I Asked the Only the Chicest Travel People for Their Ibiza Reccs—Here’s Where They Eat, Stay and Party

Welcome to Who What Wear Travels, a series of curated guides to destinations the fashion set loves. Consider this your download on everything from the chicest stays to the most memorable meals to the perfect travel wardrobe, all vetted by stylish locals and well-traveled fashion folks.

It seems like every year, a new European destination gets the hotspot treatment, and every cool-girl, fashion person and influencer is flocking there for their high summer getaway. Grecian islands, the South of France and the Amalfi Coast have all been appearing in constant rotation on my social feeds of late, but I know there is one spot which is so iconic and unbeatable, that has become shorthand for hedonistic, sun-soaked, and bohemian-infused escapes for eons. That place can only be the Balearic island of Ibiza.

You may think the island is for party-lovers only, but there are so many facets to the island that there is something for everyone to find here. Sure, there are a number of so-called 'superclubs', but there are many great smaller venues, bars and cocktail spots to take your pick from, and the island is cementing its place as a gastronomic paradise, with a focus on provenance and authenticity within the restaurant and foodie scene.

There is a plethora of sandy beaches, coves, hiking trails and nature reserves for those seeking the big, beautiful outdoors. For those with a few Euros to spend and a keen eye for style, a small niche of boutiques and retailers that support low-impact and planet-friendly clothing and homeware are emerging on the island, particularly in the Old Town, so you can take a little slice of the island back home with you.

Naturally, there are countless chic, cozy and well-catered hotels and properties to reside in for the duration of your trip, ranging from the clean and minimalist five star resorts, to the design-led boutique hotels for those with a discerningly fashionable eye, to the tucked-away agritourism outposts to give you that rustic, but no less chic, experience and classic laid back Ibizan mood.

We have tapped an elite group of industry experts and self-confessed Ibiza lovers to get the scoop on the classic spots and the hidden gems to help you plan your next, and your very best, Balearic adventure.

1. Where to Stay

There is no lack of gorgeous hotels or boutique rental properties on the island of Ibiza, so pick what will suit your vibe, if you want something buzzy and fully catered, or perhaps something more off the beaten track and tranquil. Read on for my exhaustive list of the best stays the island has to offer, across all four corners of the coast, and in the lush countryside too.

Staying at OKU is a non-negotiable for MirrorWater founder Estee Lalonde, which is currently getting the full Missoni treatment. With a focus on slower living and enriching experiences for the curious traveler, the hotel comprises 185 guest rooms and suites, a standalone four-bedroom villa with private pool, two hotel pools, two restaurants, and an intimate spa. OKU's iconic main pool has been reimagined in Missoni's beloved bold and colorful palette of deep blue, ocean turquoise, and emerald green, drawing inspiration from Ibiza’s breathtaking seascape, so you can relax poolside in comfort and style. OKU guests have access to daily meditation and yoga practice, as well as comprehensive spa rituals and fitness programming.

The Standard Ibiza, too, just got the fashion seal of approval, working with iconic British heritage label Burberry on a joyful takeover of the hotel’s seasonal rooftop bar and restaurant, blending the house check with The Standard’s signature yellow resort colour. Sunny! Set in the Old Town and framed by sunset views, the rooftop comes alive with weekly Burberry-curated cocktail evenings, soundtracked by guest DJs spinning from a custom-built booth. Poolside, the vibe sets the scene for golden-hour lounging. Inside, a branded photo booth in the lobby invites guests to capture their summer in style, whilst exclusive Burberry items are available to purchase to you can bring a slice of it home with you.

Suggested by travel, food and fashion enthusiast, Sophie Hay, the Montesol Experimental is a design-led escape blending bohemia and mid-century appeal. Designer Dorothée Meilichzon has reimagined 33 bedrooms and suites with cool, calming colours and cosmic elements, whilst local designer pieces and a touch of sparkle adorn spacious rooms bathed in natural light, complete with king-size beds and views of Ibiza's Old Town. A millennial's dream!

