Cala Carbó

Knowing where to look is half the battle when it comes to discovering an unspoilt, peaceful Ibiza beach, so anyone fortunate enough to stumble upon picturesque Cala Carbó will rejoice. A secluded cove tucked away on the island’s west coast – home to world famous sunsets – this low-key spot is a popular locals’ hangout with bundles of white isle charm.

Surrounded by pine-clad rocky cliffs, and with a distinctive crescent shape that’s characterised by golden sand interspersed with small pebbles, Cala Carbó paints a postcard-worthy scene. It’s helped along by the smattering of traditional fisherman’s huts at one end of the shore and a jetty that’s used for both fishing or launching yourself face first into the Med, desire dependent.

The rocky shoreline of this Ibiza beach means the aqua-hued water is clear and fabulous for snorkelling, while kids also enjoy clambering and hopping over the gently undulating crags. Meanwhile, parents can relax on one of the beach’s comfy sun loungers, seeking shade beneath the retro-inspired straw parasols.

Who goes there?
Thanks to shallow, pristine waters, the possibility of coastline adventures, and a relatively diminutive size, Cala Carbó is a favourite Ibiza beach among families. Locals love it here too, often dropping by with a bocadillo for a beach picnic sans tourists or revelling in a leisurely family lunch at one of the laid-back restaurants.

Best time to go?
Cala Carbó glows in the late afternoon, when the sun is beginning to dip in the sky, casting golden rays across the tips of peaceful waves. It’s great at sunset too, although the sun often disappears behind the cliffs and out of view once it nears the horizon. Swim out past the jutting rocks or climb to the top of the small cliffs that frame the cove to get an unobscured look at the last light of day.

Where to eat and drink
Restaurant Balneari Cala Carbó is a relaxed chiringuito in every sense. Set directly on the Ibiza beach, pull up a pew on a plastic seat, bury your toes in the sand, and tuck into an unassuming feast of paella and sangria. Fish is also caught fresh here every day. It’s a similar story at neighbouring Restaurante Can Vicent, another family-run seafood restaurant without pretension. Needless to say, the smell of freshly grilled fish is likely to get your nose twitching at some point during the day and resistance is futile – you may as well settle in for a few hours of authentic Balearic bliss.

White Ibiza loves
Es Vedrá, the statuesque rock that’s become synonymous with Ibiza’s spiritual side is a short drive south of Cala Carbó, and it looks particularly majestic cast against a liquid sky at dusk. Spend the day resting, swimming and enjoying the calm atmosphere at Cala Carbó, then head to nearby Ibiza beach, Cala d’Hort, for unparalleled sunset views. It’s often busy here, for obvious reasons, so park at the top of the hill and either walk across the clifftops, waiting till Es Vedrá appears like magic before you, or walk down to the beach itself and take a seat on the cooling sand.