Ibiza: The Party Island or a Family-Friendly Paradise?
HI Ibiza Club
When you think of Ibiza, the first image that likely comes to mind is that of pulsating nightlife, world-renowned DJs, and vibrant megaclubs. However, after my recent visit, I can confidently say that Ibiza is much more than just a party island. In fact, it might just be one of the best summer family destinations out there. With a plethora of activities and attractions suitable for all ages and interests, there’s something for everyone on this beautiful Mediterranean island.
A Shift in Perception
Old Town Ibiza
Ibiza’s reputation as a party haven has evolved significantly since the 1980s. While the island is still famous for its megaclubs like Ushuaïa and Hï, as well as historical venues like Pacha and DC-10, it offers so much more than just clubbing. Yes, nightlife remains a major draw for many visitors, but to limit your experience to just that would be a disservice to the island’s diverse offerings.
The Allure of Ibiza
Es Vedrà Ibiza
As a Mediterranean gem, Ibiza boasts stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a culinary scene that rivals that of any Greek island. The nightlife is undeniably vibrant, featuring top-tier DJs and unforgettable parties, but it’s the combination of breathtaking scenery and delicious food that truly sets Ibiza apart. If you’re looking for a destination that allows for a bit of clubbing alongside family-friendly activities, Ibiza is the perfect choice.
GETTING TO
Ibiza Airport Terminal Curb side
One of Ibiza’s greatest advantages is its accessibility. During the peak summer months, direct flights are available from nearly all major and secondary airports across Europe. I flew directly from Frankfurt, and the process couldn’t have been easier. Upon arrival, I rented a car from Europcar at the airport. Since I visited in late May, the summer season was just beginning, making it relatively quiet. However, I can imagine that the car rental scene could become quite hectic during the peak season. While there are smaller independent rental companies that may offer better rates, I prefer the convenience of renting directly from the airport, despite the upselling tactics that larger companies often employ.
Orientation
Ibiza Tourism Website got a great map of the Island.
Airport – at the Southern side of the island. Very close to Ibiza City. 15 minutes cab ride without traffic.
Your heart starts to jump the moment you arrive Ibiza
Ibiza City (Old Town) – Largest town on the island with the cathedral of Santa Maria d’Eivissa towering at the top of the Dalt Vila. It is also where the main port, Eivissa Harbour, on the island is located.
Santa Maria d’Eivissa towering above Old Town Ibiza
Sant Antoni – Second largest town on the Western Coast. It is about 20 minutes drive from Ibiza City
Sant Antoni
Other smaller towns scattered along the coast. These are the gems on the island.
WHERE TO STAY
Hyde Hotel Ibiza at the Cala Llonga Beach
During my stay, I chose the Hyde Hotel, which had just opened a year prior. Sharing facilities with the Mondrian next door, both hotels are part of the ACCOR Hotel Group. The modern amenities and stylish design made for a comfortable stay. For a more detailed review of the hotel, feel free to check out my Google review here.
You definitely need a car if you want to stay outside of Ibiza Old Town but it is well worth it. The gems on the islands are the smaller towns along the coast which gives you a better sense of the charm of the island rather than the more commercial side of Ibiza at the Old Town and Sant Antoni. There are numerous hotels at these two biggest towns on the island but I am not too interested in these commercial towns and I know I will have a rental car so I’ve decided to stay at Hyde which is located at Cala Llonga which is about 20 mins drive from Ibiza Town.
