Cala Benirràs beach is blessed by the western sun and lies just a ten-minute drive (7.5 km / 4.6 miles) from Sant Miquel de Balansat, between the headlands of Cova de s’Orenga and Punta Blanca on the north coast of Ibiza.
There’s a beautiful drive through hills and valleys until you reach the beach, which is accessed from the road from Sant Joan de Labritja or from Port de Sant Miquel.
Benirràs is a small sandy cove in the shape of a bay, nestled in a stunning and hushed location. It’s dominated by a unique islet known as Cap Bernat, which has given rise to many fables and myths. There’s a deep stretch of sea and unspoilt countryside, surrounded by cliffs and covered by swathes of pine trees and lush vegetation. Golden sand beach, gentle slope and crystal-clear waters. Even though it’s a cove of amazing natural beauty, it’s not one of the most practical beaches on the island as the shoreline is dotted with rocks and pebbles.
It’s a perfect place for snorkelling, thanks to its incredible seabed. It’s also known by local fishermen as “Port de Benirràs”, as it provides a natural shelter where they can protect their boats from storms.
In the summer, Cala Benirràs is a popular anchoring point for boats and yachts, frequented by all types of visitors who come to admire the stunning sunsets, which are magnificent spectacles of light with a kaleidoscope of colours showcased by the sky and the sea.
On Sunday afternoons, the sunset is accompanied by vibrant and improvised beats of drums played by a whole host of drummers, giving the beach a truly bohemian atmosphere. Although the party was created spontaneously by a group of hippies who saw Benirràs as a magical spot thanks to the sunsets, it’s now an event that few want to miss.
As this drum party has gained such fame, we should warn you that the area is packed on Sunday afternoons. What’s more, traffic is restricted between June and October on Sundays. This means that only emergency vehicles, accredited residents and regular-line coaches can get to the cove. We definitely recommend getting there by bus. It’s much faster and more comfortable.
At this pocket-sized cove you’ll find hippy-style artisans who sell all kinds of handmade items and accessories, such as bracelets, necklaces, leather goods and anklets.
Right on the beach, you’ll find two restaurants, Roca y Mar and Restaurante 2000, which serve wonderful cuisine based on tasty rice dishes, fresh fish and seafood caught each day using traditional methods. What’s more, there’s a beach club called Elements, where you’ll get to savour Mediterranean cuisine with Italian roots thanks to its chef Mauro Di Mauro. The homemade pastas here are flavoured with aromatic herbs straight from the restaurant’s organic gardens.
