Ibiza, the magical White Isle, renowned for leading the way in boujee beach clubs, celebrity DJ’s and super clubs. One of my favourite destinations and not just because of the music, dancing and sensational sunset sessions. There’s also a whole other side to this iconic island. 2026 season is starting to open for booking. So let’s goooo with everything you might need to know for your first trip.
From magical Michelin-starred restaurants for the fine diners, families who are enjoying a well-earned beach break and yogis vibing with the unique energy of Ibiza. This island truly has something for everyone.
So, here’s your travel guide for everything you need to know, especially if this is you first trip, to make your Ibiza holiday as magical as the island itself. Whatever your reason for visiting Ibiza, one thing’s for sure: you won’t be disappointed.
Why is Ibiza called the White Isle?
First to note, you could be mistaken that the ‘white isle’ is an affectionate nick name due to the famous white parties at beach clubs. But it’s actually due to the white buildings – move over Greece!
Interestingly, it could easily have been called the red island as the soil is a unique red, believed to be sacred by those first on the island. They believed it must be blessed by the gods, which has added to the island’s spiritual allure, which I have definitely felt.
Is Ibiza just for partying?
Easy answer is no, Ibiza is not just for partying! But it is easy to assume that it is. Ibiza’s reputation as the party isle from the 90s is spot on. It is a right of partying passage but more on that later. But for anyone looking for an incredible Spanish island to holiday then Ibiza has it all.
Ibiza straddles both partying and a haven for wellness seekers, with its abundance of yoga retreats, fitness camps and hiking holidays. But it’s also rich in culture boasting numerous world heritage sites. Serene Spanish coastal towns litter the island perfect for seaside paellas filled with families.
Ibiza offers a diverse range of experiences for every type of traveller whatever your age. All with one thing in common: To enjoy the Spanish sunshine, sparklingly sea and maybe a bit of partying or a lot! I’ve done several trips some very chill some definitely not! All amazing.
Am I Too Old to Go to Ibiza?
Absolutely not! Ibiza is one of those places that attracts both young and older visitors, thanks to its energy and for many of us, a bit of nostalgia from partying in the 90s – I recently celebrated my golden birthday (still can’t bring myself to acknowledge the number!) and, yes, I’m young at heart and blessed with good genes. But neither I nor my friends have ever felt too old anywhere here. I’d probably say that some parts of the San Antonio strip could feel a bit too young for me, but that’s just not my vibe.
If you are still unsure, then know that a lady at my gym recently celebrated her 70th birthday in Ibiza! She looked incredible and, while she wasn’t out until sunrise anymore, she fully enjoyed the atmosphere and never felt out of place. I saw every birthday from 21st to 40th to 80th!
So this is your sign to go especially if it’s a milestone birthday or your first time in Ibiza! Just be mindful that many people celebrate here, so the red carpet birthday treatment isn’t as forthcoming as on a Greek island. Still, I had a surprise cake, fizz, and food on Up Sky Society Rooftop, not organised by my friends, who know I hate that kind of attention but by the end of the night, with a little help from bubbles, I was secretly chuffed. Perfect end to an amazing day.
What should I wear in Ibiza?
Ibiza outfits can be legendary or just your usual holiday clothes! It really depends on what you feel comfortable in. Ibiza is one of those magical places where, no matter your size, height, or shape, you can wear whatever you want and totally own it.
I celebrated a big birthday in gold sequins simply because I wanted to! I also wore a pink shell bikini to Wiki Woo (it’s a pink bar, after all) and a gold one to O Beach because it was my golden birthday but my friends didn’t for O Beach, and that was fine too. You don’t have to subscribe to any fashion rules you don’t want to. Oh and sequins shorts at breakfast – no one cared!
The one thing to be mindful of is shoes dancing or even walking in heels can destroy your feet for the rest of the holiday. Opt for trainers, flats, or cowboy boots (mine were super comfy, though I’ve heard some aren’t!). And honestly, the most important thing to wear in Ibiza? Suncream and bug repellent!
How many days should you go to Ibiza for?
This really all depends on why you are going. If it’s for the party scene then the question is also how big are your pockets, how will your stamina holds up and healthy is your liver! Do you need days off to sleep after all nighters? Can you go hard then go home and recover. Only you will know that.
