We all know that one of Ibiza's primary attraction is its vibrant nightlife and world-class club nights. Yet beyond the Balearic beats and heart-racing raves, lies a picturesque and undiscovered island with so much to offer; especially to those older teens who are too young to party, but long for independence and more than a family day out.
1) Visit Playa Las Salinas.
Only a 10 to 20 minute drive (by car or bus) from Ibiza Town and Playa d'en Bossa, Las Salinas has something for everyone to enjoy. The golden sandy beach stretches over a mile long, bordering clear, blue sparkling water. Pedalos, sail boats, stand-up-paddleboards (SUPs), kayaks and small catamarans mean that there's no chance of boredom at Las Salinas. Alternatively, if you're not feeling active, then bring a towel or mat to top-up your tan so that you return home with a beaming smile and bronzed back.
If you're feeling peckish then the southern end of Las Salinas offers cheaper restaurants for those looking to save their cents. However, for a cheap and wholesome lunch, pack yourself a hefty sandwich, bursting with delicious Spanish cheese (manchego is highly recommended), ham and salad. Bring a large, cool bottle of water and fresh fruit, which Ibiza has in abundance.
Las Salinas is also accessible by bus, on lines 11 and 118, so check out the Ibiza Bus Company website for a timetable- . There is also disabled access to the buses and beach. Las Salinas is a great place to relax, but do note that it's quite loud due to the beach-front bars playing house and electronic beats.
Top tip: if you want to relax, stay at the beginning of the beach; if you're in the mood to party, wander up to Sa Trinxa at the end and have fun watching the different parades from the party promoters.
2) Take the Aquabus to Formentera.
Explore Ibiza's beautiful sister island, Formentera, with the Ibiza Aquabus, departing daily from Ibiza Town and Playa d'en Bossa to take you to blissful white, sandy and largely untouched beaches.
Recently crowned number six in the Best Beaches in the World by TripAdvisor, Ses Illetes will leave you with unforgettable memories, with its truly breath-taking scenery.
The price is very reasonable, coming in at just over €19 for a same-day return ticket (when you book through the Ibiza Spotlight website and there's no additional cost for suitcases or pets onboard and bikes are available to hire.
Formentera is rightly famous for its breath-taking beaches, such as Ses Illetes. You can take a bus to the border of the beach (Es Moli de Sal), and then catch an electro-bus (there are 2 operating) to Levante y Illetas - the latter is free.
3) Head to the beach or sunset strip to enjoy a beautiful sunset.
A visit to San Antonio's renowned ‘sunset strip' is a must for everyone whilst on holiday, Funky sunset tunes, cold drinks and crowds of young people waiting to start their nightly adventures – the atmosphere is incredible with such an energy. And even though you might not be going off to party, you will love the pre-party vibe. Oh and did we mention the sunsets already? They are simply spectacular.
Café Mambo is the perfect place to enjoy the music and great views with what's considered to be the best seat in the house to watch the sun go down. World class DJs often mix and play pre-party sets at Mambo, with the likes of Fatboy Slim and Martin Solveig appearing over the last few years. Alternatively, if you desire a more peaceful experience, then almost any beach along the Western edge of the island will serve you well for your sunset experience.
4) Ibiza's Hippy Markets
Every day on the island, there's at least one culturally vibrant market for you to attend, whether you want a small souvenir or to shop till you drop. The largest of all Ibiza markets is Punta Arabí, situated in the northeast of Ibiza, in Es Caná, approximately 800 metres away from the town centre and 3.5km away from the nearest large town; Santa Eularia. It's open every Wednesday from April to October; 10:00h until 19:00h.
The hundreds of stalls full of hand-crafted gifts and hidden treasures give Punta Arabí a unique feel. First held nearly 50 years ago, it is an island heritage and a wonderful glimpse into the island's hippy history. Homemade paella, a varying array of street food cuisine and live music is also available. For more information, be sure to check out the Punta Arabí market website .
There are many more markets on the island to explore, including evening markets in the port area of Ibiza Old Town and night markets in Las Dalias, both of which avoid the mouth-watering prices of the more touristy parts of the island; San Antonio and Playa d'en Bossa. For the full, in-depth list, be sure to check out our website.
5) Ocean Mania and other inflatable rides.
Last, but certainly by no means least, is the inflatable water park, Ocean Mania, and the other inflatable rides situated in the bay of San Antonio. The floating fun park, open from the end of April to early October (depending on weather conditions) from 11:00h to 19:00 h, is perfect for those under 18s searching for an adrenaline rush.
This Mediterranean madness is available for just €15 (for 45 minutes) or €30 for a day pass.
Honourable mentions must also go to Take Off and Ibiza Watersports who offer a variety of watersports and excursions from San Antonio harbour and the waterslide park Aguamar in Playa d'en Bossa.
Ibiza offers many fantastic opportunities, so make sure you experience as much as you can of this Balearic paradise. However, if you're under 18 then please be careful and do not accept invites to clubs or parties because the security is strict and you'll waste your hard-earned euros.
