Cala Xarraca
Much of the world makes a beeline for the White Isle for those glorious ocean-licked shores, and so they should, considering that Ibiza is home to an extraordinary number of peerless, picturesque spots. We could recommend one bay per week for the next 12 months, and yet we’d still have more Balaeric beach bait in the bag.
Previously tipping the sheltered coastlines and enticing tranquillity found at the Port of Sant Miguel, we stick to the unhurried pace of the North for our next outing: Cala Xarraca. Regularly making its way into lists which offer routes to more hidden corners of Ibiza, this under-the-radar treasure inhabits a spot at the top of the pack for true escapism.
Cala Xarraca is a mere 90 metres long and 15 metres wide, making it one of the most secluded shores on the White Isle. Locals will tell you to head here early for a better chance at capturing a coveted spot on the sands, with promise of stunning views, crystalline waters, and craggy red cliffs and pebbly pathways for late afternoon explores. Those who take great pleasure in observing marine life will find Cala Xarraca to be an ideal spot for snorkelling, and those in need of rejuvenation should head for the natural mud bath to the left of the bay, which many say has healing properties for the body.
Basking in the sun for the best part of a day can leave us parched and peckish, and the good news is there’s no need to venture far to quench both. Home to the fittingly-named restaurant Cala Xarraca, fresh fish and rice dishes with a chilled beverage from this family-run favourite is sure to satisfy before sunset.
If a sense of solitude is what you seek, you’ll find Cala Xarraca 3.5 kilometres from Portinatx, nestled between S’illot d’es Rencli and the mountain of Puig de Sa Xarraca. Found beyond a steep access road, it’s recommended to buckle up and arrive by car, however, you can also make your way there by bus.