My advice is to prioritise the key activities, with recovery time or not! Decide what you have to do, what DJs you want to see, events you can’t miss and work it from there. Otherwise it’s like any destination. It used to be about a week was average but there has been a new trend where people are going just for one or two nights purely to see a DJ or go to a certain night. This has meant flights have been busier this summer 2025.
For everyone else it’s much like any other holiday so also down to budget and time off. The least I have done was 3 nights and it wasn’t long enough! But is it ever…
Which Month is Best to Go to Ibiza?
Whether you’re heading to Ibiza for the party scene or just to relax, it’s a lot like the British Cornwall colder and quieter in winter, with many places closed. The season starts in spring and rolls around to autumn. The weather can be unpredictable with floods washing out the closing parties in 2025. I’ve visited in June, July, August, and September, so here’s a snapshot to help you choose the best month for you depending on your priorities.
April is a quieter, cooler month, with some of the clubs starting to open. The opening parties can be busy, so check which weekends they start on!
May kicks off the summer season, with more opening parties, and hotels and bars that hibernate in winter start reopening. The weather can still be unpredictable.
June still has slightly unpredictable weather, but it’s a great month before the official summer holidays start and prices hike. It’s getting busy, so plan and book in advance!
July is when the season and sun are at their peak. Expect to pay more for most things and make reservations. It’s busy, so less ideal for spontaneous trips, but perfect if you want guaranteed hot, dry weather.
August is HOT. It’s sweltering — very popular with families.
September is similar to June in weather and vibe
October is the last stretch of summer dragged out to the bitter end! Closing parties mark the end of most of the main fun on the island.
Is Ibiza expensive?
Just as Mykonos or Santorini can be triple the price of some other Greek islands, Ibiza is one of most expensive Spanish islands – especially if you are going for the party scene. But like everywhere there’s ways to cut corners and not miss out. Read on!
How to do Ibiza on a budget:
Doing Ibiza on a budget is totally possible! From affordable flights and cheap eats to free beaches and smart transport, here’s my ultimate guide for first-timers looking to enjoy Ibiza without blowing the bank:
Flights: Fly with budget airlines and book in advance. Be warned, for families with small kids some of these flights can be quite loud and full of fun!
Club tickets: Buy club tickets in advance, as they have early bird offers. These are better than any ‘guest list’ tickets you can source when you arrive. Note; ‘Guest List’ doesn’t mean what it does in the UK. Guest List just means a small discount on the door – IF they aren’t sold out.
Beaches: Head to beaches not beach clubs. Beach club bed hire can be crazy money but you are paying for the vibe, the service and the comfort. But on a budget, pack a beach towel and treat yourself to one day where you have cocktails served to you while you snooze!
Alcohol: Drinking in venues can pack a punch! Even water can be extortionate. In Ushuaia my last visit it was 16€! So choose your venues wisely – that goes for restaurants and bars! Pre drinking will be your saviour.
Food: If drinking and partying are your prioritises then stay in an apartment with a kitchen and eat in. You will probably sleep through the breakfast that is included in a hotel and this way you can line your stomach sufficiently but cheaply! And it can still be magical. Get some tapas from the supermarket and head to the beach for sunset. (Just note it is illegal to drink on the beach though many do). If you do decide to eat out always reserve it is somewhere you have had on your list but check the minimum spend! They are steep in places. Likewise if you do stay in a hotel – load up that breakfast and take a small discreet bag to pop some food in for your lunch!
Taxis: One of the biggest expenses on the island can be taxis. So try and stay in the area you will be in the most. The bus system is obviously longer but much cheaper. And for the party goers – in the summer there is the disco bus that goes from behind Hotel Vibra in San Antonio. Clubs are also providing transport when you book your tickets.
Mambo sunset: is a must but the prices have skyrocketed to watch it from there however the sunset is still free! Head to the rocks or all round the walk way and enjoy! (Note, you are legally not allowed to drink on the beach so could get fined but everyone is doing it!)
