From sunset drumming ceremonies to perfect beaches and iconic party nights, here are the best things to do in Ibiza
Ibiza’s reputation as one of the most notorious party islands on the planet may turn a lot of people off (and turn plenty on), but there is much more to this place than hitting the clubs and throwing shapes until the sun comes up. Ibiza’s beaches are delightful, the seafood is tremendous, and the rugged landscape is a joy to behold. Of course, the clubs are fantastic, but don’t make the mistake of thinking Ibiza is a one-trick pony.
The best things to do in Ibiza cover plenty of ground, from lazing on the beach to all-night parties. What a wonderful, wonderful place.
What is it? A sandy beach overlooking mystical Es Vedra.
Why go? Word is, if you make a wish while looking out to Es Vedra, it comes true. So wish wisely. Shrouded in myth and legend, Es Vedra is an uninhabited limestone rock that stands almost 400m tall in the ocean off of Cala D’Hort bay. Once you’ve made your wish, get comfy and watch the epic sunset — one of the most beautiful on the island — as it shadows Es Vedra on its way down.
What is it? A string of blissful beaches, away from the crowds.
Why go? Ibiza is small. Nowhere is more than an hour away, but if you are looking to get in the car and drive to the quietest beaches you can find, head to the northeast of the island, where you’ll find a string of sleepy beaches with clear waters, that you can spend a leisurely afternoon hopping between. Start at Playa Cala Xarraca and bathe on its stone pier, continue up to rocky Playa de La Cueva De Portinatx, and spend the rest of the afternoon on the sandy shores of Cala D’En Serra.
What is it? A hippie ceremony that takes place every Sunday on Berrinas Beach at sunset.
Why go? There’s no place you want to be on a Sunday night other than Berrinas beach. A large, sandy bay on the north of the island, with beautiful golden light, locals and out-of-towners come here well before the sun sets to watch, dance, and join in with the lively drumming ritual every week as the sun sets on the horizon. Go forth and join the chant!
What is it? A rocky beach with crystal-clear waters, not far from Sant Antoni.
Why go? As with most of the best beaches in Ibiza, you'll need a car to get to this one. A quick 10-minute drive out of Sant Antoni, and you’re here. Follow your internet map of choice, and it will lead you to a shady parking area in the forest, where you can leave the car and hike down the steep steps to the waterfront. Cala Salada is pretty, but clambering over the rocks (wear trainers!) to the quieter, beautiful Cala Saladeta is where you really want to be.
What is it? The historical centre of the island, in all its whitewashed glory.
Why go? You’re missing a trick if you come to Ibiza and don’t spend at least a morning (and ideally, a sun-kissed evening too) getting lost in the cobbled web of streets that make up Ibiza Old Town. Wander through the gate to reach Dalt Vila, with its glistening whitewashed buildings, colourful flora and towering cacti, all overlooking the coastline and the rest of the city. It’s picture-perfect, so don’t go without your camera.
What is it? A remote seafood restaurant at the very end of Talamanca Beach.
Why go? You’d be hard pushed to find fresher seafood in Ibiza. There’s no menu at Fish Shack. Not even a chalkboard with daily specials. It’s ultimately a cluster of parasols and a few plastic chairs and tables, and once you’ve taken your seat, the waiters will communicate the different fish they’ve caught that day, and everything will be served the same way with potatoes, salad, and a generous dose of olive oil. Delicious – don’t miss it.
What is it? A sunset beach bar that’s been serving up sundowners since 1980.
Why go? An Ibiza institution, this is where you want to be to watch the sunset. Set off the main strip on Sant Antoni, it is a chilled-out spot with good drinks, blissful beats and some of the best views. Go early doors (well, it opens at 4pm) to bag a seat with a view and any chance of getting near the bar.
What is it? A relaxed and wholesome garden restaurant in the middle of the island.
Why go? If you’re looking for a break from the tapas in the Old Town or the salty fresh seafood from the beach spots, head to Paloma for something a bit different and delicious. A not-so-secret spot these days, Paloma has been doing its thing since 2004, serving up wholesome, homemade Mediterranean food using colourful local produce. In the evening, eat under the stars, and don’t be surprised if you’re table-neighbours with a holidaying celeb or two.
What is it? Like Ibiza’s more glamorous sister, it’s an island just off the south of the main island.
Why go? If you’ve done Ibiza a few times or are visiting for more than a few days, it’s worth jumping on a ferry and getting over to Formentera for a day or two. The smallest of the Balearic Islands, just 20-minutes away from Ibiza on a fast ferry, you can expect more of the same world-class beaches, only with a much more laid-back pace of life. If you’ve partied in Ibiza, go here to chill.
What is it? The club night of all club nights, with theatrics aplenty.
Why go? For a night with a difference, it’s all about Elrow: the legendary Sunday night set up at Amnesia, which is probably, nope, definitely, the craziest party on the planet. There’s glitter, there’s trapeze, and there are costumes, confetti, and inflatables. Add to that world-class DJs on the decks, and you’ll understand why it’s a sell-out sensation every time it happens. GO!
What is it? The home of hedonism: a luxury hotel with bars, a restaurant, a pool, and... a reputation.
Why go? Another Ibiza institution, people have been coming away from Pikes with stories since the early ‘80s. The luxury hotel, set in a fifteenth-century stone mansion, was where Wham!’s inimitable ‘Club Tropicana’ video was filmed and where Freddie Mercury held many a legendary bash. Today, it’s just as notorious as ever. Now owned by Ibiza Rocks, you can stay in one of the 29 rooms or party by the pool at one of its infamous parties. They say what happens by the pool in Pikes stays by the pool in Pikes.
