Mention Ibiza and most people immediately think of legendary clubs, world-famous DJs, and unforgettable nights that don't end until sunrise. Many visitors plan their trip around the island's famous Opening Parties, but there's another side to Ibiza that many people never get to experience.
Having spent the last five seasons living on the island, I've discovered that some of my favourite memories have happened far away from the dancefloor. Whether it's exploring abandoned places, watching the sunset to the sound of live drumming, or discovering corners of the island that many tourists simply drive past, Ibiza offers so much more than nightlife.
If you're visiting this summer, here are five places that deserve a spot on your itinerary.
1. Festival Club
Hidden away in the hills near Sant Josep lies one of Ibiza's most fascinating abandoned places.
Festival Club was built in 1972 as an ambitious open-air entertainment venue, featuring restaurants, performance areas, gardens and even a mock bullfighting ring. It was designed to become one of Ibiza's biggest entertainment attractions and a completely new concept for the island.
Sadly, the project never achieved the success its owners had hoped for. By 1974, following a poor previous season and mounting debts, Festival Club was forced to close its doors.
Today, nature has reclaimed the site, while colourful graffiti and street art have transformed it into an open-air gallery. Walking through the abandoned structures almost feels like stepping back in time, with every corner telling part of the venue's unusual history.
It's a fantastic spot for photographers, urban explorers and anyone looking to discover a completely different side of Ibiza.
Local Tip: Visit in the early morning or late afternoon. Not only is it much cooler, but the lighting is perfect for photography.
2. Las Dalias Hippie Market & Akasha
Long before Ibiza became famous for superclubs and international DJs, the island was known for its free-spirited hippie culture. One of the best places to experience that atmosphere today is Las Dalias.
During the day, the famous hippie market is filled with handcrafted jewellery, local artwork, vintage clothing and unique fashion that perfectly reflects Ibiza's colourful personality. It's an ideal place to pick up something genuinely different from the usual tourist souvenirs.
As evening arrives, Las Dalias comes alive with free DJ sets and live music, creating a relaxed atmosphere that continues well after the market begins to wind down.
If you're not quite ready to call it a night, Akasha opens its doors from 11:00pm. With a capacity of 300 people, it's one of Ibiza's smallest electronic music venues and offers a completely different experience to the island's giant super clubs. If you enjoy quality music in an intimate setting, it's well worth experiencing.
3. Cala d'en Serra & The Abandoned Hotel
Located on Ibiza's quieter northern coastline, Cala d'en Serra is one of those places that feels wonderfully untouched. The small bay is surrounded by dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear water, making it the perfect place to escape the busier beaches during the summer months. What makes this location even more intriguing, however, is the unfinished hotel overlooking the cove.
In 1969, plans were announced to build a luxury hotel resort overlooking Cala d'en Serra. Construction began shortly afterwards, but by 1970 work had already come to a halt and the ambitious project was never completed. Following the death of renowned architect Josep Lluís Sert in 1983, development officially came to an end, leaving behind the enormous concrete structure that still dominates the cliffs today.
Over the years, the building has become a favourite location for photographers and urban explorers thanks to its colourful graffiti and spectacular sea views.
If you decide to visit, take extra care. Some areas are unsafe, with exposed edges and sections where the floor simply ends. It's best to admire the building carefully and avoid taking unnecessary risks.
Please note that the Ibiza government has also announced plans to demolish the structure due to safety concerns. Although no official date has been confirmed, if Ibiza is on your travel list this year, it could be one of your last opportunities to see one of the island's most iconic abandoned landmarks.
4. Atlantis
If you're looking for an adventure rather than simply another beach, Atlantis should be high on your list.
Officially known as Sa Pedrera, this extraordinary stretch of coastline features incredible rock formations, natural swimming pools and carved stone terraces created by an old quarry. Over the years, the area has become surrounded by myths and legends, adding even more mystery to the experience.
Getting there isn't easy. The hike is fairly challenging, especially during the hotter summer months, but those willing to make the effort are rewarded with one of Ibiza's most spectacular locations. Bring plenty of water, wear suitable footwear and allow enough time for the climb back up.
Local Tip: Avoid visiting during the middle of the day in July and August. The return hike can be extremely demanding in the midday heat.
5. Benirràs Beach & Drumming Sessions
Few experiences capture Ibiza's unique atmosphere quite like an evening at Cala Benirràs
The beach first became famous for its legendary Sunday drumming sessions, where locals and visitors gathered to celebrate sunset with live percussion and dancing. Over the years, however, growing crowds and traffic restrictions meant the tradition had to evolve.
Today, you'll often find drummers and live music gathering on most evenings throughout the summer, while Sundays are generally much quieter and no longer host the large organised drumming sessions that originally made the beach famous.
As the sun slowly disappears behind the iconic Cap Bernat rock, the atmosphere is unlike anywhere else on the island. Some people dance barefoot on the sand, others simply sit and watch the sunset while the rhythm of the drums echoes across the bay.
It's relaxed, authentic and a reminder that Ibiza's soul extends far beyond its famous clubs.
Local Tip: Arrive at least two hours before sunset during July and August, as parking fills up quickly and traffic into Benirràs can become very busy.
Ibiza Has More Than One Side
The clubs may have put Ibiza on the map, but they're only one chapter of the island's story.
Beyond the famous nightlife lies an island filled with abandoned landmarks, bohemian markets, hidden coves, incredible hikes and unforgettable local traditions. Taking the time to explore these places will give you a much deeper appreciation of what makes Ibiza so special.
And when you're ready to head back to the dancefloor, it's always worth checking the Ibiza Party Calendar in advance to see which DJs, residencies and special events are taking place during your stay. Planning ahead means you're far less likely to miss one of the island's biggest nights.
