Introduction
Located on the North Eastern tip of Ibiza, Cala Mastella is a secluded cove that offers a peaceful escape from the island’s lively party scene. With turquoise waters, pine tree forests, and breathtaking coastal views, Cala Mastella is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. In this guide, we’ll share everything you need to know to plan your visit to this tranquil piece of paradise in Ibiza.
An Overview of Cala Mastella
Cala Mastella is situated near the village of Sant Carles in the municipality of Santa Eulalia. It’s just a 15-minute drive from Ibiza Town but feels worlds away thanks to its remoteness. The narrow road leading down to Cala Mastella keeps it relatively undisturbed from the crowds that flock to some of Ibiza’s more famous beaches.
This secluded cove features a pebbly beach set against a backdrop of forested cliffs. The turquoise waters are ideal for swimming and snorkelling. At only 150 meters wide, the beach gets most of its shade from the pine trees of Ses Feixes Nature Reserve that stands behind it.
Despite its hidden location, Cala Mastella has a restaurant and beach bar, sun loungers, paddle boards, and lifeguards during peak season. There is also parking available, but it’s limited, so arriving early or late is best. Overall, Cala Mastella offers a tranquil setting surrounded by nature where you can relax and unwind.
The Natural Beauty of Cala Mastella
What makes Cala Mastella so special is its natural beauty. With its crystal clear waters, soft sand shoreline, and steep pine tree cliffs, it’s a stunning slice of coastal Ibiza. The beach has a backdrop of forested hills that provide shade and give it an intimate feel.
The cove is framed by rugged cliffs covered in low-lying Mediterranean brush. The rich azure waters remain shallow for quite a distance out, making them perfect for swimming and snorkelling. Just offshore, you’ll find small rocky islets to explore. Under the surface, you can spot tropical fish and other marine life.
The beaches in this area benefit from the clean open ocean water, lacking the boats and pollution found elsewhere. It makes for excellent conditions for snorkelling. Paddle boarding is also popular in the protected cove when the waters are calm.
With the Ses Feixes Nature Reserve just behind the beach, there is ample forested area to explore. The hiking trails winding through fragrant pine trees offer stunning elevated views over Cala Mastella and the coastline. It’s a peaceful place to walk, disconnect from everyday life, and immerse yourself in nature.
Relaxation and Recreation in Cala Mastella
With its peaceful atmosphere, Cala Mastella is the perfect place to relax and unwind. The main activities here are simply soaking up the sun, swimming in the crystal clear waters, and enjoying a refreshed state of mind. Just claim your spot on the sand or rent a sun lounger and let your worries drift away.
For the more active, there are plenty of opportunities to get out on the Mediterranean Sea by renting paddle boards, kayaks, or snorkel gear. Paddle boarding is especially popular in the calm, protected waters of the cove. And snorkelling lets you discover the colourful tropical fish that inhabit the rocky coastline.
If you want to get your blood pumping, go for a hike in Ses Feixes Nature Reserve located just behind the beach. There are a few different trails of varying difficulty winding through fragrant pine and juniper forests, delivering stellar views over Cala Mastella. It’s a great way to experience more of Ibiza’s unique natural landscape.
When you need a break from the sun, check out Es Niu cafe and restaurant nestled right on Cala Mastella. Grab a bite, or cocktail or just relax in the shade while still enjoying the sublime sea views. With its laidback vibe and oceanfront location, it’s a quintessential Ibiza chill-out spot.
Top Sights and Attractions Nearby
While Cala Mastella offers a secluded escape, it’s still conveniently located to some of northeast Ibiza’s top sights and attractions. Here are some must-see spots near the cove:
- Santa Eulalia – This nearby coastal town offers great shopping, dining, and more lovely beaches like Cala Nova. Don’t miss the hippy market on Wednesdays!
- Can Marines Beach – Just 2km from Cala Mastella, this larger sandy beach has beach clubs and watersports galore. Great for a day of action-packed fun.
- Las Puertas del Cielo – These storied “Heaven’s Gates” limestone rock formations offer panoramic views over the coastline. A stunning Instagram backdrop!
- Ses Salines Natural Reserve – This expansive reserve protects Ibiza’s diverse wetland ecosystems. Spot pink flamingos and over 200 bird species.
- D’alt Vila in Ibiza Town – The atmospheric old town of Ibiza City features cobbled streets and medieval architecture. A UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Necropolis of Puig des Molins – Over 3,000 Punic and Roman tombs and ruins dating back over 2000 years. An important archaeological site.
With so much to see and do just minutes away, you can easily fill your days exploring before returning to your tranquil base at Cala Mastella.
Where to Eat and Drink in Cala Mastella
When it comes to dining at Cala Mastella, the choices are beautifully simple. Es Niu restaurant provides front-row seats overlooking the cove right on the sand. Serving up fresh Mediterranean cuisines like paella, grilled fish, Ibizan specialities and sangria, it’s the perfect place to fuel up while enjoying the sensational sea views.
Just behind the beach, El Chiringuito is a rustic open-air beach bar dishing out light bites, tapas, cocktails and beachy vibes. It’s an obligatory stop for a relaxed drink or snack between swims.
While options are limited in Cala Mastella itself, you’ll find plenty more restaurants, beach clubs and cafes within a short drive. The nearby towns of Santa Eulalia and Sant Carles offer a range of international cuisine from Italian to Indonesian. So you can easily explore more culinary variety within 10-15 minutes of Cala Mastella.
Where to Stay in Cala Mastella
Given its secluded location, lodging options right in Cala Mastella are limited. But there are some excellent places to stay just a 5-10 minute drive away along Ibiza’s beautiful northeastern coastline.
Here are some top places to stay close to Cala Mastella:
- Agroturismo Sa Vinya D’en Palerm – Charming rural hotel with garden cottages and a pool, surrounded by nature.
- Atzaro – Luxury boutique hotel with a world-class spa set on a tranquil orange grove.
- Cas Gasi – Boutique five-star hotel crafting unique cultural experiences in a historic country estate.
- Hotel Mirador de Dalt Vila – Sophisticated hotel with panoramic views over Ibiza Town and the old port.
- La Torre del Canónigo – Historic 17th-century manor house turned cosy hotel nestled in a quiet rural area.
You’ll also find holiday villas for rent scattered along Ibiza’s northeastern coast if you prefer a private self-catering option with more space.
Conclusion
With its remote ambience yet proximity to amenities, Cala Mastella makes an idyllic base for exploring Ibiza’s vibrant northern coast and countryside. Wake up to ocean views, spend lazy days at the beach, and unwind surrounded by the island’s natural beauty. If you’re looking to trade Ibiza’s party scene for a peaceful escape, Cala Mastella is a hidden gem worth putting on your travel radar.
