Discover the Authentic Side of Ibiza by Rental Car

Ibiza has much more to offer than its famous club scene and crowded beach bars. The island is home to 12 authentic spots: from tranquil coves to hippie markets and winding mountain trails. Rent a car in Ibiza and you’ll discover a completely different island that most tourists miss: quieter, greener, and more authentic than Ibiza’s global image.

Looking for specific sights? Read our guide to 6 unique Ibiza attractions.

On this page:

• Why Explore Ibiza Beyond the Party Scene?

• 12 highlights at a glance

• The 12 highlights of authentic Ibiza

• Driving a Rental Car in Ibiza

• Which car class is best for this route?

• When is Ibiza at its best outside the party scene?

• Frequently Asked Questions About Ibiza

• Rent a car and discover authentic Ibiza

Why Visit Ibiza Beyond the Party Scene?

There are at least three good reasons to see Ibiza from a different perspective. First, there are still plenty of authentic coves where the crowds stay away, such as Cala Salada, Cala Benirrás, and Cala Mastella. Second, the hippie culture that once made the island famous is still very much alive, evident in places like Las Dalias, Atzaró, and the artists’ community of Santa Gertrudis. And third, the mountainous interior around Es Amunts in the north remains largely undiscovered by day-trippers, making it one of the best places to experience the island in peace and quiet.

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The 12 Highlights of Authentic Ibiza

Ibiza is so much more than just the island of parties and beach clubs. If you look beyond the famous coastline, you’ll discover an island with hidden coves, authentic villages, and a green, rolling interior that almost no one expects. From crystal-clear waters to centuries-old traditions and quiet country roads: Ibiza reveals a completely different side to those who take the time to truly explore it. The 12 highlights below offer a good glimpse of that other side of the island, along with practical tips to help you make the most of your visit, such as where to park. We’ve also put together a comprehensive guide to the various parking rules across Europe.

1. Cala Salada + Cala Saladeta – Turquoise Gems

Two of Ibiza’s most beautiful coves, with crystal-clear turquoise water and none of the crowds found on the south coast.

These two adjacent coves near Sant Antoni are among the clearest on the island. Cala Salada is slightly larger and has a beach club, while Cala Saladeta is smaller and quieter, accessible via a short path over the rocks. The water is remarkably calm and clear, ideal for snorkeling. The coves are sheltered between rock formations and pine trees, giving them a secluded, natural feel.

• Parking: Paid parking right next to Cala Salada; limited capacity during peak season.

• Best time to visit: early in the morning, before 10:00 a.m., to secure a spot.

• Note: Be sure to arrive very early in July/August; otherwise, the parking lot will be full and you’ll have to walk quite a distance from the main road.

2. Cala d’Hort + Mirador Es Vedrà – Mystical Sunset

The iconic view of the mythical rocky island of Es Vedrà makes this one of the most photographed spots in Ibiza.

Cala d'Hort is a quiet beach with a direct view of Es Vedrà, the rocky island shrouded in legends and stories. From the beach itself or from the mirador a little higher up the road, you’ll enjoy a spectacular panorama, especially at sunset. The beach itself is relatively small, with two seafood restaurants right behind it. The atmosphere is relaxed and less commercial than the larger beaches.

• Parking: Free parking along the access road.

• Best time to visit: late afternoon through sunset, for the best light on Es Vedrà.

• Tip: The lookout point along the road just before the beach is often quieter than the beach itself and offers the same view.

3. Cala Benirrás – Sunday Drum Circle at sunset

The legendary beach where drummers gather every Sunday at sunset for a spontaneous, hippie-style ritual.

Located on the north coast, surrounded by green hills and featuring a distinctive rock in the bay, Benirrás is best known for its Sunday drum circle at sunset. Apart from that, it’s a quiet, picturesque beach with fine sand and clear water. There are a few simple beach bars. The bay is sheltered, so the water is usually calm, though there can be some swell when the wind blows from the north.

• Parking: Free parking lot near the beach; it gets very crowded on Sunday evenings.

• Best time to visit: Sunday afternoon or evening for the drum circle; otherwise, around noon for a quieter experience.

• Note: On Sundays, arrive at least an hour before sunset to secure a parking spot; the road leading there gets very crowded and chaotic.

