Recognise these places? From cinemas on the beach to leafy palatial villas, the ultimate guide to the parts of Ibiza you never knew existed

  • Ibiza is famous for its nightclubs and partying, but there is far more to discover on the Balearic island 
  • Here, Ibiza experts reveal to MailOnline Travel their top places to eat, unwind and watch the sun set
  • They include yoga spots, quiet beaches, foodie hangouts, bargain shops and magical cocktail bars

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Ibiza is known for its all-night parties and world-class DJ's, but thumping electronic music and eight-euro bottles of water are by no means all the White Isle has to offer. 

Ask anyone who has spent time on the island (away from the punter-heavy San Antonio) and they will rave about beautiful sunsets, mouth-watering seafood and more spiritual gurus than even Edina Monsoon from Absolutely Fabulous would know what to do with. 

The Balearic island really does have something for everyone, from toddlers to 90-year-olds, it's just a case of knowing where to look, so MailOnline Travel has compiled the ultimate guide to the real hidden Ibiza.

MailOnline Travel has published the ultimate guide for discovering the real hidden Ibiza, thanks to a whole host of experts 

MailOnline Travel has published the ultimate guide for discovering the real hidden Ibiza, thanks to a whole host of experts 

From local restaurants to empowerment camps, this list features a number of go-to places according to local islanders, travel bloggers, DJs and yoga gurus. 

Read on to find out more about the hidden side of one of the best-known islands on Earth.  

Food 

Holidays are about gorging on delicious meals and Ibiza has more than enough to surprise even the most discerning foodie. 

Whether it's a laid back local restaurant or a fancy Michelin-starred eatery, Ibiza has it all. 

El Restaurante de Cala Martina is a favourite restaurant among locals, where customers dine on some of the island's best paella with their feet in the sand
El Restaurante de Cala Martina is a favourite restaurant among locals, where customers dine on some of the island's best paella with their feet in the sand

El Restaurante de Cala Martina is a favourite restaurant among locals, where customers dine on some of the island's best paella with their feet in the sand 

Clea Gray Amat, a local islander who runs a real estate agency on the island called Villa Contact Ibiza said: 'My favourite places tend to be a little more low key especially as the summer months get very busy. 

'My favourite beach restaurant to have a paella is a locals' favourite - El Restaurante de Cala Martina near Es Canar. 

'You can enjoy the best paella (I’d recommend the ‘paella negra’ back squid ink paella), with your feet in the sand, while soaking up sea views. 

'The place is always buzzing with a mix of Ibiza locals and savvy visitors of all ages. 

'Another top pick is Can Costa in Santa Gertrudis, which serves up the best cured ham and cheese platters, along with toasted bread rubbed with lovely juicey Ibicencan tomatoes… simple but tasty and local.'

The Giri Café in San Juan is a beautiful spot for a romantic meal, or even a smart dinner with friends and family 

The Giri Café in San Juan is a beautiful spot for a romantic meal, or even a smart dinner with friends and family 

She continued: 'Or, if I feel like somewhere a little more fancy, the Giri Café in San Juan, La Bodega in Ibiza town or Ses Escoles on the San Juan road, are also great options.' 

For those wanting to keep their beach body in check though, there are also plenty of healthy options to choose from on the island. 

The yogis, hippies and health fanatics have contributed to a boom in juice bars, raw food and similar outlets there.  

Kate Whale, Founder of The Body Camp - Ibiza’s first all-season luxury holistic fitness retreat, said: 'For healthy food in Ibiza you just can't beat Passion Cafe - the choice they offer is amazing, from juices to protein snacks and salads.'

The Passion Cafe is a favourite among the health nuts on Ibiza, serving up plenty of tasty but healthy treats
The Passion Cafe is a favourite among the health nuts on Ibiza, serving up plenty of tasty but healthy treats

The Passion Cafe is a favourite among the health nuts on Ibiza, serving up plenty of tasty but healthy treats 

She added: 'They have three locations - Playa D’en Bossa, Calle Joan Tur Tur and Santa Eularia. 

'For finer dining, Japanese restaurant Cicale on the San Juan road near Nagai has just had a revival and lots of the fitness crowd have been raving about it.

