As summer approaches, the allure of Ibiza is in the air. The party island welcomed 3.7 million tourists during peak season last year, and Ibiza is beckoning holidaymakers to come enjoy its white sand beaches and world-famous nightclubs.
Playa d’en Bossa is Ibiza’s most popular resort for those looking to soak up the sun, but tourists considering a holiday to the White Isle should also consider San Antonio on the west coast. Sure, it has a reputation for being popular with young sun-seekers (it’s home to the Ibiza Strip), but don’t view it as just a rowdy party resort aimed solely at 18-year-olds looking to get drunk on cheap vodka during the school holidays. San Antonio is home to many of Ibiza’s best hotels, restaurants and clubs, and it also boasts some of the island’s most beautiful scenery.
Want to visit a new place in Ibiza during your holidays? Find out everything you need to know about the west coast of Ibiza…
Where to stay
Las Mimosas
It may be in the heart of Ibiza’s party town, but this 4-star boutique hotel is a quieter stretch just off the Strip. With just 11 junior suites and 6 suites, Las Mimosas is the perfect place to stay for those who want to enjoy the pleasures of the nightlife (the Strip is just around the corner) but still want to recuperate peacefully during the day. As well as having an outdoor pool, Las Mimosas’ spa facilities also stand out, with a jacuzzi, sauna and Turkish bath, ensuring that even those who stayed out clubbing late into the night will feel fully restored after a day of relaxation. If you’re able to jump out of bed for an early morning class, the hotel also offers yoga sessions.
Prices start from 218 euros per night
Sakura
Located just steps from the blue waters of the White Isle, Sa Curau by Ibiza’s legendary Mambo group exudes a more Scandinavian chic vibe, as opposed to the bohemian shabby chic vibe the island is known for. Though it’s a little noisier than some of the island’s other hotels (especially the front of the hotel), Sa Curau’s prime location and sunset views more than make up for even the loudest nights. Café Bondi serves up both a traditional full English fry-up and an acai bowl with fresh juice to help you recover from whatever you ate the night before. Pick a hotel that offers both.
Prices start from 235 euros per night
Cuban Neat
Bringing a touch of Cuba to San Antonio, this concept hotel boasts some of the most beautiful sunset views on the entire island, with an Art Deco style reminiscent of Havana, making your stay Instagram-worthy from the start. Looking for the perfect place to have a few cocktails before heading out for the night? The rooftop bar is a great option, boasting panoramic views of the famous Balearic Islands sunset.
Prices start from 268 euros per night
Where to eat
Bohannans
Looking for the best surf and turf in Ibiza? Look no further than Bohanans. Located in the heart of San Antonio’s Houston Street, this steakhouse exudes old town charm. If you like it rich and indulgent, you can’t go wrong with the Akaushi beef, but don’t miss the fresh seafood either. If you prefer something more tender and mild, try the Toothfish Sea Bass. Don’t miss out on the giant shrimp (they’re really giant, so make sure you come hungry).
S. Tragon
A must-try for any foodie visiting the White Isle, Es Tragón is Ibiza’s first Michelin-starred restaurant, and those lucky enough to grab a table can enjoy the restaurant’s famous taster menu, which offers a taste of Ibiza’s rich and diverse culinary history in a single dish.
Cafe Mambo
The seaside restaurant is legendary in Ibiza and has just celebrated its 30th anniversary.Number Birthday. Famous for its legendary pre-sessions before heading out to the superclubs, Café Mambos has hosted numerous world-famous DJs, including Swedish House Mafia and Carl Cox. Serving hearty food like burgers, tacos and salads, the venue attracts big names and big beats, cementing its status as an Ibiza rite of passage.
what will you do
Clubbing
Sure, San Antonio may not have the most famous superclubs of Playa d’en Bossa, but that doesn’t make it a boring part of the island. Those looking for a more adult atmosphere than just the infamous Ibiza Rocks pool parties should head to the legendary hotel and nightclub Pikes. Spending an evening at Pikes, with its spacious terrace, will make you feel like you’re going to one of the world’s most lavish house parties (Freddie Mercury once attended), with a hugely entertaining DJ collective including Nightmares on Wax, Melon Bomb and Ladiscotheque. If you’re looking for more of a superclub vibe, Eden is one of San Antonio’s most frequented night spots, boasting the now legendary Space Club night every Friday during peak season.
But if you’d like to try some of Ibiza’s more famous clubs, the legendary Ibiza Disco Bus runs from San Antonio to Playa d’en Bossa overnight in peak season for just €4. Must-try spots include Ushuaia, a day venue with resident artists like Antz and Calvin Harris, and Hýi Ibiza, a world-famous nightclub where David Guetta, Eric Prydz and Black Coffee have played on the decks.
expedition
There’s a lot more to the White Isle than non-stop partying. No holiday to Ibiza is complete without exploring the island’s famous old town. Quaint La Villita still embodies the bohemian sensibility of traditional Ibiza, and there are plenty of artsy boutiques to explore. And if you’re looking to round out your holiday, there’s plenty to explore in the sea, too, with beaches, sea caves and snorkelling opportunities galore.
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