The famous party island has been a popular destination since the 1980s, pulling people in from that point on. In your case, the first steps were easy: You had had enough of all the people in your Instagram feed living the life and wanted to finally experience the Islas Pitiusas. You convinced your partner to let you go with your friends to let you go there for a week. Afterward, you bought your plane tickets. But then you hit a wall: Where should you stay in Ibiza?
You’d want everything: the beach, the clubs, and the peace in the morning. The answer however really depends on your most important needs and what you’re expecting of your experience on the Balearic island. Ibiza numbers many heavenly beaches, sumptuous hotels, and chic restaurants. On the other hand, we don’t all have the same budget or the same tolerance level for noise at the crack of dawn.
If you’re still planning your trip, consider my 2 weeks Itinerary of Andalusia and the Balearic Islands:
Exciting 14-day itinerary in Southern Spain – Andalusian and Balear Ambitions
Best places to stay in Ibiza for the nightlife
Eivissa (Ibiza Town)
Beach or no beach: No beach
In a nutshell: Eivissa is the heart of the island and where anything can happen. It has a beautiful old town, a lots of great shops and restaurants and the best bars overall.
Stay there if you think : You love to party, won’t mind having to go elsewhere to enjoy the beach and if having access to the ferry is a priority.
Playa d’en Bossa
Distance from Ibiza town: 3,2 km
Beach or no beach: Beach!
In a nutshell: Playa d’en Bossa is the most popular resort on the island and, in fact, not an actual village at all (it is actually in Sant Jordi de ses Salines). The resort has the luxury of a three-kilometre stretch of sand.
Stay there if you think: You are young and/or flying solo and want to be in the party’s epicentre.
Sant Antoni de Portmany
Distance from Ibiza town: 16,5 km
Beach or no beach: Beach
In a nutshell: On the opposite side of the island and away from the nice clubs, it is nonetheless a famous party location. Sant Antoni de Portmany is ideal for people under 25 and those seeking a cheap resort.
Stay there if you think: You are young and/or are flying solo and are not bothered about having to take a taxi.
Best places to stay in Ibiza for families
Santa Eulària des Riu
Distance from Ibiza town: 16,2 km
Beach or no beach: Beach
In a nutshell: Some people say it’s a beautiful little town; some say it is the beige capital of Ibiza.
Stay there if you think: You’re the kind of person who favours a charming waterfront over being in the thick of the action (and don’t mind taking a taxi to get to where you want.) Absolutely fantastic for people over 50 or for families.
Portinatx
Distance from Ibiza town: 29,5 km
Beach or no beach: Beach!
In a nutshell: An old fishing village transformed into a tranquil resort area, Portinatx boasts three gorgeous beaches and gorgeous vistas while having an active-enough nightlife.
Stay there if you think: You are looking for a quiet place away from the jet skis with your family.
Other places worth considering to stay in Ibiza
Talamanca
Distance from Ibiza town: 3,1 km
Beach or no beach: Beach
In a nutshell: Picturesque, Great location (you can reach Ibiza by walking 30 minutes), gay-friendly, quieter than Ibiza Town or Playa D’en Bossa.
Stay there if you think : You want to be near the real action, have access to public transport, restaurants and lovely beaches.
Santa Gertrudis
Distance from Ibiza town: 12,7 km
Beach or no beach: No beach
In a nutshell: Hub of families from all over Europe has an offbeat atmosphere and a heap of restaurants.
Stay there if you think: You’re looking for a charming town away from the hustle and bustle of the clubs.
Cala Llonga
Distance from Ibiza town: 12,7 km
Beach or no beach: Beach
In a nutshell: It has one of the most delightful beaches on the island (spotless and not too busy) and family-oriented resorts, perfect for those who like aquatic sports.
Stay there if you think: You want a quiet holiday wave riding or are on a family trip
Es Canar
Distance from Ibiza town: 20,8 km
Beach or no beach: Beach
In a nutshell: Es Canar has a “real town” feel, a beautiful market and an unspoiled beach. It has hotels for every type of traveller and is an excellent spot for water sports (fantastic for divers)!
Stay there if you think: You are looking for a peaceful holiday at a reasonable price.
Cala Tarida
Distance from Ibiza town: 21,4 km
Beach or no beach: Beach
In a nutshell: Cala Tarida has a pleasant beach but only offers a little public transport or things to do in the evening.
Stay there if you think: You will have a car anyway and want to stay at the TUI BLUE Tarida Beach. (Formerly known as the Sensatori)
Sant Jordi de ses Salines
Distance from Ibiza town: 3,0 km
Beach or no beach: Beach
In a nutshell: Sant Jordi de ses Salines is the town where the local working folk of Ibiza live. It’s less expensive than other places. The restaurants and shops aren’t usually aimed at tourists.
Stay there if you think: You want to see the lives of the locals and can bear not to make too much noise in the morning. (The locals won’t be happy with you if you’re noisy at 8:00 AM!)
Looking to escape Ibiza for a day? Maybe you should consider going to Formentera!
How to Travel to Formentera and its Azure Coasts