There’s much more to holidays in Ibiza than wild nights out clubbing, endless beach parties and the innevitable hangovers. The island’s diverse geography, historical landmarks and stunning views make this a fantastic location for a holiday in the sun, whether it’s just the two of you travelling or you’re looking for a family holiday in Ibiza. Rest assured, Ibiza’s quiet side is there, and it’s ripe for exploring.
So, where is Ibiza’s quiet side you might be asking? There’s plenty of areas all over Ibiza than are not about the partying, and here’s a few of our recommendations to give you a taste of Ibizas quiet side.
Relaxing in Ibiza’s quiet side
Unspoilt beaches
Ibiza has miles and miles of endless white sand beaches and clear waters that make you feel as though you’re stepping straight into a postcard. For a relaxing and uncrowded beach experience, there’s a few spots that have stayed hidden away.
- Cala d’en Serra in Cala Llonga is a quiet, sheltered stretch of beach, with rocky cliffs encircling its coast. Spacious and secluded, you’ll never struggle for a spot to lay your towel down.
- Another small cove is Cala Xarraca, just a five-minute drive away from Portinatx. Here you can go snorkelling and hike across the idyllic coastal footpaths without bumping into people all around.
- In the north east, the sheltered bay of Cala San Vicente has one of the best family-friendly beaches and a traffic free promenade, so you can build sand castle and sand castle here.
Pretty sunsets
Sitting out for the evening and watching the sunset might not be the first thing you think of, but Ibiza’s quiet side is sunset galore. Watching the sun set on holiday in Ibiza is one of the most relaxing ways to enjoy an evening, and the views here are out of this world.
- Head up north from party central San Antonio to the undeveloped sandy cove of Cala Salada. It’s a wonderful spot where you can trace the sun’s slow fade between the rocks of Sa Conillera and Bosc and you could even enjoy a private dip!
- Another great spot to watch the sunset is across from the 400-metre tall rock formation Es Verda. This area has many fantastical legends surrounding it, but what is true is that the sunsets over the formation are totally mesmerising. Just by taking a bottle of wine, two glasses and a picnic blanket with you, you could have a romantic moment unlike any other.
Exploring Ibiza’s quiet side
Tours
Travelling through Ibiza’s rolling hills, orange groves and forests will tell you much more about this island’s true identity than clubbing ever will.
- Head out on foot and explore Ibiza’s trails and unique terrain with a guided tour who will tell you everything you could possibly want to know about the island, or pcik a trail and head out alone to take it at your own pace.
- Tourist train is another great way to explore Ibiza’s quiet side. These open-air trains offer a variety of coastal routes and make stops along the way at some of the larger towns and beaches so you cna get out and explore.
Local areas
Although there are ‘quieter’ spots all over the island, the quieter side to Ibiza tends to be the north, and the villages and towns up here have so much to offer.
- Portinatx, on the northern tip of the island, is a world away from the buzzy dance hubs and has long been a resort favoured by families. A renowned beauty spot, it’s centred around a pretty cove between two bays, with a lush backdrop of pine-clad hills. There are a handful of bars, shops and restaurants here, enough for a night of entertainment but low key and often coming to a close around midnight.
- The village of San Miguel is trendy yet rustic and offers a great day out of exploring authentic Ibiza. Rustic ‘fincas’ (rural estates) and agritourism businesses have flourished in an untouched, relatively underpopulated corner that’s home to one of Ibiza’s oldest churches, among other historic monuments, and a single music bar where the locals congregate.
- Although not part of Ibiza, the picturesque island of Formentera is just 30 minutes away from Ibiza’s coastline and is ideal for a day out somewhere different. Take a boat ride to the island, either by Aqua Boat or ferry, and explore the beaches and clear waters that even rival the Caribbean.
Top sights to see in Ibiza’s quiet side
Dalt Vila
The historic walled city of Dalt Vila is sat right in the middle of Ibiza Town. A UNESCO world heritage site, this spot has cobbled avenues, a traditional drawbridge and is the home of Ibiza’s very own castle.
You can spend your day leisurely walking through the old Roman structures and idyllic courtyards, or even learn about the heritage of Ibiza through the city’s art galleries and museums. For any history lovers, Dalt Vila makes for a wonderful day out, soaking up the island’s culture and learning about its origins.
Can Marca dripstone caves
The seafront caves of Can Marca are a once in a lifetime experience. These caves resonate with natural beauty and their stalagmites and stalactites have been forming over thousands of years. Take a tour that will guide you along the hidden pathways and along to the mesmerising natural glowing pools within the caves where you can make a wish.
Cova d’es Cuieram
Although not as postcard-worthy, the Cova d’es Cuieram are an integral part of Ibiza’s cultural legacy. Once an important Carthaginian place of worship until the 2nd century BC, these few small chambers have images of Tanit, the goddess of fertility and fortune, and often visitors will still come here to leave offerings for her.
La Torre Del Pirata
Take a literary pilgrimage to the La Torrre Del Pirata (pirate’s watchtower) which has a starring role in Vincento Blasco Ibanez’s novel Los Muertos Mandan. It stands 200 metres high on the cliff of Cap des Jueu and sits directly across from the craggy islets of Es Vedra and Vedranell offering spectacular views – and, on a clear day you can even look out onto the Iberian Peninsula.
Ibiza’s quiet side has plenty to offer, so don’t just write it off as a party destination for 18 year olds. You’ll have a holiday itinerary longer than your arm and you’ll come away with incredible photos and memories, and even have learnt a thing or two!
Check out our vast range of Ibiza holiday deals and head to the quiet side of Ibiza for an unforgettable trip.