Skip to content What to do in Ibiza
Ibiza has very much to do, see, and experience. Relax on t beach, chill under a big umbrella in a nice beach club. But there is more! Check out our sights below.
Our favorite sights
With an area half the size of the province of Utrecht, Ibiza is packed with attractions. Apart from the parties and clubs, Ibiza has much to offer. A number of areas on the island are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Check out the sights in Ibiza below that we, as locals, think make the island special.
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1. Hippie markets attraction
Ibiza has many different hippie markets. The best known of these are Las Dalias in San Carlos and Punta Arabi in Es Canar. It is open in season (April to October) on Saturdays until 8 p.m. A cozy place to buy fun jewelry or clothing while enjoying live music a snack and a drink. We have extensive pages on the 2019 hippie markets. Find all opening hours here.
Occasionally, the market is also open in the evening. These are actually our favorite days. In June and September it is on Mondays and in July and August it is on Tuesdays. The atmosphere here is also more about having a snack and a drink and is generally not as busy as regular opening hours.
2. Natural areas
Ibiza has some beautiful natural areas scattered throughout the island. Ideal places for hiking and enjoying nature in Ibiza.
Las Salinas
The salt fields of Ibiza, an unmissable part of your vacation. These are also listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Salt mining here has actually been unchanged here for centuries. This white gold was Ibiza’s main source of income until tourism took over. This is a wonderful place to tour by scooter and also visit one of the many cozy beach clubs nearby. This is also a popular spot to spot flamingos. Do come in the summer because during the winter they fly to Africa. The famous salt “Sal de Ibiza” is also extracted here. Nice to take home as a gift more. The Salinas nature reserve consists of the following components
- Cap d’es Falco ( Here you will also find Experimental beach)
- Mud baths on the islet of Es Palmador, unfortunately it is now forbidden to go into the mud here. There are ropes placed where you are not allowed to pass any further. If still worthwhile to walk the tour via the ropes.
- Sa Canal, if you keep driving all the way past the parking lot you will end up at Sa Canal. Here on the left corner is the free art gallery La Nave. A little further on you can park your car and go past the places where the salt is processed.
- Es Cavallet
- Salinas beach
Es Broll de Buscatell
Buscatell is a mini village between Sant Mateu and Santa Agnes. This is truly another piece of authentic and almost untouched Ibiza. Es Broll is named after the small river that runs through the valley here. The little river merges into several canals that irrigate the land in the valley. You will rarely encounter tourists here. Along the way you will encounter orchards, a waterfall, a beautiful old bridge and a tangle of small canals. However, there is significantly less water in the summer than in the winter months. The absolute best time to see this sight is in spring. The more than 200-year-old water mill “Molí d’en Tiá” has been completely restored and uses the water to power machinery. A beautiful piece of Ibiza that you won’t find anywhere else!
Las Salinas
Las Salinas is a nature reserve, and unfortunately no houses may be rented here, so we cannot offer these either. We do have many houses around Salinas, more towards the city and KM3/4. From here, your feet are right on the elongated beach of Las Salinas. Pay attention along the way, between August and October, up to hundreds of flamingos reside here each year!
3. Caves
There are many caves in and around Ibiza. Some are open to the public such as Can Marca. These are located near Port de Sant Miguel. This is also the largest cave in Ibiza. You can take guided tours here. This tour will last about 3 quarters of an hour. The caves here are illuminated. Occasionally there is also a light and sound show here. A fun sight also with the kids.
At Es Vedra there is a nice little hippie cave(s). From here you have the very best view of Es Vedra you could wish for. Here light a mattress and a guest book where you can read nice stories or write something yourself. The cave itself is also decorated with all sorts of things people have left behind. Authentic piece of flower power still here.
Another beautiful cave is near Cala Escondida, nice and away from the crowds. Occasionally illegal parties are also held here better known to locals as the cave rave. Between San Antonio and San Miguel lies the “Cave of light.” Cap d’Albarca is the above-water section for this cave. This one can be reached by water provided you are not afraid to dive a bit. You can also climb down but we do not recommend that.
Can Marca
There are many caves in and around Ibiza. Some are open to the public such as Can Marca. These are located near Port de Sant Miguel. This is also the largest cave in Ibiza. You can take guided tours here. This tour will last about 3 quarters of an hour. The caves here are illuminated. Occasionally there is also a light and sound show here.
Hippie cave at Es Vedra
At Es Vedra there is a nice little hippie cave(s). From here you have the very best view of Es Vedra you could wish for. Here light a mattress and a guest book where you can read nice stories or write something yourself. The cave itself is also decorated with all sorts of things people have left behind. Authentic piece of flower power still here.
Es Culleram
This is the cave in which the ancient Carthaginians offered the goddess Tanit. This cave is only for the die hards. Difficult to reach via a rocky path. The rediscovery of this cave is one of the most important archaeological sites in Ibiza. Hundreds of ceramic figurines were found. By the way, you can see these in the archaeological museum of Ibiza town. See also the headings tombs here a little further on. This cave is located about 1.5 kilometers off Cala San Vicente. The route to it is marked with signs.
