A Trip to Port de Sant Miquel Beach, Ibiza

The different types of beaches we find along Ibiza’s coast make it interesting and varied. Mainly there are coves, a small beach that often forms around the mouth of a stream or watercourse. Some of these coves, in days gone by, were used as natural harbours, precisely the case in Port de Sant Miquel, a lovely beach that lies at the foot of the hilltop village of the same name. Here we find all kinds of activities for the full enjoyment of summer.

Join us as we explore this small corner of Ibiza’s northern coast

In and around Port de Sant Miquel

This delightful enclave is located in the northeast of Ibiza, three kilometers from the village of Sant Miquel. The magic of its landscape resides in a unique structure of its bay, which contains a sea rock called Illa des Bosc. At some remove from the main beach, shore and rock are joined by a spit of sand. Because of this natural feature, there are many quiet corners to settle into beyond the reaches of the main beach. This last-mentioned area is replete with all types of services: restaurants, hotels, souvenir shops, bars, etc. all built around the broad beach but without eclipsing the landscape. The sandy shoreline is wide enough to accommodate a large number of beachgoers and even has a ramp for small boats. This beach is usually frequented by families since it is calm and safe for children.

If you venture into the woods along the path that sets off from the left of the shore, you will come to Caló des Moltons, a tiny fisherman’s cove with a mesmerizing seafloor. Here we find Utopía, a bohemian sort of venue that will make your time on the cove very mellow. If you’re the brave sort, we encourage you to carry on along the small wooded trails until you come to the next beach, Pas de s’Illa, known as the access point to Illa des Bosc. You can also reach this spot by car if you take the left turning towards Na Xamena as you approach Port de Sant Miquel. Near this beach we find places enshrined by local history: the Torre des Molar (a watch tower) set on the cliffs of Pas de s’Illa and the cave of Can Marçà, on the northern part of the beach, a secret meeting point for smugglers in bygone days. Finally, it’s useful to know that a regular boat service from this beach will take you to Benirràs, the next beach over, which is often frustrating to reach by land as it is extensively visited.

What to Do

Get ready because, at Port de Sant Miquel, there’s a lot to do besides sunbathing, playing paddle ball or going for a swim. You can rent small boats and take a ride around the bay. Kayaks are also available if you prefer that sport. If you enjoy snorkeling, Caló de Moltons is your best bet with its beautiful rocky sea bed where you can swim among Ibiza’s marine species. Want more? How about visiting Pas de s’Illa where you can do Paddle Surf (SUP) and visit the tiny coves and boat huts that dot the coastline. If your visit is during the colder months, why not take a hike up to Torre des Molar to enjoy the breathtaking views from the cliff top, and, while you’re up there, have a snoop around this impressive medieval fortification. It’s also a grand idea to visit the Cave of Can Marçà, a unique natural setting where lighting and waterfalls enhance the rock formations. Don’t forget to take a photo of the view from the cave entrance, a spot with the best panoramic vista north of Port de Sant Miquel. Last but not least, take the small boat to Benirràs, a beach that’s ideal for watching the sunset in all its splendor while enjoying the sound of background drumming.

What to Eat

The north of the island is where many of the best traditional family-run restaurants are located, especially in places like Sant Miquel with its small-village charm. In the port, an extension of this charm can be found at the restaurant Port de Balansat, a long-standing family establishment, specializing in ‘bullit de peix’ (stewed fish) and other mainstays of local gastronomy. This restaurant is well known across the island and is probably one of the best for this type of cuisine. If you prefer to eat something simpler in a relaxed atmosphere, why not try Can Tothom or Can Pascual, two restaurants with the soul of a beach bar where you’ll find a wide choice of food at reasonable prices, both right on the beach. Finally, don’t forget to drop in at Caló des Multons on Fridays or Saturdays. The Utopía beach bar will surprise you with their fabulous grilled sardines, a great summer dish.