The bar that popularised the sunset ritual on Ibiza, on the western shore of Sant Antoni bay, with Cafe Mambo and other bars on the same promenade. Tables facing the sun fill by early evening, so arrive early.
Cafe del Mar and the Sant Antoni Sunset Strip is a stretch of bars and terraces on the western shore of Sant Antoni bay, in Sant Antoni de Portmany on Ibiza, in the Balearic Islands of Spain. The area is known as the place that popularised the sunset ritual on the island, and Cafe del Mar, together with neighbours such as Cafe Mambo, draws visitors each evening to watch the sun drop into the sea. The venue's chilled music helped spread the style of relaxed sunset listening around the world.
Visitors walk along the promenade and choose a bar or terrace, order drinks and settle in as the light fades. Entry is free, and drinks cost about EUR 8-14, with a typical spend of EUR 8-25. Some bars also serve food, and the atmosphere shifts from relaxed in the late afternoon to livelier after dark. The strip is a pleasant short walk from the town and bay, and many visitors combine it with a stroll along the water.
A visit usually lasts one to two hours. The best time to arrive is about 90 minutes before sunset, which falls around 21:00 from June to August. Tables facing the sun fill early, so arriving ahead of time gives a better chance of a good place. Hours run from the afternoon until late in summer and are reduced out of season, so visitors in spring and autumn should check what is open.
For photographs, the best angles are from the rocks and terraces along the shore with the sun and the bay in the frame, and the rooftops and boats of Sant Antoni in silhouette. The light is richest in the last half hour before the sun reaches the horizon.
Crowds are heaviest on summer evenings, especially on weekends and in July and August, when queues for tables and drinks can build. Earlier arrival and weekday visits are calmer. Sant Antoni is about 20 kilometres from Ibiza Town, with buses and taxis taking 25 to 30 minutes, and the strip is a ten-minute walk along the bay from the town centre.
| Admission | No entry fee; drinks about EUR 8-14 (about USD 9.20-16.10) |
|---|---|
| Hours | Daily from the afternoon until late in summer; reduced hours out of season |
| Typical visit | 1-2 hours |
| Best time | About 90 minutes before sunset (June-August sunset around 21:00) |
| Getting there | Bus or taxi from Ibiza Town (about 20 km, 25-30 minutes); 10-minute walk along the bay from Sant Antoni town |
| Address | Carrer de Vara de Rey, 27, 07820 Sant Antoni de Portmany, Balearic Islands, Spain |
Location
Carrer de Vara de Rey, 27, 07820 Sant Antoni de Portmany, Balearic Islands, Spain
38.9807, 1.2964 View on map
Highlights
- Sunset ritual at the bar that popularised it on Ibiza
- Cafe Mambo and other bars on the same promenade
- Views over Sant Antoni bay as the sun sets
- Relaxed music and terrace seating
- Short walk along the bay from the town centre
Tips for visiting
- Arrive about 90 minutes before sunset for a sun-facing table
- Expect drinks at about EUR 8-14
- Visit on weekdays to avoid the heaviest crowds
- Check opening hours out of season, as they are reduced
- Walk from the town along the bay or take a taxi from Ibiza Town
When to visit
About 90 minutes before sunset gives the best seating. Weekdays are less crowded, and June to August sunsets fall around 21:00.
Accessibility
The promenade is largely level, but some terraces involve steps. Visitors who use a wheelchair should ask venue staff about step-free tables.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
How long does a visit take?
One to two hours is typical, enough to arrive early and watch the sunset.
Is there an entry fee?
No entry fee is charged, but drinks cost about EUR 8-14.
Is it suitable for kids?
Families visit in the early evening. Later in the night the atmosphere is more adult.
Is photography allowed?
Photography of the sunset and the bay is common. Visitors should be considerate of other guests.