Sant Jordi

Smack in the south of Ibiza, Sant Jordi de ses Salines name gives you a bit of a spoiler. It’s right next to the island’s famous salt flats. Those sprawling fields shimmer under the sun and stretch down to the southern tip, where you’ll hit some of the most stunning beaches you’ll ever lay eyes on. I simply love the nature and beaches. It’s all salty breezes and flamingos one moment, and then a short walk takes you to Playa d’en Bossa with its sky-high hotels, beach clubs and world-class parties like at Ushuaia. So the location is spot on, I think.

Now, back in the village itself, it’s the square that brings it all together. On market days, the place is alive. Locals having a coffee or beer, visitors eyeing up handmade crafts or rummaging for second-hand treasures, it’s all there. Then there’s the Sant Jordi Hippodrome, just on the edge of town. What used to be for trotting races now turns into a buzzing flea market every Saturday, especially in summer.

Sant Jordi de ses Salines might not scream Ibiza on the outside, but if you’re in the south, it’s an absolute must.

Sant Jordi location and how to get there

Sant Jordi is nestled within the municipality of Sant Josep de sa Talaia and is conveniently located near some of Ibiza’s key towns. The village is easily accessible via the PM-801 road, which connects directly to Ibiza Town, making it just a 10-minute drive away. From San Antonio, you can take the PM-803 and connect to the PM-801, bringing you to Sant Jordi in about 20 minutes. Santa Eulària des Riu is a bit further, around 25 minutes by car, also via the PM-810, followed by the PM-803.

If you’re relying on public transport, bus lines 9 and 10 provide regular service to Sant Jordi, linking it with Ibiza Town and San Antonio. This makes it an easy spot to reach when you’re exploring from the capital or other parts of the island.

Sant Jordi history, culture & highlights

You’d be forgiven for thinking Sant Jordi de ses Salines is just another sleepy village in the south, packed with tourists and hotels, but it’s actually packed with character, history and charm if you know where to look. And I know where to look so let me give you some tips!

Right at the heart of the village stands one of the island’s most beautiful churches. Honestly, the whitewashed façade is postcard-worthy. Back in the day, it wasn’t just a place to pray but it doubled as a fortress. Pirates were a real problem here and Sant Jordi saw its fair share of drama. These days, it’s just a fort in name, no pirates hanging about. Inside, the Gothic-inspired arches and cool stone walls give you a real sense of the past. Worth a peek, even if you’re just wandering by and don’t care that much about churches.

The church sits on a lovely little square lined with palm trees, flowers, and cafés and shops. It’s the kind of place where you stop for one drink and end up staying all afternoon. That lazy island vibe hits hard here so relax a bit!

Now, if you’re around in April, don’t miss the Festival of Sant Jordi on the 23rd. It’s the village’s big day, tying into Catalan and Balearic traditions. The legend goes that Sant Jordi (St. George) slayed a dragon, and from its blood a rose bush grew so the tradition is to give a red rose to someone you care about. You’ll see the whole village turn out, stalls selling books and flowers, kids running around, live music… it’s got a proper community feel wich is not typical for tourist towns.

Sant Jordi bars & restaurants

Due to its location in the busy south and nearby towns like Playa d’en Bossa and Ibiza Town, there are plenty of bars and family friendly restaurants in Sant Jordi. And, to be fair, even some really famous ones you should visit! Here are my personal five tips.

Can Jordi Blues Station

You can’t talk about Sant Jordi without mentioning Can Jordi. This place is a proper island institution. Part old-school bar, part live music venue, it’s where locals go to let loose and visitors get a taste of authentic Ibiza vibes. On weekends, the terrace turns into a mini concert stage with everything from blues to flamenco to rock. Inside, it’s all wooden beams, rustic charm, and the smell of grilled meat wafting through the air. Grab a cold beer, tuck into a plate of jamón or tortilla, and soak up the good energy. No frills, just the real deal.

Can Pizza

Need to feed the crew without a fuss? Can Pizza’s your answer. This spot does exactly what it says on the tin. Wood-fired pizzas, fresh ingredients, and a buzzing, casual setting that works for everyone. Whether you’re rolling in with the family, a big group, or just looking for a quick bite after the beach, they’ve got you sorted. Sit on the terrace if the weather’s good (which it usually is) and don’t skip the burrata starter. Trust me.

Cas Costas Grill

Bit more of a foodie? Cas Costas hits the sweet spot between relaxed dining and seriously good food. Tucked away just off the road to Ibiza Town, this open-air restaurant is all about the grill. We’re talking top-quality Galician beef, juicy lamb chops, free-range chicken, and seasonal veg all cooked over flames and served with a smile. The setting’s rustic chic with wooden tables under olive trees, fairy lights, and a buzzing crowd that’s a mix of in-the-know locals and clued-up tourists. Prices are fair, portions are generous, and the sangria goes down way too easily.