I believe the hotel actually officially opened this 2024 season. I think there was a pre-opening late in 2023. There are some negative reviews here and I can understand some of it and some might not be completely true today. It’s a new hotel in Ibiza in a great location/town/beach of Cala Llonga. The Santa Eulalia Ferry docks right outside the hotel and takes you directly to Formentera in an hour or to Ibiza Old Town and other beaches/town to the north. If you have a car, the location is perfect. Not busy and not too far out of the craziness of Ibiza Town and Saint Antoni Only 20 mins or so to Ibiza Old Town by car. Everywhere around the Island is around 30 minutes. Both the Mondrian and Hyde shares the same facilities. They have separate pools but both hotel guests could use all facilities of both. In a way, this is more like a resort. The property is pretty big, I would guess 400+ rooms in Hyde and 100+ rooms in Mondrian. Is a large property to manage in a Island probably lacking staff and many seasonal staff. They want to run it like a boutique hotel maybe with the Mondrian brand but it’s difficult with just the huge number of guests. There are a lot of rooms 400+ so only a limited number of rooms face the beach. You pay for what you get for so to speak and it’s Ibiza, it’s not cheap so ask and make sure what room type you are getting and to manage expectations.
Hyde Hotel Ibiza at the Cala Llonga Beach
Make sure you get the breakfast included with your stay. The selection is really good and it ends late at 11am so you could really have it as your early brunch/lunch and spend the rest of the afternoon at the beach/pool. The pool area is not huge so I expect some crowding during the peak months of summer and yes, there are still part of the pool area that seems to be under some renovations (at one corner) but I suspect it will be finished by July 2024 summer peak. But honestly, you are in Ibiza, why the pool when you have amazing beaches all around the Island and one outside your door. Rooms are new obviously. Although, there are some QC issues, like my toilet seat cover won’t stay up, but not the end of the world. The water pressure is good from my showers and I don’t really smell sewage from my room as some reviewers say. Like I said, the property is big and some rooms really face the bush and no view at all, again, ask/manage expectations, and you pay for what you get for really. The air con is not the strongest in the world so I am not sure how that would flair during the really hot days. I am sure there is room for improvements. I never felt unsafe staying there as some reviewers say they lost laptops etc. I have to admit that it’s easy for people to access the property.
Cala Llonga Beach
There is a guard at the main access road and the beach access requires room access card to gain entry but the staff entrance was opened and anyone can get in. There is a guard at the second level from the staff entrance but not sure how effective that is. The staff entrance is great access to the town rather than going through the beach that’s why we knew. We went in and out without any access control. For sure something to improve on. But common sense prevails, don’t leave any valuable items out and it’s the same anywhere in the world in any hotels. One thing I found weird is that there is no Do Not Disturb door card/sign at the room for you to use. I don’t see any at other rooms as well. We came back late 6am one “night and wanted to get some sleep and house keeping knocked at 11am. The staff at the entrance/parking was great. I don’t have any issues. Smart and understanding. I can only see the positives. They just opened and obviously still trying to get a hang of how to run the property. If you ask me, visit now rather than 10 years later. I am not sure how it would look then but I won’t hesitate to stay here again if I visit the Island again in the future. I think it’s a great value staying at Cala Llonga compared to Ibiza Town etc. If you have a car, it’s a no brainer I think. Unless you are just in Ibiza to party then why not experience the true beauty of Ibiza.
WHAT TO DO
Exploring Formentera
Santa Eulalia Ferry to Formentera
One of the highlights of my trip was taking the ferry operated by Santa Eulalia Ferry to Formentera directly from the beach in front of the Hyde Hotel. The process was seamless; tickets can be purchased online in advance or at a booth near the jetty.
Santa Eulalia Ferry docks at Cala Llonga Beach
Most people will take the high speed ferries such as Balearia from the main Eivissa port at the Ibiza Old Town but I much prefer taking the slower Santa Eulalia ferry which stops at most of the major beach towns on the east coast.
Formentera Island
Keep in mind that rental cars from Ibiza are not allowed on the ferry, so you’ll need to rent a vehicle on Formentera if you want to explore the island. I opted to rent a car upon arrival, which was convenient and reasonably priced.
Formentera Island
Once on Formentera, we drove to the beach and enjoyed a delightful lunch at Es Molí de Sal, an old salt factory with breathtaking views. The food and service were exceptional, making it the perfect spot to relax and soak in the stunning colors of the sea.
