Ibiza

Introduction

Ibiza, one of the captivating Balearic Islands, hardly needs an introduction. While it’s famed for its vibrant dance, DJ, and party scene, the island has so much more to offer. Known locally as Eivissa, Ibiza is home to stunning beaches, a variety of restaurants and bars, and enchanting bays. Explore the island on scenic short walks or take advantage of its efficient bus network. For an extra adventure, hop on a 30-minute boat ride to Formentera, another island paradise with beautiful beaches. And for those who wish to immerse themselves in the nightlife, Ibiza’s parties continue into the early hours.

Table Of Contents

Introduction
Practical Information
Highlights
Tips and Tricks
Food
Curious to discover more?

Practical Information

Arrival / Departure

Like Mallorca the airport is well organized, very efficient arrival and departure. It is smaller and can get busy. The bus can take a while, faster to go by taxi if you are headed for Ibiza Town. The beaches are a bit further and will of course cost a fair bit more.

Getting around

Generally, the bus system was very reliable and covered most places worth visiting. If you are at the terminus, be sure to buy your ticket at the station. It seems that bus drivers are not allowed to accept money until the bus has left the terminus.
For an early start at Ses Salines Playa, I took a taxi, but I returned by bus. I believe you can manage without hiring a car, which will save you the hassle of finding parking.
There are frequent ferries to Formentera and various water taxi options during the season connecting Ibiza town.

Highlights

Portinatx Coastal Walk to Cala d’en Serra. This walk is easy to reach by bus and straightforward to find. Before setting off, enjoy a coffee and pastry in Portinatx, then head towards the Hotel Barcelo and continue to the end of the road where the trail begins. It’s a pleasant hike along the coast, taking a few hours, and the views are your reward. At Cala d’en Serra, there’s a small bar where you can swim and have a meal, but the restaurants in Portinatx come highly recommended.

The small but exquisite museum. Check opening times, there are some restaurants around this part of town too, and it will feel less touristy.

Strolling Through the Old Town. Take a leisurely stroll through the old town, and sit in a café, a bar, or on a bench to enjoy some people-watching.

Trying a Beach Club. Some beach clubs come with a hefty price tag and may not offer much if you plan to spend only an hour or so on the beach. Instead, consider having a meal or drink there. Choose a club on a beach you want to spend time on and not just for the club itself.

Wandering in Santa Eularia: This charming town is easily reached by bus or boat, with the water taxi stopping here too, at least during the tourist season.

Tips and Tricks

Bus Tickets: Tickets were available on the bus, but the system was quite different from that of Mallorca. Leaving from the terminus, the bus driver directed us to the ticket office to buy tickets. At the first bus stop, it was fine to buy tickets directly on the bus, using cash, likely due to the limited amount of change the drivers carry.

Hippie Market: I found the hippie market to be underwhelming. It was just a market, really. Unless you’re keen on shopping, you might prefer to sit by the sea and watch the sunset.

Accommodation: Be mindful of the bin locations when booking or checking in. Bins are emptied frequently, which can happen late at night, early in the morning, and sometimes during the day. They are not emptied all at once. The noise from dumping glass, paper, plastic, and waste, along with hundreds of bottles into a waste truck, can be very disruptive.

Formentera: If you visit Formentera for the day, consider renting a bicycle, scooter, or another mode of transportation to get around. Walking is not enjoyable due to the road-based routes, limited shade, and the time it takes. There are plenty of rental places along the road just outside the port. While I didn’t need my passport, I’ve read reports that some places do require it and some even want to keep it as a deposit. If you’re uncomfortable with that, simply try another rental place.

Food

San Antonio: I enjoyed dining at Es Rebost de Can Prats. It felt pleasantly non-touristy, which is refreshing given the location.

Portinatx: In the vicinity of the luxurious Six Senses Hotel, I discovered Rebrots. The garden is delightful, though reservations are recommended, especially for dinner. Additionally, there are several good and reasonably priced bars right on the beach.

Ibiza Town: Miss Saigon offers tasty Vietnamese cuisine, but the interior can be uncomfortably hot. Fortunately, takeout is an option. Cafetería Artesans is popular with locals and serves excellent tapas, though they can run out. Love My Poke & Sushi is perfect for light meals, particularly lunch. Besides dining, take a stroll and find a spot with a good vibe. I haven’t explored the port area yet, as there’s only so much one can eat in a week 🙂

Places I will not go back to: I would not send a friend to Locals Only Eivissa in Ibiza Town due to bland food, average service, and high prices. Similarly, I will avoid Project Social in Santa Eularia unless you’re desperate for a burger and beer; there are better options elsewhere.

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