Dozens of caravans and caravan minibuses are offered as places to sleep, advertised as tourist accommodations in natural zones on the island of Ibiza. This is happening despite warnings from the Sant Josep local police about the potential risks involved and the official cautions issued a few days earlier.
We are told that a pattern of private hire services is emerging, with authorities noting a campaign to monitor camping in environmentally sensitive areas. Critics of these listings argue that some hosts misinform visitors about where camping is allowed, including in protected zones. Police in Sant Josep specifically cited Ses Salines Nature Park and the ANEI zone near Cala d’Hort as areas where these vehicles were spotted, and they highlighted a risk of fires when cooking or heating equipment is used outside permitted campsites. Firefighters recently responded to a forest fire in Sant Joan that started near a trailer among burning trees, underscoring the danger of leaving vehicles in natural areas. Waste left behind by campers is another concern raised by officials.
On the platform in question, numerous listings show cars and vans positioned in scenic spots to offer short stays. Many galleries feature photos of views toward es Vedrà, taken near Cala d’Hort, with some vehicles placed in parking lots and woodland near well known beaches like Platges de Comte and Benirràs. Several hosts promise guests a guide to the best camping spots. One example is a host who offers tips about the island and suggested places to park in his two vans. Some listings even show the vehicles with terraces and tables set up for guests in protected zones such as at the foot of the sa Sal Rossa tower within Ses Salines Natural Park. It is important to note that visitors are not officially warned that camping outside designated areas is prohibited in the Pitiusas (Ibiza and Formentera).
These offerings frame the natural experience of the island as the main draw, emphasizing sunsets, sunrises, cliffside views, and proximity to the shoreline. Some vehicles are described as occupying spots in places like Cala Salada and Port de ses Caletes, with phrases that entice guests to discover magical corners, romantic stays, and the most authentic Ibiza experiences. The wording often suggests a desire to escape standard hotel reservations to explore wild landscapes and hidden regions. Several ads use strikingly similar language that positions overnight stays under the stars as the essence of the Ibiza experience, regardless of the specific vehicle or host involved.
Extra services
A few hosts offer additional services to increase the appeal of their listings. One example is a chef who operates in Ibiza during the season and manages eight trailers for rental to tourists. Nightly rates vary from moderate to premium, with some listings mentioning cleaning fees and service charges that push daily costs well over typical tourism budgets. In some cases transportation to and from the airport can be an extra charge, and late checkout is listed as an additional fee. Other listings broaden the offer by including bike rentals or arranging boat trips around es Vedrà or toward Formentera. A handful of hosts even require guests to restore the vehicle to a specific return condition, including tidying up and restocking supplies. A guest named Lauren describes a well used van that still functions well for its age, reflecting a common sentiment among long-standing listings.
It is not unusual to find caravans advertised by different individuals in similar configurations, one operator from Catalonia and another from Sant Antoni, both highlighting views of bays and easy access to beaches. Some listings emphasize the parking location at Ses Variades car park as a key benefit. Others clearly note that the vehicle is intended solely for overnight use and cannot be driven, sometimes due to failed inspections or long-term disrepair. One host mentions a caravan parked near a sea-facing park in Sant Antoni while another offers guests the option to select their preferred site in advance, effectively reserving a spot for a vacation stay in a caravan setup.