Outfits: Before you even land in Ibiza you will probably have spent a small fortune on outfits. Ibiza’s inclusive nature means whatever age you are you can wear what you want! So this is your place to have fun with your wardrobe. My last Ibiza wardrobe was a mix of ebay, charity shops, TK Max and Shein. Many will only wear their outfits once so keep an eye on the second hand sites!
5 Budget Friendly Venues in Ibiza
My last visit, I discovered 5 venues that helped me save on entry or drinks. At 528, a water was just €4 perfect for keeping hydrated without breaking the bank. Rio Bar (which has a rooftop!) offered a bottomless brunch for €35 over two hours, making it a great daytime treat.
Pikes is legendary and entry is free sometimes with a small donation to charity, as long as you get on their guest list two weeks in advance; just note it’s for over 27s only. At Ushuaia, you can watch the party from the rooftop, Up Sky Society with a glass of rosé for €8, which beats paying full club entry. And Pasha decided in 2025 to slash their drink packages, just make sure you buy when purchasing your tickets. Interested to see if 2026 is as friendly!
What area of Ibiza is best to stay?
Where you stay on the island will impact your cost and vibe so choose wisely. There are three main ‘party’ areas: San Antonio, the Old Town and Playa de Bossa but there are many other areas worthy of your sleep! I have broken down the key areas to help you decide:
Ibiza Old Town is a great all-rounder as a Spanish town. Providing historic landmarks, heritage sites. local tapas and some great rooftop bars. There is a boujee side too with rooftop restaurants such as NoBu or Zuma and it also is home to the infamous Pasha nightclub. Great for a very short trip.
Playa de Bossa nestled under the old town, home to the longest and most beautiful beach in Ibiza. With shallow and crystal clear waters it is popular with all. The south offers beach clubs whereas further up you will find more affordable beach restaurants. This area is also know for its vibrant strip of bars and clubs including the infamous Hi and Ushuaia.
San Antonio home to the famous Mambo sunsets and DJ sets. One of the most popular areas to stay in, as it has a huge variety of accommodation but the worse reputation. Probably as it often attracts the school leavers - in the 90’s it was akin with Ayia Napa, Magaluf, Faliraki party towns. The famous O Beach club and Eden can be found here as well as plenty of water sports. It’s a great all rounder for those who like a bit of everything and of course boasts the best sunsets on the island.
San Antonio Bay: However for the best of both worlds San Antonia Bay is the perfect distance from the chaos but close enough to save on expensive taxis. Some of the best rooftop pools in Ibiza and a quieter vibe and where I would stay again if I was wanting more party vibes than relaxing ones!
The north is a haven for numerous retreats and luxury getaways. Many yoga and hiking holidays are centered here due to its secluded nature, offering off-the-beaten-track experiences and the discovery of tranquil, empty coves nestled away from the crowds.
Santa Eulalia del Rio to the east is my personal favourite for when you need to escape. It combines rooftop bars and fine dining restaurants, the only river on the island and bustling marina. Nikki Beach, Hotel Bless, the W hotel and their rooftops brings in a slightly older affluent crowd. Plus with a marina full of shops and restaurants it’s popular with families. And for those seeking winter sun this is the only area during down time that stays alive. More a classic holiday vibe.
Best hotels in Ibiza
You will be spoilt for choice in Ibiza – there is every type of hotel, hostel and rental you could wish for. Which also makes the choice overwhelming. Though in high season you may be driven more by budget as it gets pricey!
ME Melia, Santa Euludia
I had seen the ME Melia on Instagram and it was love at first sight. I’ve been back three times! The Melia was everything I had hoped. I truly felt I had been transported into a guarded opulence. Our room was standard and small but sufficient, the rooftop was dreamy and the vibes by the pool downstairs made it very hard to leave.
It had a bit of a homely village feel yet it is actually quite small. A couple of notes, as no where is perfect! The sun loungers go fast but they are strict so no bed savers allowed. There is a spill over area on the grass facing the sea but that felt like any hotel.
To get anywhere you need transport. Staff were brilliant especially with helping source taxi’s as the wait was long – a good 30 minutes at times. But once we knew that – we would grab a drink and plan accordingly. Breakfast was perfect. Bubbles galore. It felt like the calm serene decadent side of Ibiza. It is perfect as a small secluded escape. Read my full hotel review.
