Ibiza is the second smallest of the Balearic Islands and one of the most beautiful. Although it has a reputation as a party island, there is much more to Ibiza than its amazing nightlife with over 50 delightful beaches, sheltered coves, towering cliffs and dense pine forests. There are a host of small, friendly and tranquil resorts that cater for family holidays and couples, but above all else it is the nightlife in Ibiza that draws the tourists - the island is firmly established as the ultimate clubbing paradise. Temperatures peak in the late thirties during the summer months and rarely drop below 1°C during the daytimes in the winter, though many resorts are closed down from November-April. Ibiza can be reached from a host of UK airports with flights taking approximately two-and-a-half hours.
Renowned as the ultimate clubbing hotspot but there's so much more to Ibiza ...
During the 1990s Ibiza's tourism grew dramatically and the island was recorded in the Guinness Book of World Records as the 'entertainment island of the world' with Privilege established as the world's largest nightclub. Visitors of all ages fill the popular resorts of San Antonio and in recent years has become a firm favourite with clubbers staying in the capital Ciudad de Ibiza – known as Ibiza Town or Eivissa, middle-class European package tourists and gay travellers. There are also many family orientated resorts such as Santa Eulalia del Rio nine miles north of the capital and favored by tourists because of its proximity to some of the island's best beaches. The huge music and clubbing scene operates from mid-June to mid-September, with July and August proving to be particularly busy. Away from the summer months, Ibiza is much quieter with most of the tourism based on the San Antonio and Ibiza town areas.
Ibiza is all about contrasts - with the summer season for clubbers and the rest of the year much more peaceful and laid-back. If you are a partygoer, then Ibiza by night is all its reputation suggests and more. The island regularly plays host to some of the most celebrated DJs in the world including Fatboy Slim and Pete Tong, and the clubs have become world famous in their own right. Amnesia, Es Paradis, Space and Privilege, which is home to the massive Manumission night. And for those who prefer something a little quieter, San Antonio has numerous sunset cafes, such as Bar Mambo and Café Del Mar, and traditional restaurants that can be enjoyed by romantics in search of a quieter escape. Indeed the cuisine in Ibiza's resorts is wide ranging with dishes from countries around the globe, plus seafood restaurants, tapas bars and fast food outlets.
San Antonio Bay is probably the liveliest resort on Ibiza with many restaurants, clubs and pubs to choose from in the neighbouring town of San Antonio that is considered the party capital of Europe. However, away from the prime summer season there is much to discover when the town is a lot quieter and the atmosphere is more relaxed. It has one of the most beautiful bays with white sand shores and lots of fun activities to enjoy including tenpin bowling and mini-golf. The main town can be reached by ferry, water-taxi or bus and as well as the infamous clubs this is one of the best places to shop for clothes, leather and jewellery.
By contrast, San Miguel is a relatively quiet resort with a sandy beach, a small collection of shops and a weekly craft market. It makes an exceptional getaway for those who like to retreat away from the party areas, while still being close enough to allow you to travel in with ease.
Ibiza has a lot to offer from a historical standpoint too. It was once used as a post to warn of imminent pirate attacks and as a result there are many ancient towers along the coastline. Ibiza Old Town is even recognised as a world heritage site with its ancient city walls and cobbled streets and this is the ideal location for off-peak season visitors, with its winding lanes, cobbled streets and varied stalls and markets. The harbour is busy and lined with yachts and you can take a ferry to Formentera Island with its excellent beaches and fishing villages. The restaurants and bars in Ibiza Old Town take on a different pace with lots of good eateries along the port and many boutiques and gay bars located in Sa Penya.
During the daytime you'll probably want to spend most of your time soaking up the sun on Ibiza's beaches. Es Cana is made for families and couples with a tiny harbour and a sandy beach. The resort also has a weekly hippy market between May and October, which is a great place to pick up items such as handmade clothing and silver jewellery. Santa Eulalia is another good spot for families with a relaxed atmosphere and a range of watersports on offer. It is also considered the centre for gastronomic delights with a range of food options and some excellent restaurants.