4. Aigües Blanques – a long, wild beach with a nudist tradition

One of Ibiza’s few officially designated nudist beaches, with a rugged, natural look on the east coast.

This long, wild beach near Sant Carles consists of sand and rock formations and is surrounded by forest, giving it an unspoiled feel. It’s known as a nude beach, though swimwear is also tolerated, especially in the busier areas. There is no major tourist infrastructure, though there is a simple beach bar. The waves here can be a bit stronger than on the sheltered southern beaches.

• Parking: Free, informal parking lot just above the beach.

• Best time: in the morning through early afternoon, when it’s quieter and less windy.

• Note: When the wind is from the northeast, the current can be strong.

5. Cala Mastella + El Bigotes Seafood Restaurant – a little paradise

A hidden cove with a legendary seafood restaurant that doesn’t have a menu, accessible only on foot or by boat.

Cala Mastella is a small, idyllic cove with emerald-green water nestled among the rocks. The famous restaurant El Bigotes serves simple, fresh seafood and paella, cooked over a wood fire, with no set menu. You don’t make a reservation; instead, you write your name on a list as soon as you arrive. The combination of natural beauty and an authentic experience makes this spot a favorite, even though it’s no longer a secret.

• Parking: a small, free parking lot at the top, followed by a short walk to the bay.

• Best time: early in the morning to get your name on the waiting list at El Bigotes.

• Note: Sign up for the waitlist at El Bigotes as soon as you arrive; later in the day, the wait is often hours long.

6. Sa Caleta – red cliffs + fishermen’s cottages

A historic and peaceful little cove, built on the site of an ancient Phoenician settlement, featuring characteristic fishermen’s huts.

Sa Caleta combines history with natural beauty: this was once the site of Ibiza’s first Phoenician settlement, and the bay is now best known for its traditional wooden fishermen’s huts (varadors) along the water’s edge. The beach itself is small and bordered by tall, red cliffs. The atmosphere here is more peaceful than at the larger beaches.

• Parking: Free parking right by the bay.

• Best time to visit: in the morning or late afternoon, when the light on the fishermen’s huts is at its most beautiful.

• Tip: Combine your visit with the archaeological site just above the bay, which is often overlooked.

7. Cala Llonga – a sheltered family-friendly bay with a pine forest

A wide, family-friendly beach in a deep, sheltered cove between Ibiza Town and Santa Eulària.

Cala Llonga is located in a long, sheltered cove with fine sand and calm waters, making it ideal for families with children. The cove is somewhat more developed than the wild beaches elsewhere on the island, with hotels, restaurants, and water sports options. Thanks to its sheltered location between high cliffs, the sea here is often calmer than on other parts of the coast.

• Parking: Various free and paid parking spots near the beach.

• Best time to visit: In the morning to avoid the crowds, although the beach is large enough to always have room.

• Tip: Thanks to its sheltered location, this is a good backup option on windy days, when the sea is rougher in other bays.

8. Las Dalias – Sant Carles Hippie Market

Ibiza’s quintessential hippie market, a living relic of the 1970s with artisanal stalls and live music.

Las Dalias in the village of Sant Carles has been the island’s most famous hippie market since the 1970s and is especially bustling on Saturdays and Sundays, with hundreds of stalls filled with clothing, jewelry, art, and local products. There are also food and drink options and regular live music. The venue has a relaxed, colorful atmosphere that keeps alive the history of Ibiza’s free spirits and artists. From June through September, there are night markets on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday evenings.

• Parking: Paid parking is available at various lots around the market; these fill up quickly during peak season.

• Best time to visit: early Saturday or Sunday morning, for the widest selection and the fewest crowds.

• Tip: The markets on Saturday and Sunday are much larger and busier than the more laid-back evening markets.

9. Santa Gertrudis – artists’ village + Sant Mateu vineyards

A charming, white village in the heart of the island, beloved by artists and known for its cozy central square.

Santa Gertrudis de Fruitera is the picturesque center of Ibiza’s interior, featuring a white church, narrow streets, and a square lined with terraces. The village has been attracting artists and creative expats for decades, giving it a somewhat bohemian, international vibe. It’s an ideal stopover on the way to the interior or the north coast.

As you drive toward Sant Mateu, you’ll pass through the d’Albarca Valley, which is filled with citrus and almond trees as well as vineyards. These are mainly small family-run businesses that you can visit. Well-known wineries include Sa Cova, Can Maymó, and the biodynamic Ojo de Ibiza.