For lazy luxury vibes in the north, pick Cala San Miguel Ibiza Resort, which is a new 5-star, adults-only resort in the north of the island. This year sees the launch of the adjoining Beach House Cala San Miguel, a beachside restaurant complete with a pool. Guests also benefit from a rich complimentary experiences programme, from Ibicencan spirit workshops and cacao ceremonies, to sunset paddleboarding, full moon rituals, and guided open-water swims and hikes.

Los Enemorados is arguably one of the smallest and chicest hotels on the island, set in the northern town of Portinatx. Filled with art and ephemera, Los Enemorados comprises of nine rooms, each with a unique decor. It is an adults-only property, which you can also pop to for lunch and sundowner drinks. Having been there before, I can tell you this is the place to be for golden hour.

If you're looking for panoramic views of turquoise waters and pine hills, the Mondrian Ibiza , is made for you. Sofisticated, clean lines and a future-forward design vision are what set it apart. Found directly on Cala Llonga, one of the largest sandy beaches in Ibiza, the hotel is located just a 15-minute drive 15 from Ibiza Town and seven minutes from Santa Eulària, and an adjacent boat dock provides convenient ferry connections to Formentera, Ibiza Town, Es Canar and Santa Eulària. Next door, you will find HYDE. Born from the LA club scene in the 2000s, Hyde Ibiza is a more boho-feeling hotel, boasting 401 rooms and two new dining concepts.

Spanning 2,246 sqm in the heart of the Ibizan countryside, the newly opened Soho Farmhouse Ibiza embodies a traditional Spanish farm style with white facades, rustic finca-inspired architecture, terracotta floors, and exposed wooden beams. It features 14 bedrooms situated across the main House, a stable, and two two-bedroom villas. At its core lies a vibrant club space for eating and relaxing, complete with outdoor seating overlooking the House Pool. Members can also enjoy the restaurant serving seasonal Balearic food, a retail boutique, and the Soho Health Club, which offers wellness treatments, hot and cold therapies, an indoor and outdoor gym space, and a poolside yoga deck.

Fans of agritourism will also have their interest piqued by Can Sastre a boutique hotel set within 10 acres of idyllic, rolling countryside, near Santa Gertrudis. A beautifully restored old white finca, surrounded by fragrant citrus groves, vibrant bougainvillea, palm trees and cobbled pathways, it will charm guests with the perfect balance of luxury and rustic charm. Can Sastre is a true private rural paradise, comprising of five beautiful suites, made up of three luxurious casitas and two spacious villa suites, providing the ultimate private sanctuaries for guests. In-house chefs are available to serve breakfast, lunch and dinner upon request.

For something tucked away on the south-west of the island, the Petunia hotel embodies the bohemian soul of the island, facing the legendary (and rumoured to be magnetic!) Es Vedrà rock. The boutique hotel offers an intimate and enchanting setting, with lush gardens, a serene pool and nearby calas, combining Mediterranean relaxation, Balearic gastronomy and artsy 70s design.

Los Felices is also a fashion-pack favourite. With just one year under its belt, the fashion-led hotel has already earned its place among Ibiza's most desirable destinations, and hosts fun-filled bingo, karaoke, DJ and cocktail evenings. Resembling the pages of a 60s-themed space-age comic, Los Felices is set on the cusp of San Antonio bay, perfect for those seeking endless nights of dancing till the small hours.

For the five-star treatment, look no further than Nobu Hotel Ibiza Bay. Offering a brand new scheme of wellness treatments, programmes and classes, the hotel and spa is in a poised position on the shores of Talamanca Bay. Away from the hustle and bustle, step from the hotel straight onto the soft sandy beach, or your yacht. With the beach promenade right outside your door, in a short walk you can wander through the trendy boutiques and restaurants of Marina Botafoch and the Old Town.

For Ibiza aficionado and property expert, Rupert Baird-Murray, rental properties are the best way to experience the true hedonistic and luxurious nature to the island. Where is the best place to stay, I ask? "It has to be Domus Nova Ibiza’s newest addition to its collection, Can Olivar," he explains. "This architect-designed six-bedroom retreat is a masterclass in modern Ibicencan living, seamlessly blending into its 15,000 square metres of curated gardens and forested valley near San Lorenzo. What sets Can Olivar apart is its immersive connection to nature, think cedar-beamed ceilings, salt-filtered heated pool, a yoga deck beneath the trees, and a particular highlight for me is its Moroccan-style rooftop for stargazing. For those celebrating a milestone celebration, or visiting the new Soho Farmhouse, I recommend staying at the nearby Finca La Inika, the island's chicest party villa that sleeps 18 and features its own soundproof party cave, saltwater pool, yoga deck, private terraces and gardens throughout.” Beyond chic!

