Coastal Chic in the Balearics: A Review of the Iberostar Selection Santa Eulalia, Ibiza

Ibiza – May 30th, 2026

Our package holiday began at Southend Airport, which I hadn’t used in years. I was pleasantly surprised at how quick and easy everything was—from getting there and parking to the check-in process. There were no crowds, and we were through security within 20 minutes of arriving.

Once airside, facilities were fairly limited: a lounge (£39 per person), the Navigator bar serving food and drinks, some live music (a bit loud, though there is a quieter area), and a small duty-free shop.

The flight took around two hours, and we arrived in the early evening. A 20-minute transfer took us to our hotel, Iberostar Selection Santa Eulalia, an adults-only property, where we arrived around 10 pm. Check-in was smooth, and the staff were very friendly.

We were given a priority location room with a pool view and partial sea views. Rooms on the opposite side of the hotel overlook a construction site where villas are being built, though we wouldn’t have known about it if we hadn’t gone exploring—there was no noise disturbance.

The room itself was comfortable but on the small side. It featured a separate toilet, a bathroom with a shower and basin, a wardrobe space within the bathroom, air conditioning, a small fridge, a safe, and a hairdryer. There were no bedside units, just lamps, and the patio was compact with just a table and two chairs. Water is provided via refillable jugs, with refill stations on each floor—though you’ll need to bring your own bottle. Beach towels are included.

We chose a bed and breakfast, as we prefer to eat out, but upgrading to half board is good value if done in advance. On arrival, it costs around €39 per person per day. Breakfast is buffet-style and very good, with both indoor and outdoor seating.

Around the pool at lunchtime, there is music and a nice atmosphere. The hotel also offers thoughtful touches like complimentary cocktails and snacks—one day we had paella, another a large meatball in a bun.

The hotel is located in a very quiet residential area, with no nearby bars or restaurants. However, turning right along the beach leads to Cala Pada, about a 5-minute walk away, where there are two tavernas. We ate there one evening and had a great meal. This is also where you can catch ferries to Santa Eulalia, Es Cana, Ibiza Town, Cala Llonga, and Formentera.

Turning left from the hotel leads to the famous Hippy Market, held every Wednesday from 10 am to 6 pm. It’s about a 20-minute walk, passing several beaches and tavernas along the way—perfect for stopping off for a drink or bite to eat. The market itself is huge and well worth visiting, with plenty of stalls, food and drink options, and facilities.

Our favourite place to eat was Voraz in Santa Eulalia Marina, where we had the best paella I’ve ever tasted. The town also has lovely shops and a great atmosphere.

We visited Es Cana one evening but found it lacking in atmosphere, so after a quick drink we took a taxi to Santa Eulalia. Taxis to both destinations cost around €10 each way.

Evening entertainment at the hotel was excellent, with live music and some very talented performers—we really enjoyed it.

We only stayed for four nights and wished we had longer to explore more of this beautiful island.