Islands in the Sun: Ibiza

Ibiza is the third largest of the Spanish Balearic Islands, after Majorca (Mallorca) and Menorca. Many people think of Ibiza solely as a party island where young people misbehave and music blares around the clock. While that reputation is partly earned—particularly in certain resorts like San Antonio and Playa d’en Bossa—there’s far more to Ibiza than wild parties. It’s actually a stylish and diverse island steeped in history and natural beauty.

My most recent visit to Ibiza was in 2024 but it hadn’t changed much since my first visit in 2000, although Playa d’en Bossa  has grown from a  lively but still charming resort into a sprawling, untidy metropolis.  

Today, there’s a wider variety of music and experiences on offer. Alongside the globally renowned DJs and superclubs, Ibiza has grown into a hub for wellness, yoga retreats, farm-to-table dining, and eco-conscious travel. It truly offers something for everyone.

We stayed in Playa d’en Bossa in 2000 but on our return last year we chose a much quieter resort in the North of the island – Portinax.

Portinax is a pretty little resort. No loud music and bungee jumping, just tasteful restaurants and bars and a beautiful small sandy beach with warm, clear shallow water. Unlike the bigger resorts, food and drinks in bars and restaurants are very reasonably priced.

Hiring a car on Ibiza is a wonderful way to explore the island. With more than 80 beaches, many tucked away in hidden coves, it’s a paradise for adventurers and beach lovers alike. Every day we packed a cool box of fresh local fruit—peaches, figs, and grapes—and discovered a new, quiet beach for a peaceful swim.

One of the highlights of the trip was a delicious paella in a small clifftop restaurant, overlooking a sparkling turquoise bay. We stumbled across it while taking a random detour—those spontaneous stops often create the best memories. The restaurant felt like a family affair, filled with locals, and the paella was the best I’ve ever tasted.

A night out in Ibiza Town is a must. The capital of the island is divided into two main areas: the charming old town (Dalt Vila) with its medieval cobbled streets, and the newer extension known as Eixample. Whether you’re visiting the historic Ibiza Castle (a UNESCO World Heritage site), browsing the fashion boutiques, dining in tapas bars, or just enjoying a cocktail while people-watching, the atmosphere is unbeatable.

Dalt Vila, with its whitewashed houses, fortress walls, and panoramic views over the port, is a treasure trove of history. The castle—also known as Castell d’Eivissa—dates back to the 12th century and reflects layers of Islamic, Medieval, and Renaissance architecture.

Ibiza Town is also famed for its quirky and flamboyant characters. Sit outside a café with a jug of sangria and you’ll have all the entertainment you need.

I highly recommend a day trip to Ibiza’s “little sister,” Formentera. Just a short boat ride away, Formentera has long been a haven for bohemians and naturists. Its Ses Illetes Beach is often ranked among the best in Europe for its powdery white sand and crystal-clear water.

As we approached Formentera, we saw gleaming yachts anchored off the coast, with water taxis ferrying guests to shore. We found a charming beach restaurant with a sand floor and a grass roof. Smartly dressed waiters glided barefoot between tables. In the shade of some trees, live lobsters and crabs splashed around in stone sinks. The menu had no prices—a slightly ominous sign—but we ordered barbecued sardines, which turned out to be both delicious and surprisingly affordable.

Too content to explore further, we spent the afternoon relaxing, watching the waves, and sipping cold beer before catching the boat back to Ibiza

On our final day, lunch at a British pub seemed a fitting end. As if on cue for our return to the UK, a thunderstorm rolled in, cutting the power. Lunch was delayed—but thankfully, the beer was still flowing!

Ibiza isn’t just for the party crowd. It’s also great for families, foodies, history buffs, and nature lovers. Resorts like Portinax, Es Caná, Santa Eulalia, and Cala Llonga are especially suited to families with children, offering safe, shallow beaches and a relaxed atmosphere.