Cala Llonga, located a picturesque 5 minute drive from Santa Eulalia is really easy Ibiza beach to find. As you head towards the town and hit the first large roundabout just before the Santa Eulalia bridge, take the exit for Cala Llonga. Head down the twisting and turning country lane and watch out for when the road bends extremely sharply to the right. That's where you'll find the Cala Llonga turning on your left. If you're coming from the direction of Ibiza Town, then take the road to Jesus, continuing on for a few more kilometres past this quiet little village. You'll hit the Cala Llonga turning from the opposite direction, so it'll be a right hand turn for you.
Picturesque drive
Tip: If you do approach from Ibiza town, then do take it easy on this twisting, turning country lane, it has some of the most treacherous hairpin bends on the island. If you hit them going too fast you can easily come a cropper. We tootled along at a very leisurely 50 km per hour, that way you can really enjoy the stunning mountain scenery.
Taking the Cala Llonga turning, head down to the bottom of the hill as far as you can go, then take a left to find the beach car-park. There's lots of (free) parking on the surrounding streets too so finding a space is really easy around this fab Ibiza beach, giving it a distinct advantage!
Stunning natural setting
The first thing to impress us about this large, wide, golden sandy beach was the stunning natural setting, with dramatic pine-studded mountains sloping steeply down to the sea. The mountains that encircle Cala Llonga ensure that this resort is sheltered and form a powerful suntrap, making it popular with those looking for maximum bronzing factor! In fact, looking around, we noted the particularly wide mixture of visitors that this beautifully self-contained resort attracts.
It was a down to earth crowd enjoying the sunshine that day. The great variety of watersports, eateries, range of really nice hotels along with easy ramp access means that this Ibiza beach is a haven for families and those with need of disabled facilities. However, there were also plenty of couples around and lots of groups of all ages enjoying the wide expanse of sand. Whilst many were taking advantage of the beach beds and umbrellas, around half were spread out on the sand with towels and sarongs. It was nice to see plenty of space for both. What's more, the sand is really deep and comfortable to lie in, ahhh!
Great facilities
The gently sloping, crystal clear sea sparkled invitingly and many were happily exploring the rocky coastline with snorkels, whilst a lively beach volleyball match unfolded to our right. The beach itself was lined with busy little cafés and restaurants with a good variety of cuisine at very moderate prices. We noticed lots of UK, Dutch, German and Spanish visitors and this was reflected in the range of the menus we saw.
The surrounding streets also unearthed some great little restaurants, of particular note, El Deseo Mexican restaurant on the bottom left-hand corner of the road that leads to the beach, just as you turn left to the beach carpark. Insiders tip? Juan and his team serve up what is for sure our favourite new drink this year - the magnificent Michelada. This, dear reader, is an unlikely sounding blend of beer, tomato juice, chili and lemon, served in a pint glass on ice. Originating from Mexico City, it's something like a beery Bloody Mary. We were super impressed - a spicy taste sensation! Get there before 7pm to enjoy their happy hour offers.
Vegetarians are well catered for too in Cala Llonga, both at El Deseo and just around the corner at quirky, lovely Can Nut. Nanu, the super-friendly owner/chef/barman/interior designer(!) specializes in homemade veggie burgers, snacks and salads. He's recycled all the funky furniture himself and with an average spend of €5-6 for a burger and a cool drink, we'll definitely be back - if you go, please say a big hello from Spotlight!
Fab range of hotels
One of Spotlight's most popular adult-only hotels, the Fiesta, is also nestled on the gorgeous coastline of Cala Llonga - it's an absolute gem ladies and gents - once discovered its delighted guests return year after year. Insider's tip? Definitely one to book in advance.
If all that wasn't enough to tempt you to head down to this truly fab Ibiza beach, then lovers of fine dining, more delights are in store. One of Ibiza's best restaurants, Amante Beach Club is very close by in the beautiful neighbouring cove of Sol den Serra.
Romance
With unsurpassed service, a gorgeous fresh Mediterranean menu and reputed to be the most romantic dining location on Ibiza island, Amante offer breakfasts, morning yoga classes, massage, a very high-quality a la carte menu for lunch and dinner plus views of the Balearic to absolutely die for. Dolphins are often seen frolicking in this gorgeous, protected bay.
Top tip? Check out their open-air midnight movie series for dinner followed by a moonlit movie under the stars. There are still 2 dates left, just check our previous article for details.
With a cash-point, pharmacy and a couple of large shops selling a wide range of reasonably priced clothes, gifts and souvenirs, Cala Llonga not only offers visitors a fabulous holiday but also is perfect for a day out exploring Ibiza. Its relatively close proximity to Ibiza Town (about 8km) means the bright lights are not very far away, should you fancy heading out for some of Ibiza's world-class nightlife. The shops, bars and restaurants of Santa Eulalia are even closer, around 3 or 4km down the road.
Conclusion? Cala Llonga has something for everyone. It's friendly, affordable and down-to-earth plus really very beautiful. You can either get there on the bus from either Ibiza Town or Santa Eulalia (costs around €2), or catch a ferry boat there from the harbour in Ibiza Town (opposite McDonalds) although this is a rather expensive option at €29 euros for an adult ticket.
For that price, you can hire your own car or scooter and enjoy a whole day of exploring the beauty of Ibiza island which, of course, we highly recommend. Happy beach-surfing, ladies and gents!
WORDS | Jane Charilaou PHOTOS | Spotlight and Amante
