Ibiza is considered one of the top European LGBTQIA hotspots, with many contending that it's the best of all. Why? Ibiza is a clubbers and hedonists paradise, and if that doesn't attract gay and those of all other sexual orientations, we don't know what does.
There's so much more to it than that, though. Ibiza had one of the first organised, albeit clandestine, gay scenes in Spain in the 60s. In short, the island has a long history with gay culture, as you will see when you walk around the gay and LGBTQIA area in Ibiza Town.
As well as a celebrated and dedicated gay scene, you'll find that many places are mixed; here, sexual orientation is pretty much a non-issue. There are some LGBTQIA / mixed nights in the super clubs, though you will find that all club nights are LGBTQIA open and friendly. With so many world-beating and hugely influential club nights, you owe it to yourself to make it part of your experience.
Gay bars and clubs are mainly located in Ibiza Town, the fortified old town Dalt Vila and the suburb of Figueretas. These are the gay hubs of the island, especially in and around the street of Calle de la Virgen in the port area, where you'll see much colour and animation.
It's not just the gay community either: everything from fetishists and displays of the wildest clothing, or very little attire, is what often goes on this buzzing street. This is especially true once night falls and the streets come alive with a new energy, where extravagantly dressed drag queens bring sparkle and glamour to this melting pot of counterculture. It's a blast!
2015 saw the launch of the island's Pride event, Ibiza Pride. Nowadays, it is being celebrated with large open-air parties with sparkling shows, performances, DJs, and drag artists on large stages in San Antonio and the port of Ibiza Town. The pride parade for LGBTQIA rights attracts a huge audience and sees the streets filled with people excitedly participating in proceedings in a riot of colour. Everyone is welcome to join in the fun.
What else would the LGBTQIA traveller wish to know? Well, Ibiza has something for everyone from VIP luxury, top hotels, world-class restaurants and more bars than you can shake a stick at. The beaches here are spectacular in their beauty, so beyond the excellent Es Cavallet, with its gay area and the semi-official gay part of Figueretas beach, you will want to explore more of the fine golden sands of the island.
Take a look at our LGBTQIA guide, which will guide you through the best of what Ibiza has to offer in our big, bright LGBTQIA world.
