IBIZA CURATED

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By Laura Martínez

When someone visits Ibiza, we locals love to share what truly makes the island special—those hidden gems that don’t show up on Google or in typical tourist recommendations. Here, we want to reveal our most secret side, highlighting spots known only to a select few. Since you’re part of this group, here we give you the lowdown on some of our favourites.

Ibiza is a place that can be seen in many different ways, depending on who guides your experience. Whether it’s your first visit or you’re a return visitor, the island always has something new to offer and hidden treasures to discover. But let’s start at the top: GOOD FOOD.

We’re sure you love indulging in the pleasures that the Mediterranean diet offers, which is why we’re starting with the mouthwatering oxtail cannelloni at Can Pau, one of the oldest restaurants on the island. Made using a family recipe that has been passed down from generation to generation, these cannelloni are the undisputed stars of the show, although you really can’t go wrong with any dish here. The owner, Alba Pau, greets you with a bright smile and welcoming eyes framed by horn-rimmed glasses. You might even hear her share the story of how Naomi Campbell would call her for a takeaway of this delicacy after a night of dancing at Space. Pair your meal with a delicious red wine and enjoy it at a table on the outdoor patio, and your experience will be complete.

For lunch on the beach, we recommend fresh fish at Chiringuito de Cala Xuclar or bullit de peix (Ibizan fish stew) at El Bigotes in Cala Mastella. Be sure to book in advance, as places are limited.

If you fancy something more bistro-style by the sea, Nudo in Es Figueral is a must. My personal favourite is Ses Boques, a beach bar upgraded to a spectacular restaurant, perfect for an impromptu lunch, dinner with friends or a romantic date. Its cuisine is truly special, and the banoffee pie made by Joan’s mother, the owner, is simply out of this world.

Among the great beach classics, don’t miss Can Pujol, 100% Ibizan and with the best scallops au gratin ever.

If you’re in the centre, we highly recommend dinner at Sa Cova, a charming French restaurant in the Old Town with seasonal produce and impeccable service. In San Antonio, Es Ventall offers unbeatable value for money; you must try their Ibizan prawn croquettes.

And if we’ve got our foodie hat on, we have to mention Can Domo. On the road to Cala Llonga, chef Javier Sanz showcases his talent in a restored farmhouse with one of the most beautiful terraces on the island.

And after filling our stomachs, we go SHOPPING.

One of this humble journalist’s favourite activities is exploring Ibiza’s hidden gems. When it comes to vintage shopping, Archive Closet offers an impressive selection of vintage designer clothing. Annie’s Ibiza, known for its own brand and locations in London and New York, features a carefully curated selection from various brands. Vicente Ganesha’s colourful shop on Calle Guillem de Montgrí is a classic destination where celebrities like Kate Moss and Dua Lipa shop for their summer sarongs.

If you’re seeking denim, leather jackets, and accessories, don’t miss Holala. For those who enjoy flea markets, the one in Sant Jordi on Saturdays is undoubtedly the most authentic experience on the island. If you’re in the mood to browse for vinyl or find a special gift, head to Pepe in Sant Josep.

Looking for a souvenir from your holiday? At Mon Chateau en Espagne, you’ll discover everything from designer lamps to Hermès scarves. And if you still haven’t found what you’re looking for, Curated By, the boutique at the Los Felices hotel, ensures that no one leaves without a bag in hand.

After eating and shopping, it’s time to discover the island’s hottest ART SPOTS.

We start with the MACE(Ibiza Museum of Contemporary Art), located inside Dalt Vila’s walls. This marvellous museum is, incredible as it may seem, not well known to the general public. Elena Ruiz’s impeccable work at the helm of this beautiful establishment, which houses works by Tápies and Miralles, is evident in every corner.

If you want to learn more about the origins of Ibizan architecture, be sure to visit the Historic House Museum of architect Erwin Bröner in Sa Penya. Another special place is Espacio Micus, run by Katja, the daughter of the famous German painter Eduard Micus, who settled in Ibiza in the 1970s. Designed by the artist himself, this space is a true haven of art and culture in the heart of the island. And if you’re more in the mood for a good urban art exhibition, ADDA Gallery at Paradiso Hotel is the perfect place.

It’s SUNSET time, and there are two unmissable spots to marvel at this natural wonder: Las Puertas del Cielo and Cap Des Falcó. My personal advice? Grab a six-pack, a bag of crisps and enjoy the show. And if mojitos are more your thing, don’t miss out on some early evening moving and shaking to Cuban rhythms at Malecón, the rooftop bar at Cubanito Hotel.

But if you’re left wanting more, Ibiza is home to a few sunset sanctuaries that never disappoint. At Sunset Ashram, perched above Cala Comte, the formula is effortless: great music, a cocktail in hand, and a horizon that feels almost painted just for you. Over at Kumharas in Cala de Bou, the mood turns more bohemian, with DJs spinning as crowds gather by the sea, waiting for that perfect moment when the sun melts into the water. And if your taste leans more sophisticated, El Silencio Ibiza in Cala Molí offers one of the island’s most beautiful sunsets, best enjoyed over drinks, impeccable music — they even have a vinyl library hosting beautifully curated sessions — and that effortlessly chic atmosphere Ibiza does so well.

DRINKS & DANCING: The best way to end (or start) the day. If you fancy some live music, there’s always a great atmosphere at Can Jordi Blues Station on Saturday afternoons. If you’re in the north of the island, we recommend trying the signature cocktails at Lola’s, thespeakeasyat Mongibello Hotel. If you prefer to hang out in Ibiza Town, Paradise Lost and Room Service are two of the island’s best bars. When the night heats up, our favourite places to dance the night away are at Pikes Hotel (a living Ibizan nightlife legend where Freddie Mercury celebrated his 40th birthday), where you always feel that anything is possible.

New additions include Tomodachi, a small club where DJs spin vinyl to an up-for-it crowd, and Nocturna, the new club inside Los Felices Hotel that promises to make its mark on Ibiza’s night scene, with an eclectic music schedfule and unrivalled sound.

What are you waiting for? Discover everything Ibiza has to offer before heading back to reality.