Cova de figuera borda
Another beautiful cave is near Cala Escondida, nice and away from the crowds. Occasionally illegal parties are also held here better known to locals as the cave rave. It is often very quiet here and there is an enclosed bay just next door where you can swim.
4. Es Vedra
This is perhaps the most famous sights of Ibiza. Not entirely without reason, either. Many generations and cultures before us attributed special powers to Es Vedra. The rock is highly magnetic and the story goes that boat compasses go completely haywire here. Seeing Es Vedra for the first time does leave an impression. Indeed, you see nothing via the road from Ibiza town for a long time. Then when you turn the corner and Es Vedra looms, it is an intense sight. Once you leave the paved road to get closer you drive on a road full of potholes (be careful!) to an improvised parking lot. From here it is a few minutes’ walk to the famous plateau from where you have the best view of Es Vedra.
Feel like walking a little further? Then take the path on the left up the mountain. This one will lead to an old lighthouse. A little further up you can also go to the hippie cave!
Close to Es Vedra you will also find the hidden Atlantis. Click here for directions to Es Vedra.
Es Vedra
A house overlooking Es Vedra: that’s ultimate Ibiza! For many then. You may notice something of the special powers that many Ibiza goers attribute to this impressive rock. Either way, it is one of the most beautiful locations to enjoy a spectacular sunset.
5. Formentera
Although this is actually a separate island, we would like to name it among our favorite sights. Formentera has truly beautiful beaches and is almost more like a tropical island than a Mediterranean island. Think clear blue sea and endless sand dunes as far as the eye can see. Formentera is also a bit more expensive than Ibiza itself. Still want to enjoy snacks and drinks and not pay too much? We then recommend Beso Beach. Formentera can be reached by several ferries from Ibiza. Of course, you can also choose to rent a private boat and then explore Formentera from the sea. You will encounter some old lighthouses and also caves that you can swim through from the boat. Formentera is a unique place where you definitely must have been once.
6. Ibiza stonehenge
An ode made to stonehenge in England. This large sundial was commissioned by Guy Laliberté (owner Cirque du Soleil) and is called “Time and space.” Ibiza stonehenge is composed of 13 detached pillars, the largest of which is more than 20 meters high and bed covered with 24 carats of gold leaf. When it is sunny this reflects the sunlight beautifully. The artwork is located at Cala Lentia and is publicly accessible. Most beautiful time to watch here is at sunset which is beautiful on the west coast anyway. This landmark is an absolute must-see and a perfect place for photography.
7. The most beautiful beaches in ibiza
Ibiza has many different beaches scattered throughout the island. This is one of the island’s most famous attractions. We have made a selection across the island. From trendy popular beaches where it’s hard to get a spot in the summer to hidden coves you probably haven’t heard of.
The beaches in the south and west are generally a bit more popular (some say also more beautiful). The east and north is a bit more friendly and quiet. Here you will also find many child-friendly beaches.
View a complete list of beaches.
Cala Conta
Superbly clear water, perhaps the most beautiful in Ibiza. In season, the standard here is very busy.
Where: West of Ibiza
Why: Clearest water on the island
Cala Escondida
The “hidden” beach, bit of a walk on from Cala Conta. Most people don’t know this.
Where: West of Ibiza
Why: Tucked away spot with a lovely little bar
Cala Bassa
Perfect for snorkeling and play for the kids. Can also enjoy here at Cala Bassa Beach Club (CBBC).
Where: West of Ibiza
Why: Clearest water on the island
Cala d’Hort
Wide beach with stunning views of Es Vedra. Are a number of restaurants to grab a bite or a drink
Where: West of Ibiza
Why: The view of Es Vedra
Sa Caleta
Known for the red rocks surrounding the bay. People here also smear themselves with the small that is good for your skin.
Where: South of Ibiza
Why: The healthy red clay
Cala Jondal
Not really a nice beach for swimming but it is very cozy here. This is mainly because of the Blue Marlin, the Yemanja and Tropicana.
Where: South of Ibiza
Why: Parties at the Blue Marlin
Sa Caleta
Known for the red rocks surrounding the bay. People here also smear themselves with the small that is good for your skin.
Where: South of Ibiza
Why: The healthy red clay
Cala Llenya
Very popular with families with young children. This wide and deep sandy beach is a little further up from Cala Nova.
Where: East of Ibiza
Why: Perfect beach for families
Cala d’en Serra
This gem lies all the way up north and is accessible only by a very bad road that requires you to walk the last bit. Snorkeling here is also fantastic.
Where: North Ibiza
Why: Small picturesque beach
Benirras
Ibiza’s iconic hippie beach. Go here on Sundays and drum the sun into the sea with the hippies. Often a nice little market at it, too. Grab a bite to eat at Elements.
Where: North of Ibiza
Why: Ibiza’ s hippie beach on Sunday
Cala Nova
Cala Nova is one of our favorite beaches on the east side of the island. The water here is very clear and in recent years a number of fine restaurants have opened its doors. Make reservations at Aiyanna, Atzaro Beach or L’Amorigen. A day at Cal Nova is highly recommended.