Formentera Island
WHERE TO EAT
Ibiza is a food lover’s paradise, with a variety of dining options to suit every palate. Here are some of my top recommendations:
I always visit local winery everywhere I go if they grow grape vines and make wine. Bodega Can Rich products are pretty prevalent and you can find their products in many supermarkets across the island. They make olive oil and vinegar as well. I was particularly looking for their sparking wine which I believe is only sold at their winery. I couldn’t see it at other restaurants I’ve been to or markets. It’s good. It’s damn good if you like Sparkling. It’s not Cava (we are not in Catalonia), different grapes, and it’s special. Didn’t do the tour and I saw some negative reviews but probably due to staff like everywhere on the Island. I was just there to buy the wine, I knew what I wanted and I am not disappointed. The vineyards and winery is nice too. It’s a nice location if you love wine. Website
The restaurant might be overshadowed by it’s location. A stone “church”? interior absolutely stunning. It seems to be closed during covid? as one of the iconic venue on the island and now acquired by the Mambo Group, you might expected big ownership might not be the best at times but the service was good. They were attentive and I felt the warmth as well which is quite rare at these restaurants owned by big group maybe one of the biggest on the Island. I think it’s one of the must visit restaurants not only for the ambiance but the food surely is on par as well. Website
It’s difficult to comment on Cala Gracioneta. It seems to be a bit of an institution on the Island. I have no expectations when I made the reservation for dinner. Once I entered then I understand the vibe. It reminds me of Scorpios in Mykonos, if you’ve been before although Scorpios is maybe 10 times larger. But the same bohemian feel, music even. It is located at a secluded private beach/cove. I think it would be cool to be here in the afternoon have a drink and spend it on the beach chair/umbrella, not sure how much but should cost you but it’s Ibiza. If you could afford it, it’s not a bad idea I think. The food is great, it’s good and it doesn’t disappoint. The service is a bit snobbish but I think it comes with this vibe sometimes. We don’t look like the big spenders maybe. Once I’ve ordered wine/drink and not only water, maybe it changed a bit or might be my perception. They whatsapp me to confirm my booking a couple of hours ahead which was great. Apparently, I forgot my cap at my seat (completely my fault obviously and a bit drunb tbh) it’s dark there and probably the staff wouldn’t seen it. The cap is actually worthless and pretty worn but since they whatsapp me before to confirm my reservation, they would of whatsapp me to say maybe I forgot my cap if they’ve found it. I suspect they see it hundreds of times a day and couldn’t bother. TBH, if they’ve told me, I won’t make a trip to go back to get it..:-) Don’t get me wrong, it’s a beautiful place. But if you ask me, would I come again, maybe not but would I want to try it for once, absolutely. Website
Nudo: Beach side atmosphere headed by ex-Noma chefs and with a curated natural wine list.
Nudo Restaurant
If I said 3 ex-Noma chef opened this beautiful beach front restaurant, it should be enough to make you visit. If you appreciate food quality/presentation/creativity/the wine list, just try and see what Ibiza today brings you. Amazing. Often some of these ex-chef openings disappoints, but they don’t. I can sense their Noma passion resonating. They only open for lunch so book in advanced. Great regional natural wine list, really impressed, well trained helpful staff and sommeliers. Website
Born: Quick and easy tapas and a drink at the heart of old town.
Born
Ibiza Town is difficult. Lots of places like any “city”, we were looking for something quick and easy and Born is one of the places I’ve highlighted, simple quick simple tapas, wine, and you are on your way.. (or perhaps El Zaguán more traditional too maybe for next time) Born is beside Plaça del Parc is nice and it’s a nice ambiance sitting by the park outside, perfect. Website
Meke Coffee Roasters – There is no coffee shop here. They only sell whole beans at their roaster.
