When you’re a parent of young children, as I am, your perspective on what makes a great beach changes. Luckily, alongside its secluded rocky calas, there are several splendidly family-friendly beaches in Ibiza.
I’d like to share my top five family-friendly beaches in Ibiza with you.
Cala Llonga is a resort on the east coast of Ibiza just south of the town of Santa Eulalia. A large, deep, sandy cove, it has become a firm favourite with locals and visiting families and is definitely one of the best family-friendly beaches in Ibiza.
The vast expanse of sand means there’s plenty of space for children to play and the gently sloping shore ensures the water stays shallow for quite a distance, making it great for paddling. You can also hire pedalos and kayaks.
There is also a play park with slides, swings and so on next to the beach.
When the children get hungry, Cala Llonga is surrounded by reasonably priced restaurants overlooking the beach and serving the kind of food kids love.
In the summer, Cala Llonga offers events such as outdoor cinemas and musical events so, when the kids get sleepy, you can relax a little.
This extremely pretty, protected bay in the south-west part of Ibiza just a 25-minute drive from Ibiza Town and San Antonio is perfect for families. The crystal-clear water is always very calm and the white sand is perfect for sand castles and playing games.
There are several excellent restaurants at the edge of the beach, close enough for you to keep an eye on the kids playing on the sand while you relax in the shade with a drink if you wish.
If your children are old enough, you can hire a pedalo or even a SUP on the beach. I recommend you do the boat excursion to magical Es Vedra at least once.
Cala Bassa, on the west coast of Ibiza, is regarded as one of the most beautiful on the island. The water is clear and shallow, and a thick band of trees shelters the beach from the wind, making an ideal place for children to play.
There is also a beach club where you can take the children for snacks, drinks and to use the bathroom.
If you decide to visit Cala Bassa, remember that it’s highly popular so, if you plan to drive, start out early. You might like to take the boat from San Antonio and avoid the need for a car altogether.
A gorgeous sandy beach in surroundings that are slightly more wild than the others I’ve suggested, Es Figueral combines clear waters, soft sand and a resort vibe that’s perfect for children.
There’s plenty of everything you and your children expect from a day at the beach, including beach loungers and parasols, showers, and restaurants for when they get starving, mum!
Water activities include pedalos, SUP, kayaking, waterskiing and riding the banana boat.
You won’t find much space for parking at Es Figueral so it’s best to leave for the beach early and stay late.
As well as being a safe, sandy beach with shallow water, Puerto de San Miguel offers plenty of activities for you and your children.
A short walk away from the beach are the fascinating Cuevas Can Marca. Apart from the caves themselves, the walk offers impressive views out to sea.
And, although it won’t be high on your kids’ agenda, fish restaurant Port Balansat is one of the best places on the island for seafood, especially Ibizan speciality Bullit de Peix.
Rather than drive, you might want to take the bus to Puerto de San Miguel from Ibiza Town. A ferry runs to the beach from San Antonio.