8. Graft tombs Ibiza town
These ancient tombs date back to the time when Carthaginians (Phoenicians) inhabited Ibiza 600 BC. The attached museum displays many works of art and utensils from that era. This is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located in Ibiza town, the museum provides a glimpse into a culture of which few traces remain. The plot covers 10,000m2 and is the first settlement started in Ibiza. There is a beautiful bust of Tanit, a Carthaginian goddess, this image can be seen in many places on the island in the name and logos of various catering establishments.
9. Fun villages of Ibiza
Ibiza is just a small island with a handful of villages and towns. Most, however, are very cozy. We usually only recommend staying away from San Antonio. Unless drunk Englishmen are your thing, of course.
Santa Gertrudis
On a list of sights to see in Ibiza, of course, some villages cannot be missing. We kick off with Santa Gertrudis. A lovely sleepy village central to the island. Santa Gertrudis is best known for its range of cozy restaurants and unique stores. Highly recommended is to liunch at Bar Costa, you sit down on the low stools and idem tables and then enjoy the real top-notch sandwiches here. The price is not too bad here either! Feel like shopping? Then take a look a little further around the corner at Es Cucons. Here you will find nice interior design items and some trinkets. Always fun to take home as a memento.
San Carlos
Another delightful little village located in the northeast. San Carlos is also home to the hippie market Las Dalias. In the village itself you have the famous cafe Anita, located at the corner of 2 roads. Since most homes in Ibiza do not have a permanent address, mail for many a local arrives here as well. So it’s always a pleasant up and down walk here. There are still a number of small-scale restaurants here. San Carlos is also the hub to several beaches such as Cala Mastella, Cala Llenya, Cala Boix and Es pou des Leo.
Read more about San Carlos
Ibiza town
Ibiza’s old town is truly magnificent. Surrounded by high city walls and picturesque streets with many steps. By far the most beautiful city on the island. You can climb up the grand old steps to admire the view and the cathedral from there. Lovely to spend an afternoon getting lost among the winding alleys. Here and there are small restaurants to grab a bite to eat and a drink. For shopping, too, this is the place to be. Especially the neighborhood near the old port is a paradise. Ibiza town is also home to a number of well-known clubs including the Pacha & the Lio. These are near Marina Botafoc, the new marina. This is where mega yachts belonging to the richest of the rich are regularly moored. There are also regular events in town, think IMS or the Medieval Festival.
Santa Eularia
You would want to start here every morning. The sun rises on this eastern side of the island, and it is breathtaking. And coincidentally, there are some fine beaches to be found surrounded by resorts and apartments.
Santa Eularia is one of the largest cities on the east coast yet feels more like a small village. The promenade is becoming more and more fun, there are nice restaurants like Caos and Project social.
Santa Eularia
Santa Eularia is the island’s third-largest city. There is a fine beach and also nearby are some beautiful beaches such as Es Niu Blau, Cala Pada, Cala Nova and Cala Llenya. The cozy town offers a wide selection of fine restaurants and quaint boutiques. In addition, here are some larger supermarkets for when you stay in this area until San Carlos / San Juan.
10. Abandoned club Ibiza
In the hills of San Jose is located in large abandoned old disco called Festival Club. This disco never opened due to various circumstances, and in over 45 years nature has reclaimed it as its domain.
What remains is a magnificent dystopian building that lends itself perfectly to taking beautiful photos. A totally different sight than what you would normally do in Ibiza. Definitely worth checking out this building.
Frequently asked questions – FAQ – Sightseeing
What must you really have seen in Ibiza?
There are, of course, many more issues than what we write above. So of course you have the famous clubs, which helped make the island great. Think of the Pacha, Ushuaia, Amnesia and the Privilege. And do not forget all the beautiful places where you can eat, on a high level, but also in the most beautiful places. Check out our club and restaurant pages (in the menu) which we constantly update
What can you do in Ibiza?
In addition to enjoying the most beautiful beaches, a nice temperature, the best and most beautiful restaurants and wildest clubs, you can of course do much more. Hire a chef to cook delicious meals for you, take a boat trip along the cliffs in the north or a trip to Formentera, snorkeling or supping. But you can also rent (racing) bikes or mountain biking, even rock climbing if you know how to find the spots. And off-season there are the typical local historical festivals (ask us for advice!). You are never bored here.
What is the most beautiful part of Ibiza?
This is just what you like. But roughly it’s like this. In the west and south are most of the beach clubs, and of course the sun sets in the west here as well. If you love a sunset, in the sea, then you should be on this side. If you are looking for more tranquility, a family-friendly environment, as well as fine restaurants and beaches, you may be better off in the east and north.
Why is Ibiza different from other destinations?
This is difficult to explain. But everyone who has been there experiences it a little anyway. It’s the vibe, the beautiful nature, the people and the hippie past, the artistry and freedom, and music you can dance to all day. Surely that is hard to find in other places.
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