Exploring the north east coast of the island is an absolute tonic, and with a diverse range of interests and activities in each of the resorts we visited, it really is the perfect Ibiza day out.
If you need directions from Ibiza Town to our starting of point of Santa Eulalia, then please click here
Santa Eulalia
Santa Eulalia is one of Ibiza's major tourist resorts and attracts holiday-makers of many different nationalities, and from all walks of life and age-groups.
Even out of season, we found plenty of bars and restaurants open and in March, there was already a distinct holiday vibe in the air. It was an unusually overcast day, but still warm enough for people to be sunbathing on the beach in bikinis.
Right now, Santa Eulalia is undergoing some serious renovations. The Rambla (the tree-lined square leading down to the beach) is being made into a pedestrian-only zone, and the marina is being treated to a complete face-lift. Ibiza Spotlight has been watching these developments with interest and we have to say that the work is progressing admirably quickly. Santa Eulalia looks set to be starting the summer season with an impressive new-look.
There is lots to see as you wander along Santa Eulalia's pretty promenade. As well as a plethora of shops, including the popular Optica La Mar, which is the place to go if you fancy treating yourself to some trendy, designer sunglasses, you will also find plenty of tree-shaded benches where you can indulge in a spot of people-watching.
Santa Eulalia boasts a whole range of different bars and eateries, and you will find something to suit every palate here. Of particular note are Mel's Bar, with its unpretentious but extensive menu, and Somiart where performance artists entertain the evening diners. You can find both right on the promenade.
Home to the only river in the Balearic islands, heading towards the Siesta side of Santa Eulalia, you will find the town's river walk. This is completely free of charge, there are information boards detailing the history of the river, plus its flora and fauna.
As a special recommendation, before heading off to San Carlos, if you are feeling a bit on the adventurous side, it it is worth taking a slight detour to S'Argamassa where you will find Acrobosc Ibiza. This is an outdoor activity centre for young and old, and great fun for all the family!
San Carlos
The drive north-east from Santa Eulalia to San Carlos takes around ten minutes on a straight, but very scenic road with only one roundabout.
Passing Las Dalias, home of one of Ibiza's most famous Hippy Markets on a Saturday, we found free parking outside San Carlos' whitewashed church. Even in the summer season, parking is plentiful in the town with a large, easy to find car-park on the right after taking the turning to Cala Leña (Cala Llenya)
San Carlos could easily be described as a sleepy little town, but there is everything you could possibly need here. Lots of bars and restaurants, including the famous Bar Anita where we called in for a particularly good cup of coffee and a shot of their home-made Hierbas. The treasure-trove of quaint shops is perfect for a relaxed mooch around, and every Sunday, there is a second-hand market in Cala Llenya, with live music, food and drinks, entertainment for the kiddies and, of course, bargains galore!
If you happen to be in San Carlos on a Saturday, then it is well worth visiting Es Trui de C'an Andreu - a fascinating traditional seventeenth century Ibiza house.
Aguas Blancas
Following the signs to Cala San Vicente, then turning right at Aigües Blanques sign, we took the gloriously picturesque route to Aguas Blancas.
This is one of the most popular beaches amongst Ibiza residents and is famed for its backdrop of craggy cliffs, golden sands and turquoise waters. It is also one of Ibiza's official nudist beaches, although it remains mixed - some nude, some not.
Parking attendants are on hand, but access to Aguas Blancas can be a tad difficult. Please be aware if you have mobility issues, it is not an easy walk from the car park to the beach. It is extremely steep, but if you can manage it, the time you spend soaking in the tranquillity and rugged beauty of Aguas Blancas makes even the walk back up the hill afterwards worth it!
Stand by for our review of Aguas Blancas' Chiringuito Cima del Mar coming up shortly.
Cala San Vicente
The drive to Cala San Vicente is nothing short of spectacular with some of the most awe-inspiring views of Ibiza you will ever see as you wind your way along the twisting, but comfortably wide, road through the hills. The sea here is particularly clear, with the Unesco World Heritage protected Posidonia (a seaweed known to be one of the oldest living entities on earth) easily visible below the surface.
There is a picturesque palm-tree lined promenade and a boardwalk which is great if you find walking on the sand difficult.
There are many restaurants and bars in Cala San Vicente, but a firm favourite is Hidden. Charming and quirky, there is a sense of enchantment and wonder in Hidden's garden, with its pastel-coloured chairs, giant chess board, crazy golf, and even a wedding chapel where couples can receive a blessing.
If you fancy a well-deserved cocktail to round off your tour of the north east coast of Ibiza, this is the place to come. Owner Chris who, amongst other lofty accreditations in the world of cocktails and bar-tending, won a lifetime achievement award from both Theme Magazine and Class Magazine. And if you are holidaying in Ibiza with a group of friends this summer, you might want to look into Chris's bar school. A couple of hours either at Hidden or in your villa, and Chris will have you shaking your own cocktails to perfection!
A tour of the north-east coast of the island is, quite simply, an inspiring and uplifting experience....and one we have no hesitation in recommending during your stay in Ibiza.
Car Hire
For car and scooter hire, please see our recommended car hire companies
Please See
We invite you to also see our recent tour of the South West of Ibiza for further inspiration.
Photo Credits: Cat Milton