Innside ME, San Antonio Bay
If you want to stay near the parties and fun but not be right on top of it, then San Antonio Bay is for you. And it was for me for my big birthday. Innside was in budget, from the Melia group which I love, have a rooftop pool and bar and whilst there were no bubbles at breakfast they were willing to ensure we had some!
The rooms were smartly designed with mirrors that made the space feel much bigger. And plenty of mirrors in an Ibiza hotel is needed! The air con was a bit warm but only in my room, friends room was fine.
The ‘sea view’ is not worth it, I was upgraded to one but with the bins below and the sea very far away it didn’t feel it was an upgrade more a ‘side sea’ view. Still, to wake or get home to see the sunrise over the water was magical. Read my full hotel review to help you decide if it’s right for you.
Alternatively Hire a Villa
Another way to escape is to hire your own villa. Especially good for those on a bigger budget and bigger groups. I was lucky enough in 2023 to stay in an incredible villa. It had a rooftop, huge living area and a small pool. Perfect for working from home!
A few I shortlisted but haven’t stayed at
Thought it might be helpful to list a few hotels that I can’t personally recommend but I have visited just not stayed and were on the short list! But mainly due to budget they didn’t get the pleasure of my company!
The Amare in San Antonio Bay. This is still on my list to stay at but it was a thousand pounds more than Innside so that was a no! And when I went for a drink at their rooftop bar I was interested to see their rooftop pool wasn’t as big or as nice as Innside. However their downstairs pool area is adults only! Huge plus! Same with another contender TRS Hotel. This is great for those who want an adult only all inclusive experience. Again their rooftop pool or bar wasn’t as good as Innside! But I still have dreams of Amare!
Lastly, for San Antonio hotels with rooftop pools, was Blau Park. Now it does have a very worthy pool (but lacks shade as most do!). I wasn’t sure about this hotel after reading the reviews but it has been recently renovated so they probably aren’t relevant now. Either way I didn’t want to risk it.
Then we have the quirky Concept Hotel Group with several colourful fun hotels – many of which you can have access for day passes too if like me they weren’t quite what you wanted for your trip. But for a group trip these would be awesome fun!
Lastly, In the old town I eyed up The Standard and Nobu Hotel and in Santa Eulalia, Bless Hotel and W hotel were a big contenders if the price tags had been smaller!! (And yes they all have rooftop bars!)
How to get around the island and How much do taxi’s cost in Ibiza?
Taxi are extortionate in Ibiza. However if you are arriving into Ibiza early evening, in peak season pre booking a taxi will save you money and a very long line at the airport. However I found that mid morning seemed to be very quiet when I’ve been leaving and arriving and my last visit it was approx. €50 to San Antonio Bay using the rank. I had been due in at sunset (long story of cancelled flights!) and had pre booked with Airport Taxis for £60. The highest quote was £150 and that was for 3 with luggage.
Travelling west to east can cost anywhere from £30–£50 depending on the time of day, which makes a round trip to visit a beach club or rooftop bar pretty pricey. Don’t expect Uber (or Taxi Click, as it’s known locally) to be cheaper or more reliable, as they’re notorious for cancelling.
There’s a lot of talk about long queues and wait times for taxis from hotels, which I found especially true in Santa Eulalia. However, on my last visit staying in San Antonio Bay, taxis arrived at the hotel within minutes of ordering and this was in July! Though we were warned it could be much longer.
Also in San Antonio Bay/ town there are water taxis! Super cheap and scenic. From the bay take it from the back of the Amare hotel to the marina and back again! I really struggled to find information about times and prices before I went. So took this for you! Cash only and they also have a little drinks bar on board! It took varying times from 20 – 40 minutes so allow time if you have a reservation – running in the heat is not fun!
As mentioned above in the budget section there is a good bus service and party goers also have the option of ‘disco buses’ that are laid on throughout the nights between clubs and towns. Take the L3: San Antonio to Ibiza Town via Amnesia and Privilege. L3B: San Antonio to Playa d’en Bossa, DC10, Ushuaia, and Hi. This is also true for some of the clubs. The newly opened 2025 UNVRS and legendary Pascha offer transport with your ticket if bought online.
