With the summer now a hazy memory, a last-minute break in the sunshine could be just what you need to perk up your spirits before winter sets in. 

Autumn getaways bring uncrowded beaches and warm sunny weather, with package holiday prices often significantly lower than during the more expensive summer months. Waiting just a matter of weeks for an October break could see holidaymakers enjoying hidden gems in some of the most popular holiday destinations like Spain or Portugal for less. 

In Ibiza for example, one lesser-known playa is the perfect place for a quiet week away. When the experts at Wizz Air identified the best under-the-radar beach destinations in Europe for the shoulder season, Cala Benirrás in the north of the island came highly rated for peace and quiet. 

The airline conducted analysis of beaches across more than 50 European countries, assessing crowd levels, average temperatures, and daylight hours for September, October, and November. 

By calculating beach space per visitor, Wizz Air ranked destinations based on the amount of room available to relax and soak up the late-season sun.

While the island of Ibiza is best known for its buzzing nightlife and busy tourist season, Cala Benirrás offers a bucket full of Balearic charm without the frantic pace of life you expect from other parts of the island. 

Set on the northwest coast, Benirrás is now one of Ibiza’s most talked about sunset destinations after decades of being a closely guarded local secret.

Approached by a gentle walk through meandering hills and valleys, the pretty beach offers incredible views out across the water to an interesting rock formation known as Cap Bernat (or referred to by locals as ‘the finger of God’). 

The crystal clear waters are ideal for snorkelers and the unoverlooked cove is tucked away from the traditional tourist trail.

For an authentic Ibizan experience, there is a small hippy market that takes place every day apart from Wednesdays and Thursdays and the beach plays host to a very cool but unusual tradition that takes place in the evenings.

As the sun sets, a small group of locals start an informal drumming session, evoking the free-spirited era of the days gone by, allowing all those positive Ibiza energies to flow.

Perfect for those seeking a different side of Ibiza, the beach comes alive at sunset with the rhythmic beats of drummers, creating an enchanting atmosphere as the sun sets over the Mediterranean. 

During the summer months, these impromptu performances draw visitors from across the island, but as autumn descends it becomes a more intimate soiree, where holidaymakers can relax and enjoy.

This ‘hidden gem’ on the island of Ibiza has been described as the “best beach on Ibiza, especially in October” by Tripadvisor user Debra H. 

Mesmerised by their visit to this quiet corner of the White Isle, the traveller continued: “It’s not just a beach for a day trip or the Sunday drumming it’s a place to come early in the morning and get to know. We really liked Elements cafe, nice food sitting and chilling on the sofa as with music. Lovely family friendly and I love the rock there like a giant goddess. Highly recommend. Most favourite beach in Europe.”

Another late-season visitor Emily S, echoed the sentiments of others calling it a “beautiful bohemian feeling beach, perfect place for sunset”.  

They continued: “We visited Ibiza at the end of October. End of season, so this beach was lovely. Not too busy, with a relaxed, friendly, safe feel. Beautiful sheltered cove with stunning views out to sea, and amazing clear waters with lots of fish.”

Ibiza offers average temperatures of around a pleasant 23°C (73°F) during October and November, perfect for visitors looking to make the most of the fading summer warmth.

Cala Benirrás is a 10-minute bus ride from the nearest town of Port De San Miguel, which is home to hotels, villas and a wide selection of facilities.