Located on the northern coast of the island of Ibiza, approximately a four hour sail from San Antonio, Portinatx is in a gulf between Punta Des Pics and Punta Galera (not to be confused with the beach in San Antonio that has the same name and neighbors the landmark of Punta de Sa Galera), one mile west of Punta des Moscarter. The bay of Portinaxt is a pearl of turquoise waters that is well protected from all winds, except for the tramontana (north wind), making it a fantastic spot for our Ibiza boat hire. It is a rather deep bay with an extremely shallow shoreline, opening to small coves with their corresponding sandy beaches: Port Portinatx, Arenal Gros, and Arenal Petit.
Discovering the beaches of Portinatx
Belonging to the municipality of Sant Joan de Labritja (San Juan), Portinatx and its three beaches represent the most important area for tourism in the north. Arenal Gros is the largest of the three beaches situated in the bay of Portinatx, with a length of 170 metres and widths ranging from 15 to 80 metres. Arenal Petit barely reaches 60 metres long by 5 to 75 metres wide. Port Portinatx is the smallest with a beach of approximately 40 metres in length and an estimated 35 metres of width.
Arenal Gros
Despite being incredibly urbanized, Arenal Gros still retains part of its natural charm with its fine-grained sand, rocky surfaces, and its trees that provide small areas of shade scattered throughout. The seafloor consists of vegetation and enough marine fauna to have you diving in from our Ibiza yacht charter to explore the wonderful life below. As previously mentioned, winds do not typically present danger for those swimming because, although they blow from land to sea, they are exceptionally weak.
Arenal Gros offers a variety of services that complete the experience of a beach day, whether by land or on board a boat rental Ibiza, including, and not limited to, shops and souvenirs, restaurants, and aquatic sports- pedal boats, sailing, diving, and windsurfing.
Arenal Petit
Linked to Arenal Gros by a short promenade, Arenal Petit is actually the first cove in the bay of Portinatx. It consists of a small shore with pure white sand that covers both the beach and the ocean floor, allowing for that crystal clear water we all love.
Aside from the several beach bars you will stumble upon, Arenal Petit is surrounded by different hotels and restaurants. Bringing in a more family-oriented tourism, the atmosphere is particularly welcoming.
Port Portinatx
Positioned following a narrow entrance, Port Portinatx is the furthest in the bay of Portinatx of the three beaches. It stands out for its picturesque landscape, with a fine-grained white sandy shore and seabed, rocks on the sides that highlight the islet of Sa Guardiola, and a succession of dry docks on which a restaurant is located. Along with this eye-catching gem much enjoyed by boat trips in Ibiza, many also appreciate the view of the boathouses located on the left banks used to store fishing gear and even the traditional Balearic island boats called Llaüts.
Walking away from the sea of Port Portinatx , past the beach bar and parking, you will come across a rockier turf and more water. Visible to the left is the lighthouse of Portinatx, located at Punta des Moscarter. The lighthouse of Portinatx was installed in 1977 to provide greater security to the north coast due to the lack of light signals from the lighthouse of the islet of Sa Conillera, in the west, to Tagomago, in the east.
Dining and Lodging at Portinatx
The town of Portinatx and its numerous restaurants adjusts its gastronomy to the purest taste of Ibiza for all to indulge in. Thus, fresh Mediterranean seafood and fish stand out as the foundation for classic rice and noodle recipes, such as paella, fideuá, and seafood stews. You can also take delight in these dishes in a simpler, yet still delicious, form, cooked on the grill or baked. Nothing beats ordering one of these plates to go and treating yourself to an incredible meal on a boat charter Ibiza while anchored in the calm and gorgeous transparent waters of the cove of Portinatx.
Amongst all the scrumptious food there is to eat in Portinatx, the artisan sausages will not be left behind! They are a must try if you are staying in this lovely town.
Chase your feast down with a delectable digestive, Ibizan Hierbas being a more famous one that is usually offered at the end of your meal, and you will be ready for your siesta on board our catamaran Ibiza.
Hotels and Apartments to consider when staying in Portinatx:
- Sandos El Greco Beach: This four star hotel, with minimalist decorations, is located in a quiet area away from all possible night life. The accommodation is all-inclusive. The food in the buffet restaurant is a varied selection and of good quality. They also offer menu options and a signature cuisine. Allowing only adults, it is perfect for those without children or couples who decided to travel alone.
- Apartamentos Del Rey: This is a “retro” but comfortable and practical beach front apartment with incredible views. Don’t rush off once you have checked-out because they also provide a room where you can leave your luggage while you do more exploring and later return to take a quick shower in preparation for your travels back home.
There are accommodations for all styles, these are just a couple of the most known, although we don´t change of opinion that the best way to discover Portinatx is from one of our wonderful Ibiza yacht rental. We hope to see you soon on board!
Learn about CharterAlia and how we became a yacht hire Ibiza – By José Navas, manager, founder and captain of CharterAlia.