Highlights
Beaches
Surrounded by sparkling seas, Ibiza’s coastline measures some 200km, punctuated by dozens of pebble coves, long sandy beaches and grassy dunes. Cala Jondal is a broad swathe of pebble and sand, framed by pine-clad hills and stylish eateries; on the southern tip of Ibiza, Las Salinas is a mile-long scoop of sand fringed by pine forest and groovy bars, while Cala d’Hort, in the southwest, is a wide arc of talcum powder-soft sands overlooking Es Vedra rock. Neighbouring little sister, Formentera, is more peaceful and perfect for a day-trip, offering sublime beaches including Playa Mitjorn, where there are trendy beach clubs and white sands sweep across the island’s southern shores (please note: clothing is optional here!) and there’s a cosmopolitan vibe.
Outdoor Fun
Explore Ibiza and Formentera by bike and follow waymarked cycling routes or don wetsuits and dive from one of the many PADI-accredited dive centres, offering great visibility and balmy sea temperatures. Las Salinas National Park is a location to note, featuring a wonderful bed of seagrass and prolific marine life.
Shopping
Ibiza Town is lined with one-off boutiques, selling everything from glitzy beachwear and clubbing gear, to handmade keepsakes and leather goods. Hippy markets are also very popular, such as Sant Jordi on Saturday mornings, in the hippodrome outside Ibiza Town or Las Dalias in San Carlos, also held on a Saturday.
Nightlife
Famous the world over, the ‘White Isle’ boasts an ever-growing assortment of hip and glam bars, complemented by chic and fashionable nightclubs, attracting young clubbers in hordes every summer. Top name DJs also fly in, keen to mix and spin their blaring tunes and create the ultimate clubbing location. Names to note include Pacha, Amnesia, Space and Nikki Beach. Alternatively, opt for one of Ibiza Town’s atmospheric pavement cafés and feel the island vibe over drinks, tapas and music.
History
Various civilisations have landed on Ibiza and there are interesting places in which you can immerse yourself in the island’s rich heritage, including the Phoenician site at Sa Caleta, the necropolis at Puig des Molins and the World Heritage-listed Eivissa, Dalt Villa (Ibiza Old Town). This elegant capital of whitewashed buildings and cobbled streets is a delight to explore. The oldest part was first settled by the Phoenicians and features 16th century ramparts that were built to keep Turkish pirates out. Walk the walls, keeping watch for medieval mansions, the cathedral, hilltop citadel and galleries dripping with art.