• Parking: Free parking spaces around the village square or in the large parking lot along Carrer Venda de Cas Serres.

• Best time to visit: lunchtime or early evening, for outdoor dining and a lively atmosphere.

• Note: During peak season, be sure to make a reservation at the more popular restaurants on the square.

10. Sant Joan de Labritja – Sunday market + rural northern Ibiza

The quietest and most authentic village in Ibiza, far from the tourist crowds, with a lively Sunday market.

Sant Joan is located in the north of the island and has deliberately remained unspoiled: a small, white village with a church, a few bars, and a friendly atmosphere. It offers a nice contrast to the busier south coast and provides a good glimpse into traditional life in Ibiza. On Sundays, there’s a small, local market featuring regional products. The village is also a great starting point for excursions to the north coast.

• Parking: Free parking spaces in and around the village; a large parking lot east of the church.

• Best time to visit: Sunday morning before the market; otherwise, it’s quiet at any time of day.

• Tip: Combine your visit with a trip to Benirrás or Aigües Blanques, both a short drive away.

11. Atzaró Agriturismo – tranquility + garden restaurant + spa

A fairytale-like estate with orange groves, offering a tranquil, luxurious alternative to beach life.

Atzaró is a former finca, transformed into a stylish agriturismo resort with a spa, restaurant, and a lush garden full of orange trees. The location exudes tranquility and rustic elegance, featuring typical Ibizan architecture and a pool surrounded by greenery. It’s a popular spot for lunch, a spa day, or a quiet evening, far from the beach clubs.

• Parking: Free parking on site.

• Best time to visit: lunchtime or early evening, for the best light in the gardens.

• Note: Be sure to make a reservation for the restaurant in advance, especially on weekends, as it’s a popular spot for lunch.

12. Es Amunts – mountain route through the northern interior

Ibiza’s most scenic panoramic route, cutting straight through the rugged, forested hills of the north.

Es Amunts is the rolling, forested mountainous region in northern Ibiza, and the route from Sant Mateu to Sant Vicent winds along twisting roads with ever-changing views. Along the way, you’ll pass small hamlets, vineyards, and pine forests, far from the tourist hotspots. It’s the best area to discover the unspoiled, rural side of Ibiza.

• Best time: late morning or early afternoon for the best visibility and light.

• Please note: the road is narrow and winding in places; take your time and watch for oncoming traffic on hairpin turns.

Driving a Rental Car in Ibiza

Ibiza has a well-maintained road network, with the EI-700 ring road connecting the main towns smoothly. To reach the most beautiful bays, you’ll often need to take a “camino,” a narrow country road that requires a bit more attention from the driver. Be especially careful in Dalt Vila and Sant Antoni, where parking can be difficult during peak season, and in picturesque villages like Santa Gertrudis, where the streets are quite narrow. Familiarize yourself with Spanish traffic rules before driving a rental car in Ibiza.

Which car class is best for this route?

If you’re looking for a rental car for your vacation in Ibiza, the first question is: which car class should you choose? The answer, of course, depends on the number of people you’re traveling with, but also on your own preferences. Most people have a fixed base in Ibiza, so luggage space is less of a concern. Here are a few suggestions for which car class is best suited for exploring Ibiza’s most beautiful spots.

• Mini / Compact (e.g., Fiat 500, VW Polo): ideal for narrow village streets and parking in Dalt Vila, plus the caminos leading to secluded coves. Usually sufficient for 2 people.

• Mid-size (e.g., Renault Mégane, VW Golf): a good balance for 4 people plus luggage. Still fits on the caminos, but is slightly less maneuverable in narrow village streets.

• Convertible: fun in the spring or late summer when temperatures range between 22 and 28°C. In the height of summer (35°C or higher), you’ll probably prefer to drive with the top down and the AC on—which defeats the whole purpose of a convertible.

• SUV: Unnecessary for the Caminos (a smaller car is more maneuverable). Only book one if you’re traveling with more than 4 people or have a lot of luggage.

When is Ibiza at its best outside of the party scene?