If you aren’t here for partying or you want to explore the island on your down days then you will need a hire car or scooter. Or a private driver!! The dream.
I don’t usually cancel out a company in my reviews but I would not be recommending ‘Class rent a car’. They lacked any class or customer service! We were provided with a car that was not fit for purpose and had to take it to a garage to ensure it was legal to drive. Avoid!
Best Beach Clubs in Ibiza
The boujee beach club is synonymous with Ibiza and if I love something almost as much as a rooftop, it’s a beach club and restaurant. Lying on a plush mattress, under an umbrella, waves lapping and tunes playing while I’m asked (by the very handsome waiter) ‘another pina colada miss?’
Cala Gracioneta Beach Club
Cala Gracioneta is a secluded gorgeous beach club and restaurant nestled at the far right of San Antonio. Secret gigs and sensational food it’s no wonder this beach get away attracts the rich and famous and me on my big birthday!
The beach club is very small and as beaches are public this cove is shared with holiday makers. Booking for both the restaurant and beach beds is essential.
Nikki Beach
One of the most well known beach clubs is Nikki Beach. Based up in the quieter, exclusive Santa Eulalia it is part of a global brand. I have been to a few round the world and so knew what I was getting. Great, pricey sushi, expensive sunbeds and a variety of entertainment. Is it worth a trip there from San Antonio or Playa Bossa? Probably not if this is your first trip, on a tight time frame and budget. Otherwise absolutely. It is also next door to one of my favourite hotels – ME Ibiza.
Blue Marlin
Then there is the more exclusive – arrive on your private boat and celeb spot at Blue Marlin (Blue Marlin can also be found in Shoreditch in London. ‘Marlin’s on the roof‘ is a private members club but also open to the public. If I was to pick obviously would be Ibiza – boujee meets beach club, dancing at dusk and people watching. The only snag is you need a taxi to get there and back and leaving can take forever for one.
O Beach
If you are looking for the Ibiza party beach club then look no further than OBeach who claim ‘We didn’t invent the pool party, we just perfected it!. Themed days, girls on the shoulders of guys with bottles ready for spraying, dancing in the pools this is party central. But don’t think it’s just for the young ones. This place attracts all ages and sizes. I heard a lot of people worry about what to wear as it is known as a fashion hub but no one cares – go how you want! Just pack the suncream!
(Also they have just opened their sister club in Dubai. I went Easter 2025 – not quite as crazy but definitely a vibe. More on that soon!). One thing to note about OBeach they don’t allow any birthday or hen paraphernalia which nearly stopped me going as RIP my birthday tiara! Read more here.
Cala Bassa Beach Club (CBBC)
Some beach clubs in Ibiza you can roll out of bed to and some are a trek that will require a taxi, car hire or your own boat! Just ensure you book parking when going to the more remote ones. Like Cassa Bassa. The parking was packed but thankfully we pre booked.
Private boats dotted the scene, and leisurely, long lunches seamlessly transitioned into relaxation on sun loungers. This wasn’t bottle sprays and day dancing. It was a lot of people packed into a giant village with various restaurant and sunbed choices – which also need booking. The sparkling clear turquoise water was memorising but as the beach itself is public it was super busy.
El Chiringuito
For a chilled vibe then head south to El Chiringuito Es Cavallet, Calm vibes and secluded beach and cold champers await. (Note, children are welcome so not quite as peaceful as it could be but perfect for families.)
The Experimental Beach Club
The Experimental Beach club is a small and perfectly packed away from the crowds. Note many beach clubs are not as vibrant as usual due to a new law banning loud music!
Come for the day or just for their restaurant. I was surprised in July how quiet it was for lunch though it is a good taxi ride to the middle of nowhere so maybe book a sunbed and stay for the day.
The Best Restaurants in Ibiza
Ibiza is a wash with amazing restaurants the island really knows how to deliver when it comes to dining. All the beach clubs mentioned above have amazing restaurants too so these are in addition to those. Here are a few that you cannot miss that I loved.
