Portinatx holidays

Beaches in Portinatx, Ibiza

Portinatx, located at the northern tip of Ibiza, is a haven for beach lovers. This picturesque resort town boasts some of the most beautiful and family-friendly beaches on the island, offering clear, shallow waters and a variety of water sports. Here's a guide to the best beaches in and around Portinatx, each promising a unique slice of paradise.

Portinatx Bay beaches

Portinatx is home to three stunning beaches, each with its own charm:

• S'Arenal Gros: The largest and most popular beach in Portinatx, S'Arenal Gros is perfect for families and sun-seekers. Its wide expanse of golden sand, crystal-clear waters, and range of amenities, including sun loungers, parasols, and watersports, make it an ideal spot for a day by the sea.

• S'Arenal Petit: Just a short stroll from S'Arenal Gros, S'Arenal Petit is a smaller, more secluded beach. It offers a quieter atmosphere, making it perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and relax in a serene setting.

• Playa Porto: Tucked away in a small cove, Playa Porto is the hidden gem of Portinatx. This beach is favoured by snorkellers and divers for its clear waters and rich marine life.

Nearby beaches worth exploring

While Portinatx itself offers some fantastic beaches, the surrounding area is also home to several other must-visit spots:

• Cala Xarraca: Just a short drive from Portinatx, Cala Xarraca is known for its stunning natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and peaceful atmosphere. It's an excellent spot for snorkelling and enjoying the natural mud baths on its rocky shoreline.

• Cala d'en Serra: Another hidden treasure near Portinatx, Cala d'en Serra is a small cove surrounded by rugged cliffs and lush greenery. It's less crowded than the main beaches in Portinatx, offering a tranquil escape and fantastic snorkelling opportunities.

Each beach in and around Portinatx presents its own unique allure, from bustling shores with all the amenities to secluded coves perfect for a peaceful day by the Mediterranean. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or just a beautiful spot to soak up the sun, the beaches of Portinatx and its surroundings promise a memorable beach holiday experience.

Local dishes in Portinatx

Eating out in Portinatx is a memorable experience that you’ll take home with you from your holiday. The finest Mediterranean flavours are on display through the traditional Spanish dishes and fresh seafood.

Some typical dishes

• Paella: Featuring a mix of seafood, meats and vegetables, saffron is added to give this classic Spanish rice dish its distinctive yellow colour.

• Gazpacho: To cool you down on a hot day, tuck into this refreshing cold soup made from blended tomatoes, peppers and cucumbers.

Tapas dishes

• Tortilla Española: This hearty Spanish omelette made with potatoes and onions is cut into small chunks when served in a tapa.

• Patatas Bravas: Although often included on the menu as a tapas dish, these crispy potatoes served with a spicy tomato sauce are also eaten as a snack or starter.

Meat dishes

• Tumbet: A traditional Balearic favourite, tumbet is made with layers of potatoes, aubergines and red peppers, and often served with meat or fish.

• Porcella: This festive dish of roast suckling pig is tender and full of flavour.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Fritura de Pescado: Simple yet full of flavour, a selection of deep-fried seafood, typically including squid, prawns and small fish, is served with lemon.

• Gambas al Ajillo: Seafood lovers will not want to overlook these garlic prawns cooked in olive oil and served sizzling to the table.

Sweets and desserts

• Flan: The perfect ending to a hearty meal is this creamy caramel custard dessert.

• Ensaimada: These spiral-shaped pastries dusted with powdered sugar are a sweet treat eaten at breakfast or as a snack.

Local drinks

• Hierbas Ibicencas: Often enjoyed as a digestif, this traditional liqueur made from a variety of local herbs originated in Ibiza.

• Sangría: A Spanish classic, sangria is made with red wine, fruits and a splash of brandy. Served chilled, it goes down rather well on a hot day.

Sports in Portinatx, Ibiza

Portinatx, with its idyllic landscapes and crystal-clear waters, is not just a haven for beachgoers but also a paradise for sports enthusiasts. From water sports that make the most of the Mediterranean's allure to land-based activities that explore the rugged beauty of Ibiza, there's something for everyone in this charming resort town.

Water sports

The beaches of Portinatx are the perfect playground for lovers of water sports, offering conditions suitable for both beginners and experienced enthusiasts.

• Scuba Diving and Snorkelling: The clear waters around Portinatx are ideal for snorkelling and scuba diving, providing a glimpse into the vibrant underwater life of the Mediterranean. Dive centres in the area offer courses and excursions for all levels.

• Kayaking and Paddleboarding: For a more relaxed pace, kayaking and paddleboarding allow you to explore the secluded coves and stunning coastline at your own pace. Equipment rental is readily available on the main beaches.

• Windsurfing and Sailing: The breezes off the coast of Portinatx provide excellent conditions for windsurfing and sailing. Whether you're looking to take lessons or rent equipment, the local water sports centres can accommodate your needs.

Land sports

For those who prefer to stay dry, Portinatx and its surroundings offer a variety of land-based activities.

• Cycling: The terrain around Portinatx, with its scenic trails and quiet roads, is perfect for cycling. Bike rentals are available, and you can choose between challenging mountain bike routes or leisurely countryside tours.

