A Glimpse into Ibiza’s Tourism History
Ibiza has long been celebrated worldwide as a destination for music enthusiasts, club lovers and partygoers. Tourism began to flourish in the early 1970s, bringing with it the launch of many new nightclubs. By the 1980s, the nightlife scene was thriving, and the rise of house music in the 1990s cemented Ibiza’s reputation as one of the most sought after destinations for music and entertainment.
This boom created fresh opportunities. Quiet fishing villages started to transform, with new hotels, restaurants, bars, shops and other facilities springing up to meet the growing demand. The tourism industry became a powerful driver of development across the island.
The Transformation of San Antonio de Portmany
San Antonio was one such fishing village. In just a few decades, it evolved from a two thousand year old harbour town into one of Ibiza’s most popular holiday resorts. This transformation added great value to the area, attracting many expatriates, particularly from Britain during the 1980s and 1990s, who were drawn to the fashionable and energetic San Antonio.
Understanding San Antonio’s Reputation
Over the years, San Antonio town became closely associated with its lively nightlife. During the height of summer, it gained a reputation for attracting hedonistic crowds. In recent years, however, local authorities have taken serious measures to reduce the more disruptive aspects of the party scene, introducing policies to improve the overall visitor experience and quality of life for residents.
Unfortunately, the party image of a small section of the town has led to misconceptions about the entire municipality. Beyond the club culture lies a place with rich history, exceptional beaches and coves, a warm family friendly atmosphere, authentic Ibicencan traditions and some of the island’s most beautiful sunsets. San Antonio’s rustic allure and heritage were among the reasons it was so appealing to early visitors, and they remain just as captivating today.
Exploring the municipality of Sant Antoni de Portmany will quickly reveal a side to the area that challenges outdated stereotypes.
Discover the municipality of San Antonio
Culture and Dining in San Antonio
The town is well known for its iconic music venues such as Mambo Café, Café del Mar, and Mint Lounge. Yet San Antonio also boasts an impressive and diverse food scene. From Can Pujol, a traditional seafront restaurant famous for seafood and rice dishes, to Sa Capella, where romance and history meet inside a 16th century church, San Antonio offers dining with real character.
When it comes to sunsets, the options are just as enticing: Hostal La Torre, perched on the cliffs, is a bohemian retreat with Mediterranean cuisine and remarkable views, while Kumharas and the rooftop terrace of the five-star Amàre Beach Hotel provide relaxed yet stylish settings to watch the sky transform. Families, meanwhile, can enjoy local treasures such as Cine Regio, a charming vintage cinema, or the town’s small but engaging Aquarium.
Beaches Worth Discovering
The shores of San Antonio are a treasure trove of natural beauty, where quiet coves of soft sand meet shimmering waters. While every corner has its own enchantment, these three tucked away beaches hold a unique allure that sets them apart:
Cala Salada
Cala Salada is a picturesque cove surrounded by lush pine trees and rocky cliffs. The beach is famous for its clear turquoise waters and fine golden sand, making it a favourite spot for swimming and snorkelling. Its natural setting gives it a peaceful atmosphere despite being quite close to San Antonio.
Cala Saladeta
Just a short walk from Cala Salada lies Cala Saladeta, a smaller and even more idyllic cove. Its shallow waters are calm and perfect for a refreshing dip, while the bright sandy shore invites sunbathing. The beach has a laid back charm that appeals to visitors who are looking for a serene getaway.
Punta Galera
Punta Galera is one of the most unique spots near San Antonio. Instead of sand, this area is made up of wide flat rocks that form natural terraces by the sea. It is a favourite for those who enjoy sunbathing in a more adventurous setting and it is also known as one of the best places to watch the sunset.
Cala Gració
Cala Gració is a sheltered beach with soft sand and crystal water. Its gentle waves make it ideal for swimming and for families with children. The surrounding area has traditional whitewashed houses and offers a more local feel, adding to its grace.
Cala Gracioneta
Cala Gracioneta is a tiny sister cove next to Cala Gració, offering a more intimate experience. It is embraced by rocky cliffs and pine trees, creating a private and inviting atmosphere. The gentle waters are perfect for snorkelling and the small beach bar adds a touch of relaxed island life.
Villages and Countryside
Beyond the bustle of San Antonio lies a countryside of wide horizons and tranquil villages, with villas perched on the hillsides gazing over rolling fields and sunsets that colour the sky in spectacular ways:
Santa Inés (Santa Agnès de Corona)
Santa Inés is a peaceful village surrounded by almond groves and striking cliffs with views over the Ses Margalides islets. It is a favourite for photographers, especially at sunset, when the skies turn spectacular shades. In February the almond blossoms paint the land pink and white, while Can Cosmi is a local favourite for its tortilla.
San Mateo (Sant Mateu d’Albarca)
San Mateo is a quiet rural village set among vineyards, orchards and fields of almond trees. Leisurely walks lead through the valley to Cala d’Albarca, a wild cove framed by rugged rock formations and stunning sea views. It is a perfect place to explore Ibiza’s countryside magic.
Buscastell
Buscastell is one of the most agricultural parts of Ibiza, home to fertile springs known as Es Broll de Buscastell. This hidden landscape remains off the tourist path and is a placid place to explore. The village is also known for Can Rich, the island’s largest winery.
San Rafael
San Rafael is a small but lively village with restaurants that are loved by locals, including Can Pilot and Es Tancó Pizzeria. It is also famous for its pottery tradition, with artisans keeping centuries old techniques alive.
Living and Investing in San Antonio
While many see it primarily as a nightlife hub, San Antonio and its surrounding areas are in fact restful, captivating and wonderfully diverse, making them an excellent choice for both visiting and living year round.
We offer an extensive portfolio of holiday rentals and homes for sale in the San Antonio area, giving you the opportunity to appreciate or invest in a location that is far richer and more appealing than its image might suggest.