Monkey
There are many restaurants set along the waterfront but after reading many reviews I went with Monkey. (Near contenders and I mean they were also all practically next door to each other! Golden Buddha and Alayoun Sunset).
Set around a pool with fairylights and a stunning sunset setting it was perfectly chilled after partying the night before though they have a club, so be warned it is tempting!
But the reason I chose it wasn’t just the setting but one of my friends is a foodie and the Monkey delivered deliciously. So much so we kept ordering more plates! I am a sucker for calamari rings that aren’t fried in butter!
Plaza Del Sol
Set on the castle in the magical upper town of Ibiza known as Dalt Vila. Plaza del Sol is a fairytale restaurant that is sprawling along the street outside. I only stopped for a drink here but if I had time would have come back to eat purely for the setting but the food looked as good as the view.
A Mi Manera
A mi manera is ust a 15 minute drive or taxi from the centre and you are transported into a magical enchanting garden. Filled with eclectic, whimsical artefacts and fun Instagram worthy moments. The attention to detail was impressive.
Exploring the areas of the restaurant brought a fairy-tale like feeling with an over riding sense of tranquillity. Greeted with drinks in their cute reception we were the first to arrive that night and gifted with their toiletries bag from their shop – yes there was even a shop.
Thankfully it wasn’t all ambience and no substance when it came to service and food. It was impeccable and thoughtful. Absolutely one of my favourite meals in a non rooftop ever. Wherever you are staying on the island I would make the effort for this different dreamy dining experience.
Etxeko
Etxeko at Bless Hotel where every bite was an incredible discovery of delight! This hotel was on my wish list as shockingly, it had a rooftop with one of the best pools in Ibiza. The rooftop also had its own restaurant however it was downstairs where the Michelin magic happens!
We weaved through the inside of the restaurant to a lovely terrace with a handful of tables. (Do request to be outside if you are an alfresco fan as it’s just a summer crime to be inside on balmy warm nights).
The food was phenomenal – with a price tag to match! This is reserved for the rich or a truly special celebration – for which you will not be disappointed. Every dietary requirement effortlessly catered for, every mouthful a masterpiece. Another place I would travel across Ibiza for when I won the lottery!
Navito & Maymanta Rooftop Restaurants
Navito and Maymanta get a special mention for their settings. Ran out of time to eat here so just had to have a drink instead! Set above the hotel of the same name it was a gorgeous setting should we have eaten here. The other, Maymanta, sitting on top of Aguas de Ibiza Hotel, has stunning sea views – this would have been sensational. Though I’d advise not to go much before sunset (which you don’t want to miss). The tables have no shade and it is still hot in the sun right till it goes down.
Where to watch the best sunsets in Ibiza
Sunsets in Ibiza are as legendary as their DJ sets; in fact, combine both, and you’ve got one of the best reasons to visit the island. The best sunsets are on the west side, where you can watch the glowing sun drop straight into the ocean. If you’re on a budget, you can grab a spot on any beach along the coastline to enjoy this magical moment. If, however, you’re looking for a rooftop bar or vibe to catch the signal that the night is about to begin, I’ve got you covered:
Café Mambo and Café De Mar: Neighbours and rivals from the 1990s! (Read more on Mambo below). DJ sets with a glass of champagne, as everyone applauds when the sun drops and the night begins, are electric! Expect minimum spends, crowds of people, but it’s an Ibiza must.
Water Taxi: Seriously, this is a cheap and stunning way to watch the sun drop, and with a little bar on board, you can have bubbles on the boat!
Belvue at Amare Hotel: This rooftop sits on the corner of San Antonio Bay, so you can sip or dine while enjoying a sensational view of the sunset. Plus, their cocktails are worth it!
Patchwork & Sa Punta: In Ibiza town, so you won’t see the magic drop, but you will enjoy a gorgeous setting as the golden glow illuminates the area.
Sunset Ashram or Restaurant s’Illa des Bosc: Both are set at Cal Comte, offering incredible sunset views. Sunset Ashram, as the name suggests, takes the crown if you want DJs and sunset dancing too, though this isn’t always guaranteed outside high season. The sunset, however is!