Excellent. I always search for local roasters and I am pleasantly surprise there is one on the Island! Like other reviewers, this is not a cafe, their own cafe is at Santa Eulalia. I am just here to buy beans (I travel with my Aeropress and hand grinder, i know..). Irrespective if you like their roast or not, it’s local and always support local roasters if you are a coffee lover! Great staff and I might have met one of the owners. He said he went to Mexico to source one of their beans? Let me know if that’s you. But very very friendly and we speak the same coffee language. Website
Great speciality coffee shop on the Island. Santa Eulària is one of those local towns that gives you a side of the real Ibiza. If I live on the Island, this will be one of my go to spot to work. (Day dreaming). Chatting with one of the owners and he was super friendly (coffee lovers are the best), and if you love coffee, just go and chat with them to understand the coffee culture of Spain and on the Island.
La Brasa d’Eivissa: Beautiful Mediterranean cuisine restaurant with a beautiful inner courtyard at the heart of Ibiza Old Town.
I am actually pleasantly surprised by this restaurant by the beach at Cala Llonga. Great food and staff. It’s technically by the road but it’s still by the beach and great atmosphere. If you are visiting or staying at Cala Llonga, Regina is not a bad choice at all. Website
If you come to Formentera only to have lunch at Es Moli de Sal, I would. The view is unreal. The colour of the water right in front of you. Look at the photos of the other posts, it’s real. Lots of boats / “yachts”, anchored outside the restaurant and the restaurant have it’s only tender to ferry them to the restaurant at their own little dock. How cool is this. The service is good. Nothing snobbish about this place that might could have been. I would of try Beso Beach too if I have time but it’s a completely different feel and atmosphere. Just go if you are in Formentera. If you like some sophistication in an ocean front proper restaurant then book ahead. You won’t be disappointed. Website
Alicia and Andrés are great hosts. Their restaurant at their family home and apparently their mother still lives upstairs. Great food, great wine list, great atmosphere. You read a lot of things about Ibiza. The bad and the ugly, but I think they show the real side of Ibiza, the Island’s true hospitality. Thank you for making part of our Ibiza memory special! Website
Cala d’en Serra Beach from the top of the hill where you walk 10mins down from this spot where you can park your car
Stunning. This is Ibiza. Beautiful beach with a little beach side restaurant. Short walk (10mins) down the hill. There is a abandon hotel development above the beach where graffiti artist made beautiful paintings. It’s not your average graffiti, they are a work of art. Must go in Ibiza. Beach chairs/umbrella a bit expensive but not a requirement.
S’Illot des Renclí Beach – Tranquillity Mediterranean Dream
I love the North side of Ibiza. Beautiful. Again one of the tiny beaches with a very nice looking beach restaurant (i didn’t visit the restaurant but it was busy) I just went to the tiny beach and the chair/umbrella is very reasonably priced. Beautiful water/cove, great for swimming.
It’s beautiful, it can get busy and nice restaurant by the beach. I see some expensive wine there so not your regular beach front restaurant. I didn’t eat there as I was just there for the beach. Not your sand beach, a bit of sea weed but once you get out further, it’s beautiful, lots of fishes. It could get crowded but amazing cliff and you can get right under it for some shade, walk/track a bit to either “side” of the “main” beach and you could find more space. You will know when you get there. An added bonus, if you like airplanes, you are right beside the approach path if the winds are using the Easterly runway. Yes, you do hear a tiny bit of the airplane but nothing to disturb you. Must go if you are in Ibiza for me.
We have to talk about the clubbing experience in Ibiza. Full disclaimer, I am a big house, EDM music guy so the music and the scene is nothing new to me. I have been to many clubs in the world and I can tell you clubbing in Ibiza is like no other. The size of the venue is just huge. Even for your more tradition clubs like Pacha, it’s huge. Many have an outdoor area with food stalls and where you can chill. I know people compare the Ibiza clubbing scenes to the 90s where everyone is really enjoy the music, dancing and the vibes but now everyone is just holding their phone up recording and standing there and not dancing.
