Looking for short, scenic walks on Ibiza that showcase the island’s turquoise water and wild coastline without a long climb? This guide highlights several easy-to-moderate coastal hikes that are ideal for day walkers, families, and anyone who wants sea views without technical terrain.
Below you’ll find concise route descriptions, practical tips (parking, difficulty, time), a quick comparison table, recommended gear, and safety notes so you can pick the right trail and plan efficiently. For navigation and seasonal advice, jump to planning and safety.
Featured easy coastal routes
San Antonio → Cala Salada (round trip)
Distance: ~3–4 km round trip. Difficulty: Easy. Time: 1–1.5 hours.
This gentle walk starts near San Antonio and follows marked paths through low scrub and pine shade down to Cala Salada, a small rocky beach with clear water. The route offers regular sea glimpses and gentle ups-and-downs rather than steep climbs good for families or a quick afternoon outing. (Route commonly listed on local hiking guides.)
Cala Conta → Cala Codolar → Cueva Cala Conta (circular)
Distance: ~6.8 km circular. Difficulty: Easy–Moderate. Time: 2–3 hours.
A longer loop that combines headland viewpoints with beach access and a small sea cave near Cala Conta. Expect exposed sections where the wind can be strong and short rocky patches near coves. Bring water and a camera this trail has many classic sunset vantage points.
Playa Talamanca → Acantilados (out-and-back)
Distance: ~6.3 km out-and-back. Difficulty: Moderate. Time: 2–2.5 hours.
Starting from Playa Talamanca, this route follows cliffs (“acantilados”) with sweeping views over Ibiza Town and Formentera on clear days. The trail is longer and a bit rockier than the shortest walks; suitable for walkers comfortable with uneven ground and exposed shoreline.
Cala Tarida → Cala Codolar
Distance: variable (short circular or linear options). Difficulty: Easy. Time: 1–2 hours.
Short coastal paths link Cala Tarida and Cala Codolar through low cliffs and small bays. It’s an accessible option if you want frequent beach stops and minimal elevation change good for mixed-ability groups.
Cala Llonga → Castellar II (family-friendly)
Distance: short local loop. Difficulty: Very easy. Time: 30–60 minutes.
This short route around the town of Cala Llonga is ideal for families with small children or anyone preferring paved/flat paths. Expect cafés and shops close by, and easy public transport connections.
Quick comparison
| Trail | Distance (km) | Difficulty | Est. time | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| San Antonio → Cala Salada | 3–4 | Easy | 1–1.5 hrs | Short walks, beach stops |
| Cala Conta loop (Cala Codolar / Cueva) | 6.8 | Easy–Moderate | 2–3 hrs | Scenic viewpoints, beaches |
| Playa Talamanca → Acantilados | 6.3 | Moderate | 2–2.5 hrs | Cliff views, photography |
| Cala Tarida → Cala Codolar | 1–3 (route options) | Easy | 1–2 hrs | Beaches, short coastal links |
| Cala Llonga → Castellar II | Short | Very easy | 30–60 mins | Families, easy strolls |
Practical tips planning and safety
- Best time to hike: Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. Early morning or late afternoon are ideal for summer to avoid heat and strong sun.
- Navigation: Many coastal paths are well trodden but not always signposted. Download an offline map or follow a local trail listing before you go.
- Terrain: Expect rocky sections, loose gravel and exposed cliff edges; wear grippy shoes and watch footing on descents to beaches.
- Facilities and transport: Cala Llonga and San Antonio have the most services (cafés, bus stops). More remote coves have limited facilities carry water and snacks.
- Sun and wind: Ibiza’s sun is strong even on breezy days. Hat, sunscreen, and a windbreaker are recommended.
Recommended gear
- Sturdy walking shoes or trail sandals with grip
- Light daypack with 1–2 liters of water per person (more in summer)
- Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, SPF 30+ sunscreen
- Light emergency layer (windbreaker) and basic first-aid items
- Phone with offline map or GPX file, portable charger
When to choose which trail
If you want a short, restful beach walk with minimal ascent, pick San Antonio → Cala Salada or the Cala Tarida connections. For longer scenic outings with several viewpoints and beaches, the Cala Conta loop delivers the best variety. Choose Playa Talamanca → Acantilados for dramatic cliff panoramas and Cala Llonga for a relaxed family-friendly option. Before you go, double-check the comparison table and pack items from recommended gear.
FAQs
How difficult are Ibiza coastal trails for families with small children?
Most coastal routes are easy to easy–moderate, with short rocky patches and occasional exposure near cliffs. Choose very short, flat options like Cala Llonga → Castellar II and keep a wide margin from edges. For mixed ages, do out-and-backs so you can turn around early if kids tire. Pack snacks, water, and sun protection to keep stops comfortable.
What gear and water amount should I pack for summer coastal walks?
Wear grippy shoes, a hat and sunglasses, and carry SPF 30+ sunscreen, a light windbreaker, first-aid basics, and a fully charged phone with an offline map plus a power bank. Bring at least 1–2 liters of water per person; in hot weather aim for roughly 0.5–1 liter per hour of walking. Add salty snacks to replace electrolytes. A small towel is handy for swim stops.
Which Ibiza route offers the best sunset viewpoints without strenuous climbing?
The Cala Conta → Cala Codolar loop has multiple west-facing headlands that light up at sunset with minimal ascent. For an even shorter option, take a brief out-and-back between Cala Tarida and Cala Codolar to reach low, open viewpoints. Arrive early to secure a spot and bring a wind layer. Always keep distance from cliff edges, especially if it’s breezy.
How to navigate poorly signposted coastal paths and use offline maps?
Download an offline map before you set out and load a GPX track from a trusted source if available. Mark key points (start, beach turns, bus stop) and carry a power bank. On the trail, follow obvious footpaths and cairns, avoid cutting near cliff edges, and backtrack if the route becomes unclear. Share your plan and expected return time with a companion.
What should I do if strong wind makes headland sections unsafe?
Turn back immediately and choose a sheltered route (tree-lined inland paths or beach promenades) rather than pushing on. Keep a wide berth from edges, remove hats/loose items that can distract, and use trekking poles or keep a low stance on gusty ground. Check forecasts before departure and reschedule if high winds are predicted. If conditions worsen rapidly, seek cover and wait it out.
Conclusion
Ibiza offers compact coastal hikes that deliver excellent sea views without demanding fitness levels or technical gear. Use the table and route notes above to match a trail to your group and time available, pack sun protection and water, and prefer early or late hiking times in summer. With simple preparation, these paths are a great way to see Ibiza’s coastline beyond the beaches.
