Ibiza: dreamy beaches or over-touristed?

Posted by Lucy (Arlington, TX, USA) on 01/29/23 06:56 PM

I thought Ibiza was one of my dream destinations (blame the movies) but now I'm not so sure. I have a chance to go for three days this summer, but it looks like this island may actually be overwhelmed by rowdy and inebriated partiers and all-night discos. I can't seem to find a village, beach or hotel that looks appealing. We are interested in history, art, jazz music, and local food and wine.

Looking for recommendations for hotels and activities on Ibiza OR towns along the coast near Barcelona.

Thanks!

Posted by Scudder

Hudson Valley

01/29/23 07:42 PM

2267 posts

Your concern about Ibiza is pretty valid. I’m sure you could have any experience there, but cutting through the party scene could be a challenge.

Maybe look at Minorca, and its bounty of dreamy cove beaches?

Posted by Lucy OP

Arlington, TX, USA

02/04/23 04:45 PM

43 posts

Minorca sounds interesting! Any suggestions for specific areas on the island?

Any other recommendations about coastal towns around Barcelona for a 2-3 day visit?

Posted by Scudder

Hudson Valley

02/04/23 05:05 PM

2267 posts

Where on Menorca would come down to the choice of staying in a town or at a resort hotel property. The two main towns are at opposite ends of the island and are each under 30k in population. It's been 20+ years since I've been, but I recall that Mahon as having a bit more of a swank resort town vibe, and Ciutadella a little more working town, but both are lovely. Personally, I'd choose the options in town versus the isolation of a more remote resort hotel.

There are lots of beach towns on the Catalan coast, a few to the south and more north of Barcelona. I don't know those options so well apart from Sitges (which apparently straight folks also go to...?)

Posted by JC

Portsmouth

02/05/23 11:00 AM

5279 posts

We are interested in history, art, jazz music, and local food and wine.

It sounds like Ibiza is not the island for you. Its reputation as a party island is well deserved and I absolutely loved my summers there in my late teens/early twenties but now I'm older it no longer holds the same appeal.

For just three days I would consider Mallorca. Basing yourself in Palma you will have plenty of art, history and food and wine to keep you occupied (I have no idea about any jazz scene) as well as some excellent day trip options.