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2. Where to Eat Drink

For long days and long nights on the island, you need good-quality food and drink to fuel you, and there is no lack of healthy, wholesome and gourmet places to eat or pick up a snack on the island.

"I start my mornings with a green juice from Wild Beets before heading out on a hike with Ibiza Hike Station or a walk with my dog on the Campo next to my house, which is the best way to start the day before the rest of the island wakes and soak up the island’s raw beauty," says Rupert Baird-Murray.

If a matcha hit is more your thing, River Island's Senior Social Media Manager, Ruby Cox suggests heading to mui mia cafe. For hidden gems, she loves Los Nidos, which can be found just above the Edén restaurant in Hacienda. "It's the perfect spot to watch the sunset" she shares, also noting Raco as a new restaurant on the island to keep tabs on.

"For lunch, it has to be either La Paloma for their stunning alfresco garden setting or Cala Gracioneta for the freshest fish by the sea." Rupert Baird-Murray shares.

Ottolenghi at Atzaró returns to the island this year for his annual culinary event. Yotam Ottolenghi’s vibrant, Mediterranean-inspired cuisine blends with the natural beauty and relaxed luxury of Ibiza’s iconic Atzaró Agroturismo Hotel, set against a backdrop of rambling vegetable garden, countryside views, sunset then starry skies, and rustic elegance, this exclusive event is a celebration of nature’s rhythms, flavour, creativity, and connection, an unmissable highlight of the Ibiza calendar.

Sa Capella is known for one of the island's most unique and premium dining spots. It is housed in a 16th-century chapel that first opened as a restaurant in 1978, feeding the era’s bohemian jet-set. Located in the rural hills above San Antonio, diners will find a menu that focuses on using the best quality ingredients, alongside preparation and cooking techniques that place their natural flavour first. The restaurant has been respectfully restored by the Anadon family, whose commitment to authentic, experience-led dining, drinking and accommodation destinations in Ibiza, spans from founding the island’s original sunset spot, Café Mambo, to more recently, Casa Maca, Cala Gracioneta, and Hostal La Torre.

"The most memorable dinner I’ve ever had was at Casa Maca," notesBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing UK's Branded Content Editor, Rebecca Rhys-Evans. "Magical views, all cooked without electricity or gas (everything is prepared outside using an open-fire oven instead), and they do larger bookings for groups, which a lot of places on the island don’t do." Casa Maca is a unique restaurant with rooms in a beautiful rural location that looks across to Ibiza Old Town and the sea beyond. Set in a 300-year-old farmhouse, they welcome diners and guests like a family home, offering authentic experiences, the favourite being the open-air, grill restaurant. It's a very Instagrammable moment.

"As the sun starts to dip behind the clouds, you’ll find me at Hostel La Torre or Los Enamorados with a negroni in hand," Rupert shares.

Poppy Nash, Who What Wear UK's Managing Editor, keeps a long checklist of foodie spots on her iPhone notes, and has allowed me to share a handful of key culinary places that she and her family have long been fans of:

• The Fish Shack, Sa Punta - very rustic but delicious beach-side fish restaurant
• Casa Jondal
• Es Tanco - best for pizza!
• Beachouse, Platja d'en Bossa -this is one of my absolute favourite places, and my mum has had every big birthday party here
• Six Senses - for a cocktail if you're passing through
• Lucky Bar, Formentera - again, rustic but nice
• Sol Cala Saona - looks unassuming but is delicious - they do a great roast chicken
• Passion Cafe - great smoothies
• La Bodega (my fave!)
• Can Domingo
• Es Xarcu
• Casa Linda
• El Silencio
• Juntos House
• El Olivo Mio
• Plaza del Sol,
• La Dispensa

WHAT TO WEAR TO DINNER:

