Trips to Ibiza don't just have to involve back-to-back partying or just lying on a beach. The island offers many more experiences for the traveller that likes to both relax and explore.
If you're on a quick break and desire to do things, cutting back on nocturnal pleasures in favour of more wholesome activities is prudent.
Proving that you can have an exhilarating time on Ibiza without so much as setting foot in a bar, we've compiled a two-day itinerary for you to go out and get the most out of your short stay.
Cramming as much as possible into a whistlestop 48-hour break is going to test your time-keeping, as well as your endurance, but the rewards are worth it. Of course, we do provide fun options within, should the mood take you.
Where to stay?
Accommodation wise, we've got a few good recommendations at different price points.
The lively Ibiza Jet Apartments in Playa d'en Bossa feels right in the thick of the action. With large, airy rooms and DJs spinning at poolside, this might feel like a good compromise for avoiding the clubs, whilst still getting some Balearic beats.
You could also try the four-star Garbi Ibiza Hotel and Spa in the same resort. It has its own nightclub SWAG, which you could drop into for a couple of hours, though we'd recommend the spa and wellness centre to help prepare you for the next day ahead.
Right in the thick of the action at Ibiza Jet Apartments
The more budget-conscious might like to consider Ryans Lola's in San Antonio Bay, which is ideal for young holidaymakers. Alternatively, for something higher-end, ME Ibiza Hotel is a stylish five-star, near Santa Eulalia with an amazing rooftop and views, and direct access to glamorous beach club, Nikki Beach Ibiza.
Meanwhile, over in Ibiza Town and quite upscale is El Hotel Pacha, a recently modernised hotel that comes with the bonus that all guests get complimentary admission to both Pacha nightclub and Destino - subject to availability - during their stay.
Close by and a favourite amongst touring DJs is the stylish Ocean Drive, styled in the Art Deco look of Miami South Beach. Either one would make a great option as a base for exploring.
Getting about - Day one
After checking in, first port of call is going to be hiring a car so you can really explore the island's offerings at your leisure.
Seeing as you're on holiday, why not treat yourself and travel in a bit of style? As you'll surely guess from the name, Mustang Adventures hire models of the classic car, allowing you to explore the island with all the air of a film star.
Get a cool classic car to rent or choose a regular one
Driving around the island's picturesque winding country roads can feel like something out of a film. If it's a regular car you want after all, never fear, as there's still plenty of great local car hire companies to choose from to get you motoring.
Now you have your wheels, there's no excuse not to dive in, so try either the wild north or the wondrous west. This exercise is about experiencing a side of Ibiza you haven't already. While there's lots of options, we have a few pointers.
If you find the idea of driving on unfamiliar roads daunting (or will feel tempting to indulge in a drink), then Ibiza has an island-wide taxi service, as well as the introduction of ride-hailing app Uber - new for 2024. The bus network is also reliable and can ferry you most places, but you've only got 48 hours to make use of, so don't waste a second queuing at a bus stop.
Cala Nova has something for all
The stunning village of San Carlos, once the epicentre of Ibiza's hippy culture, has done well to retain its charm and sense of detachment from the modern world. From the original hippy haunt Bar Anita to the sprawling hippy market of Las Dalias, both offer a slice of the bohemian.
We can feel the dancefloor calling you - and it's only natural to be temped by this point. Perhaps a visit to Las Dalias' new indoor club Akasha is in order? Just so long as you don't scupper plans for tomorrow, what harm can a little dance do?
Visit the old white-painted church and walk along peaceful walkways to find more restaurants and marvel at the old-world feel - a visit here is really is going to feel like a proper escape.
Another benefit of venturing north is the vast array of gorgeous beaches at your disposal. Even at the height of summer, you can still find yourself on a beach entirely to yourself. A real departure from the precious little space found elsewhere in July and August.
Music and good vibes at Kumharas
We recommend unspoilt Cala Nova - there's even a nudist section if you want to bare all - or further north Cala Xarraca. Best to take your snorkel for that one. If you want more ideas for a trip to the north, check out our road trip article.
