Best things to do in Ibiza besides party
There are plenty of things to do in Ibiza besides party — Photo courtesy of Juergen Sack / iStock Via Getty Images Plus
For years, the vibrant island of Ibiza built a reputation for being a playground for deejays and a paradise for house music lovers on holiday. But when you look a little closer, there’s much more to offer than clubbing.
When I studied abroad in Barcelona during college, my classmates invited me to a weekend getaway in Ibiza. I assumed Ibiza was for nightlife lovers only, and since I’ve never considered myself a partier, I passed on the opportunity. But long before the idyllic Balearic Island was dubbed a party destination, it was a bohemian hippie town and a haven for creatives. Like many others, I’ve since discovered that there are so many things to do in Ibiza, depending on your preferred experience.
The quieter side of the island beckons day birds who appreciate a slower pace, the outdoors, white sand beaches, and laid-back beach clubs to soak in the Mediterranean sun. The White Island, as it’s known, emanates a chill vibe, providing a quiet retreat for those seeking tranquility, including wellness seekers, yogis, and artists. After spending a week on the island, here’s my list of where to stay, where to eat, and things to do in Ibiza.
Where is Ibiza?
Ibiza is off the eastern coast of the Iberian Peninsula and part of the Balearic Islands — Photo courtesy of Balate Dorin / iStock Via Getty Images Plus
Ibiza is an island in the Mediterranean off the eastern coast of Spain. It’s considered one of the central Balearic Islands, along with Mallorca, Menorca, and Formentera. The best way to get to the island is by direct flight to Ibiza Airport from major European cities, including Madrid, Barcelona, Amsterdam, and Paris.
Things to do in Ibiza
When considering things to do in Ibiza, a stroll up to Catedral de Santa Maria is a must — Photo courtesy of AlexanderNikiforov / iStock Via Getty Images Plus
The enchanting Old Town, or Dalt Vila, has winding cobblestone streets amidst fortified walls and centuries-old architecture. In 1999, it became a UNESCO World Heritage site. If you’re feeling up for a challenge and have proper walking shoes to withstand steep cobbled stairs, enter through Portal de ses Taules and head to the top of the cathedral for panoramic views of Ibiza and Formentera, a small island just to the south.
In town, you’ll come across cute boutiques, jewelry stores, and cafes that bustle around sunset. Annie’s Ibiza is the perfect boutique if you’re in a pinch and need a dress that sparkles for a night on the town. Luxury designer brands like Dior, Gucci, and Loro Piana dot the marina for more high-end retail therapy.
Best Ibiza beaches
One of the best things to do in Ibiza is bliss out on pristine beaches like Cala Gracio — Photo courtesy of LUNAMARINA / iStock Via Getty Images Plus
Finding a mediocre beach in Ibiza is nearly impossible. The calm waters and soft-sand beaches are endless. Cala Gracio in Sant Antonio and Cala Gracioneta, its adjacent sister beach, are two beautiful beach coves worth visiting. You can bring a towel or rent a sunbed. Also nearby is Cala Bassa, with clear blue waters, and Cala Bassa Beach Club, a vibrant restaurant in case you build an appetite.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a proper trip to Ibiza without checking out a beach club. I spent the afternoon at Beachouse Ibiza, a bohemian, chic lounge nestled along the sun-kissed shores of Bossa Beach. A deejay supplied the soundtrack for a day of relaxation paired with Mediterranean cuisine, refreshing cocktails, and good vibes.
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Where to eat in Ibiza
Michelin-starred La Gaia is one of the best restaurants in Ibiza — Photo courtesy of Ibiza Gran Hotel
Ibiza has endless culinary options, including farm-to-table eateries and fine-dining restaurants. La Gaia is an unforgettable dining experience helmed by executive chef Oscar Molina. The one Michelin-starred restaurant takes diners on an epicurean journey through different flavors and textures using local seasonal ingredients. The experience begins with a welcome drink in the lounge and eventually moves diners to one of the 30 seats in the intimate dining room for an engaging multi-course dinner.
For a more traditional, farm-to-table Spanish dining experience, Finca La Plaza in Santa Gertrudis is a must. Enjoying a crisp glass of Albariño on their string-lit garden patio makes for a quintessential evening in Ibiza. If Italian food is your pleasure, head to Cipriani for an upscale dining scene. Try their world-famous peach Bellini.
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Best hotels in Ibiza
The all-suite Ibiza Gran Hotel is low key and all luxury — Photo courtesy of Ibiza Gran Hotel
To be centrally located to, but also removed from, the pumping sounds of techno in the wee hours of the night, stay at Ibiza Gran Hotel in Talamanca, a 10-minute drive from Dalt Vila. The all-suite luxury hotel is adjacent to the marina and boasts an impressive selection of top-notch culinary and nightlife hot spots.
The design-forward hotel features 185 suites with curated artwork from local and Mediterranean artists. Guests can access two pools (adults-only and family), a spa, a fitness center, a library, and the island’s only casino.
Pro tip: When leaving, take advantage of the hotel’s house car, a Bentley Bentayga, and arrive at your next destination in style.
Cas Gasi, a boutique hotel in Ibiza, is a true getaway from the party scene — Photo courtesy of Cas Gasi
I was curious to learn more about the myriad agrotourismos (or hotels on working farms), so I had lunch at Cas Gasi, a quaint 18-room boutique hotel in Santa Gertrudis de Fruitera with a lovely on-site restaurant. When I pulled up to the driveway, a soundtrack of nature and birds chirping instantly replaced the humming sound of clubs.
Cas Gasi is on an organic farm surrounded by pine forests, olive and fig trees, and verdant rolling hills. The rustic Mediterranean hideaway in Ibiza’s countryside is a serene sanctuary away from the pulsating nightlife and lively beaches. It was easy to fall in love with the grounds, bursting with color from the bougainvillea and showing signs of life everywhere you looked.
Amenities include a heated saltwater pool and children’s pool, daily yoga classes, and a sustainable farm that produces the freshest ingredients in season that will end up on your plate for dinner.
