Ibiza routes for second-time visitors
Already done Formentera and Es Vedrà? Here's where Ibiza locals take their boats—secret coves, hidden rocks, and routes tourists miss.
First visit vs. second visit
First visit
- ▸Formentera (Ses Illetes)
- ▸Es Vedrà from afar
- ▸Cala Conta
- ▸Sunset at Café del Mar
Postcard perfection. Everyone does this, and for good reason.
Second visit (locals)
- ▸Ses Balandres (hidden rock formations)
- ▸Cala Xarraca (north coast peace)
- ▸Tagomago Island circumnavigation
- ▸Atlantis (Sa Pedrera) cove
Quieter, weirder, more memorable.
Routes locals love (and tourists miss)
North Coast: Cala Xarraca & Cala d'en Serra
Why go: Tourists skip the north. Locals know it's stunning.
Highlights:
- Cala Xarraca: Turquoise water, rocky cliffs, zero crowds
- Cala d'en Serra: Small beach with boho bar (Las Dalias vibe)
- Snorkeling around Punta Grossa rocks
- Lunch at El Bigotes or Cala San Vicente
Captain's notes: This route feels like Croatia, not Ibiza. If you want quiet and natural beauty, this is it. Best in June or September when tourists stick to the south.
Tagomago Island Full Loop
Why go: Private island with no buildings. Pristine anchorages.
Highlights:
- Circumnavigate the island (20 min)
- Anchor on the south side (protected, clear water)
- Snorkeling on the east cliffs (grouper and octopus)
- Swim through sea caves (dinghy or strong swimmers)
Captain's notes: Tagomago is Ibiza's secret weapon. No beach clubs, no crowds, just nature. Feels like you've discovered it yourself.
Atlantis (Sa Pedrera) + Es Vedrà Close-Up
Why go: Combine the iconic (Es Vedrà) with the hidden (Atlantis).
Highlights:
- Atlantis stone quarry cove (surreal carved rocks)
- Anchor 50m offshore, swim/dinghy to shore
- Circle Es Vedrà rock up close (not just from Cala d'Hort)
- Optional: Cala Llentrisca (locals-only beach)
Captain's notes: Atlantis is Instagram famous now, but arriving by boat keeps it special. Morning is best—afternoon sun can be harsh.
Ses Balandres & Punta Galera Sunset
Why go: Rock formations tourists never see. Locals' sunset spot.
Highlights:
- Ses Balandres rock towers (otherworldly geology)
- Punta Galera flat rock platform (cliff jumping for the brave)
- Anchor offshore, watch sunset with no one around
- Return via San Antonio Bay (lights on the water)
Captain's notes: This is where Ibiza locals take their own boats. Zero beach clubs, zero tourists. Just nature and magic hour light.
East Coast: Aguas Blancas to Cala Boix
Why go: Hippie Ibiza vibes. Untouched beaches.
Highlights:
- Aguas Blancas: Nudist beach with red cliffs
- Cala Boix: Black sand beach, local seafood shack
- Pou des Lleó: Tiny cove, almost always empty
- Snorkeling around rocky outcrops
Captain's notes: This coast has no glitz. It's the Ibiza of the 70s—raw, natural, and honest. If you hate crowds, you'll love this.
What locals do (vs. tourists)
They avoid Cala Conta on weekends
Tourists flock there Saturday/Sunday. Locals go midweek mornings or skip it entirely for quieter spots like Cala Salada.
They anchor farther out
Tourists crowd the shore. Locals anchor 100–150m out—better views, fewer boats, same water.
They bring real food
Beach clubs are for tourists. Locals pack Ibicencan sobrassada, tomato bread, and cold beer from local markets.
They go north in summer, south in shoulder season
Summer heat makes north coast refreshing. September/October south coast is empty and stunning.
They book boats for Tuesday–Thursday
Weekends are peak price and crowded. Midweek charters are calmer and often better value.
They never rush Formentera
Tourists try to hit 3 beaches in one day. Locals pick one anchorage, stay all day, enjoy the moment.
How to plan your second visit
- 1.
Tell your captain you've been before. We'll skip the tourist stuff and show you the real Ibiza.
- 2.
Go midweek if possible. Tuesday–Thursday = fewer boats, better anchorages, calmer vibes.
- 3.
Try the north coast in summer. Tourists stay south. You'll have whole beaches to yourself.
- 4.
Book in June or September. Same great weather, half the crowds, more flexible pricing.
- 5.
Request the same captain. Our regulars book Carlos, Miguel, or Ana by name. They remember you.
Ready to explore deeper?
Tell us what you've already seen, and we'll design a route that shows you the Ibiza locals know.