure. But sometimes indulging in some of Ibiza’s famous luxury, and spending a day enjoying one of the islands celebrated beach clubs is just the treat you want!
Atzaro Beach – somewhere between a beach club and an upscale restaurant. The decor and setting is beautiful – they have perfectly captured the high end, boho, slow living vibe. Part of the Atzaro group, they also have a gorgeous hotel.
Elements – at the back of my favourite beach, Cala Benirras, is a restaurant, bar, boutique and small massage spa. Given the hippy identity of Cala Benirras, Elements has a more laid back vibe than many of Ibiza’s beach clubs. But don’t expect that this means shabby – it is sleek, white and pricey! Food is excellent – fresh, beautifully produced Mediterranean dishes.
WHAT TO DO IN IBIZA
Ibiza Old Town – the exception to this northern Ibiza guide! Whether you arrive in Ibiza by ferry or plane, you will pass close by or through Ibiza Town. It is the largest city on the island, with the main port and airport both located here. But the main draw for most visitors is the beautiful Old Town. The majority of the Dalt Vila – meaning “high town” in the local dialect – was built in the 16thC. The main entrance to the Old Town is through the Portal de ses Taules, an enormous arched gate through the vast fortified walls. At the centre of the Old Town, sits the 13thC Cathedral of Santa María de las Nieves, and the Castell d’Eivissa. The best way to explore Ibiza Old Town is on foot, wandering the narrow streets and pretty alleyways. Just be aware that much is cobbled, and steep, and in the summer months very hot!
Sample the Mud! – Ibiza’s natural mud baths are said to have beneficial properties for your skin. So find yourself some mud, and slather your skin in it for a free beauty treatment! The best places to find the natural mud pools are at Cala Xarraca, Sa Caleta and Aguas Blancas. Just be sure to wear a swimming costume that you don’t mind getting stained!
San Gertrudis – a foodie’s delight! This lovely traditional whitewashed town is awash with superb restaurants, cafes and bars. There is a weekly market, and lovely shops selling bohemian homewares and fabrics open every day.
IBIZA WITH KIDS
Child of the Wild – a wonderful imitative running workshops and outdoor adventures to instil a love of nature in children. From den building to wild cooking, painting and beach explorations. Details of events are available online.
Ravertots – with the brilliant tag line, “throw shapes not toys” ravertots organise family friendly festivals and rave events! They have a summer residence in Ibiza, and run a series of family focused party events.
Enjoy the music – alternatively, during the peak summer months there are many clubs and beach bars offering live DJ sets from around midday if you want to soak up the atmosphere and music, but aren’t likely to be heading out at midnight with your little ones in two!
WHERE TO EAT IN IBIZA
In recent years there has been a bit of a “farm to table” revolution in Ibizan restaurants. Many of the traditional fincas – agricultural estates – are reinventing themselves as gastronomic destinations. I’d strongly recommend booking to visit at least one of these lovely places during your holiday in Ibiza.
El Bigotes – a fish restaurant so popular that it has cemented its reputation as the place that turned away the former King of Spain as he didn’t have a reservation! There have two sittings a day – 12pm and 2pm. The menu is whatever is freshest from the day’s catch, cooked up into a stew. Booking is essential. Fun fact… the restaurant is named after the fantastic handlebar moustache (in Spanish: el bigotes!) belonging to the restaurant owner Juan Ferrer El Bigotes.
Can Gourmet – one of the best sandwiches I have ever eaten! In the heart of Ibiza Town, they serve nothing but bocadillos. These traditional Spanish sandwiches are served in delicious soft baguettes, usually simply filled with jamon, tuna or cold cuts. Can Gourmet is pricey for a sandwich – around €11 – but given how good they are, and the more mediocre food you can find in nearby restaurants for the same price, I think it more than worth it.
Vivi’s Creamery – large selection of supremely tasty gelato, with lots of toppings to pick from in Ibiza Town. Also offer hot drinks, milkshakes and granita. The chocolate and cherry flavour was so indulgent – highly recommend!
