Sunsets
Where to watch the sunset in Ibiza
In Ibiza the sunset is a plan in itself. Almost the whole western coast faces the horizon, which means that late in the afternoon half the island is lined up waiting for the same thing. These are the spots that work, and how to avoid the crowds.
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Photo by AinaCE · CC BY-SA 4.0
Es Vedrà and Cala d’Hort: the iconic one
The sun dropping behind the silhouette of Es Vedrà is the image most people have in mind when they think of an Ibiza sunset, and rightly so. Cala d’Hort and the south-western viewpoints are the classic place to watch it from land.
The problem is the usual one: parking is limited and in August you need to go up well in advance. From the water, anchored in front, the problem disappears.
Cala Comte, for the colour
Cala Comte is probably the best "beach" sunset on the island. The islets offshore give the scene depth, and the clear water reflects the orange in a way other coves do not. There are a couple of venues on the cliff itself with excellent views.
Sant Antoni, for the atmosphere
The bay of Sant Antoni is home to the legendary sunset venues, with live music and all the trimmings. It is the liveliest option and also the busiest: if you want atmosphere, this is it; if you want quiet, anywhere else on this list is better.
The quiet ones: Ses Salines, Cap Martinet and Dalt Vila
Ses Salines offers a calmer version, with the salt pans reflecting the light and the reserve’s birdlife in the background. Cap Martinet, to the east, gives a different angle over the town. And the walls of Dalt Vila, a World Heritage site, deliver a sunset with the port and the sea at your feet.
Watching it from the boat
We are hardly impartial here, but objectively it is the best spot: no parking, no arriving two hours early, and nobody in front of you. You stop the boat where you like, cut the engine and watch the sun fall onto the water.
A sunset trip usually runs two or three hours: you leave mid-afternoon, make a swim stop while there is still light and reach the chosen spot with time to spare. The run back to port in the dark, with the coast lit up, is the better half of the plan.
Frequently asked questions
What time does the sun set in Ibiza in summer?
In July and August, roughly between 21:00 and 21:30. In May and September it moves earlier, to around 20:30.
What is the best place to watch the sunset in Ibiza?
Es Vedrà from Cala d’Hort is the most spectacular; Cala Comte is the best from a beach; and Sant Antoni has the most atmosphere.
How long is a sunset boat trip?
Normally between two and three hours, leaving mid-afternoon and returning to port after dark.
