Cala Llenya

Yes, Ibiza has party beaches and yes, it has hard to reach, off-the-beaten-track beaches, but don’t forget that this fair isle provides for everyone, whatever their Ibiza beach niche. In the case of Cala Llenya, nature has whipped up the perfect salty playground for families, and anyone else who enjoys frolicking in the glittering shallows, of course. Rarely overcrowded, it’s a great spot for lazy, sun-drenched days.  

Located just a 15-minute drive from the town of Santa Eulalia on Ibiza’s east coast, Cala Llenya is nestled within a picturesque, pine-clad valley. Trees soar skywards, while down at horizon level a different kind of magic is being conjured. Terracotta rocks tumble into fine white sand before making way for crystal clear water, it’s an Ibiza beach that’s easy on the eye and attention span – hours have been lost languidly lounging here.

All along the wide open shoreline, kids make the most of the lagoon-like conditions, which allow you to wade out some distance before the water reaches waist-depth. As a result, sea games and water sports are commonplace, with snorkelling, windsurfing, and stints aboard a pedalo all high on the holiday hit-list. Back on land and the Ibiza beach itself is broad and ideal for little ones with lots of pent up energy to tear about with abandon. There are shaded areas for lunchtime picnics; sun beds and parasols available to hire; and lifeguards on duty to provide extra peace of mind when you need multiple pairs of eyes to keep up with youthful adventures.

Who goes there?
As mentioned, Cala Llenya is very popular with families but it’s also a hotspot for sports fans, who equally relish the calm conditions and clarity of the water and vast swathes of sand. The Ibiza beach is surrounded by holiday complexes (though feels quite secluded when you’re actually on it), so visiting families often make Cala Llenya their first port of call. Local families also enjoy spending the day here, especially at weekends.

Best time to go?
Often busy but rarely overcrowded, Cala Llenya is a great spot for lazy, sun-drenched days, even in peak summer season. Arrive at the Ibiza beach early to ensure you get a car parking space as these fill up quickly.

Where to eat and drink
Cala Llenya Bar is a wooden chiringuito serving cold drinks and simple snacks like burgers and fresh fish dishes. Their paella is also worth trying but make sure you order that as soon as you arrive on the Ibiza beach for afternoon indulging. There are lots of additional restaurants on the roads surrounding Cala Llenya if you can tear yourself away from the beach.

White Ibiza loves
Embracing the range of activities available here! Have a windsurfing lesson; buy a snorkel and explore the surrounding crags; try your hand at volleyball — there’s plenty to keep everyone busy on this Ibiza beach. Or shun all of that and just soak up an entire day of sunning and swimming and having to try less hard to keep the kids occupied for once. On Sundays, head to the Cala Llenya market that spills out among the surrounding roads. Specialising in crafts, this is one of Ibiza’s less tourist-inspired market offerings that begs for a good rummage.