You could also head west. Here too, there are plenty of great beaches to visit. As well as the sublime beaches of Cala Conta, you might want to try one that's a little less prominent, such as Cala Molí.
Since you're on the west coast, we can only recommend sticking around for one of Ibiza's fabled sunsets. If you seek a bit of energy, then the Sunset Strip in San Antonio is always lively between May and September.
If you're after something a bit more laid back, then either Kumharas near Cala de Bou or Hostal La Torre at Cap Negret (slightly further north of San Antonio) will tick your box.
Where to dine?
When you have worked up a rigorous appetite, you'll need dinner options. If staying in San Antonio, then Tapas Restaurant & Garden is a favourite for good reason. Whether staying at Ryans Lola's or ME Ibiza, you're never too far from somewhere good to eat. Check-out our eateries of San Antonio and Santa Eulalia guides for more options.
If you've chosen one of our Ibiza Town hotel selections, you won't be short on choice either. STK Ibiza is a vibrant party restaurant with great entertainment. Here you have the added benefit of your entertainment included as you dine. Win, win.
Sublime views and food at Beachouse
If Playa d'en Bossa is your Ibiza holiday base, there are several options.
Beach clubs often close early up to around 20:00, so if it's an early evening meal you want, these present a good option. Choose from the sublime minimalist luxury and fine cuisine of the divine Beachouse or go to Zazú Ibiza and try some of its many typical Spanish dishes.
Should you want just a quick bite to eat in a central location with vibrant atmosphere, Dunes Ibiza is a good shout for drinks and finger food fit for sharing.
Pizzas into the flame
If you want something simple like an authentic pizza, you have to try Es Tanco.
With two locations in Sant Jordi and in San Rafael, you are always nearby and can find perfect pizzas, cooked in a traditional wood burning oven. It's one of the best examples you'll find on the island.
Our Ibiza restaurant guide breaks down eating out options by cuisine, resort and ambience - take a look to get more choice.
Picks for fun & activity - day two
While the itinerary for day one focused on discovery, day two is all about doing things, either actively or maybe just sitting back. Here are a few choices.
If there's enough of you in your group, why not hire your own yacht, complete with skipper, and go over to see the coast and beaches and anchor just off the gorgeous island of Formentera? Or you could head north and head for the coastline up to the dramatic cliffs of Sol d'en Serra, stopping in this sheltered cove.
Smart Charter Ibiza, based in Ibiza Town, has a range of great boat charter options for you to discover. Their boats even offer Stand Up Paddle (SUP) boards and snorkelling gear too.
Beaches by boat and beautiful scenery on the way
Going westwards, sailing from San Antonio, you might fancy the great new sea and sand adventure: the Beach Hop Cruise.
You'll see the beautiful coastline and outlying islands, stopping at two different and very pretty beaches, Cala Conta and Cala Bassa. All this in a glass bottomed catamaran plus SUPs on offer too. Drinks prices on board are reasonable too.
Check out the ticket options, as one offers an open bar.
If you want to be a bit more active, then staying in the same resort, you'll want to try out a tour with SUP experts SUP Paradise.
Ruben, the owner and guide is a local, so he really does know where to take you and what secret little spots there are in and around San Antonio Bay. It's a great full body workout on these boards, so it's not for the faint hearted - you will feel pretty incredible after your trip seeing stunning beauty up close and personal.
All aboard the SUP!
Fancy being your own skipper? Star Boats in San Antonio has you covered. You don't even need a licence for its nimble fleet meaning you can explore the coves and waters surrounding the west coast at your leisure.
Perhaps you seek something a bit quicker paced that will really get your heartbeat racing? Buckle up for Es Vedrà Jet Ski Tours, which offers 30 to 120-minute jet ski tours along the stunning coastline around San Antonio. Lots of fun!
Your mid-morning flight home tomorrow means there's a window of opportunity left to hit the clubs, if that desire still lingers. Just play it safe and request a wake-up call at reception first. Who knows, after all this activity and fresh air, you might feel you don't need it anyway?
We find the best tonic to the blues, is simply to plan your next White Isle adventure!
