Ibiza locals know that during the summer season they can expect to be fighting for inches of sand on the island we call home. So when you have perhaps just one day a week off for a beach day, how on earth do you find somewhere with the perfect balance of people, white sand, clean sea, decent grub, banging cocktails and the best DJs to provide your aural massage!? Let me tell you, it's no mean feat!
Es Cavallet has long been a go-to beach for the locals in the summer. Found down the narrow left-hand turn off just before the Salinas salt flats, you will find rows of cars parked all the way up to the main road in the summer. But don't be dismayed - park up, walk the distance and you'll find that there is still room for everyone on this sweeping crescent of sand.
Originally billed as a nudist and gay beach, it has matured over the years like a fine bottle of hierbas, and is now a popular hangout for the sophisticated and for those in the know too. Allow me to tell you why...
La Escollera
Starting at the far left-end of the beach, you will find the institution that is La Escollera. Owned by the wonderfully welcoming Dutch couple Danny and Wilhemina, La Escollera is open all year round and as such has found itself a staunch local following. Modern and traditional cuisine meets in the middle and the refined seafood dishes reflect the attention to detail of both the proprietors and the incredibly friendly yet professional staff. So settle yourself in with a cava sangria, order one of their famous paellas and revel in the views all the way down the beach.
Insider Info - The music at La Escollera is becoming legendary as UK and Southport Weekender stalwart Gavin Kendrick programs some of the finest global Balearic DJs over the course of the year. Expect to find NuNorthern Soul's Phat Phil Cooper or The Garden Zadar's Bobby Beige soundtracking your exquisite lunch just perfectly.
El Chiringuito
No summer season is ever complete for a local without at least one visit to the fabled El Chiringuito at Es Cavallet. Boasting a seriously beautiful and discerning crowd, the folks at El Chiringuito have got the Ibiza beach restaurant experience buttoned down. From the whitewashed wooden floors to the thatched breezy roof, El Chiringuito is just the kind of place that you can spend a whole afternoon eating outstanding food, drinking cocktails and experiencing the pinnacle of people watching. With DJs Mr Doris and Andy Baxter boasting residencies here, you can expect some off-centre yet delectable beats. Whether you order the freshly cut Iberico ham, grab some oysters shucked at your table by the master that is Robert or you order the infamous El Chiringuito burger, you will not be disappointed by the quality of the food, the ambience nor the service. Or alternatively, bag yourself one of the glamorous day beds and have your lunch and drinks brought to you by the water's edge...
Insider Info - El Chiringuito's breakfasts are absolutely to die for! Think smoothies, eggs benedict, homemade blueberry pancakes with maple syrup, fresh fruit salads and even the El Chiringuito twist on the full English. The beach is beautifully deserted until lunch time so you can get a real feel of tranquility before the madness of the day truly begins on this stunning part of the island. Then all of a sudden, it's after midday and it's time for a cocktail!
Pirate Watch Tower
If you're not feeling too sociable and the prospect of playing volleyball on the semi-permanent court at the top of the beach seems daunting, then I recommend a walk all the way down to the 16th century pirate tower ‘Torre de ses Portes' at the far Salinas end of the beach. You may have to dodge a few nudies along the way, but the views across to Formentera and the little fisherman's huts that await you are well worth it.
Insider Info - Pop into El Chiringay on the way back for a thirst-quenching cocktail. Achingly chic and with a rainbow flag right outside, this is one fantastic spot for checking out the wonderfully colourful and flamboyant gay community who flock to Es Cavallet in the summer. The snack menu is excellent too if you're feeling peckish after all that exercise.
Es Cavallet has something to offer everyone all year round. In the summer, the sea is calm yet offers a refreshing breeze for sunbathers. In the winter, the Mediterranean is a little wilder, but oozes wintery charm. You can see why it really is an islander's favourite, no matter what the season.
Next week F is for Formentera. Find out where the locals hang out when they visit Ibiza's gorgeous sister island...
WORDS | Leena Sharma
