Cala Gracioneta

Quite possibly Ibiza’s tiniest beach, what Cala Gracioneta lacks in size it makes up for with bucket and spadefuls of charm. A quaint little cove located on the island’s scenic west coast, the Ibiza beach is just a 15-minute walk from San Antonio’s lively centre and yet it offers peace and tranquility in abundance.

Shaded by pine trees whose vibrant, lime green needles are home to cicadas that chirp all day long, Cala Gracioneta is a narrow but deep Ibiza beach that’s characterised by velvety golden sand and crystal clear, aqua waters so pretty that they could have jumped directly from the depths of your imagination. Ensconced by red-hued, rocky crags that change colour depending on the time of day and provide plenty of shelter from wind and currents, Cala Gracioneta is the perfect spot for adults in search of a cooling dip and kids who enjoy climbing up, down and over the rocks before leaping face first into the sea.

Sun loungers are available to hire but there’s also room for more casual beachgoers who prefer to throw down a sarong atop the sand and bring their own, homemade snacks.

Who goes there?
Cala Gracioneta is popular with a young and stylish cosmopolitan crowd who arrive in search of a more exclusive Ibiza beach than neighbouring Cala Gracio. It’s also a favourite among locals who tend to pitch up early to avoid the crowds, and visiting superstar DJs, who take time out from their busy touring schedules at the Mambo Group’s El Chiringuito Cala Gracioneta restaurant.

Best time to go?
There is something particularly special about Cala Gracioneta in the early morning, when the Ibiza beach is relatively free of bronzed bodies and the water is clear and still, with only mellow waves caressing the shore. Undoubtedly the best time to appreciate its natural beauty, it’s also the ideal time to go for an invigorating swim, soundtracked by nature and nature alone. But let’s not forget dusk, because this is the west coast after all. Stay until the sun is setting and you’re rewarded with lavender skies so vivid you can almost smell them, even though the sun itself is out of view.

Where to eat and drink
There is only one restaurant on Cala Gracioneta and it’s a goodie. El Chiringuito Cala Gracioneta specialises in memorable seaside feasts, embodying the soul of alfresco Mediterranean dining. The restaurant spills down over several rocky tiers, culminating with rustic tables dotted in the sand and woven straw lampshades that bob here and there in the breeze. The menu consists of sharing plates, high quality meat and fish cooked on the grill and traditional Spanish dishes like paella. Low-key but luxurious, it’s a place to splurge post splash. Bring your own Ibiza beach picnic or hop over to Cala Gracio for a less extravagant meal.

White Ibiza loves
Heading to Cala Gracioneta as day breaks, in time for an undisturbed swim. It’s like having your own personal swimming pool to wake the senses in. As a treat, you can’t beat having El Chiringuito Cala Gracioneta plates delivered direct to your sunbed, and may as well throw in a jug of icy cold Sangria while you’re there. Olé!