'They do amazing creamy burrata, tasty crispy baby squid, they’re known for extremely succulent beef and super fresh seafood.' 

Nature 

The first things that springs to mind when thinking of Ibiza are busy bars and clubs, but the island has some of the most beautiful scenery in Spain. 

From  underground caves to beautiful coastal walks, the hotspot has enough variety for even the most hardcore outdoor enthusiasts.

This view of the Valley of Santa Ines proves there is far more to the island than just the coastline 

This view of the Valley of Santa Ines proves there is far more to the island than just the coastline 

Toni Jones, writer and founder of the travel and lifestyle blog Detox|Retox said: 'I love to take a guided walking tour when in Ibiza.  

'From short and sweet beach walks to wine treks taking in the best vineyards, Ibiza on foot is a great way to chill and learn something new while you tan.

'Alternatively, horse riding in the hills with Active Ibiza is brilliant for discovering a new side to the island on peaceful treks through its lush countryside.' 

Those feeling a bit more adventurous should check out some of the caves dotted around the coastline. 

Diana Riera Torres, a spokesperson for the Ibiza Tourism board, said: 'There are few caves in the island but the most beautiful is “Coves of Can Marçà” in the port of Sant Miquel.'

This stalactite cave in Cova de Can Marca near Port de San Miquel is a must-see for nature lovers 

This stalactite cave in Cova de Can Marca near Port de San Miquel is a must-see for nature lovers 

She continued: 'Situated in the north of the island, the cave has incredible stalactites, stalagmites and illuminated water flows.' 

For an activity that is guaranteed to get you away from the crowds though, try your hand at hot air ballooning. 

International DJ David Picconi, who owns the rural Ibiza restaurant and beach club Amante, said: 'Ibiza en Globo is surely the only way to experience the island sunset.

'The hot air balloon launches from San Rafael and glides over the the west coast for an incomparable view of the sunset.' 

Beaches  

Okay, so beaches could also come under nature but to be honest, the sandy stretches in Ibiza are so spectacular that they deserve an entire section of their own. 

Cala San Vicente beach in the very northern tip of Ibiza has beautiful turquoise waters 

Cala San Vicente beach in the very northern tip of Ibiza has beautiful turquoise waters 

There are plenty of famous beaches like Playa d'en Bossa, but those in the know like to skip the party-loving crowds. 

The Body Camp's Kate Whale said: 'Cala D’en Serra beach is a hidden gem in the north out of Portinax along with Cala San Vicente in the very northern tip. 

'Vicente has the most divine waves and refreshing beautiful turquoise waters - but to get the full effect go out of season as it gets rammed.' 

For anyone keen to avoid the crowds in the summer, Cala Xaraca is a quiet rocky cove that is great for snorkelling 

For anyone keen to avoid the crowds in the summer, Cala Xaraca is a quiet rocky cove that is great for snorkelling 

For anyone keen to avoid the droves of other holidaymakers, there are even places in the height of summer that have some breathing room. 

Villa Contact Ibiza's Clea Gray Amat said: 'In summer I opt for the peaceful and quiet rocky coves of Pou des Leo or Cala Xarraca to have a dip. 

'The snorkelling is great and there’s hardly anyone there. 

'I've recently got into renting paddle boards at the beach, which are a great way to explore the coastline by sea and it’s great fun.'  

People drumming at sunset at Benirras Beach towards the island's famous magnetic rocks on a Sunday evening as the sun goes down
People drumming at sunset at Benirras Beach towards the island's famous magnetic rocks on a Sunday evening as the sun goes down

People drumming at sunset at Benirras Beach towards the island's famous magnetic rocks on a Sunday evening as the sun goes down

And finally, for a beach with a bit of night life that doesn't involve a pair of decks, head to Benirras beach

Toni Jones said of the sandy stretch: 'On a Sunday evening, watch one of the world's most beautiful sunsets to a backdrop of hot hippies drumming towards the island's famous magnetic rocks.' 

Views 

For an outstanding sunset, James Davis, founder of the island's luxury and exclusive fitness retreat 38 Degrees North, suggests heading the hamlet of San Fransesc. 

