As summer approaches, we can all hear the siren song of Ibiza. The party island welcomed 3.7 million tourists during peak season last year, with Ibiza inviting holidaymakers to enjoy its white sandy beaches and world-famous nightclubs.
While Playa d’en Bossa is Ibiza’s most popular resort for sun worshippers looking to get their rocks on, 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 worshippers (it’s home to the Ibiza Strip), but don’t just think of it as a lively resort for 18-year-olds looking to get wasted on cheap vodka during their school holidays. San Antonio is also home to a number of Ibiza’s best hotels, restaurants and clubs, as well as some of the best views on the island.
Planning to discover a new part of Ibiza for your holiday? Here’s everything you need to know about the west coast of Ibiza…
Where to stay
The Mimosas
You may be in the heart of Ibiza’s party town, but this four-star boutique hotel is a haven away from the Strip. With just 11 Junior Suites and six Suites, Las Mimosas is the perfect place to stay if you want to enjoy the hedonism of a big night out (the Strip is just a stone’s throw away) but want to recover in peace during the day. As well as having an outdoor pool, it’s Las Mimosas’ spa that makes it a standout choice. With a Jacuzzi, sauna and Turkish bath, nightclubbers will feel well and truly refreshed after a day of rest. The hotel even offers yoga sessions, if you can drag yourself out of bed for an early morning class.
Prices start from 218 euros per night
His Clau
Located just a stone’s throw from the blue waters of the White Isle, Sa Clau, by Ibiza’s legendary Mambo band, has a more Scandinavian-chic vibe, as opposed to the island’s bohemian shabby-chic aesthetic. Slightly noisier than some other hotels on the island (particularly at the front of the hotel), Sa Clau’s prime location and sunset views make up for any restless nights. Its café, Bondi, also offers a traditional full English breakfast and acai bowls with fresh juices to perk you up after whatever you chose to eat the night before. Choose a hotel that can do both!
Prices start from 235 euros per night
Cubanito
Bringing a little bit of Cuba to San Antonio, this concept hotel offers some of the best sunset views on the entire island. Its Havana-esque Art Deco style means your stay will be Instagram-worthy from the get-go. Looking for the perfect spot to grab a few cocktails before heading out into the night? The rooftop bar is your best bet, offering panoramic views of that famous Balearic sunset.
Prices start from 268 euros per night
Where to eat
Bohanans
Looking for one of the best surf and turf restaurants in Ibiza? Look no further than Bohanans. Located in the heart of Houston Street in San Antonio, this steakhouse exudes old-town charm. The Akaushi beef is a sure bet if you want something rich and indulgent, but it’s the fresh seafood you won’t be able to turn down. Those craving something softer and chewier should head to Mero’s sea bass, but the jumbo shrimp (and we really do mean jumbo, so make sure you have an appetite) are not to be missed.
It’s Tragon
Es Tragón is a must-visit restaurant for any foodie visiting the White Isle. It is the first restaurant in Ibiza to be awarded a Michelin star. Those lucky enough to get a table there will be able to enjoy the restaurant’s famous tasting menus, which offer Ibiza’s rich and varied culinary history on a plate.
Mambo Cafe
The beachfront restaurant is an Ibiza legend for a reason: it just celebrated its 30th anniversary.th Famed for its legendary pre-show parties before patrons head to the super clubs, Café Mambos has hosted world-renowned DJs including Swedish House Mafia and Carl Cox, among others. Serving hearty fare such as burgers, tacos and salads, it’s the big names and big beats that keep patrons coming back – and cement its status as an Ibiza rite of passage.
What to do
Clubbing
Sure, San Antonio doesn’t have the superclubs that Playa d’en Bossa is known for, but that doesn’t mean it’s a boring part of the island. In addition to the famous pool parties at Ibiza Rocks, those looking for a more adult vibe should head to the legendary Pikes hotel and nightclub. With its expansive terrace, a night at Pikes feels like going to the world’s most exclusive party (even if Freddie Mercury once attended), with extremely fun DJ collectives like Nightmares on Wax, Melon Bomb, and La Discotheque. If you want more of a superclub vibe, Eden is one of San Antonio’s most popular nightlife destinations, with the now-legendary Space Club party every Friday during peak season.
But if you really want to try Ibiza’s most famous clubs, the legendary Ibiza disco bus, which runs from San Antonio to Playa d’en Bossa, runs all night during peak season and costs just €4. Notable highlights include Ushuaïa nightclub, which hosts Ants and Calvin Harris as resident artists, and the world-renowned Hï Ibiza nightclub, where David Guetta, Eric Prydz and Black Coffee all spin.
Exploring
The White Isle isn’t all about endless partying. No Ibiza holiday would be complete without a visit to the island’s famous old town. The picturesque Villita still embodies Ibiza’s traditional bohemian sensibility, with plenty of artsy boutiques to discover. There’s also plenty to discover at sea, with plenty of beaches, sea caves and snorkelling opportunities if you’re looking for a healthy holiday.
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