Juntos House – excellent farm to table menu. The setting is lovely – olive trees and gardens surround the courtyard.
Giri Café – menu designed around the produce grown in the restaurant’s own garden. The most beautiful setting in the pretty village of Sant Joan de Labritja, in a patio against the walls of a 300 year old townhouse. Their white sangria is a must on a hot afternoon!
Aubergine – fairy lights strung between trees in a grove in a rural part of northern Ibiza. Part of the Atzaro group, they also have a gorgeous hotel.
Finca La Plaza – a lovely courtyard setting in the oldest building at the heart of the foodie hot spot of San Gertrudis. At night, it has a wonderfully romantic feel, with the lights strung between the trees. Traditional dishes and flavours, elevated to fine dining. Good wine list. Reservations recommended.
Fish Shack/Sa Punta – amazing views, plastic chairs, plastic tables and simple food hide a real foodie secret – this has got to be the best cooked fish on the island of Ibiza!
La Paloma – just the most beautiful setting in an orange grove. Fresh, healthy Mediterranean and Asian inspired dishes. Dishes are designed to be shared, and whilst expensive, are generous portions. Always popular both lunch and dinner, so make sure you book ahead online. Small climbing frame and swing to occupy your little travellers.
WHERE TO STAY IN IBIZA
There are some really beautiful places to stay in Ibiza – whether you are looking for an all inclusive package holiday, or a luxury villa getaway. These are my top picks for the best places for a quiet holiday in Ibiza or an Ibiza holiday with kids.
I generally recommend staying in the quieter, less developed areas of northern Ibiza. Especially in the summer months. But outside of the “party months”, there are some gorgeous boutique hotels in the south you might wish to explore – I have included these below too!
Cala Llenya Resort Ibiza – we stayed at Cala Lenya with Jet2holidays – they offer family holidays to Ibiza with hotel and flight packages combined. It is a great resort for families – there is an miniclub with daily activities for over 4s, a kids pool and a kids section at the buffet complete with their own cutlery. There is also a peaceful adults-only pool if you are looking for a more grown up escape!
Hacienda Na Xamena – perched on the side of a cliff, with incredible views out over the Mediterranean. As a result, almost every one of the 77 rooms has uninterrupted sea views. Two swimming pools and a spa. The attached Eden Restaurant is considered one of the best on Ibiza.
Giri Residence – the best of both worlds. Surrounded by lush green gardens in the hills, but only a five minute drive to the coast. This restored finca – farmhouse – has five luxury suites. Small swimming pool and indulgent spa. Superb onsite restaurant and the fabulous Giri Café next door.
Atzaro Agroturismo – a beautiful, restored orange grove. All 24 rooms have dark wood four poster beds, crisp white linen and lush garden views. Five rooms also have private swimming pools. The Atzaro group has a range of wonderful properties across Ibiza, including a beach club and restaurant in addition to the hotel.
Montesol Experimental – Ibiza’s first hotel. Opened in 1933, it attracted Hollywood royalty and artists almost immediately. Only 33 rooms, all have been gorgeously renovated with pastel fabrics, embroidery and wicker furnishings. Even if you aren’t staying here head to the rooftop for sundowners and views of Dalt Vila.
Aguas de Ibiza – Comfortable spacious rooms, and friendly service. Two gorgeous pools in the gardens, and an adults only pool on the rooftop with views out over the marina. Excellent spa, with treatments by Clarins. Babysitting available at additional cost, and a kids club.
Nobu Hotel Ibiza Bay – sleek, modern, minimalist 5* luxury! Expect light filled rooms, with soothing white and beige fabrics and furnishings. Two swimming pools with views over the Mediterranean – one for families, and one adults only. Six Senses Spa, gym and hair salon! Free kids club.
Have a look at my other guides to Spain for other ideas for your trip, and my guides to wider Europe for yet more inspiration.
Leave a Reply