He said: 'Give the crowds a miss at San An’s sunset strip and head to the hamlet of Sant Francesc on the road to Salinas beach.

'Park at the ancient church and watch the sun dip over the salt flats and take a drink at the bar over the road - it's crowd-free and you may even see flamingos.' 

Punta Galera, with its outcrop of jagged rocks  just north of San Antonio bay, is a great place to watch the sunset 

Punta Galera, with its outcrop of jagged rocks just north of San Antonio bay, is a great place to watch the sunset 

Alternatively, head to Punta Galera, which Amante's David Picconi describes as: 'An incredible outcrop of jagged rocks that slide gently into the crystal clear seas just north of San Antonio bay.'

Watch one of the world's most beautiful sunsets to a backdrop of hot hippies drumming towards the island's magnetic rocks.

For a beautiful view that can stretch as far as the mainland though, Holiday Gems’ Ibiza expert Neil Latham suggests heading to Sa Talaia, near San Jose.

He said: '475 metres above sea level is Sa Talaia, which can be found near the small village of San Jose -  it is Ibiza’s highest point and a sight to behold, with breathtaking views of the entire island.

'On a clear day, and there are many, it’s even possible to see mainland Spain. To experience Sa Talaia in all its majesty, we recommend making the drive before sunrise.

'If you only get chance to visit one of Ibiza’s many viewpoints, make it Sa Talaia.' 

Culture 

There are plenty of recreational things to do aside from clubbing and drinking in bars in Ibiza. 

If you're feeling tired after a night on the town, why not spend the next evening catching a movie instead. 

Amante is an outdoor movie 'theatre' by night, complete with beanbags, blankets and popcorn under the stars 

Amante is an outdoor movie 'theatre' by night, complete with beanbags, blankets and popcorn under the stars 

Detox|Retox's Toni Jones said: 'An outdoor movie night at Amante is something to remember. 

'The place is an elegant beach bar by day and an outdoor movie 'theatre' by night, complete with beanbags, blankets and popcorn under the stars.

Alternatively, James Davis from 38 Degrees North suggests catching a flick at Cinema Paradiso

He said: 'They show classic movies on a giant screen under the stars up on the walls of Ibiza’s medieval Dalt Villa. 

'There is free popcorn and a beer or soft drink while you lounge on a giant bean bag and the bar stays open throughout the films.'

Santa Gertrudis is a lovely little village full of small restaurants and local culture that is worth a trip at night time 

Santa Gertrudis is a lovely little village full of small restaurants and local culture that is worth a trip at night time 

Meanwhile,  Nick Reid who co-owns Hotel Es Vive, suggests heading to Santa Gertrudis village at night for some local culture. 

He said: 'This is a lovely little village full of small nice restaurants, but the most famous bar in Santa Gertrudis is known not just for his special sandwiches, but also his art - the bar is full of paintings and sculptures.' 

History  

Ibiza is oozing with history - as early as the 8th century BC, Phoenician settlers founded a port on the Balearic Islands - and there is still evidence of their presence around the island.

Diana Riera Torres from the tourist board suggests: 'There are two very important ancient settlements.'

The Phoenician settlement of Sa Caleta on the south coast, from when Phoenician settlers founded a port on the Balearic Islands as early as the 8th century BC 

The Phoenician settlement of Sa Caleta on the south coast, from when Phoenician settlers founded a port on the Balearic Islands as early as the 8th century BC 

'One is the Phoenician settlement of Sa Caleta on the south coast, which also has a really nice beach.

'There is also the Ses Païsses of Cala d’Hort Roman settlement.'

Fast forward more than two millennias though and there is equally entrancing architecture from the 1800s.   

James Keane, the regional manager for Inntravel’s Spain and Portugal trips, said: 'On the hillside above Santa Eulalia is the Ermita Creu d’en Ribes, a small stone-built chapel dating from the 19th century with great views over the coast to the neighbouring island of Formentera. 

'The chapel is famous in local legend and a procession takes place here every May when residents climb up to the chapel.' 

