Santa Eulalia del Río holidays

How to reach Santa Eulalia

• Flight time: Flights to Santa Eulalia arrive at Ibiza Airport, the principal airport serving the island. Direct flights to Ibiza from London and other major UK airports take roughly 2 hours 30 minutes.

• Transfer time: The quickest way to get to Santa Eulalia from the airport is by taxi, shuttle or car, which take 25 to 30 minutes. Regular buses travel from the airport to Ibiza Town, from where you can connect to Santa Eulalia.

• Price: A standard taxi from Ibiza Airport to Santa Eulalia costs approximately €50–€60, while the airport bus to Ibiza Town costs around €4, plus the onward connection.

Best time to visit Santa Eulalia

The lovely town of Santa Eulalia is on Ibiza’s east coast and enjoys nice weather throughout the year. The ideal time to travel, however, is subjective and dependent on what you want to accomplish during a visit.

• June to August will provide you with lots of sun and blue skies, bustling beaches and a lively nightlife. Temperatures hover between 25°C and 30°C, which is the perfect time for beachgoers but prices will be inflated.

• September and October is arguably the best time to visit, when you’ll encounter fewer tourists and temperatures of between 20°C and 27°C. The sea is still lovely and warm, and rain is minimal. There are also some great deals on accommodation at this time.

• November to March is pretty quiet as most nightlife venues close. Temperatures are reasonably mild (12°C to 18°C) and the sun still shines for 6 to 7 hours each day, although rainfall increases. This is the best time to travel if you're seeking a peaceful retreat from the UK winter and want to explore a bit more.

• April to May spring arrives, a beautiful time to see the island in bloom and enjoy some early summer sunshine without the peak crowds. Rainfall is light, with comfortable temperatures ranging from 17°C to 22°C.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Spanish is the official language in Ibiza, but you’ll also hear Catalan. English is widely understood, so communication is not an issue.

• Local habits and customs: Santa Eulalia is a fairly laid-back, friendly town. Shops and restaurants may close from 2 pm to 5 pm for siesta, and it’s commonplace for evening meals to start from 9 pm.

• Currency: The Euro is used in Ibiza. It’s very easy to locate ATMs, and most businesses accept major credit cards.

• Getting around: The inexpensive bus service is an efficient way to get around the island; single fares start at around €3. Consider hiring a car if you want to explore more remote parts of the island.

• Electricity and plug types: The standard voltage is 220 volts. UK travellers will need an adaptor for continental-style two-pin round plugs.

• Time zone: Ibiza follows Central European Time, which is 1 hour ahead of GMT. Clocks move forward an hour in late March and back again in October to comply with Daylight Saving Time.

Beaches in Santa Eulalia

Santa Eulalia is renowned for its stunning beaches, making it a perfect destination for sun lovers and water enthusiasts. With crystal-clear waters and soft golden sands, the beaches here provide an idyllic setting for relaxation, recreation, and family fun.

Playa de Santa Eulalia

The main beach, Playa de Santa Eulalia, is a beautiful stretch of sand that offers a range of amenities and activities. With its calm waters, this beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying a leisurely day by the sea. The promenade is lined with beach bars and restaurants, where visitors can indulge in delicious local cuisine while taking in the stunning coastal views. The beach is well-equipped with sun loungers, umbrellas, and lifeguards during the peak season, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for families and sunbathers alike.

Cala Llonga

Just a short drive from Santa Eulalia, Cala Llonga is a picturesque beach known for its stunning natural surroundings. This family-friendly beach features shallow waters, making it ideal for children and less experienced swimmers. With plenty of space for sunbathing and shaded areas under palm trees, Cala Llonga offers a relaxed atmosphere for visitors looking to unwind. The beach is also home to various water sports, including paddleboarding and kayaking, for those seeking a bit of adventure.

Discover more of Ibiza by exploring our holiday deals to Cala Llonga.

Es Canar

Es Canar is another beautiful beach located a short distance from Santa Eulalia. Known for its laid-back vibe, Es Canar features a lovely sandy cove with calm waters that are perfect for swimming and snorkelling. The beach is bordered by a charming promenade with beachside restaurants and shops, providing a delightful spot to enjoy a meal or a refreshing drink. Es Canar is also famous for its weekly hippy market, where visitors can explore unique crafts and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Check out our holidays to Es Canar for another incredible experience.

Cala Pada

For those looking to escape the crowds, Cala Pada is a hidden gem worth exploring. This smaller, quieter beach offers a peaceful retreat with beautiful scenery and crystal-clear waters. It's perfect for those wanting to relax, read a book, or take a gentle swim away from the busier beaches. The natural beauty and tranquil setting make Cala Pada an ideal choice for a serene beach day.

With its beautiful beaches and inviting waters, Santa Eulalia is a fantastic destination for beach lovers. Whether you prefer the lively atmosphere of Playa de Santa Eulalia or the tranquil setting of Cala Pada, you’ll find plenty of options to enjoy the sun, sea, and sand during your Santa Eulalia holidays.

Local dishes in Santa Eulalia

One of the delights of Santa Eulalia holidays is the food and drink scene, a delightful mix of traditional Spanish dishes, Ibizan specialities and Mediterranean-inspired flavours.

Some typical dishes

• Bullit de Peix: A traditional fish stew often served with a side of rice cooked in the broth, giving it a rich flavour.

• Flaó: This traditional Ibizan cheesecake, flavoured with mint and anise, is a must-try dessert that captures the island’s unique culinary traditions.

Tapas dishes

• Calamares a la Romana: Deep-fried squid rings, crisp on the outside and tender inside.