The ideal months to discover the quieter side of Ibiza are May, June, or September. The weather is pleasantly mild (22–28°C), the authentic coves remain pleasantly quiet, and both the drum circles and the local markets are in full swing. July and August, on the other hand, are the months to avoid: mass tourism, temperatures above 35°C, and overcrowded parking lots make for a less pleasant experience. Those who opt for the off-season, from October through April, will enjoy even more peace and quiet, but should keep in mind that many local restaurants in the villages are closed and the drum circles are on hiatus during this time.

If you want to rent a car in Ibiza during the busy summer months, be sure to read our guide to the best booking strategy for the high season first.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ibiza

How many days do I need to see the authentic side of Ibiza?

Plan on 3 to 4 days if you want to take your time visiting the 12 highlights of Ibiza featured in this guide. Do you have 5 days or more? Then you can even add a day trip to Formentera. Only 2 days on the island? Focus on one region—either the north or the south—and you’ll easily make 5 to 6 stops. At about 570 km², Ibiza isn’t large, but the roads are winding: it still takes about 30 to 45 minutes by car to get from Ibiza Town to most of the coves.

When is the drum circle at Cala Benirrás?

Every Sunday around sunset, though the exact time shifts throughout the year: in June and July it’s around 9:00 p.m., and in September it’s earlier, around 8:30 p.m. There’s no set organization or start time; people simply trickle onto the beach as the sun goes down. Want a parking spot? Then arrive well in advance, because during peak season the parking lot is already full by 5:00 p.m. It’s a tradition dating back to the 1970s and is all about peaceful connection with one another as the sun sets—not a loud club atmosphere.

What kind of car is practical for Ibiza’s narrow roads?

Opt for a mini or compact car. You’ll frequently drive along narrow caminos to secluded coves, and parking in Dalt Vila or in a village like Santa Gertrudis is also much easier with a smaller car. For four people, a mid-size car is more comfortable.

When is the Las Dalias hippie market open?

The market is held almost year-round on Saturdays and Sundays, usually from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. There is no market in January. It has been a regular weekly market since 1985, featuring more than 200 stalls filled with handmade jewelry, clothing, art, and organic products. In the summer, there are also night markets on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday evenings. Keep in mind that parking in the adjacent areas costs money; expect to pay €3.00 to €5.00.

Do I really need a rental car in Ibiza?

To see the highlights in this guide: yes, you really do. The local buses (Bus Ibiza) will take you from Ibiza Town to Sant Antoni and Santa Eulària, but the most beautiful secluded coves—such as Cala Salada, Cala Mastella, and Cala Benirrás—and smaller villages like Sant Joan and Sant Carles are difficult or impossible to reach by public transportation. Want to truly experience the island? Rent a car in Ibiza.

For a completely worry-free driving experience in Ibiza, choose a rental car with EasyTerra’s Worry-Free label. Your deductible will then be covered.

Is the drum circle at Cala Benirrás still authentic?

Absolutely. There’s no organization behind it and no admission fee. Tourists are now finding their way to the beach as well, but the atmosphere remains local and peaceful: no loud sound systems, no bars serving alcohol in the immediate vicinity. Want to be completely on your own for a while? Then avoid the small, central part of the beach and walk to the rocks on the north side to find your own spot. Keep in mind that on Sundays in July and August, it’s much busier than during the rest of the year.

Do I need a credit card to pick up the rental car?

Yes, you definitely need one. All providers you book through EasyTerra require a credit card in the name of the primary driver when picking up the rental car at Ibiza Airport (IBZ). A security deposit (between €700 and €2,500) will be held on that card until you return the car undamaged. Please note: debit or prepaid cards are not accepted.

Can I cancel my Ibiza rental car for free?

Yes, with EasyTerra, you can cancel easily and free of charge up to 48 hours before the start of your rental period. That’s the standard—no filters, no extra charges, no separate “flex rate.” If you book within 48 hours of departure, free cancellation is usually no longer possible.

Rent a car and discover the authentic side of Ibiza

Renting a car in Ibiza is the best way to discover the island’s authentic, tranquil side. Public transportation connects the larger towns, but a car offers ultimate freedom to escape the crowds and reach unspoiled, hidden coves. With a rental car, you can easily travel back and forth between the turquoise waters of Cala Saladeta and quiet beaches like Es Cavallet.

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Planning a trip to Mallorca next year? Check out our Tramuntana route. Or would you like to hop over to Formentera? Read our guide to island hopping in the Balearic Islands.