This expansive sheltered bay at the northern end of Ibiza is known as Portinatx des Rei because King Alfonso XIII disembarked there during military manoeuvres in 1929. There are three different beaches, s’Arenal Gros, the most extensive which is in the centre, s’Arenal Petit, to the west and much smaller, and the Port of Portinatx, to the east where there is still some fishing activity. This last beach is particularly unusual as it is the site of the islet of sa Guardiola, which closes off the beach to the north and shelters it from storms. The three beaches are sandy and the waters also boast a sandy seabed with some sections of rocks and seagrass.
In the background and all around, there are numerous hotels, restaurants, shops and every kind of service available. The Punta de sa Torre which closes the bay to the west, houses the Torre de Portinatx, one of the seven lookout towers built by the Spanish crown in the 18th century. Beyond the port is the lighthouse of Moscarter, which is the most recently built and tallest lighthouse in the Balearic Islands. It was inaugurated in 1977, with a 52 metre tower and its white beam flashes every five seconds. It has a range of 18 nautical miles.
