Ibiza: Cala Salada Beach Tour & North Coast Snorkeling

Summary

Catamaran cruise from San Antonio with snorkel stops, aquarium visit and Cala Salada drop-off

You’ll step aboard in San Antonio for a relaxed catamaran ride along Ibiza’s north coast—snorkeling gear ready, drinks flowing, and time to wander Cala Salada beach or try Mediterranean food at your own pace. Expect real local moments—a quick aquarium visit in a sea cave, laughter with your guide, maybe sticky fruit fingers—and plenty of space to just let go.

What’s the experience like?

You know that feeling when you step onto a boat and the world just tilts a little? That’s how it started for me at San Antonio harbour—sun already warming the deck, everyone squinting and shuffling for spots on the double-decker catamaran. Our guide, Elena, had this easy way of pointing out things without sounding like she’d said them a thousand times. First stop was the Aquarium Cap Blanc—honestly, I didn’t expect much but the place is tucked inside an old sea cave and smells faintly of salt and wet stone. The tanks are low-lit and you can see local sea life up close; one kid pressed his nose to the glass so hard I thought he’d leave a mark.

Back on board, we drifted past Cala Gracio and some old hippy hangouts—Elena laughed about wild parties in the 70s but now it’s mostly just quiet pines and sunbathers. The north coast feels different from what you imagine Ibiza to be: cliffs, green slopes, hardly any buildings. When we anchored near Ses Margalides, people scattered fast—some grabbed snorkels (all included), others just slid straight into the water. It was cold at first but then you get used to it; I floated on my back watching sunlight flicker through the waves. Someone handed me a slice of watermelon—sticky fingers, sweet juice—and sangria kept appearing whenever glasses ran low.

The boat finally docked right in front of Cala Salada around 1:30. You can stay on board if you want (a few did) but most of us followed Elena down a sandy path to where the beach opens up between rocky hills. There’s this tiny restaurant with grilled fish smells drifting out—if you want paella you have to book ahead (Elena gave us the number but I forgot to call). I ended up just lying on my towel half asleep for hours. At one point I watched two locals argue over who made better alioli—it sounded serious but they were laughing by the end.

I still think about that swim stop—the quiet underwater hush, bits of seaweed brushing past my legs—and how time felt slower out there. We got picked up again at 5pm or you could head back earlier if you wanted; nobody rushed us either way. Not everything went perfectly (I lost my sunglasses somewhere in the sand), but honestly that’s part of why it sticks with me.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Catamaran tour with swimming and beach stop

• Meet at San Antonio harbour
• Board double-decker motorized catamaran
• Cruise to Ibiza Aquarium
• Visit Aquarium for 25 minutes
• Pass Cala Gracio beach
• Pass iconic hippy spot
• Stop at Ses Balandres for swim and snorkel
• Dock at Cala Salada beach
• Walk to beach restaurant for paella
• Enjoy free time at Cala Salada beach
• Return to San Antonio harbour

Top questions

How long does the Cala Salada & North Beach tour last?

The tour starts at 10:30 am from San Antonio Harbour and returns around 5 pm if you stay at Cala Salada or 2 pm if you return early with the boat.

Is snorkeling equipment included on this Ibiza day trip?

Yes, all snorkeling equipment is included during swim stops along the north coast.

Where does the boat depart from?

The boat departs from San Antonio Harbour on Ibiza's west coast.

Can I eat lunch during the tour?

You can eat at a beach restaurant near Cala Salada (paella menu available if booked ahead) or bring your own food.

Are drinks provided during the cruise?

Beer, sangria, wine, soft drinks, water, fruit and sweets are included throughout the day.

Is there an age limit or fitness requirement?

The tour is suitable for all ages and fitness levels; infants and small children can join with prams or strollers.

Do we visit any attractions besides beaches?

The tour includes a stop at Ibiza's only aquarium inside a sea cave near San Antonio.

How do I get picked up after visiting Cala Salada?

The boat picks you up again directly from Cala Salada beach around 5 pm for return to San Antonio Harbour.

What’s included

Your day includes entry to Ibiza’s only aquarium inside a natural sea cave, use of all snorkeling gear during swim stops along secluded bays only accessible by boat, unlimited beer, sangria, wine and soft drinks plus fresh fruit and sweets—all with guidance from friendly locals before returning to San Antonio harbour in the afternoon.