3. Where to Swim

Poppy Nash is a seasoned beach hopper and knows the perfect sandy dunes dotted across the island for chilled days under the Mediterranean sun. “Cala Jondal is one of my favourite beaches, as is Las Salinas. Cala Gracioneta is also not to be missed. If you're heading to the teeny sister island of Formentera, Cala Saona is peaceful, small and under the radar.” For an IYKYK recommendation, she imparts "Es Vedrà for an alternative island trip that isn’t Formentera". For other sandy spots to note, she lists "Benirràs, Cala Olivera, Sol d’en Serra (which is next to a very busy beach but is way more chilled), and, lastly, Cala Mastella (it's teeny!)"

For Estee Lalonde, a day of reading and napping on the beach at Ses Illetes, Formentera is an ideal way to idle away a few idyllic hours. She also notes Es Vedrà too as a great hiking spot, so pack some suitable walking footwear if you want to get your steps, and panoramic views, in.

Renting a car when on the island is essential for buzzing around with ease. "An ideal weekend would be driving to all my favourite beaches; Cala Comte, Cala Saladeta and Cala Bassa and enjoying a chill day on the powdery sand with a baguette and some aioli," muses emerging London-based DJ, KaYa.

If you're wanting to beach-hop a little more fluidly, with trips to adjoining islands and coves, renting a boat for the day will be your best bet.

WHAT TO WEAR TO THE BEACH:

4. Where to Party

There is a vibrant party scene and electronic nightlife side to the island, which has gone through many eras, including the hippie movement of the 60s, to the rock and roll of the 70s, the high camp pop and electro of the 80s, to the rise and rise of house, techno and EDM in the 90s and 00s. There is still very much a bustling club scene on the island today, with superclub opening parties kicking off the season in early April, to the closing parties wrapping up around the middle of October.

What are the best clubs to head to today, I asked our panel of experts. "It has to be DC-10, which definitely isn’t a hidden gem, but I had the best night of my entire life at this club", says Estee Lalonde. "It’s famously not flashy (it's in an old airplane hangar). Go here if you want music, not bottle service on a Monday night for Circoloco."

"I have my debut at the club Hï in September," shares DJ KaYa. The venue prides itself on being ranked the world's number one club, and its most in-demand nights include Black Coffee’s flagship Saturday night takeover and Glitterbox Sundays.

Pacha (the one with the cherries!) hosts some of the biggest DJs in the house music game, with a Defected Records residency every Thursday and the long-standing Flower Power nights taking place on Saturday, honouring the 60s and 70s boho music scene.

Amnesia and Ushuaïa are also superclubs not to be missed, with Amnesia hosting a brand new Boiler Room slot every Thursday, and Ushuaïa continuing their longstanding partnerships with some of the biggest DJs on the planet, including Calvin Harris, David Guetta and Kygo.

"Sigma in Ibiza Town is a tiny bar/club with an insane Void soundsystem," notes emerging DJ KaYa. "It’s probably only around 150 capacity and usually just full of residents and locals, but it’s got a great vibe."

Finally, no trip to Ibiza is complete without a visit to Pikes. The legendary hotel moonlights as a club venue, and has seen many a celeb walk through its doors since it was founded in 1978, including Grace Jones, Sade, Kylie Minogue, Kate Moss and Naomi Campbell.

It's important to plan, book and pre-pay for tickets for club nights, events and parties ahead of your trip. Check out listings on the venue websites before you fly (you may even want to curate your trip based on who is playing on the island) to ensure you don't miss out on what could be the best night of your life.

WHAT TO WEAR TO PARTY:

5. Where to Shop

"Afternoons are for a bit of boutique-hopping," says Rupert Baird-Murray. "Annie's Ibiza is always a treasure trove, Agora at Six Senses is beautifully curated, and I never leave without popping into Vicente Ganesha for vintage gems. It’s also worth checking out the new store at Soho Farmhouse Ibiza,

Currently, Agora is hosting a pop-up with London-based luxury swimwear label nounou until the 31^st of August, showcasing nounou’s take on vintage 70s-inspired swimwear silhouettes with a modern twist, with clasps designed by renowned jeweller Jessica McCormack. Agora is a boutique based in the world-famous hotel, the Six Senses, and has a keen focus on sustainable, low-impact and planet-friendly fashion, beauty and homeware.

