If you're looking for a holiday destination that blends beautiful beaches, rich culture, and a lively atmosphere, chart your course to San Antonio in Ibiza. Also known as Sant Antoni de Portmany, couples and families will find no shortage of things to do both day and night. And at just a 25-minute drive from Ibiza town, this charming village on the west coast is easy to get to.
San Antonio has gorgeous beaches that are emblematic of the Balearic Islands. The urban beach Playa de S’Arenal (Playa San Antonio) is easy to access, has lots of facilities, and is a great place for water sports: surfing, windsurfing, and jet-skiing. Walk the lovely promenade lined with palm trees along the harbour to Es Pouet. North of town, Cala Salada and Cala Saladeta (the smaller of the two) are some of the most beautiful coves on Ibiza. Come for their fine golden sands and turquoise waters, which are ideal for snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Reach these idyllic beaches either via a boat tour from San Antonio or a winding path.
The areas of San Antonio where the Ibiza nightlife scene thrives are the sunset strip and the town's coastline. Find famous clubs like Eden, O Beach, Ibiza Rocks hotel, and Es Paradis which boast the best DJs. Beach bars like Café Mambo and Café del Mar, known for its atmospheric albums, are popular places for chilling out at sunset. The uniquely decorated Pamelas at Hotel Pikes adds British flair to Mediterranean ingredients. To dance atop the Mediterranean, book a boat party that sets off from the town's harbour.
The Balearic Islands brim with farmed and fished like small snails, lobsters, sun-kissed vegetables, and pork - including spiced sobrasada sausage. Head to the renowned local restaurant, Es Ventall, to taste Ibiza gastronomy like bullit de peix (a traditional fish stew) and sofrit pagès (a mixed meat stew). Can Pilot is a traditional restaurant specialising in grilled meats known as asado barbecue. For an alfresco meal on an outdoor terrasse, head to Paseo de las Fuentes a vast square with large fountains.
At the heart of San Antonio, the Forada market has a lively atmosphere where you can converse with locals from the nearby countryside. Held on Saturdays, you'll find a bevy of stalls with honey, wine, and handmade goods from the island. On Fridays from 9am-2pm, pick up farm-fresh fruits and vegetables at the Sant Antoni Agricultural Cooperative to cook with in your luxury villa - or have your Villanovo concierge book a private chef to whip up a delicious meal! 12 minutes from town, San Rafael hosts a craft fair that sells the towns iconic ceramics on Thursday eves from June - September. To experience Ibiza's quintessential hippie culture, visit one of the flower power markets like Punta Arabi and Las Dalias on the east coast.
Located besides S'Arenal beach, the Punta des Molí Cultural Centre has a restored mill, waterwheel, and truli, a typical oil press to witness the primitive way locals made liquid gold. Check their calendar for year-found events and exhibits. In Sant Antoni de Portmany's old town, visit the white-washed San Antonio Church, a former fortress to defend the town from pirates, and the 19th-century Coves Blanques lighthouse.
The small Es Broll valley is a bucolic respite from the town's bustle. Take a meandering drive along the ancient canals that feed the abundant farmland. Nature lovers should head to the architectural site Sa Penya Esbarrada, soaring cliffs known as the "Gates of Heaven" which boast beautiful sunsets and stunning views. Also north of San Antonio along the coastline, witness the unique cave paintings and breathtaking stalagmites and stalactites on a guided tour at the 100,000-year-old Ses Fontanelles Cave.
While some assume San Antonio is just a party spot, it is one of best places for families in Ibiza. Housed in a natural cave, the Cap Blanc Aquarium invites kids to spot Ibiza's typical marine life up close. The Meet the Sea family boat adventure include a snorkelling tour to learn about the ocean's underworld and paella cooked on board. Your Villanovo concierge is happy to book this fun outing for the whole family. Everyone will appreciate the ice cream at Capítulo Dos et Milú after a day at the beach.
Villanovo offers a wealth of luxury villas in Ibiza with direct access to the beach, private swimming pools, a full house staff, and other amenities to ensure a fantastic Ibiza holiday.
Set in the most prized locations, rent our luxury villas in western Ibiza, including San Antonio, Cala Salada, Cala Tarida, Cala Vadella, and San Jose.
Our attentive concierges take care of all the details so you can focus on your Ibiza holidays. This personalised service adapts each trip to your needs, booking everything from boat excursions, private tours, and childcare. Last but not least? Villanovo offers you a beautiful travel diary for each stay in one of our villas. You'll find all our recommendations for restaurants, shops and the best places to visit in Ibiza for great times guaranteed.