Secret spots in Ibiza for the summer

In the era of Google Maps, Instagram and Wikiloc, there are already few places in Ibiza that can really be called secret. Instead, we should say that special lesser-known places remain, which during the summer become refuges of tranquillity. Coves, forests, ancient sites, routes and even viewpoints are discovered by lively travellers who want to get off of the beaten track. Let’s go!

First of all, bear in mind that you are not going to discover all the secret spots in Ibiza, unless you take a comprehensive virtual tour of the island via Google Maps. Locals and residents are already wary of sharing their most hidden favourite places for fear that they will become the next fashionable destination in Ibiza to make a pilgrimage to for a photo. Like when a photogenic wooden swing that hung in a spot of Cala Xarraca did the rounds on social media, and this remote and quiet shore on the north of the island began to see long queues of visitors coming to have their photos taken at that unique spot. Spoiler: The swing had to be removed.

 

 

Secret spots in Ibiza where to get away from the bustle

 

 

If you are looking for a relaxed and unfrequented Ibiza, you can find it even in the main summer months. Just get away from the usual recommendations – even if for a day – and go out in search of hidden valleys, lonely sunsets (or almost) secluded coves, silent spots…

Do you like that plan? Well, keep reading…

 

Coves and beaches to escape the hustle and bustle

 

Hidden spots to bathe in solitude (or almost). For nudists, hermits, lovers of silence, hikers, haters of sand…

 

 

Es Portitxol

It is no longer a secret only accessible to the northern residents of the island, but still this beautiful wild beach remains a secluded place in Ibiza that only attracts the most active visitors, as reaching it requires walking for about 40 minutes. It is located in the vicinity of the residential estate Illa Blanca and traditionally the people of the area have used it as a natural port for fishing boats. A tip to remember: The ascent on the way back is quite difficult.

Google Maps

 

Caló de s’Illa

In this secluded and unspoiled coastal spot in northern Ibiza you’ll find tranquillity and a panoramic view over the islets of S’Escull, Sa Paella and Illa d’en Calder. You’ll like it especially if you have a passion for snorkelling, so don’t forget your mask. If you don’t like lots of Neptune grass stems, don’t include it on your route, as it has a natural tendency to accumulate on the shore. To get to it you have to walk about 10 minutes along a rough path.

Google Maps

 

 

Cala d’en Serra

Located in the north-east of Ibiza, this signposted and well-kept cove is usually quiet and without crowds. But to relax in an even more private space, you can jump into a neighbouring cove on the right which can be reached by swimming for about 100 metres. On the way to the beach, you’ll find the skeleton of a building now covered in graffiti.

Google Maps

 

Pou d’es Lleo

This set of two neighbouring coves are not a secret, but two spaces not visited by bathers much because they are rocky, nothing that some beach shoes and a desire to enjoy an ideal spot for snorkelling can’t fix. Something else: before or after swimming you can try Ibizan seafood at two traditional restaurants: Pou des Lleo and Salvado.

Google Maps

 

Cala Llentia

Neighbouring the pleasant and quiet Cala Codolar cove, you’ll like this small coastal spot if you don’t mind swimming wearing beach shoes and if you wear suitable footwear to descend to the shore without slipping. Two strange art installations await you in the surrounding area, which are no longer a secret:  Two doors facing each other, which frame the silhouette of the islet of Es Vedra and a set of basalt columns created by the artist Andrew Rodgers at the request of Guy Laliberté, founder of Cirque du Soleil.

Google Maps

 

Sunsets, viewing points and little-known spots

 

 

SA Capelleta

Behind the village of Sant Antoni stands the mount of Sa Talaia, at the top of which is a whitewashed chapel from the mid-twentieth century. From this enclave you can enjoy a spectacular panoramic view over the town, the bay of San Antonio, the islands of Conillera and s’illa des Bosc and, of course, the sunset. Don’t visit wearing flip flops or sandals: The path is not marked and it’s better to walk it using trainers.

