We can’t ignore the fact that in many people’s minds, Ibiza is an island of super-clubs and all-night parties. However, if your clubbing days are over and you now have children in tow, Ibiza can be a fabulous destination, with a multitude of activities for families to enjoy. Here we offer a potted guide of Ibiza’s family-friendly activities and attractions.
When to visit We would recommend either early in the summer season before the Mediterranean summer really warms up, or alternatively, towards the end when it is beginning to cool down and the summer crowds begin to return home. Winter and autumn also hold their charms as Ibiza sees 300 days of sunshine a year thanks to the wonderful climate. So, while it may not be warm enough to swim in the sea – although there are plenty of hardy souls who do! – the lively towns and villages and beautiful scenery make it a perfect place to visit all year round.
Where to stay While Ibiza Town (Eivissa) and bustling San Antoni may not be the best choice to stay for families with small children, they undoubtedly hold huge appeal for older teenagers who can venture out and enjoy the vibrant nightlife. Younger ones, however, may also enjoy a stroll through the cobbled streets, along the ramparts of Dalt Vila, or seeing the luxury yachts in the nearby marina.
All the same, Ibiza offers numerous serene locations on the island that are perfectly suited for families seeking a quieter holiday or holiday home.
Santa Eulalia would be one of our first recommendations for family-friendly fun. It’s close enough to Ibiza Town that older members of the family – older teenagers or young adults – can find their way to enjoy bustling nights out, but quiet enough for the younger ones to enjoy endless hours playing on the white-sand beaches and in the crystal-clear waters on the relatively quiet beaches. Notably, the Platja de Santa Eulalia is the first smoke-free beach on the island. There are also a host of activities to participate in away from the beach, including the 12 cycle paths and 8 hiking trails for active families to explore. The Acrobosc adventure park is also a challenge for the brave, with tree-top ziplining and rope-climbing.
Another great area for families is Portinatx. Located on the northern coast of Ibiza, it’s a fantastic destination for families seeking a more peaceful location. This charming village boasts beautiful sandy beaches with calm, gently sloping waters, making it an ideal spot for children to splash around and play safely. The relaxed atmosphere and family-friendly amenities in Portinatx mean that children are well catered for, with beachside cafes and restaurants offering child-friendly options. Additionally, the village provides various outdoor activities suitable for all family members, including hiking trails, snorkelling excursions and boat trips, allowing families to create lasting memories together in this beautiful, natural setting.
Over on the western coast is Cala Tarida, which of course is well-served with wonderful shallow beaches, however, there are also coves and rocks nearby that offer superb opportunities for snorkelling or try exploring nearby attractions like the fascinating Aquarium Cap Blanc, which provides an educational and entertaining experience for children. For nature lovers in the family, part of the Ses Salines Natural Park is located close by, a remarkable conservation area shared with the neighbouring island of Formentera. The protected area makes a fascinating and unique excursion, offering glimpses of historic salt flats alongside beaches like Ses Salines, Es Codolar, and Es Cavallet. Moreover, it highlights the ecological significance of the underwater realm, particularly the renowned Posidonia oceanica, or sea grass, meadows, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These seagrass meadows are vital to the island’s ecosystem and are considered of global significance thanks to the amount of carbon dioxide they absorb. The park is also renowned as a favoured stopover and nesting site for a multitude of migratory bird species.
There is so much to see and do in Ibiza for everyone, and families are particularly well served. It is the perfect beach holiday, but with much more to offer besides. With the fabulous, fresh local food that is also served around every corner, there are few better places to bring young and older children.
Are you thinking about buying a holiday home or permanent residence in Ibiza? Our local real estate experts would love to chat to you about the options available, please don’t hesitate to give us a call.
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