Location: In the little resort of Cala Tarida, 10 minutes drive from San José, 15 minutes drive from San Antonio
Facilities: Sunbeds, daybeds, parasols, restaurants, bars, shops, lifeguards, public toilets, disabled access (though not impossible with the help of the lifeguards, it is difficult owing to the very steep access routes at either end of the beach)
Activities: Jet ski hire, boat hire, hire of efoil boards and other water toys, diving school
Size: 900 metres long; 25 metres wide
Getting there: Reached by car, follow signposts from San Antonio or San José. Parking in dedicated spaces and along the streets leading to either end of the beach. There are quite a few places, but in high season and on weekends, it can be difficult to find one. From San Antonio and along San Antonio Bay, in the summer season from May to October, you can also catch the bus (find timetables here) or small ferries - a beautiful way to discover the coastline of Ibiza.
The beach
A sheltered bay at the tiny resort of Cala Tarida with the longest and widest beach of fine white sand on this side of the island.
The clean, clear waters over a sandy bottom are shallow to quite a way out on the right, deeper and rockier to the left. The colours of the sea here are truly magnificent: turquoise, azure blue and emerald green. Although very much a family beach, swimmers (especially children) should be aware of underwater rocks and, depending on the weather conditions, waves and currents.
Behind the beach are well-urbanised hills with a large hotel club just behind, the convenience of this making Cala Tarida a popular family beach. There is also a large shop at the roundabout on the main road where you can buy inflatables, snorkel gear and beach balls if you wish to do more than simply sunbathing.
If you're looking for a solitary spot, there are some small hidden coves north of the beach with a selection of interestingly shaped rocks to swim out to.
Beach bars and restaurants
Some beach bars, beach clubs and restaurants right on the beach enable you to choose anything from a snack to a three-course meal or an exclusive gourmet dinner at sunset.
Nearby hotels and apartments
In the little resort of Cala Tarida, you'll find a some large hotel clubs on the hill behind the beach and several small apartment complexes. Furthermore, there is a good choice of lovely holiday villas nearby.
The resort San Antonio Bay is only 5 km away, with numerous hotels and apartments for all budgets.