Best Iconic Clubs and Bars in Ibiza
The reputation of Ibiza extends not just from partying throughout the day but of course at night too. No sleeping for you! There are beach clubs that run into the night, bars galore and of course, the clubs where anything goes! It’s the one place I bring out the sequins!
Partying in Ibiza needs a whole plan! Tickets need to be bought, ID needed and of course… the outfits. Day partying requires a whole level, pre sunset drinks, sunset drinks, dinner, bars and then the clubs and super clubs! It takes precision to ensure you get to where you need to be when! Or you can just roll with it and see where you end up but if you are reading this then I doubt that’s you!
Pascha Club, Ibiza
For an Ibiza newbie then I would be recommending Ibiza’s acclaimed Pascha. The first of the super clubs has been partying since 1973 and is still as popular now as it was then with multiple rooms with different DJs, music and vibes. Or go for the main act on the main stage. Expect to be going home as the sunrises. And it’s not just for the young – this is a classic. And 2025 Pacha has stepped up and set the bar low for drinks prices! Finally a club that is smart enough not to charge a small fortune for a bottle of water. If you want to utilise these prices you need to buy the drinks packages with your tickets online.
Ushuaia
My second must do is Ushuaia. Where you can also stay. The club is outdoor and set round a pool with the iconic moments planes fly over just before they land. This just adds to this memorising experience. It is one of the best nights you can have in Ibiza. But be warned it can be jammed rammed packed. It seems over the years it is getting worse for this which really ruins it for everyone. But still won’t stop me returning.
There are a range of DJs from regular weekly slots to random guests. David Guetta and Calvin Harris have been amazing nights. It’s crazy, it’s busy, it’s fun. It’s also overwhelming, messy and long queues. What I loved most though was the timing. It starts around 5pm (and it you want to be front and center you will need to go this early – be mindful in high season how hot the sun still is then) The main act comes on around 9pm and by 11.30pm you are done. You can either use it as a spring board for one of the super clubs or call it Cinderella o’clock and head to bed! My top tip is to head to Up Sky Society, their rooftop bar opposite, for pre-drinks and even post if you have time to kill before heading out out.
HI Ibiza
Voted the No. 1 club in the world, you can’t miss what all the fuss is about. In a dream scenario, you could go to Ushuaia, then walk across the road to Hï, but the night I tried this, the music wasn’t my style. Location convenience isn’t great if the music doesn’t match your vibe! Still, with a rooftop and a DJ in the bathroom, you’ll be thoroughly entertained. Top tip: if you’re heading there after Ushuaia, go to Up Sky Society Rooftop at Ushuaia to avoid the queues for Hï and rooftop refuel on €8 rosé. You are welcome!
Café Mambo: But is it worth it?
There a few things that spring to mind when Ibiza is mentioned and Café Mambo is one. But is it worth the hype? I would have said absolutely. No trip is complete without Mambo memories. But I will revise that after researching for my 2025 trip. Things have changed since I was last there. Now there are tiers of tables, steep minimum spends and time slots (albeit the latter is more generous than is usual). I get why. . The popularity is wild and so this way you can be organised and get the table you want – IF you plan months ahead. But even then you could be disappointed that it’s sold out or the magical sunset tables are already gone! I remember when you could just rock up and get a table! Happy days!
However it is iconic. Established in the 90s, Café Mambo has been the backdrop for some of the world’s most spectacular sunsets and hosted renowned DJs, including the likes of Fat Boy Slim, who continues to grace its decks. So will I be paying again, no. Sadly. But if I went with someone who hadn’t been, I would fork out! It is like going to Paris and not seeing the Eiffel Tower.
But the good news is the sunset is free! If you are on a budget you can enjoy the tunes and watch from rocky the beach. And get ready – there will be clapping as the sun drops into the sea symbolising the start of the night! I have only experienced this since in Mykonos at 180 Bar. Well, they do say Mykonos is the Ibiza of Greece!
Pikes
Pikes Hotel is old skool Ibiza. Hidden in the hills just outside San Antonio, you step into an adult playground and by adult, I mean over 27s! It aims to keep old Ibiza from being all about image and selfies. Phones are banned at night, and there’s a fun yet serious set of rules, including no glitter or sportswear, but really it’s about an older crowd enjoying the night. Entry is free if you register two weeks in advance; if you don’t, you can still go by eating at their restaurant. I can confirm their Sunday roast on the rooftop is worth the visit!
