Ibiza: where to find an alternative night out

Alexandra Glacet

Alexandra Glacet

What springs to mind when you think of Ibiza? Often, it's the late nights and clubbing but there's more to Ibiza's nightlife than meets the eye.

Although it is best known for the party scene, Ibiza was always rich in things to do come nightfall, long before the commercial nightclubs set up home on this beautiful island. Don't be put off by the big crowds and bright lights as there are plenty of alternatives.

Where to go for an alternative night out

When planning your night out, steer clear of the party 'hotspots' of San Antonio, Playa d'en Bossa, San Miguel and now even some parts of Santa Eulalia. Although you'll find a lively nightspot in most places you visit, there are varying levels of wildness.

Another tip is to travel out of season. In early spring, the big clubs are not yet open and you can get away with visiting the above mentioned 'hot spots' without encountering the crowds. However, if you'd prefer to go during the high season there are still some delightful places to visit after dusk.

Portinatx

With three super beaches and a small ferryboat distance between it and the major clubbing areas, Portinatx is the perfect location for those looking for a quieter holiday. A popular destination for snorkelling and scuba diving, Portinatx is a beautiful place to relax and unwind in the sunshine.

Beach Holiday at Portinatx, Ibiza
Beach Holiday at Portinatx, Ibiza © lunamarina - Fotolia.com

Nightlife here generally consists of restaurants, bars and pubs, allowing you to be as lively as you'd without being surrounded by thousands of clubbers.

Ibiza Town

Be careful with this one! By day, Ibiza Town is a wonderful place to visit and take in the sights. It has a fascinating history and many cobbled streets to wander along. This cosmopolitan city attracts all sorts of holidaymakers, including those who like to park their superyachts at Ibiza Port.

Come nighttime, Ibiza Town can become overwhelming, although that's not to say there aren't nice little streets with great restaurants and less intense bars, because there are. A suggestion would be to ask at your resort or check online to find more low-key areas.

Santa Gertrudis

Known as the heart of Ibiza and not just because of its central location, Santa Gertrudis has a more laidback atmosphere and offers a flavour of the real Ibiza. This is a place to kick back and relax with friends and family in a quiet, friendly bar or restaurant.

This small town, popular with expats and artists, has a paved town square, which is closed to traffic and ideal for watching the world go by at one of the cafés. Santa Gertrudis is only a short drive from larger resorts such as Portinatx.

Sant Josep de sa Talaia

Packed full of traditional restaurants and bars, Sant Josep de sa Talaia is the perfect place to base your holiday when looking for a slower pace. You won't be short of things to do, especially if you like shopping. You can find everything from your typical souvenir to large high-end items.

Take a short drive to the beach at Cala Conta. If you're searching for one of the best places to watch the sunset over Ibiza then book yourself dinner at one of the beachfront restaurants.

Cala Llonga

This family-friendly resort is ideal if you want some family fun in the sun with enough to do to keep everyone happy. Most of the hotels in the resort provide nightly entertainment, however, if you'd prefer to venture further afield then you'll find something to suit in Cala Llonga.

There are a number of bars and restaurants to choose from that promise to cater to all the family. Most of the evening entertainment in Cala Llonga comes to an end at around midnight, so there is no need for earplugs to drown out the sounds of all-night parties.

Es Cana

Another great resort for families or those looking for a quieter alternative is Es Cana. This lively resort is just that: lively, with plenty of restaurants, bars and a fab beach. There is something to suit most tastes and holiday styles.

Local hippy markets draw visitors from all over the island and the harbour has a range of beach bars making sure no one goes hungry. Nighttime is generally spirited with lots of vibrant bars to choose from; however, it doesn't become swamped with partygoers, who tend to take themselves off to other locations.

Whether you're after family-friendly cafés and restaurants or the party atmosphere of the bars and clubs, you'll find it all on holiday in Ibiza. Browse the latest deals on breaks to this Balearic Island today.

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Alexandra Glacet

Alexandra Glacet

Posted on Monday 12th August 2013 in: Culture Europe Nightlife

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