Ibiza has long been seen by many Brits as simply a party island, a place to let loose with cheap booze, loud music and all-nighters at the clubs and bars. Yet there’s far more to Spain’s Balearic gem than its famous nightlife – from its laidback villages and yoga retreats to its Michelin-starred restaurants and family-friendly beaches. As tourism evolves post-pandemic, Ibiza is also reclaiming its tranquil side.
The Hippy Markets
Whether you’ve hopped on a plane or a ferry to Ibiza, no trip to this island is complete without a visit to one of the island’s sprawling hippy markets. These vibrant weekly markets showcase Ibiza’s free-spirited soul with rows of artisan stalls selling handmade jewellery, bohemian fashion, spiritual books, and artwork alongside organic food stalls.
The two largest and most famous markets are Las Dalias in San Carlos, which takes place on Saturdays, and the huge Punta Arabi Hippy Market near Es Canar on Wednesdays. Here, visitors can browse patchwork waistcoats, carved Balinese woodwork, locally woven espadrilles and more while mingling with an eclectic, incense-infused crowd as global rhythms drift from the onsite world music stage.
Hidden Coves and Breathtaking Beaches
With over eighty beaches and coves to discover, Ibiza is a beach lover’s paradise. The rugged and secluded golden sands of Port des Torrent are often described as arguably Ibiza’s most beautiful beach, with striking rock formations dotting the bay. Fringed by pine trees, the equally gorgeous beach of Aigües Blanques or S’Aigua Blanca offers aquamarine waters overlooking Tagomago island.
You can even take the 24-hour ferry to discover the tiny rocky isle of Formentera just South of Ibiza. Here, the pace slows further with beach barbecue seafood lunches, hammock swaying, beach bobbing and barefoot boho chic being the daily priorities.
Wellness and Yoga Retreats
With its spiritual, bohemian vibe, Ibiza has become a leading wellness destination. The aptly named “White Island” offers a variety of holistic escapes for visitors to choose from. Sign up for daily ashtanga, yin or aerial yoga sessions at gorgeous fincas (farmhouses), with veggie organic food, meditation, breathwork, sound healing and nature walks or mountain hikes included.
Family Friendly
Despite its party capital reputation, Ibiza also ticks the family holiday box. Miles of sandy beaches for sandcastle building, calm shallow coves ideal for little ones and numerous beach clubs catering to kids makes it easy to avoid the hardcore club scene.
Michelin Magic
Ibiza’s culinary scene shines bright with innovative chefs and Michelin-starred venues, including the likes of La Gaia and Sublimotion. However, don’t think this is all they have to offer; there’s also plenty of options for fine dining on a budget.
Villages and Traditional Ibiza
Beyond the headline acts and resort strips, Ibiza has a rich culture. Wander cobbled lanes in enchanting villages like Santa Gertrudis and Sant Rafel, edged by whitewashed Ibizan fincas ablaze with pink and purple bougainvillaea blooms. Visit during winter or early spring to experience these sleepy pueblos at their most authentic, with locals outnumbered by siesta-enjoying cats lazing under orange trees.
So, don’t write Ibiza off as just boozy Brits and clubs. Beyond the parties lies an enchanting island with all the ingredients for an unforgettable Mediterranean escape. Whether you’re after wild nights or pure peace, Ibiza has something special for everyone.