Expect surprise guests — Kylie was spotted dancing on the decks one summer, and many DJs will pop up without notice. It’s pot luck, but you could find yourself dancing to, and with, acts that cost a fortune to see live!
Order a Club Tropicana in homage to Wham’s hit that was filmed here, or maybe a Mercury Margarita to pay tribute to Freddie Mercury, who had his own room —and still does! Either way, you’re partying, eating, or swimming in Ibiza history here.
Wiki Woo – is it worth the hype?
I had to include this pink-popping bar and restaurant because it was coming out strong on socials. I’d been warned that Wi-ki Woo is much smaller than it looks on social media, and that’s true. But I wanted to sip a giant cocktail out of a disco ball, dress up in pink, and take all the silly photos and I did!
During the day it’s very quiet, which is great if you want those Instagram-worthy shots without feeling self-conscious, but not ideal if you’re after atmosphere. Evenings are livelier, with their Supper Club offer twice a week of €75 for two hours of drinks, two courses, a DJ, and sunset views. Friends of mine tried it and found it disappointing. As you would expect from a pink themed bar, it is very female-heavy full of hen parties and a lot of whooping! So if you are planning one of those then this is your place! If not you may want to give it a miss those nights.
The service was hit and miss. We ordered the famous disco ball cocktail, which arrived without the disco ball, and the waitress said, “Who orders a cocktail because of how it looks?” in the most Instagrammable bar in Ibiza with an eye roll! It was rectified (and did not taste good after all that!) but I’m glad I went, posed, and pranced around, however I won’t be back. Hopefully, this helps manage expectations because for many, it’s still a favourite spot for those snaps!
Rooftop Bars in Ibiza
Take this party isle, mix with the hedonistic appeal, sea views and some of the world’s best DJs – it would of course be home to some fabulous rooftop bars. You will find 28 of the best rooftop bars and pools to ensure your trip is as memorable as possible. Yes, I was busy on my birthday!
Take a day trip to Formentera
Neighbouring island Formentera is Ibiza’s little sister. With clear turquoise waters, the sandiest white beaches, laid back and in parts hippy vibe. It is easy to see why it gained its nickname, the ‘Caribbean of Europe’.
You can only access by boat and if like me your budget didn’t stretch to your own boat then the ferry it is. Departing from the old town port it is just 30 minutes across to Savina port. When we went there was a severe shortage of taxis so do pre book. If you don’t then try and be one of the first off to get in the taxi queue or hire bikes! We had to call the restaurant to apologise and beg to hold our reservation! They were lovely – I don’t think we were the first to have made this mistake.
There are a few restaurants on the island but we headed for Juan y Andreas which has been feeding Formentera visitors since the 70s! Based just a 10 minute cab from the port on the beach of Ses Illetes – one of the top 10 beaches in the world. Recommended by an old veteran of Ibiza and she did so good. If you are lucky enough to afford your own private boat or even just hire one for the day then you can dock by the restaurant and walk up the jetty. This is how to make an entrance! It’s very much full of the rich, famous and normal awesome people. Food was as fabulous as the beach. It really was worth the hungover ferry ride.
As I went a few years ago, I had read summer (2023) many people found it a different experience than before. Not sure if the owners have changed but that would be a massive loss if it had. The good thing is the beach is still the same sparklingly waters but do, do your own research to avoid any disappointment but hopefully it’s still the same fabulous place.
The new favourite beach club restaurant on this island, that has taken Tik Tok by storm, is Beso Beach (not to be confused with the one on Ibiza) . Dancing on tables, napkins waving in the air. This place is popular with a capital P. So much so if you aren’t booked in by March you won’t be going! We did not so sadly did not!
Final Thoughts on Ibiza
As the phrase goes ‘Ibiza is always a good idea’. The party isle, or a pretty perfect summer destination whatever your taste, budget, age or aspirations. And only in Ibiza could the standard snow globe be in keeping! Hope you have an incredible experience.
