Cala Bassa is a sheltered, pine-backed cove of golden sand on the south side of the bay of San Antonio, in the municipality of Sant Josep. It is about 15 minutes by car from San Antonio and has a summer bus and boat from the town.
Cala Bassa is what many visitors picture when they think of a Balearic cove: a curve of golden sand, calm water that turns turquoise over the sand, and old junipers and pines that give real shade. It is also one of the most organised beaches on the island, with a beach club, a summer bus, a boat from San Antonio and loungers for rent.
Where Cala Bassa is and how to get there
Cala Bassa belongs to Sant Josep de sa Talaia and sits on the south side of the bay of San Antonio, facing north. The Sant Josep council puts it 21 km from Ibiza Town and 8 km from the village of Sant Josep.
- By car from San Antonio: about 15 minutes, taking the road towards Port des Torrent and following the signs, or coming in from Sant AgustÃ.
- Bus P5 from San Antonio: runs from 1 May to 31 October. From June to September there are ten departures a day from San Antonio, the first at 9:00 and the last at 20:25, and the trip takes about 35 minutes. In May and October there are eight. From November to April there is no service.
- Boat from San Antonio: Cruceros Portmany sails from the port of San Antonio to Cala Bassa from May to October, every day except Sunday, with a morning and a midday departure and two return times.
The bus stop is about 50 metres from the beach, so the bus is as practical as the car here.
Parking at Cala Bassa
The Sant Josep council lists the parking at Cala Bassa as tied to the restaurants, and the toilets too. It is not a big municipal car park, and in July and August the space goes quickly. If you are staying in San Antonio, the P5 bus or the boat save you the search. If you drive, come early in the day.
What to do at Cala Bassa
The slope is gentle, the bottom is sand and the cove is sheltered, which is why the council describes it as ideal for families. There is an access ramp, a lifeguard in high season and an area for water sports. There are no public showers.
- Cala Bassa Beach Club (CBbC): has three spaces: CBbC Central with a Mediterranean and international menu, the Chiringo on the sand for rice dishes and fresh fish, and Portobello for fresh pasta and pizza. Sushi is served across the club. In July and August book a table or a lounger in advance.
- Shade: the junipers and pines behind the sand are one of the few natural sources of shade on a west coast beach, as the Sant Josep council notes.
- Snorkel: the open sand has little life. The rocky edges on both sides are where you will see fish, in calm and shallow water.
- Water sports: the council lists a dedicated water sports area, and the calm water of the cove suits beginners on a paddle board.
Best time to go
Mornings are quieter, and the first P5 bus reaches the beach at 9:34 in summer. From midday in July and August the beach club and the loungers are at their busiest. Because the cove faces north, the sun does not set over the open sea here. For a sunset, drive a few kilometres on to Cala Comte, which faces west, or see both from the sea. June and September give warm water and a calmer beach.
See Cala Bassa from the sea
Cala Bassa and Cala Comte are paired in several beach hopping trips from San Antonio. Our catalogue includes a sunset cruise that stops at both for a swim and paddle boarding before heading back as the sun goes down. For a daytime version with more time in the water, see the snorkel and water trips, or compare all boat tours from San Antonio.
Tips before you go
- Check the last P5 back. In summer it leaves Cala Bassa at 21:00, in May and October at 19:55.
- Sunday is the day without the Cruceros Portmany boat. Plan the bus or the car that day.
- Bring water shoes for the rocky edges if you plan to snorkel.
- If you want the beach club, book. If you do not, bring your own shade in case the trees are taken.
Compare it with Cala Comte and Cala Tarida, or read our guide to the best beach clubs in Ibiza.
Frequently asked questions
How do you get to Cala Bassa from San Antonio?
Cala Bassa is about 15 minutes by car from San Antonio. From May to October the P5 bus runs daily from San Antonio in about 35 minutes, and Cruceros Portmany sails from the port every day except Sunday.
Is there a bus to Cala Bassa?
Yes. Line P5 runs between San Antonio and Cala Bassa from 1 May to 31 October. From June to September there are ten departures a day from San Antonio, from 9:00 to 20:25. There is no service from November to April.
Is there parking at Cala Bassa?
Yes, but it is limited. The Sant Josep council lists the parking at Cala Bassa as linked to the beach restaurants. In July and August the bus or the boat from San Antonio avoids the search for a space.
What is the Cala Bassa Beach Club?
Cala Bassa Beach Club, known as CBbC, has three spaces: CBbC Central with a Mediterranean menu, the Chiringo on the sand for rice and fresh fish, and Portobello for Italian food. Sushi is served in all areas. In July and August it is worth booking ahead.
Is Cala Bassa good for families?
Yes. Cala Bassa has a gentle sandy slope, calm water sheltered by pine and juniper, an access ramp and a lifeguard in high season, according to the Sant Josep council. The bus stop is about 50 metres from the sand.
Can you snorkel at Cala Bassa?
Yes. The centre of Cala Bassa is sand, but the rocky edges on both sides of the cove are good for easy snorkelling. Swim along the rocks rather than over the open sand, where there is little to see.