• Croquetas: Creamy, deep-fried croquettes that come with various fillings, such as ham, chicken or cod.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Frito Mallorquín: A hearty dish made with a mix of fried seafood, typically including cuttlefish, prawns and local fish, combined with vegetables and herbs.

• Bacalao a la Mallorquina: Salted cod prepared with a rich tomato and vegetable sauce, giving it a distinct Mediterranean flavour.

Sweets and desserts

• Greixonera: A sweet and comforting Ibizan pudding, similar to a bread pudding, made with leftover ensaimadas, eggs, sugar and cinnamon.

• Ensaimada: A spiral-shaped pastry dusted with icing sugar, perfect for a sweet treat. Often enjoyed at breakfast with coffee.

Local drinks

• Hierbas Ibicencas: A herbal liqueur made from local herbs with a unique aniseed flavour. It's a popular digestif drink.

• Sangria de Cava: A refreshing, bubbly twist on classic sangria, made with sparkling wine instead of red wine, perfect for sipping on a warm afternoon by the sea.

Best things to do in Santa Eulalia

As one of Ibiza’s more laid-back resorts, holidays to Santa Eulalia are perfect for those who want to relax without the crazy party scene. The town offers a mix of culture, nature and family activities, with a touch of sophistication.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Es Canar coast road: A short distance outside Santa Eulalia, the coastal road to Es Canar presents stunning vistas. Experience the beauty of sunrise as the sky turns shades of orange and pink illuminating the sea below.

The best districts

• The marina: The beating heart of Santa Eulalia, the chic marina boasts luxury yachts, stylish bars and a wide selection of dining options. It’s a delightful spot for an evening stroll before settling in for a waterside meal.

• Paseo Maritimo: Running alongside the beach, the promenade is dotted with shops, cafés and restaurants. This spot is perfect for soaking up some rays and relaxing over a drink, while watching the world go by.

• Siesta: Across the river, this residential area is known for its peaceful atmosphere and hidden coves that are definitely worth exploring.

Historical monuments

• Puig de Missa Church: This simple yet beautiful 16th-century church sits atop a hill and provides sweeping views of the town and coastline. The walk up is lovely, taking you through narrow, winding streets.

Museums

• Ethnographic Museum of Ibiza: Close to Puig de Missa, the museum’s exhibits of traditional clothing, tools and household items tell the story of how the people of Iberia lived centuries ago.

Day trips in the area

• Ibiza Town: A day out in Ibiza Town has so much to offer. Explore the UNESCO-listed Dalt Vila, the old fortified town with historical architecture, a lovely cathedral and fantastic views over the harbour. Then peruse the boutiques and galleries that line the cobbled streets. Don’t forget to explore our holiday packages to Ibiza Town — another fantastic destination waiting for you.

• Formentera: From Santa Eulalia, you can take a ferry to the serene island of Formentera, which is famous for its turquoise waters and pristine beaches. Enjoy a day relaxing on this stunning island sunbathing, snorkelling or cycling. While you’re considering Ibiza, take a peek at our holidays to Formentera for more inspiration

Activities for families in Santa Eulalia

Santa Eulalia is one of the most family-friendly spots in Ibiza. From sandy beaches to exhilarating attractions, there’s plenty to keep children of all ages entertained.

• Beaches: Santa Eulalia’s main beach has soft sand and calm, shallow waters that are perfect for kids to play safely under the watchful eye of lifeguards. There are also beachside play areas to keep them happy.

• Aquariums and zoos: In nearby San Antonio, the unique Cap Blanc Aquarium is set in a cave. As well as viewing the diverse marine life, children will adore the feeding shows.

• Boat trips: Take the kids on a glass-bottom boat from Santa Eulalia’s marina, where they can view fish through glass panels. Alternatively, they might prefer a pirate-themed cruise.

• Adventure activities: Just outside Santa Eulalia, Acrobosc Ibiza offers a thrilling day out for families who love to be active. The treetop zip lines and rope-bridge circuits are designed with various ages in mind.

• Water sports: Santa Eulalia’s calm waters make it easy for older children to have a go at water sports. Kayaks, paddleboards and small sailboats are available for hire off the beach.

• Horse riding: Stables close to Santa Eulalia offer guided horseback rides for all ages and skill levels, which take you along scenic trails and along the beach.

• Cycling: Santa Eulalia's relatively flat streets are great for family bike rides; set off on routes that take you through olive groves, pine forests and along the coast. Many local shops hire out bikes for about €10 per day.

Free things to do in Santa Eulalia

There’s no need to bust your holiday budget to have a great time in Santa Eulalia. The area has so many free experiences to enjoy, catering to all tastes.

• Hiking trails: It doesn't cost anything to go hiking around Santa Eulalia. The hilly terrain offers free access to trails ranging from easy walks to challenging treks. Walks like the one to Puig de Missa, where the view from the top is your reward, or the coastal path to Cala Llonga are both popular.

• Local festivals: Santa Eulalia celebrates various events throughout the year, including summer fiestas and local saints’ days. If you’re in town during one of these festivals, you can enjoy parades, fireworks and traditional dancing without spending a cent.

• Local markets: Each Wednesday, neighbouring Es Canar hosts the island’s biggest and oldest market, Hippy Market Punta Arabí, where stalls sell everything from handmade jewellery to vintage clothing. It costs nothing to browse, and you’re likely to get the opportunity to indulge in free samples of local foods.

• Explore the marina: Simple, and without any charge, just wandering around Santa Eulalia’s marina is a pleasure in itself. Check out the beautiful yachts and watch the local fishermen bring in their catch.