It’s no secret that mischief is around every corner in Ibiza, but so are the many bars, which can be tricky if you’re trying to behave. But if you come to the dance island, you can expect it to bring a healthy side of hedonism. What’s the point of resisting? So hop through the cobbled streets of Ibiza Town, catch the quintessential Balearic sunset on the west coast and savor the flavors of the island’s bohemian heritage in the rural north. You can always blame the island in the morning.
For more Ibiza inspiration, check out our guides to the best hotels, restaurants, nightlife, beaches and things to do on the island.
Ibiza Town
lost paradise
It’s worth taking a wrong turn in the labyrinthine streets of Sa Penya, the former fishing district, as they might just lead you to Paradise Lost, one of the island’s best-loved drinking spots. A kitsch-inspired booth with neon-lit walls and leather couches. The specialty here is fine rum and cocktails, which only the brave would be foolish enough to mix. But before long, that’s exactly what you’ll be doing, thanks to the warm welcome and peaceful atmosphere of the locals. Pull up a couch and dive in, sometimes it’s fun to have the devil dancing on your shoulder.
Contact: paradiselostibiza.com
Price: ££
Beam 1805
Another diamond unearthed among the cobbled streets of Ibiza Town, Bar 1805 is the brainchild of charismatic Frenchman and mixologist Charles Vexenat, who named the venue after Henri-Louis Pernod, the first man to launch an absinthe brand. So yes, you’ll find the legendary green fairy in abundance in this quirky cave, although the same won’t likely be said about your senses after a session here. Inside, the walls are decorated with vintage cocktail shakers and glassware, while the outdoor terrace is always packed with people tucking into moules frites (the house specialty) in the moonlight.
Contact: bar1805ibiza.com
Price: ££
UPWARDS
It was only a matter of time before party-loving The Standard set up shop in Ibiza. Now a mainstay on the busy Vara de Rey, Ibiza Town’s main square, with its rooftop bar, UP is a bon vivant paradise that dishes out laid-back vibes and a dash of mischief in equal doses, with incredible castle views thrown in for good measure . During the day you can relax on the sun loungers under the fringed parasols; In the evening, gather with friends for pre-dinner cocktails and live music. The opening party featured a long list of personalities from the little black book of celebrity: expect this to be a common theme.
Contact: standardhotels.com/ibiza
Price: ££
Cafe Montesol
Hotel Montesol was opened in 1933 and is the oldest hotel in Ibiza. Back then it was a meeting place for bohemian free spirits who spent hours discussing their troubled artistic minds, and while you’re less likely to overhear similar conversations these days, Café Montesol is still a hub for creatives. With a corner spot on Vara de Rey, beautiful, heavenly-inspired interiors and an innovative cocktail menu, it’s at the epicenter of Ibiza Town’s bar scene. Head to the roof for some of the best Dalt Vila views around.
Contact: cafemontesolibiza.com
Price: ££
S’Escalinata
S’Escalinata sits atop the ancient walls of Dalt Vila and tumbles down a cobbled staircase. There are a few low-slung tables and chairs, but this bar is mainly characterized by the multi-colored cushions draped over each staircase and the panoramic view of the sparkling city below. Stop by for an ice-cold drink in the middle of the summer sightseeing, or climb the slope once the temperatures have dropped and just in time for a sunset. Regardless of the time of day, the atmosphere is always wonderfully relaxed; S’Escalinata is a little piece of true Balearic magic.
Contact: 00 34 628 56 03 82
Opening hours: Daily, 10am – 3am
Price: £
San Antonio / West
Kumharas
A west coast wonder that slips under the radar, Kumharas is one of the least pretentious places to watch the sun set. Located in San Antonio Bay, with a position almost right on the water, it offers uninterrupted views at the climax of the day, yet despite the large crowds manages to maintain a level of laid-back hippie reserve that is the antithesis of some of the more famous spots. Arrive early and browse the on-site market stalls, then order a mojito and get ready for the ride. There is often live music here too.
Contact: kumharas.org
Price: ££
Sunset Ashram
Sunset Ashram is often cited by locals as one of their favorite spots on the island at dusk and has acquired legendary status over the years. Located directly above Cala Conta (one of Ibiza’s most beautiful beaches), with panoramic views of the beach and azure waters below, the sunsets are breathtaking, and greatly helped by an eclectic soundtrack that eschews techno in favor of more ambient, melodic sounds . It gets extremely busy in the summer months, so if you want a spot on the outdoor terrace, the best in the house, make sure you book in advance.
Contact: sunsetashram.com
Price: ££
north
Bar Anita
Hidden in the north of Ibiza, in the quaint village of San Carlos, folklore claims that Bar Anita was the island’s very first hippie bar. It was a second home for the writers, musicians and artists who roamed the island in the 1960s. The art hanging on the walls was reportedly received as payment from those who could not pay their bills. It is as beloved today as it was then and well worth a visit to soak up some authentic island history. Try the boquerones (anchovies) and don’t leave without a bottle of homemade hierbas, the local liqueur.
Contact: 00 34 971 335 090
Opening hours: Daily, 7am – 1am
Price: £
south
Blue marlin
Blue Marlin, a champagne-popping beach bar known for its brash party atmosphere, is not for wallflowers. Located on the pebbly beaches of Cala Jondal on the island’s south coast, it attracts the international jet set in droves – and they often arrive on their own yachts. The party unfolds over the course of the day (people usually arrive in time for lunch) and builds towards sunset when a well-known DJ jumps behind the decks and cranks up the volume. The only way to survive is to compete with the best of them.
Contact: bluemarlinibiza.com
Price: £££
Experimental beach
Experimental Beach is nestled among the Las Salinas salt flats, where flamingos stop to rest in the fall on their way to warmer lands. It is one of Ibiza’s most cosmopolitan sunset bars. Located at the end of a dusty dirt road on the rocky banks of Cap d’es Falco, any visit here is well worth the bumpy ride. Reserve a sun lounger and don’t forget to bring your swimwear; jumping off the dock just as the sun sets is a rite of passage. You won’t feel a thing after a few jugs of the rum-infused Pineapple Express.
Contact: eccbeach.com
Price: £££
How we choose
Every bar, venue or experience on this curated list has been tried and tested by our destination expert, who’s dropped by to give you their insider perspective. We cover a range of budgets and styles, from casual pubs to exquisite cocktail bars – to suit every type of traveler – and take service, drinks, atmosphere and price into account in our recommendations. We update this list regularly to stay informed of the latest vacancies and to provide current recommendations.