Ibiza Travel Guide
Is there anywhere quite like Ibiza? This sun-drenched Balearic island somehow manages to offer something for everyone. From the clubbing kids and haute hippies to the megabucks fashion crowd and happy families, the White Isle and its magical light, idyllic beaches and, let’s not forget, nightlife, is the perfect summer destination.
WHERE TO EAT
There are so many great places to eat in Ibiza. If you’re heading to Las Dalias market (see what to do) then make a stop at 70s institution Bar Anita (just up the road by car), which serves great seafood and pizza.
Macao in Santa Gertrudis is a lovely Italian restaurant with a gorgeous courtyard, that’s popular with locals from all over the island.
La Bodega at the bottom of the fortress in Ibiza Town has an amazing atmosphere, great tapas and is wonderful for a cocktail or two before going out. Not to be confused with the big hotel/restaurant of the same name, Destino is a tiny restaurant with two outposts, in Sant Josep and Santa Gertrudis, both serving low-key, mouthwatering tapas-style food. Book in high season as the food is amazing and it draws a crowd.
For mouth-watering seafood with a great beach location, Atzaró on Cala Nova beach is wonderful. There’s a terrace overlooking the sea, live music on Saturday afternoons and even a ‘kids’ corner’ with games, arts and crafts, and workshops to keep them entertained whilst you eat. Another low-key place is Fish Shack at Talamanca Beach. Cash-only, no menu, you just order whatever fish has been caught that day, eating it on rocks overlooking the sea. And, in the mornings, head to the Passion Café in Marina Botofoc for green juices and healthy breakfasts – it also does great salads.
WHERE TO STAY
Ibiza Rocks House at Pikes is a great choice for partygoers. Breakfast is delicious and the pool featured in Wham!’s iconic Club Tropicana video!
Away from the madness, Atzaró in Saint Joan is surrounded by orange groves and is home to 20 rooms, gorgeous gardens and a Balinese-style spa. With only 5 suites, Can Pardal is a 15th century agrotourismo with a hilltop swimming pool and an incredibly peaceful location.
WHERE TO PARTY
If you want to go from beach to night, head for a drink at Blue Marlin or Jockey Club, which offer great sea views and a lively crowd.
If you’re heading out out, then start with cocktails at Bambuddha, before hitting DC10, Ushuaïa or Pacha – the hotspots for serious clubbers.
BEST BEACHES
The crystal clear Mediterranean sea, golden sand and beautiful light make Ibiza’s beaches unforgettable. Las Salinas is a party beach and a brilliant spot for people watching, Benirras has more of a hippy feel and is known for its fantastic snorkelling.
Es Cavallet offers white sand, blue sea and the fantastic El Chiringuito restaurant, which is home to the Es Cavallet beach club.
Also try Cala Bassa for white sand and pine forest or head to Cala Carbo or Cala Conte for sunset.
WHAT TO DO
Take a day trip to the neighbouring island of Formentera, where you can head to Beso beach and watch the celebrities hang off their yachts.
Shop! Las Dalias market in San Carlos is something of an institution and a great place to spend a Saturday morning. Take your time browsing stalls selling locally-made clothes and food. Check out Beachhouse on Playa Den Bossa, where you can find locals selling gorgeous kaftans and beach cover ups. Also drop into Galeria D’Elefante, a concept store where you’ll be able to pick up everything from jewellery to homeware and beach clothes.
Sluiz in Santa Gertrudis is a quirky, one-of-a-kind destination for clothes, homeware and furnishings. Housed in a big warehouse, there’s everything and anything on sale from cool cushions and throws to dresses, kaftans and beach towels. There’s even a café and a food section to browse.
Visit Dalt Vila, the fortress in the Old Town where you’ll find a host of restaurants and amazing views of the city.
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