Ibiza Old Town, with its ancient fortified walls, is a Unesco heritage site, and has beautiful views over the sea

Ibiza Old Town, with its ancient fortified walls, is a Unesco heritage site, and has beautiful views over the sea

Or, if you like to take in your history with a side of tapas, head to the old town. 

Villa Contact Ibiza's Clea Gray said: 'Walk up and into the ancient fortified walls of D’alt villa in Ibiza and soak up the history and ancient architecture of Ibiza old town. 

'It is not to be missed.'  

Shopping  

Thanks to a strong bohemian presence, there are plenty of colourful fashions and beautiful trinkets to buy from the island's many markets.

Juliett Murrell, founder of the Voga movement (a blend of yoga and dance) who also hosts yoga retreats and empowerment camps on Ibiza, suggests heading to Sant Jordi market. 

The Sant Jordi market is great for second-hand clothes from Ibiza's glory days in the 1980s, as well as trinkets

The Sant Jordi market is great for second-hand clothes from Ibiza's glory days in the 1980s, as well as trinkets

She said: 'I always buy great hidden gems of designer finds from the original party days of Ibiza here. 

'Stylish women sell their classic 80s gear that comes from the island's glory days.'  

For a more international feel, try the Las Dalias night market though. 

Amante's David Picconi said of the market: 'Various bits and bobs from across the globe are sold here by intrepid residents of Ibiza. 

'They bring things back from their winter travels and sell over the summer to finance their next session of winter travels.'

Las Dalias night market is a great place to buy various bits and bobs from across the globe that are sold  by Ibiza residents 

Las Dalias night market is a great place to buy various bits and bobs from across the globe that are sold by Ibiza residents 

Those with an environmental conscience will love the Artisanal market in San Juan. 

Hotel Es Vive's Nick Reid said: 'Mercado Artesanal del San Juan is a lovely market with organic Ibiza-made products in San Juan Village.

'The venue, which sits up in the north of the island has live music and a hippy Ibiza atmosphere.'

And for a shopping trip that has something to keep both the men and women happy, head to Sant Joan de Labritja. 

James Keane from Inntravel said: 'Sant Joan de Labritja, in Ibiza’s north-east corner, is a sleepy village most of the time but on Sundays there is a fantastic market with handmade jewellery, local produce, craft beers and often live music.'  

Bars 

There are plenty of bars to choose from on the island, but for a drinking spot that most tourists don't know about, locals have revealed their favourites.

Villa Contact Ibiza's Clea Gray heads to the Sunset Ashram in Cala Comte for great sunsets. 

Sunset Ashram in Cala Comte is a wonderful beach bar for sunset cocktails as the location is perched on the cliff over the sea

Sunset Ashram in Cala Comte is a wonderful beach bar for sunset cocktails as the location is perched on the cliff over the sea

She said: 'It's a wonderful beach bar for sunset cocktails, as the location is perched on the cliff over the sea. 

'When the sun is going down with atmospheric music playing in the background, it is a special place to be.'

Or for something a little more extravagant try the Ibiza Polo Club.  

James Davis from 38 Degrees North said: 'Yes, there really is a place called the Ibiza Polo Club. 

'Tucked away inland is a very active polo club where you can catch a few chukkas while sipping champagne.'

The vineyards of Can Rich near San Antonio town, where visitors can try the wine and tour the factory 

The vineyards of Can Rich near San Antonio town, where visitors can try the wine and tour the factory 

For some culture, a broadening of horizons and also a drink, try a visit to a local wine cellar. 

Diana Riera Torres from the tourist board said: 'Try Can Maymó in Sant Mateu village or Can Rich in Sant Antoni town. 

'Make sure to book though as in all of them, you need a previous appointment to visit the factory and do a wine tasting.' 

Healthy living 

These days Ibiza is almost as famous as a healthy living escape as a clubbing mecca thanks to the raw foodies and yoga gurus who flock to the island.

To keep it simple, we've just recommended a couple of hotspots to try out yoga while connecting with mother nature. 

A woman meditates while overlooking Es Vedra in Ibiza - the island's clifftops also provide the perfect spot for morning yoga 

A woman meditates while overlooking Es Vedra in Ibiza - the island's clifftops also provide the perfect spot for morning yoga 

Toni Jones from Detox|Retox suggests yoga in a cave, saying: 'These are magical, pop-up classes in cave from the island's best kept secret - yoga guru and healer Ayda Koc.'