Jockey Club Salinas

Now if you’re after a proper beachside bite, head down to Las Salinas and park yourself at the Jockey Club. It’s open all day so you can start with a proper breakfast (think avocado toast, smoothies, fresh coffee) or roll in for a long, lazy lunch.

The menu leans Mediterranean with paella, seafood, and fresh salads, plus a solid wine and cocktail list. DJs spin mellow beats that ramp up as the day goes on and the people-watching is top-tier.

Tip: book ahead during high season or you’ll be queuing in flip-flops. And you can wear flip-flips since that’s the typical dress code on Ibiza!

KM1

Back in Sant Jordi, KM1 is your go-to for tapas and small bites in a super relaxed setting. Like patatas bravas, garlic prawns, Iberian ham and more, all perfect for sharing over a bottle of local wine or a Spanish beer (cerveza!).

The vibe’s easygoing and the service is quick which makes it great for a no-stress evening with friends. It’s not fancy, but that’s the charm. You go for the food, stay for the company, and end up planning your next visit before the bill even comes. And the bill isn’t bad at all, so that’s good too.

So these were my recommendations for informal bars and restaurants, mostly family friendly, in Sant Jordi. It’s a good place to visit for typical Ibiza restaurants, Spanish tapas or (if you want) just a tourist trap. It’s all there!

Sant Jordi fine dining restaurants

If you’re in the mood to splash out and treat yourself to a top-end meal, you’re better off heading a few minutes up the road to places like Playa d’en Bossa, Marina Botafoch or Ibiza Town. That’s where you’ll find the island’s big-name restaurants, complete with waterfront views, posh cocktails, and a whole lot of style.

Sant Jordi de ses Salines itself doesn’t have a huge fine dining scene. Most spots here lean more casual, as mentioned above.

But there is one gem that stands out, luckily!

Sa Sal

Thi is the only restaurant in the village that fits the fine dining label, and honestly, it delivers. Tucked away near the edge of Sant Jordi, this elegant spot specialises in traditional Ibizan cuisine, with a focus on arroces, fresh fish and seafood straight from local waters.

The vibe is warm and welcoming, more classy than flashy, and you’ll find it’s popular with both locals and food-savvy travellers. The terrace offers stunning views out over Platja d’en Bossa, so you get that proper coastal dining experience without leaving the village.

It’s cosy, it’s authentic, and the food is spot on. Definitely one to book in advance, especially during the season.

Things to do with the family in Sant Jordi

Sant Jordi is a good place to visit with children. And yes, that’s also because of the nearby beaches. But there’s more to explore with the family.

Every Saturday, the old hippodrome in Sant Jordi bursts into life with its iconic flea market. It’s not just for bargain hunters either. There’s music in the air, the smell of grilled food, kids dancing to live drumming, and enough random treasures to keep everyone entertained for hours. The vibe’s friendly, relaxed, and surprisingly inclusive, with easy access for buggies and wheelchairs. I think it’s more relaxed than the other hippy markets on Ibiza.

Just a quick drive from the village, Gran Piruleto Park is a good one with the younger ones. Think ball pits, climbing nets, splash zones, and a safe place to let them burn off energy while you catch your breath. It’s got all the basics sorted too so decent loos, seating, and shaded areas, so you’re not melting in the midday sun.

And if you fancy something a bit different, there’s a family cycling treasure hunt through the Ses Salines nature reserve. Guided by locals, this adventure mixes bird spotting with binoculars, clue solving, and map reading, all while pedalling through some of Ibiza’s most peaceful scenery. It’s aimed at kids six and up, but let’s be honest, adults get just as into it, since we’re all kids aren’t we?

Hiking & cycling around Sant Jordi

If you’re into hiking or just love a good walk, the Ses Salines Natural Park is one of the best spots near Sant Jordi to stretch your legs. This protected area, recognised by UNESCO, is a mix of salt flats, sand dunes, pine forests and shallow lagoons. It’s not just beautiful, it’s full of life too. You might spot flamingos or other migratory birds along the way. Trails snake through the park with stunning views over the salt lakes, Playa d’en Bossa and the wild Es Cavallet beach. Some routes are easy one-hour loops, others stretch up to 15 km and include stops at historical sites like the old pirate tower of Ses Portes.

One popular route starts at the Saturday flea market in Sant Jordi, then winds through the reserve down to Las Salinas or Es Cavallet beach. Bring snacks or stop at a chiringuito on the way for a proper Ibizan picnic.

