Updated as of August 2017.
One of the big trends in recent years has been the growth of the beach club scene in Ibiza. There are lots of new venues sitting alongside more established names and they range from high-end luxury to low-key. They are a great place to spend the afternoon relaxing in the sun amidst some often stunning scenery or for spending the evening sampling quality cuisine.
If you think beach clubs are beyond your price range, think again, as there are many ways to enjoy them; plus, you'll experience a glamorous side of the island, even if just for one day. And glamour is what you will get. Think well designed, stylish, modernist, white or blonde wood – all in a super hip hangout and you have a flavour of what to expect. You'll also get attentive service (some even offer valet parking) and the feeling that you are living like a millionaire - what's not to like? You might even spot the odd celebrity too, but do resist the urge to stare – that's not so cool.
Typically most of them are open from May to October, with a few open all year round. Each one has its own particular style and prices will vary so check out their websites to find one that suits you.
Drinking and dining
Drinks prices are around €6 for a glass of wine, between €10 and €12 for a mixer and €15 upwards for a cocktail. If eating, expect to pay an average price of €25 for a main meal. All will offer great cuisine from top-notch chefs; including Mediterranean grills to the freshest sushi. One of the great things is that you'll be served wherever you decide to put yourself, at the table, at your sun-lounger - even on the beach.
Some beach clubs put a big focus on food, such as El Chiringuito at Es Cavallet beach, which boasts a huge open restaurant area and a great list of cocktails. Try the popular coconut and chilli mojito here. If you fancy fresh Ibicencan produce, try Ibiza institution the Jockey Club at Salinas beach, which is more laid back in style.
Spotting the beautiful people
For more hip (read pricier) locations there is none other than Blue Marlin. This truly is a place to glimpse the beautiful people (staff included). The loungers don't come cheap at around €100 and a gin and tonic is around €15. Go on a Sunday though and you can just have drinks, then dance with the rest of the revellers and gaze at the private yachts in the bay. For another top VIP experience, the Ushuaia Beach Club Restaurant is super stylish and bright with four-poster beds on the beach where you can enjoy one of their excellent champagnes or dine on fresh lobster.
Of course music is one thing that is never skimped on in Ibiza and as you might expect the standard is high. There is often a mix of chilled beats during the day with the tempo rising from early evening. There are resident DJs at most: Ushuaia Beach Club Restaurant, Amante in Sol Den Serra and the Jockey Club are some good places for live music. Places like Blue Marlin will get in the big guns, especially on the weekend.
If you are coming with kids, many of the clubs like Amante and El Chiringuito have crèches in the daytime. You can take a break whilst your kids play and take part in activities such as painting, drawing or just playing in the sand.
Pampering pleasures
Don't forget the many pampering services like massage and spa treatments. Atzaró is one of the best places for this with a dedicated spa, sauna, hammam and gym. It's available to all for a €20 day pass with any extras like facials or full body treatments on top. The Pacha Destino resort at Cap Martinet offers many wellness packages. There are even hair and make up artists on certain days to get you looking as glamorous as possible for the night. Call ahead to make an appointment to check when this is available.
Some of the beach clubs do late night parties, like Nassau Beach Club in Playa D'en Bossa, which hosts late-night events throughout the summer, such as full moon parties and a Studio 54 themed disco night. Just about all do their own opening and closing parties and this is another way to experience some al fresco fun. Global beach club brand Nikki Beach holds an annual white party, another great place to see and be seen.
Small and perfectly formed
There are some great smaller and more inexpensive beach clubs too. Still fairly high up on pricing, but affordable, is the Cala Bassa Beach Club, which overlooks beautiful clear blue waters; a great setting to enjoy this little gem. Babylon Beach in Santa Eularia is small and perfectly formed with a line of sea facing loungers to soak up the atmosphere. Meanwhile, Sunset Ashram at Cala Conta is the place to grab what many consider to be one of the nicest sunsets in Ibiza. Make sure you book for the evening as turning up without a reservation will most likely mean you'll miss out.
Wherever you go you'll find something to fit your mood and budget, so do savour the seductive specialness of beach clubs on the white isle. Life is about experiences after all.
WORDS | Julian Heathcote
