The short answer is yes. Ibiza is so much more than just parties. And, believe it or not, you can enjoy a dream holiday on the island without setting foot in a nightclub. Read on, as we share what you need to visit, experience, and discover to ensure your first trip to the island leaves you wanting more.
1. Beaches straight out of a science fiction film
The colour of the sea, the fine white sand, the surroundings, the seabed… Everything about Ibiza’s beaches seems like something out of a storybook. Some landscapes do not look real, they could easily be scenes from a science fiction film.
Cala d’Hort is one of them. Seeing the mystical islet of Es Vedrà on the horizon from the shore, rising from a completely bright blue sea, is undoubtedly a sight that stays with you. The walk down to Cala Salada (and its little sister, Cala Saladeta) is another experience truly worth it. The same goes for the other pair of sister coves: Cala Gració and Cala Gracioneta. Of course, we cannot forget some of the island’s most famous beaches, such as Ses Salines, Cala Comte, Cala Bassa or Cala Tarida, the latter being perfect for family visits.
At the other end of the island, coves like Cala Mestella or Cala Llenya are also places that leave no one indifferent, not just for the sea, but also for the lush vegetation that surrounds them.
But if you are looking for a peaceful spot, far from the summer hustle and bustle and as unspoilt as possible, head north and do not miss places like Es Portitxol or Cala Xuclar.
And if you are after family-friendly beaches that still retain charm, take note: Cala de Sant Vicent, Aigües Blanques, Portinatx and Cala Llonga, among others.
2. Cuisine worthy of Michelin stars
Despite being a small island, Ibiza boasts a surprising culinary variety that reflects its cosmopolitan character. In addition to traditional restaurants, perfect for discovering Ibizan recipes, the island offers a culinary journey around the globe, with options to suit all tastes.
But let us start with local cuisine. Among the traditional restaurants, stand-out names include Ca n’Alfredo, Port Balansat, Cas Pagès, S’Espartar, Es Rebost de Can Prats, or Es Pins, among others. At any of these venues, you can enjoy typical dishes such as bullit de peix, sofrit pagès, or arroz de matanzas. At Living Ibiza, we highly recommend doing so, because once you discover the flavours of Ibiza, there is no going back. And if you top off your meal with a slice of flaó and a glass of hierbas ibicencas, you will not want to leave the island.
But Ibiza is not just about local food. Its multicultural atmosphere and ability to attract visitors from every corner of the globe have made it a meeting point for international cuisines. Italian food has a strong presence, from classic trattorias to contemporary takes on pasta and pizza. Those seeking Asian flavours will also find a wide and refined selection: from the delicacy of Japanese cuisine to the intense and spicy flavours of Thai, Chinese and Vietnamese dishes. These options allow you to explore far-off cultures without leaving the island. French cuisine is also well represented, adding a refined and elegant touch.
For those who consider themselves culinary tourists, the island has four restaurants that have been awarded a Michelin star: Es Tragón (chef Álvaro Sanz), La Gaia (chef Óscar Molina), Omakase by Walt (chef Walter Sidoravicius), and Unic (chef David Grussaute).
In short, Ibiza is a true paradise for food lovers. Its gastronomic offering is as rich and diverse as those who visit, and it is undoubtedly one of the island’s greatest attractions.
3. History, heritage and culture
Long before the arrival of tourism, nightclubs, beach clubs and big parties, Ibiza was already a strategic location in the Mediterranean. The Phoenicians discovered that this small piece of land was perfectly positioned for developing maritime trade. That is why, around the 8th century BC, they decided to settle there, specifically in Sa Caleta. This original settlement is now recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Over the years, the population grew and Sa Caleta became too small, prompting the first settlers to move. They relocated to what is now Ibiza Town, where centuries later the Arabs built the first walls of Dalt Vila, and during the 16th century, the Renaissance walls were constructed, also recognised as a World Heritage Site for the past 25 years.
Very close to Dalt Vila is the Necropolis of Puig des Molins, another of the island’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This Phoenician-Punic cemetery contains over 3,000 hypogea (tombs carved into rock), making it the largest and best-preserved of its kind in the Mediterranean. In addition to guided tours of some of these tombs, the necropolis features a museum where visitors can view many of the treasures recovered from them.
Ibiza also has several museums catering to all interests. Those wanting to learn more about local history can visit the Ethnographic Museum in Santa Eulària, which offers a detailed look at rural Ibizan life in past centuries. At Ses Païsses de Cala d’Hort, visitors can travel even further back, into the Roman period of the island. Art lovers should not miss the Museum of Contemporary Art (MACE) or the Puget Museum, both located in Dalt Vila, as well as the many galleries scattered across the island.
4. Fairytale villages
If someone asked you to describe Ibiza using a colour, what would it be? Probably white, right? It is the dominant colour in the island’s architecture. Fortified churches, country houses, wells… all have been, and continue to be, white. The sun reflecting off their whitewashed walls gives the island that unique, indescribable light.
Visiting the island’s villages is another great way to learn more about Ibizan culture and history. Places such as Santa Gertrudis, Sant Carles, Santa Agnès, Sant Mateu or Es Cubells are perfect for a day of sightseeing. And since these are small villages, it is easy to visit more than one in the same day.
5. Geography and climate perfect for sport
Sporty visitors will find Ibiza an ideal place to train. The inland areas offer trails that seem also straight out of a fairytale, perfect for walking or cycling. The coastal routes are just as impressive.
The island’s mild climate, which lasts practically all year, makes it a perfect destination for various sporting disciplines.
Furthermore, in recent years, the island’s local administrations have promoted numerous sporting events and have managed to position Ibiza on the international sports map. The Santa Eulària Ibiza Marathon, the 10k Playa d’en Bossa and the Vuelta a Ibiza MTB are just a few of the most notable events on the island’s sporting calendar.
Taking part in one of these events or exploring the routes on your own is a perfect way to discover another side of the island, the most authentic, the most magical.
So, yes – Ibiza is absolutely worth visiting, even if you do not like partying.
