Cala Nova is a picturesque beach that ornates the northeastern coast of Ibiza with its golden sand and appealing waves. This beach is less touristy compared to most beaches in Ibiza; therefore, many people love to escape to this quiet place that has a laid-back atmosphere. Its natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere make the place ideal for those who want to have a quieter day at the beach, yet it still can keep a pretty good balance in terms of amenities and dining to keep visitors comfortable and entertained.
How to Get to Cala Nova
You can easily reach Cala Nova’s center by car, for it takes about 30 minutes to get here from Ibiza Town. From Santa Eulalia, it is even closer, only 10 minutes away by car. The access road up to the village of Cala Nova is good, and on your way here, you will pass some nice countryside, so that’s also something to be enjoyed.
The number 16 bus service operates from the nearby town of Santa Eulalia, the closest stop being a short walk from the beach, which is also called Es Canar. Generally speaking, therefore, this beach is accessible to anyone who is staying in the Santa Eulalia area or in one of the resorts that is within easy traveling distance. Those traveling from Ibiza Town or San Antonio will need to change buses en route, although the journey remains all but straightforward.
It is free to park at Cala Nova, but the car park isn’t very big. The best option is, therefore, to get there early, particularly during the peak summer months. But Cala Nova is still one of the quieter beaches, and on days of congestion, you will probably find a spot without too much bother.
Beach Facilities at Cala Nova
Overview Cala Nova has some good facilities available, making it one of the more comfortable beaches to visit, while still retaining a touch of its ‘nature’: here is broad overview of what you can expect:
- Parking: Free, but limited
- Lifeguard: Yes, during peak season
- Toilets: Available in restaurants within proximity
- Shower: Yes
- Type: Sand
- Watersport rentals: Yes, seasonal
Who visits Cala Nova
Cala Nova is popular for having different kinds of visitors: families with children, couples, and groups of friends. It would be highly appropriate for families that have young children due to the rather gentle waves; however, sometimes the surf can pick up, making it, therefore, a favorite among surfers and bodyboarders. The beach is generally laid-back, pulling those in search of a more low-key experience far from the more famous party beaches of Ibiza.
Nature aficionados, however, like Cala Nova, too, because its surrounds of pines and cliffs make it a virgin beach compared with many beaches on the island. It is not infrequent to see visitors who come to spend either along the coast or climbing around in the nearby rocky areas.
Bars and Restaurants at Cala Nova
Within Cala Nova, there are some really good places to dine, which makes this beach all the more worth visiting. The restaurants lining the front of the beach in Cala Nova boast Mediterranean cuisine: seafood dishes are the highlight of any menu in these restaurants; however, fresh vegetables also bear great significance. The casual nature of these restaurants will also complement the laid-back atmosphere of this beach and make it a great place for a lazy lunch or even an early dinner overlooking the sea.
One of the hotter restaurants on Cala Nova, the Atzaró Beach boasts a very ‘posh’ beach vibe along with a scrumptious Mediterranean menu. It’s highly recommended for a meal or a cocktail with a view. If you’re looking for something a little more low-key, there are a few other chiringuitos serving tasty snacks and cold drinks throughout the day.
If you are planning on making a day of it at Cala Nova, then restaurants and bars offer a very welcome refuge from the sun: a chance to cool off and revitalize before being thrown back onto the beach.
More Visiting Tips for Cala Nova
One of the distinguishing features of Cala Nova is that it does get waves. Most beaches in Ibiza are famous because they often act almost like a millpond, whereas Cala Nova sometimes gets swells that make it a pretty good spot to go surfing. During the summer, the waves are usually nothing to really worry about for swimmers at any level, but if you have visited off-season or on a windy day, the waves can pick up.
It is always a good idea to check what the weather will be like and how the sea is, especially when one intends to go for a swim or do some surfing.
For keen walkers, there are some fine trails around Cala Nova offering spectacular views along the coastline. You can take one of the leisurely strolls along the beach or climb to the nearby cliffs for a more adventurous hike. The area is not too nearly developed, which adds to the impression of being right in the middle of nature. If you’re seeking a bit more action, there are some options to enjoy water sports in Cala Nova like paddleboarding and kayaking, though rentals are pretty much only available during summer.
Natural Beauty of Cala Nova
Picture-perfect Cala Nova boasts soft golden inlets along a wide bay, set back by cliffs and pine trees. The color of the water is almost fluorescent turquoise here, and it may be a bit choppier than elsewhere, but great to swim. The beach is very long and this means that even when there are quite a lot of people, there will always be places where you can lay your towel and relax without being disturbed.
It is actually one of the most salient points of natural beauty to see in Cala Nova. Unlike so many of Ibiza’s tamer beaches, it has maintained a sense of wild beauty. The pine-covered hills that surround the sand give it a very secluded feel—even though it’s actually quite easy to access. That makes it a favorite of those desiring to enjoy the natural beauty of Ibiza sans crowds.
The tourists who head to Ibiza in search of a quiet, idyllic beach experience will find that it is the perfect place. Its combination of natural beauty, laid-back vibe, and excellent facilities make it an ideal spot for a relaxing day by the sea. Whether you go as part of a family, a group of friends, or as a couple, there’s something for everyone on Cala Nova. Those seeking a more low-key Ibiza should head to Cala Nova.
With its virgin landscape, softly lapping waves, and warm atmosphere, this cannot be rivaled elsewhere on the island for anyone desiring peace and quiet. From relaxation to a bit of adventure with surfing or hiking, Cala Nova certainly provides a perfect venue for a day of memories by the coast.
