Travel for Food Hub The Food Blog for Travel Lovers
Last Updated on September 17, 2025
When people think of Ibiza, images of endless parties and crowded beaches often come to mind. However, the island also hides places where calm and authenticity take centre stage. Santa Eulalia del Río, on the east coast, is one of those corners that win over visitors looking to discover a quieter, more cultural and family-friendly Ibiza, without giving up the beauty of the Mediterranean.
What to see in Santa Eulalia del Río
The heart of Santa Eulalia beats along its seafront promenade. This long, well-kept walkway runs parallel to the town beach, ideal for walking or cycling while enjoying the sea breeze and views of the marina. The marina itself, modern and lively, brings together luxury yachts, restaurants, terraces and shops, lending the area a cosmopolitan feel, perfect for a sunset stroll.
One of the town’s most iconic landmarks is Puig de Missa, the hill overlooking the centre. At its summit stands the fortified 16th-century church, surrounded by traditional whitewashed houses and cobbled streets. From here, visitors can enjoy unbeatable panoramic views of the town and coastline. The visit can be completed at the Barrau Ethnographic Museum, which offers an insight into Ibiza’s history and traditions.
Culture also takes centre stage in San Jaime Street, lined with art galleries, boutiques and cafés. In summer, craft fairs and markets fill the squares with colour, while the Congress Palace hosts exhibitions and international events.
It is also worth remembering that Santa Eulalia is crossed by the only river in the Balearic Islands, the Riu de Santa Eulària. Though short and gentle, it flows into the sea beside the historic Roman bridge. A stroll along its banks reveals another natural side to the town.
Nearby beaches and coves
Santa Eulalia’s coastline offers something for everyone. The town beach is perfect for families, with calm waters and all the necessary amenities. Just a few minutes away are coves that seem taken from a postcard: Cala Pada, Niu Blau or Es Canar, the latter famous for hosting the legendary Punta Arabí hippy market.
For those in search of an even more laid-back atmosphere, it is well worth heading to Cala Nova, with fine sand and a bohemian feel, or to Cala Martina, much loved by water sports enthusiasts. Each spot has its own charm, always with crystal-clear waters and a calmer vibe than in other parts of the island.
Things to do in Santa Eulalia
Beyond the sea, Santa Eulalia invites visitors to immerse themselves in unique experiences. The Las Dalias hippy market, in the nearby village of San Carlos, is a must for anyone wanting to soak up Ibiza’s most authentic spirit, with crafts, boho clothing and live music.
Sports lovers will find hiking trails along cliffs and through pine forests, perfect for discovering unspoilt landscapes. Water activities such as paddleboarding, sailing or diving are also available, all framed by stunning surroundings.
Inland, the villages of Santa Gertrudis and Sant Carles de Peralta retain a traditional atmosphere, with tranquil squares and bars that invite you to linger. And for a day trip, nothing beats taking a ferry from the port to the island of Formentera.
Gastronomy: where to eat
Santa Eulalia boasts one of Ibiza’s most varied culinary offerings. Along the promenade and in the marina you’ll find restaurants serving Mediterranean and seafood cuisine, with bullit de peix and paella as the stars of the menu. International options abound too, from Japanese to Italian, reflecting the town’s cosmopolitan character.
In the centre, small taverns and bars serve tapas and traditional Ibizan dishes. San Vicente Street, known as “the restaurant street”, is a lively hub for those seeking variety and atmosphere. For a more authentic experience, it is worth heading inland to sample local cuisine at agrotourism establishments and old farmhouses converted into restaurants.
Where to stay in Santa Eulalia and surroundings
Santa Eulalia offers a wide range of accommodation, from boutique hotels to apartments and rural houses. It is an ideal base for those wishing to combine beach, culture and tranquillity.
Cala Llonga: a peaceful choice
For an especially serene setting, Cala Llonga is an excellent choice. This bay, surrounded by green hills, has a wide and quiet beach, perfect for families and couples looking to relax. Several well-rated places to stay can be found here, including El Pinar, a seafront hotel that stands out for its family-friendly facilities, such as fully equipped apartments, a restaurant, a swimming pool and direct access to the beach. Guests often highlight its comfort and location, as well as the relaxed atmosphere that makes the stay particularly enjoyable.
A different side of Ibiza
Santa Eulalia del Río shows that Ibiza is much more than nightlife. Here, the island reveals its calmer, more cultural side, offering the perfect balance of sea, nature, gastronomy and traditions. Whether for a family holiday, a romantic getaway or a relaxing break, this town is a gateway to the most authentic Ibiza.
Visitors often leave with the feeling of having discovered a treasure: a place that combines Mediterranean charm with the unhurried pace of local life, while still being connected to everything that makes Ibiza such a unique destination.