Alternatively, Villa Contact Ibiza's Clea Gray heads to only one place for her downward dog posing. 

She said: 'For my morning yoga fix, there is a great flat viewpoint at the top of a mountain near Santa Eulalia known as the "mirador". 

'The sun rises literally out of the sea and the peace and tranquillity up there are quite amazing and great for sunrise yoga.'  

Hotel accommodation 

Unsurprisingly, Ibiza's long history as a tourist destination means it has plenty of first rate accommodation for holidaymakers to choose from. 

Whether it's a five star hotel or a beautiful cliff-side villa, there is something for everyone on the island.  

For those who like a bit of pop culture history with their pancakes, there is the famous Pikes Hotel. 

Pikes, now known as Ibiza Rocks House,  is a 500 year old farmhouse that was transformed into a legendary party palace for the rich and famous in the late 1970s. 

Ibiza Rocks House, formerly known as Pikes hotel, has hosted everyone from Grace Jones and Freddie Mercury, to Kylie Minogue and Wham! 

Ibiza Rocks House, formerly known as Pikes hotel, has hosted everyone from Grace Jones and Freddie Mercury, to Kylie Minogue and Wham! 

It has hosted everyone from Grace Jones and Freddie Mercury, to Kylie Minogue and Wham! who used the venue as the backdrop for the music video in their hit Club Tropicana. 

The 25-room boutique hotel now features a beautiful terrace restaurant, lively poolside bar and various decadent receptions rooms to lounge or party in. 

Those looking for something a bit quieter should book one of the ten rooms at the Rural Hotel Can Pujolet - voted number one of all hotels in Ibiza on Trip Advisor.

Rural Hotel Can Pujolet is a traditional 18th century Ibicencan house that provides an oasis of calm 

Rural Hotel Can Pujolet is a traditional 18th century Ibicencan house that provides an oasis of calm 

The traditional 18th century Ibicencan house is situated in the countryside between Santa Ines and San Mateo, in a natural area of special interest that has spectacular clifftop views over the sea. 

The vegetables and fruit grown on the finca are served in the hotel's restaurant in home-style meals. 

Alternatively, for an oasis of calm on a busy spot in between Ibiza Town and Playa d’en Bossa, head to Hotel Es Vie - a boutique hotel in an Art Deco-style blue and white building. 

Self-catering accommodation  

Ibiza is one of the most popular destinations for property buyers in the Mediterranean and there are a large number of beautiful villas and apartments available to rent for vacations. 

Those with delusions of grandeur will leap at the chance to rent a multi-million pound villa to the north of the island. 

Villa Bali on Airbnb has enough bedrooms to sleep 16 people, plus outdoor showers, lounge areas, a large pool, Balinese temples and fish ponds

Villa Bali on Airbnb has enough bedrooms to sleep 16 people, plus outdoor showers, lounge areas, a large pool, Balinese temples and fish ponds

Villa Bali in Sant Miquel de Balansat on Airbnb brings Asian style to a Mediterranean setting amid rolling hills, with enough bedrooms to sleep 16 people.

The gardens have outdoor showers, lounge areas, a large pool, Balinese temples and fish ponds.  

Alternatively, the seafront Villa Xemena in Sant Joan de Labritja has such amazing views that you risk never leaving the property during your stay. 

A large modern terrace complete with infinity pool, sun-deck, chill-out area and shaded outdoor dining table provides unbeatable views out to the sea. 

Villa Xemena in Sant Joan de Labritja has a large modern terrace complete with infinity pool, sun-deck and chill-out area

Villa Xemena in Sant Joan de Labritja has a large modern terrace complete with infinity pool, sun-deck and chill-out area

Many of the property's seven en-suite bedrooms also have their own private terrace looking out to the sea or surrounding hills.

Or, for an authentic villa, opt for this beautiful five-bedroom home in the hills near Sant Joan de Labritja. 

The location in the mountains is beautiful and calm, while the property is very traditional. 

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