• Hiking: Explore the natural beauty of Ibiza on foot with the numerous hiking trails that crisscross the landscape around Portinatx. From gentle walks to more strenuous hikes, there's a path to suit every fitness level.

• Tennis: Several hotels in Portinatx offer tennis courts for guests, providing a great way to stay active while enjoying your holiday. Equipment rental is usually available on-site.

Adventure sports

For the adrenaline junkies, Portinatx offers a range of adventure sports that take advantage of the area's natural terrain.

• Quad Biking and Jeep Safaris: Explore the rugged countryside of Ibiza on a quad bike or in a jeep, offering an exciting way to discover hidden parts of the island that are off the beaten path.

• Parasailing: For a bird's-eye view of Portinatx and its stunning surroundings, try parasailing. Soaring above the sea provides not only an adrenaline rush but also unparalleled views of the coastline.

Whether you're a seasoned athlete looking for new challenges or a casual participant seeking some active fun in the sun, Portinatx's array of sports activities offers something to get everyone's heart racing. With its beautiful natural environment and excellent facilities, Portinatx is the perfect destination for sports enthusiasts of all kinds.

Best things to do in Portinatx

On the northeastern tip of Ibiza, Portinatx is a peaceful hillside resort blessed with gorgeous beaches and crystal-clear shallow waters perfect for water activities. For those seeking to recharge, Portinatx is the ideal location due to its natural landscapes and its abundance of wellness facilities.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Moscarter Lighthouse: Standing in one of the most picturesque spots on the island, you must bring your camera to capture views of the rocky coastline lapped by the deep blue sea.

The best districts

• Portinatx Town: At the heart of Portinatx lies its compact centre, which is the hub of activity featuring a good variety of restaurants, shops and bars.

Parks and gardens

• Ibiza Botánico Biotecnológico (Ibiza Botanical Biotechnology): It’s worth the 30-minute drive south to visit this botanical garden, which displays the island's distinct plants, and educates visitors about protecting the rare species and ecological wealth.

Day trips in the area

• Cala Xarraca: Not far from Portinatx is this picturesque secluded bay, famous for its dazzling azure-blue sea and great snorkelling opportunities.

• Sant Joan de Labritja: This charming village full of 18th-century whitewashed buildings is a must-see away from the tourist hotspots. The cobbled streets are illuminated with flowers and old wooden doorways.

• Es Canar: Although Es Canar is very photogenic and boasts a lovely inviting beach, many flock here to visit the famous Hippy Market. Stalls sell colourful kaftans, ethnic jewellery and incense sticks, and there are performances from drummers and didgeridoo players.

Activities for families in Portinatx

Family holidays to Portinatx are mostly about enjoying the pristine beaches but if you can lure the family away from the sea and sand, there are plenty of other family-friendly attractions to keep all ages entertained.

• Beach days: With their sparkling-blue shallow waters and soft sand, the beaches of Portinatx are perfect for families. With its extensive facilities, S’Arenal Gros is the biggest and the best suited to families with young children.

• Water sports: The calm, crystal-clear waters of Portinatx make it an excellent spot for paddleboarding, kayaking and pedallos. Snorkelling is particularly popular, thanks to the clear visibility. Many local businesses offer equipment rental and lessons for beginners.

• Boat trips: Set sail with the family for a great day at sea. Operators offer various boat tour options but the glass-bottomed boat trips are a highlight of Portinatx holidays for most children.

• Other activities: For a bit of light-hearted competition, challenge the family to a round of crazy golf at the local course, which is in an elevated position overlooking the bay. If those little legs are getting tired, hop on the cheery tourist train that trundles through beautiful scenery, with the option to jump off at certain points.

Free things to do in Portinatx

Even if you’re holidaying on a budget, there are still plenty of things to enjoy in Portinatx without needing to pull out your credit card.

• Beach hopping: There are so many beautiful beaches in the area, why not check them all out? Without spending a single Euro you can swim, sunbathe, or simply enjoy the stunning views.

• Walking: Free-to-access coastal paths surrounding Portinatx offer great walking. The panoramas on the Moscarter lighthouse route make it a favourite; be sure to stay for the sunset.

• Annual festivals: Ibiza is big on festivals, and the chances are there will be one taking place nearby during your visit. Portinatx celebrates the Fiestas del Carmen in July, which features a variety of events, live music and family-friendly activities free of charge.

Wellness in Portinatx

• Spas and wellness centres: Unwind at Barceló Portinatx or Six Senses, two of Portinatx’s top spas, which provide a variety of treatments such as massages, facials and hydrotherapy.

• Yoga and meditation centres: If you're seeking a peaceful place to practise yoga or meditation, Portinatx is the place. Classes for all levels of yoga are offered at the Portinatx Yoga Centre, which take place in beautiful natural surroundings.

Nature and outdoor activities in Portinatx

• Caving: For an extraordinary adventure, discover the caves in the Portinatx area. On a guided tour, you can learn about the geological past while exploring these impressive underground formations.

• Cycling: Whether you're seeking a relaxing coastal ride or a more challenging hill climb, the quiet roads and scenic trails around Portinatx make it a great destination for cycling.