 

Es Broll

This narrow valley located about 8 km from Sant Antoni is perfect for a morning hike or cycling route, although in summer it’s best to avoid the hot hours in the afternoon. During the walk you’ll enjoy one of the most unique agricultural landscapes of the island, a direct heritage of the times when the Arabs built terraces, ditches and pools here.

Google Maps

 

 

Broner House Museum

The fishing district of Sa Penya in Ibiza town hides an interesting example of rationalist architecture. Designed by Erwin Broner in 1960, a visit lets you see how the architect managed to synthesise traditional elements of Ibizan architecture in an avant-garde design.

Google Maps

 

Es Molar Tower

This watch post, also called the Balansat tower, stands near Port Sant Miquel. It was built in the 18th century as part of Ibiza’s coastal defensive system. From the top of the tower, open for free visiting, you can see the nearby islets, the Port de Sant Miquel, the cliffs that protect Cala Benirras and the sunset.

Google Maps

 

 

Ses Païsses de Cala d´Hort

At this ancient site located in the south-west of the island you can enjoy a beautiful and different panoramic view over the islet of Es Vedra, and you can see the remains of two Punic necropoli and an ancient Roman villa and admire the elements of traditional Ibizan farming architecture present in Can Sora, an excellent example of traditional housing.

Google Maps

 

Social Centre of Sant Mateu d’Albarca

Located next to the church of Sant Mateu, this social centre is one of the lesser-known places for visitors and non-residents of the area. In addition to its contemporary design inspired by traditional Ibizan architecture, you’ll find another reason to stop: it has a pleasant terrace where you can eat tapas and homemade dishes at popular prices.

Google Maps

 

Sa Pedrera and Cala Aubarca: two (not-so) secret spots to avoid

 

 

These are possibly the two best-known off the beaten track coastal spots for those looking for special places. These enclaves have long since ceased to be unknown spaces where one could be in solitude, and both also share the peculiarity of being the sites for most of the launches of the rescue services on the island. Why? In the case of Sa Pedrera de Cala d´Hort, also known by the evocative name of Atlantis, the relatively simple descent to the natural pools that form in this old quarry doesn’t warn of the difficult ascent that awaits on the way back, especially for those travellers who are not fit or are not wearing the right footwear. In the case of Cala d’Aubarca, which cannot really be called a cove, it attracts travellers in search of its photogenic and unstable stone bridge, with a return ascent that takes an hour and is not recommended for the summer.

 

Hidden spots in Ibiza: Tips and safety recommendations

 

 

Every summer, there are major accidents and incidents arising from excursions to spots of Ibiza that are not so well maintained.  Follow the recommendations below to avoid risks and remember our tips to make sure your new discovery retains the same charm.

• Follow the safety signs you see in the area where you are, especially hazard tape and danger signs that indicate that entering is prohibited.
• Avoid lying under cliffs with signs of past landslides, such as rocks scattered along the shore or danger signs (only installed on maintained coves and beaches).
• If you are looking for a remote cove, always carry water, nuts, some fruit and sun lotion, and cover your head with a handkerchief, cap or hat.
• If you walk trails that are not maintained, make sure you wear the right footwear.
• If you descend to coves that are difficult to access, take into account the level of difficulty you can face both on the descent and on the way back.
• Respect the quiet atmosphere of these secluded places: Avoid playing music and making noise.
• Forget about your phone and social media: consciously enjoy the environment and your discovery.
• In recent years, rescue services call-outs have increased because of travellers who do not walk or do activities with the correct knowledge, experience or care. Avoid putting yourself at risk: No like is worth it.

 

 

Love Beach Hotel Ibiza, do it as secret as you want

 

 

At our recommended hotel for adults in Ibiza by the sea, located on the shores of Cala de Bou, you will find unique spots that will be begging for you to share them on your social media accounts. It’s your call if you decide to unveil all the pleasures and details that await behind the door: three pools, incredible views over the bay, the fabulous Belvue Rooftop Bar to enjoy the sunset, the exquisite cuisine of the Hayaca restaurant, our wellness centre with products from Germaine de Capuccini… an unforgettable spot of Ibiza in which to reveal your Mediterranean passion. #Whatafeeling