When we think about Ibiza, we think of superstar DJs playing at massive clubs, pool parties with thousands of people, boat parties in the middle of the Mediterranean sea.
But behind the world’s best party scene is one of the most beautiful islands in the Mediterranean, if not the world. From perfectly quaint country lanes, white washed villages, little old ladies tending to their grape vines, shady Mediterranean pine forests, Game of Thrones-esque forts and especially beautiful beaches and coves, Ibiza has been a picture-perfect paradise since long before the partiers arrived.
The beaches are Ibiza’s most beautiful asset, especially in September when the water temperature in the Med still sits comfortably in the high 70s°. We’re talking azur seas, rocky coves, white sandy beaches, small cliffs to leap from, beach shacks serving cocktails and crisp white wine. So when you’re in Ibiza for The Abroad Connection’s fall semester opening weekend, where will you be spending lazy afternoons sunning yourself in between club nights and pool parties?
Ibiza’s Best Beaches, Coves and Calas
Cala d’Hort
There’s this stunning island off the south coast of Ibiza, an apparently magnetic protrusion of rock that rises out of the deep like a sea monster. This is the perfect addition to another spectacular Ibiza sunset. In front of this shoreside monolith you’ll find Cala d’Hort, a slice of white sand lapped by crystal clear sea, peppered with small reefs that make it a snorkeler’s paradise. Parking is tight at the bottom, so if you snooze it means you’ll be hiking the hill to retrieve your jeep or moped at the end of the day (but just think about those glutes!).
Cala Gracio
A short walk, or stumble, from the party town of San Antonio, past the famous Cafe Del Mar and its sunsets (we can always come back later), you’ll find this gorgeous little cove where European families frolic and drink cold cans of cerveza on the sand. Walk a little further and you’ll find some friendly cliffs to jump from (no higher than 20 feet, don’t worry) and further along still, the smaller and less crowded Cala Gracioneta, which is a little paradise in itself.
Cala Benirras
Up in the north of the island you’ll find small resort villages, surrounded by breezy pine forests and fronted by gorgeous little coves. Cala Benirras is the most well known, wedged inside a pair of cliffs that extend out to the Mediterranean Sea, with small fishermen’s shacks spilling across the rocks. This beautiful slice of planet earth is made even better around sunset when the beach lights up with the sound of percussion as local musicians gather for a jam.
Ses Salines
Down the south of the island, past the club strip of Playa d’en Bossa, just beyond the airport (and the club DC10, which sits near the end of the runway and is said to have the best sound system on the island) you’ll find Ses Salines. A long strip of white sand and calm, clear sea sits in front of pine forest and a few restaurants specialising in paella and fresh fish. This beach is a real vibe – think South Beach without the buildings – and you can always find beautiful people looking for a party.
Cala Jondal
This is beach club territory. Cala Jondal, which sits down at the bottom of the island, is the place to spend your day lounging on white leather and sipping cocktails next to some supposedly famous European soccer player while the best EDM plays in the background. The Blue Marlin is the beach club to be at, but apart from celebrity spotting and living the life of a hedonist, this beach is based at the bottom of a beautiful hill, where the water is crystal clear and the forest runs right down to its edge.
From stunning beaches and coves, charming old towns and some of the best nightlife in the world, Ibiza has so much to offer. Experience it all yourself during our fall semester opening party in Ibiza , Sept 24-26. Learn more and book your spot now!
