The Insider’s Guide To Ibiza Beyond Your 20s
We’ve grown up saying ‘yes’ to Ibiza. When to go is unquestionable – in September, the glorious White Isle is devoid of frantic family crowds, and temperatures slide to pleasantly toasty while the Balearic sunset magic remains very much alive. But the key to nailing Ibiza as an adult is knowing where to go.
Passing years, improved holiday budgets and a penchant for decent alcohol (plus a chair to sit on, IYKYK) mean the prospect of landing in a sweat-fuelled teen scene is a definitive ‘no’. Instead, as OGs, we want to feel that we’ve independently curated a chic itinerary and that wherever we go, the party was made for us. This may still involve returning with £5.68 in our current account (can’t change everything), but hey, it’s totally worth it for that riding endorphin high. Ibiza is one of The Handbook team’s annual travel destinations and we’re here to share our insider intel on all the places you need on that hit list…
The best places to stay
Casa Maca
A boutique hotel in Can Palau with just 10 bedrooms, Casa Maca is a tranquil bolthole just a few minutes from the action with spectacular views over the Old Town. Super chic and yet charmingly rustic, the property is also home to possibly the most special restaurant in Ibiza, serving barbecue-style alfresco dining under the moonlight accompanied by live musicians and DJs. If you are lucky enough to get a booking here, it’s one not to miss.
Petunia Ibiza
Petunia is a delight of 70s-style eclecticism, an oasis that literally lies hidden amongst unidentifiable roads facing Es Vedrà island. The 11 rooms and 31 suites are concealed amongst winding paths, bleached stone walls and precisely landscaped gardens, along with a sea view pool, massage cabin, yoga platform and three utterly delicious restaurants. If you can muster the energy, meander the 10min down to Cala Carbó beach for a revitalising dip – your body will thank you.
Hyde Ibiza
A bolthole worthy of a David Hockney painting, Hyde Ibiza prides itself on delivering boutique luxury with more of an energetic vibe. Channelling music, design and gastronomy, the hotel has a buzzy poolside DJ scene, a private dock for ferries to Ibiza Old Town or Formentera, as well as nearby Cala Llonga village for bars, restaurants and shopping. It’s also a handy few minutes’ drive from Pacha and Ushuaia for those looking for super club action.
Ibiza Gran Hotel
Looking to be on top of the action but removed from the chaos? Then Ibiza Gran Hotel is your best choice. Facing the Ibiza Old Town marina and with 187 elegant suites, this is a resort you can disappear into and definitely one for gastronomes – the hotel offers renowned dining options, including Michelin-starred La Gaia by Óscar Molina and other celebrated venues like Downtown Ibiza by Cipriani, Zuma and Novikov.
It gives louche glamour, and the in-house Casino de Ibiza is just an extra reason why.
Where to play
Club Playa Soleil
Beach club by day, exclusive party venue by night. Beautiful souls in the know convene at Club Playa Soleil to celebrate sunset before indulging in Andalusian-Japanese fusion dishes and dancing into the small hours. With guest DJs including Skepta, Sasha and Guy Gerber this is a brilliant small venue alternative to the big clubs.
Cova Santa
Best known for its Woomoon club night, the party kicks off in the open-air space, shaped like an amphitheatre with tables rising up in the round overhead, then moves inside as the night closes in.
Mystical energy, killer tracks and friendly vibes define the Cova Santa experience.
Nikki Beach Ibiza
Nikki Beach is a classic global haunt and one that never fails to deliver. White poolside day beds, sparkling blue ocean and International dishes are the signature Nikki Beach ID, always consumed against a happy soundtrack provided by resident and guest DJs. Invest in a magnum of rose for the thrill of it.
W Ibiza
Cool as the hotel might be, in our view, W Ibiza is best enjoyed as a drop-in adult play zone. With round-the-clock DJs playing at the Wet Deck pool, a brand new boho beach club Yellow Fish on palm-fringed Santa Eulalia, adults-only bar GLOW on the roof and BELOW nightclub in the basement, it lives up to its catchphrase ‘white heat, boho beat’.
Where to eat
Jockey Club
Situated on the famous Las Salinas beach, Jockey Club is a right of passage that simply doesn’t age. A family-run restaurant that prides itself on its chiringuito outdoor beach bar vibes, this is the perfect spot for fish, salad and sangria. Warning: the sea is super tempting, but if you go for a dip, keep an eye out for jellyfish.
Jondal
Carefully slung canopies and lush Sabina trees shade from the heat of the sun whilst diners soak up views over Cala Jondal.
Feet in the sand, effortless style and insanely good food are the order of the day at Jondal. Carefully slung canopies and lush Sabina trees shade from the heat of the sun whilst diners soak up views over Cala Jondal and the uber rich landing on shore from their mega yachts. Great people watching, even better lobster.
Amante Ibiza
Sister to chilled-out Aiyanna Ibiza in the North. Amante in the South prides itself on sophisticatedly designed Mediterranean dishes, endless sea views and the spectacular scenery of the surrounding Sol d’en Serra cliffs. A reservation here is essential.
El Chiringuito
Contemporary dining on a sun-bleached beach with views out to Formentara, El Chiringuito is an idyllic spot for a delicious breakfast or late lunch. Mixing Ibicencan, Italian, French and Greek cuisines, food here is locally sourced, fresh and nourishing. Book a beach lounger for a post-dining siesta.
Cala Gracioneta
Located on a small cove on the west coast of the island, Cala Gracioneta is a secluded restaurant that serves creative dishes made with fresh produce from Ibiza. Sun-dappled or candle-lit terraces lead down to the beach and sea beyond, the perfect spot to relax and enjoy great food and drinks, day and night.
How to relax
Boat trip
Absolutely nothing beats a boat trip in Ibiza. Even better if you can snag yourself a private charter to while away a few hours coasting around the Balearic shoreline of the White Isle, or across to Formentera. Sunset is our favourite time of day to sail and a playlist of your favourite tracks, most flattering swimwear and sundowner drink of choice a must. Make sure you negotiate on price, as it’s usually possible to get a better deal than the first quotation.
Juan Y Andrea
This palm-tree-laced fish restaurant has been run by the same family for 45 years and is iconic.
Talking about boats, how about taking one to lunch? Juan Y Andrea in Formentera is our day trip destination. Located in the heart of the famous Playa Illetes, roughly 30 minutes by speedboat or luxury yacht from Ibiza (longer on a day charter), this palm-tree fronted fish restaurant has been run by the same family for 45 years and is iconic.
Hostal La Torre
One of the best places to chase the sunset with resident DJs playing a chilled soundtrack as the sun sets. Hostel La Torre a really special place with an authentic Ibicenan feel and regularly plays host to silhouetted proposals of couples brave enough to venture down on the rocks.
Sunset Ashram
Perched on a craggy rock overlooking the exact spot the sunsets each night, Sunset Ashram is a slow-burning fusion of beach hangs, golden hour cocktails and hippy beats. If you’re looking for an original Ibiza experience, this is it. Just ensure you book a table if you’re looking for food as walk-ins are slim to none.
Santa Eulalia hippie market
Fancy a little authentic retail therapy? This crafty little market sets up daily (except Wednesday and Sunday) on the s’Alamera promenade and offers the chance to explore the more boho side of the White Isle