Featuring psychedelic prints, beads, colours and trims, TAAR WILLOUGHBY's clothing, accessories and homeware is unmistakably beachy and Balearic-infused. Her womenswear boutique is nestled in the heart of historic Ibiza Old Town, which is also home to many independent shops, artisan boutiques and cafes, making it the ideal afternoon venture.

Las Dalias is an unmissable hippie market, and opens during the day on Saturdays, and later in the cooler evenings Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday, and features hand-made products, crafts, clothing and bric-a-brac, food options and DJs to soundtrack your all-day mooching. Punta Arabí market is also worth checking out, open Wednesdays from 10 am to 7 pm. The Artisan market in San Juan, which comes alive on Sunday, is also worth noting.

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6. What to Pack

If packing light and in a minimal fashion is your bag, Estee Lalonde recommends choosing items that work for many an occasion. Her clothing essentials include “a lightweight linen shirt, a sexy bikini (grab one at the Pacha store once you land), an easy day-to-night dress (I love this slip by Ariktaip, and The Frances bandeau dress), a good skort (which will take you from hikes, to the beach, to the club), and lastly, a great pair of sunglasses from Jimmy Fairly.” The cool-girl vacay clothing brands on her radar include Fruity Booty, Peachy Den (in particular, the Amelia Dimoldenberg collab), and Asta Resort.

For the maximalists, take notes from DJ KaYa. She prides herself on her individual style, and brings that in abundance when heading to the Balearics for her shows. "When deciding what to wear for a DJ set, the main thing for me is I need to be comfortable and be able to move freely. The way I dress is a huge expression of my creativity, so I always put thought into an outfit, even if I’m just popping to the supermarket. This season, I’m thinking something quite colourful, maybe a loud pattern (think 90s Versace) and, of course, lots and lots of gold. I love to be unique so I will probably have something custom-made by the super talented Liberty Rose."

You might be wondering how to take a look from day to night, especially if you are bringing hand luggage only. "The key to effortless day-to-night dressing lies in versatile base pieces and a few well-chosen accents," notes personal stylist Kate Lauren. "Start with something foundational that can be styled up, for example, a cool, easy throw-on dress, worn over your bikini, paired with a beach tote, sandals and a cowboy hat. Swap the tote for a clutch, some statement gold jewellery, perhaps a cuff and chunky hoop earrings. A lightweight structured blazer over the shoulders instantly adds a more refined edge for dinner and drinks."

I ask her if heels are essential for the island, particularly if you want to hit the club and late-night bar scene. "I wouldn’t bother with heels in Ibiza—they just don’t suit the vibe or the terrain," she says. "The closest I’d go to a heel is a mule sandal or a heeled cowboy boot, both of which give you a bit of height, but still feel grounded and comfortable enough for uneven streets or late-night dancing. Save the room in your case for other accessories!"

Is there a dress code, I wonder? "Ibiza isn’t about strict dress codes," Kate Lauren informs me. "It’s a place that celebrates individuality, and your outfits should reflect that freedom. Forget the heels and bodycon dresses; instead, think interesting textures or silhouettes, bold statement accessories, and effortless layering. That might mean a backless top, a standout boot, or something with fringe or sequins. Most importantly, have fun with it—that’s the real dress code."

In terms of beauty essentials, Estee Lalonde looks to her own skincare and wellness brand MIRROR WATER. "The SMOOTH Body Oil, is super hydrating after a day on the beach, sinking into your skin quickly, giving you the most gorgeous glow for the evening." A good SPF is always a good idea, even on cloudy days, she notes. "I am a big fan of Dr Loretta Urban SPF 40 and Ultra Violette Supreme Skin Screen. For a haircare must-have, Ceremonia Guava Rescue Spray smells incredible and keeps my hair healthy in the sun."

For Kate Lauren, lean into the laid-back appeal of the island with your skin and hair when going from day to evening plans. "A slick bun, a bronzed glow, or a statement lip can completely transform your look without requiring a full outfit change. You’re essentially shifting the tone from relaxed to considered but still keeping that easy, island-ready feel."

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