Within the town itself, you can walk easily along the promenade to Playa d’en Bossa and Ibiza Town, and from there on to Talamanca and Marina Botafoch. Both nice strolls for sure!

If cycling’s more your thing, Sant Jordi is a great starting point for both road and trail rides. The Ibiza Salines Bike Tour is a favourite, covering around 3 hours of scenic riding past salt pans, flamingo habitats and landmarks like the ancient church of Sant Jordi and the defensive tower of Sal Rossa.

For a bit more of a challenge, there’s the Sa Caleta Tour, a private ride of about 35 km that takes you up into the hills of Infierno and Sa Capelleta, down to the cliffs near Sa Caleta with knockout views of Formentera.

E-bikes are available for rent if you don’t fancy tackling the climbs on muscle power alone. And if you’re more into road cycling, the area offers everything from gentle 13 km coastal loops to solid 30 km sessions that cruise through the park and past some of the island’s best beaches.

Shops & markets in Sant Jordi

If there’s one place that captures the soul of shoppers in Sant Jordi, it’s the Mercadillo de Sant Jordi. Held every Saturday morning at the old hippodrome, this is the biggest and most loved flea market on the island. I would also place it above the famous hippy markets since it’s more genuine.

You’ll find everything from second-hand clothes and vintage jackets to old-school vinyl, rare books, handmade jewellery, and quirky bits of bric-a-brac that you didn’t even know you wanted. Local artists sell their crafts, there’s the odd antique chest or retro lamp, and sometimes even fresh fruit and veg if you’re lucky.

There’s a little bar too, perfect for grabbing a coffee or a cold beer while you people-watch or haggle over a pair of old Levi’s. It runs year-round from around 8 or 9 in the morning until early afternoon.

Sant Jordi is not known for it’s shopping street. Yes, you can find some supermarkets and yes you can find some tourist shops, but for more options, you’d better go to nearby Ibiza Town.

Best beaches near Sant Jordi

Sant Jordi might sit right next to the coast, with sea views in nearly every direction, but there’s no sandy beach in the village itself. Instead, you’ve got a rocky shoreline and a little promenade where locals go for evening strolls or to catch the breeze. For a proper beach day though, you’ll need to hop in the car or stretch your legs for a short walk.

Luckily, you’re spoiled for choice. Just down the road is Ses Salines, one of the most iconic beaches in Ibiza. It’s got that postcard-perfect combo of turquoise water, soft sand, and chilled beats drifting from beach bars like Sa Trinxa and Jockey Club. It’s busy, yes, but never loses its laid-back charm.

A little further along the coast, Es Cavallet serves up a mix of natural beauty and cosmopolitan flair. It’s popular with the LGBTQ+ crowd, has volleyball nets, and a nudist stretch if you’re feeling brave.

Then there’s Es Codolar, a completely different vibe altogether. This long, pebbly beach sits close to the salt flats, offering peace, space, and the occasional good wave for surfers. No crowds, no fuss, just sea, salt, and silence. That’s my Ibiza, if I”m honest!

Sant Jordi Nightlife

Sant Jordi de ses Salines keeps things low-key when it comes to nightlife, which is honestly part of its charm. You won’t find thumping bass or all-night raves right in the village, but what you do get is easy access to some of the island’s wildest party zones. It’s the kind of place where you can sip a cold beer with relaxed beach views, then jump in a taxi and be dancing under lasers 5 minutes later. And that’s exactly what many people like about the town!

In the village itself, the vibe is mellow. A few local bars and cafés are perfect for a pre-party drink or a chilled evening catching up with friends. No clubs, no chaos, no Burger King, just good company and an easygoing pace. One spot worth checking is Can Jordi Blues Station, as I mentioned before. It’s not a club, but it’s known for live music nights, cold drinks, and a proper Ibizan crowd. Sometimes it’s quiet, sometimes it’s bouncing, so it’s worth looking around to see what’s on.

But when you’re ready to give it a blast, you’re in exactly the right place. Sant Jordi sits bang between Ibiza Town and Playa d’en Bossa: two of the biggest nightlife hubs on the island, with San Antonio your other pick.

Just a short ride away you’ve got Ushuaïa, famous for its epic daytime parties with superstar DJs and poolside madness. Right across the road is Hï Ibiza, a state-of-the-art club that’s packed from midnight till sunrise. Hard Rock hotel has it’s own share of parties and events going on. It’s glitzy, high-energy, and everything you expect from Ibiza nights.

Whether you want beach bars or bass drops, it’s all just a few minutes from your doorstep.