Running along a long strip of coast, the resort of San Antonio Bay (Sant Antoni in Catalan) lies next to the southern part of the large natural bay from which it takes its name.
Expect to see wide open views all along the sparkling waterfront. In the distance, you’ll notice small ferries and white yachts crossing the bay, while on the many small beaches, people relax at the beach bars or enjoy some of the many water sports on offer. It's a magical sight.
Here you will find a varied selection of European holidaymakers of all age groups. Many families are attracted here, likely due to its relaxed and easy-going atmosphere and abundance of amenities. A number of small supermarkets, fashion shops, hairdressers, and beauty salons will also make your stay more comfortable.
In recent years, San Antonio Bay has been upping its game with stylish new hotels and major upgrades to many of its restaurants and bars. This is a place on the move, though it still retains its reputation as being one of the island's best value resorts.
Getting around
The bay of San Antonio runs for several kilometres. Its pretty coastal footpath trails alongside the sea and onto the beaches, connecting you from Port d’es Torrent beach at the far west end of the bay, all the way to neighbouring San Antonio. Depending on where you are staying along the length of the bay, you can enjoy a leisurely walk into San Antonio Town, although it may be a little tiring in the hot summer months.
Alternatively, you can easily jump onto one of the regular water taxis that can ship you between the two resorts.
The streets that run alongside the bay are just as well connected, from here you can access the frequent bus service to take you into town or to the beautiful beaches of the west coast, and even to the airport and Ibiza Town. Taxis are also a great option, and quite inexpensive. You can flag one from one of the taxi ranks dotted along the bay road.
Once in San Antonio, transport around the island becomes even easier, with bus connections to most sides of the island. The Discobus also runs from here to ferry clubbers (and anyone else needing a ride) throughout the night to various stops near the island's party venues.
Beaches
Along this long strip of coast, you will find five small beaches from start to finish. Each holds its own unique charm, and many of them are blessed with the attractive aquamarine water clarity that Ibiza's beaches are famous for.
By day and night, you will see people walking along this wild strip of coast to stop at the numerous restaurants and bars that overlook the bay - they are literally all along the seafront. Many of them open late into the night and make for lovely spots to stop on a hot summer's day or during balmy nights, when you can watch the twinkling lights illuminating the entire bay.
There is a variety of water sports on offer, from water skiing to parasailing to people surging into the air on jet packs. You are also in easy reach of a blaze of boat trips and a world of water sports on the broad main beach of nearby San Antonio.
Many of the island's most beautiful beaches are also on this side of the island, with Cala Bassa, Cala Conta, and Cala Tarida just a short drive or bus ride away. A wonderfully relaxing way of getting to them is by taking one of the small ferries that leave from several jetties along the bay.
Eating out
You will find a terrific mix of restaurants here to dine in. Longer-established venues still attract new and returning customers, whilst quality pizzerias, award-winning burger houses, grill restaurants, and a host of newer little gems all offer temptation.
There are many great quality traditional Mediterranean-style options, along with a host of world-food restaurants, from Sushi to Indian, Thai, and Chinese. Many of the hotels in the resort also have restaurants open to the public.
The choice is very varied, and we recommend taking a lovely evening stroll, taking in the many options before making your decision. There are so many, you could dine somewhere different every day of the week.
Look out for signs that point to places on the numerous side streets, or go to one of the restaurants on the seafront and catch an amazing sunset. The views are breathtaking from here and, as such, are popular; it's worth making a reservation beforehand to ensure you’ll be seated.
Even with the recent expansion of more upmarket venues, there are still inexpensive options for eating out, with many restaurants serving big portions of food at very reasonable prices. Look out for the menú del día, these lunch menus at a fixed price are great value and so filling that you’ll not need to eat for the rest of the day.
The bay at night
In San Antonio Bay, you can catch a glorious sunset from one of the many bars and restaurants that line the bay, including hotels with rooftop bars that are open to the public. It's wonderful to start the evening with a drink or cocktail in hand, as you watch the sky dance beautifully between the orange, yellow, and pink hues.
Along the strip, you will find plenty to keep you entertained with a wide variety of bars, including themed pubs, café/bars, and elegant places for cocktails, as well as venues with live DJ sets. Many of the hotels along here offer evening entertainment that's open to the public, too. From the art-inspired to flamenco, along with entertaining shows suitable for children, there’s something for everyone.
On the weekend, look out for bands playing in restaurants and bars, with many locals hanging out in the crowd. Bars on the beach tend to have slightly higher drink prices, though lots of places offer great value away from the water's edge.
If you’re craving more of a party, then it's just a short trip to San Antonio, where you'll find the hugely popular daytime pool party venues O Beach Ibiza and Ibiza Rocks Hotel. For a night in San Antonio, a visit to the West End or the Sunset Strip, with its world-famous views, really can’t be missed.
Later, dance the night away in the legendary clubs Es Paradis and Eden. For nightlife further afield, the Discobus will take you to all the other major clubs on the island.
Accommodation
There is a great choice of hotels and apartments along San Antonio Bay, with many located next to its beaches and rocky coastline, with spectacular views.
San Antonio Bay is a good choice if you want more relaxed surroundings during the day, but have the option to explore the exciting nightlife of San Antonio.
The wide range of accommodation caters to all tastes and budgets, with a good number of excellent four-star hotels, some of which have recently arrived on the scene. There is also a large choice of mid-range hotels and apartment complexes, with some offering excellent facilities.
Smaller hotels and apartments can offer great value for those on a budget.
Things to do
San Antonio Bay and the neighbouring San Antonio are a dream for those who want to do more than just lie on the beach. The choice of activities really is endless, and all ensure boredom has no chance of settling in.
The crystal-clear waters invite all sorts of water activities, as well as lovely boat trips around the coast. Also, on land there is a wide variety of excursions and activities, such as guided trips to greener parts of the island on vespa, quad or e-bike, ideal for groups, couples and families.
Children are very well catered for and spoilt for choice. Choose from mini-golf, rodeo, playgrounds, and pedaloes on most of the beaches. Many of the family-oriented hotels have kids' play areas too, with some having dedicated programmes for little ones.