I think this is just a revolution of the clubbing scene and how it just transformed throughout these decades. Now, the huge mega clubs in Ibiza is really like going to a show. An entertainment in a venue with amazing sounds, lighting and visual production. The DJ, is just there to facilitate this and the bigger the name of the DJ, the bigger the draw and the crowds. Of course, people now would say there are no underground clubs in Ibiza and everything is with the big names of Calvin Harris, Daivd Guetta etc. it might be true and if this is a good or bad for the Ibiza industry is not for me to comment on.
And the thing about Ibiza is that you could actually dance 24 hours nonstop. You can start by going to a number of Beach Clubs or Pool Parties (O Beach Ibiza) which often starts from noon onwards and Ushuaïa doors open at 6pm. Ushuaïa must close at midnight because they are an outdoor venue with their hotel around it which can get quite noisy. Then afterwards you can head across the street to Hi or any other of the clubs around the island. They usually close past sunrise. If you are in the know, you can go to some after parties in the morning. You can probably get some rest and breakfast afterwards and you can start all over again. Ibiza is this crazy.
Pacha Ibiza opened in 1973 and remained still one of the most historical and iconic club on the island. There is also a Pacha Hotel across from the club.
Ushuaïa Ibiza is an institution on the island now. It is more of an open air clubbing/festival venue than a club. All the headliners are playing there weekly on the peak summer months. I am not a huge fan of it because I much prefer a more traditional clubbing vibe and it is absolutely packed when the big names such as Calvin Harris and David Guetta are playing/mixing/djing. It is more of a visual spectacle than your traditional dance club.
One of the islands biggest clubs before UNVRS opened in 2025 season taking over the old Privilege Ibiza space. Hï Ibiza itself also took over the legendary Space Ibiza which closed its doors in 2016 after 27 years on the Island. Hï Ibiza is right across the street from Ushuaïa Ibiza.
First row looking behind
I was at the opening night for the MEDUZA and James Hype 2024 residency at Hï Ibiza and they’ve posted the Another World mix on Youtube and seeing myself in the first row is amazing!
Hï Ibiza is more of your traditional clubbing vibe while there are multiple rooms with different DJs spinning different genre. The most infamous room is the bathroom. The DJ booth is in the middle of the bathroom.
I love Amnesia. Another institution on the island opened in 1976. Nothing fancy just a great dance floor to dance until dawn. The skylight draws the sunlight in when the sun rises. Like most of the clubs, there is a great outdoor space with food stalls and just to take a break from the action.
Amnesia
Final Thoughts
Ibiza is often pigeonholed as a party destination, but my experience revealed a multifaceted island that caters to families, couples, and solo travelers alike. With its stunning landscapes, rich culinary scene, and easy accessibility, Ibiza is a destination that deserves to be explored beyond the nightlife. Whether you’re lounging on the beach, savoring local cuisine, or taking a day trip to Formentera, there’s no shortage of unforgettable experiences waiting for you on this enchanting island.
So, the next time you think of Ibiza, remember: it’s not just a party island; it’s a summer paradise for everyone!
A final note about Ibiza as an island. I had a chat with some of the locals and Ibiza is plagued by the fact that it is mainly supported by tourism. What makes Ibiza particularly difficult is that all the clubs are open for 4 months in the year from late May to late September. The other months of the year all the clubs are shutdown and many of the towns like Sant Antoni become ghost towns. But this doesn’t deter from the fact that all these money is coming in from the outside to the island driving the rent and costs up that makes many of the locals difficult to find a place to live on the island. This might be an issue with tourism with many of the Mediterranean islands which are really only in business for the summer months. Although Ibiza might be more hard hit because of the clubbing scene and the people that solely comes for clubbing. Therefore, if you do visit the island, please do visit the smaller towns and support the smaller local restaurants and businesses. This is the least that we could do to give back to the community and this beautiful Balearic island.
