From the pervasive sweet scent of sandalwood incense in the air to the bewigged, 70s-style performers and tie-dye t-shirts, nowhere better sums up Ibiza's flower power past than Hippy Market Punta Arabí.
Dating all the way back to 1973, it is the oldest handicrafts market on the island and the inspiration for all those that have followed.
A sprawling, maze-like affair, Hippy Market Punta Arabí extends amid winding pathways and white-washed buildings over the grounds of Fergus Style Punta Arabí, in the resort of Es Caná (Es Canar in Catalan). Boasting over 500 stalls, it can see over 10,000 visitors in a day.
Full of ever-changing life and colour, this outdoor bazaar is a favourite with the Ibiza Spotlight team, who love to visit every season in search of beautiful jewellery pieces, snazzy wardrobe updates, and the opportunity to feel like a holidaymaker once again. Who knows, you might even get a moment of transcendence with the Indian holy man on your visit.
Don't forget to practice your ommmmm!
Opening times
The regular daytime Hippy Market Punta Arabí can be visited every Wednesday from May to October from 10:00 to 19:00.
Tip: As the mornings are extremely busy, if possible, delay your visit until later in the day.
A shoppers paradise
What makes the market such a special experience is the unique mix of older artisans, some of whom have been here since the start, and the younger generation of cutting-edge designers, who bring a fresh approach to the design and style of the products they sell.
To really experience this, stroll along the Calle de los Artesanos, or artisans' street - the first path on the right after you enter - and look out for the local craftspeople, who not only sell their designs but make them right before your eyes. It's a joy to look on as they produce their exclusive creations, and they are perfectly content to chat with you and answer any questions.
Amongst the handicrafts, you can find bags, candles, leather work, silverware, home décor, all kinds of clothes and complements, and much, much more. If the stallholder possesses an “original de Ibiza” badge, you can be assured they belong to the local association of craftspeople on Ibiza, a guarantee of authentic artisanship.
One of the great things about this market is that it caters to everyone. You can pick up a little souvenir for as little as €5 or spend some serious cash on original handmade creations, designer fashion, or artwork. It's also very well shaded, making it much easier to take your time in the hot summer months.
Whether you wish to embrace your hippy side with floaty dresses and pants, or go with the latest fashion trends, you're well covered. We all have our own individual style, and the wonderful thing about the choice at this market is that you'll always find something to help you celebrate this.
For the magpies out there, you'll find plenty of shiny objects to catch your fancy. Much of the jewellery is handmade or designed - even made from recycled products - so it's a great opportunity to find a one-off piece you can show off to friends back home.
Naturally, being such a family-oriented market, it has its own kids' area, the “Hippie Kids” hut, located at the top of the market beside the stone tower. It hosts many activities and workshops to keep the little ones entertained. Parents can also join in and create something special to mark the occasion.
Be prepared, all this creativity, colour and lively chatter is a real feast for the senses, and you'll find yourself darting from stall to stall, eager not to miss anything. Most of the prices are set, but it's worth asking for a deal if you're brave enough and have a couple of items lined up.
Food and music
Talking of feasting, walking the winding paths and scouring the market for souvenirs can be hungry work. You'll be pleased to hear there are many great places to satisfy those food cravings, whether you want to grab a quick bite to eat or enjoy a sit-down meal.
If all that shopping has really got your tummy rumbling, then tuck into a full meal at The Grill, a large, well-ventilated, covered area devoted to Spanish cuisine such as paella.
Dotted along the trail, you'll also find juices, homemade cakes and pastries, pizza, and other Italian specialities. Most importantly, there's great coffee to refuel for the next leg of your spree.
The shaded food truck zone has travelled from every corner of the world, offering French crepes, Italian-style pizza, American-style hot dogs, and Asian bao buns, to name a few. Grab an ice-cold beer alongside to really refresh.
Listen up and you'll hear the distinctive sounds of the local musicians known as Benidrums – a popular fixture for decades now. With its huge, shaded interior, it's great for the entire family to get a bite to eat while they listen to the performances of live world music.
As you browse the market, you may encounter other jam sessions in progress, many of them impromptu. From its earliest days up until today, live music has always been synonymous with the hippy market. It's wonderful to see this tradition still captivate the crowds.
Hippy Market Punta Arabí is a true bonanza for souvenir seekers and one of the quintessential Ibiza experiences: make sure it's high on your list of must-do activities when you visit the White Island.
It's worth knowing that every Wednesday from 18:00, EsBirra Ibiza - located a two-minute walk from the market's entrance - offers more food and drink as well as live music on its shady outside terrace. It's a great spot to relax and put your feet up after a hard day's bargain hunting.
How to get there
Located on the fringes of the resort of Es Caná, it's easy to travel here by car (parking can be found in the paid car park just opposite the market, or on nearby streets). Getting here by bus is also an option, or why not arrive in style on the ferry boat from Santa Eulalia? Our holiday tips for getting around on Ibiza will also be a helpful guide.
Find more information about all markets on Ibiza or browse our events calendar.
