Whilst best known for its vibrant clubbing scene, Ibiza is also a top destination for families to retreat to in the summer. Who says you can't combine both? If you fancy taking the kids to check out some of the island's fun-filled parties, you have more choices than you think.
We have rounded up some fantastic parties, live music venues and beach clubs on Ibiza which promise to play host to some of the most cherished family memories. Here's what's on offer.
Parties and events
Although under-18-year-olds will have to wait a few years before entering Ibiza's famous super-clubs, some truly wonderful parties and events around the island welcome youngsters to join in for a dance.
El Kiddo are the party starters at Bam-Bu-Ku
Specifically, parents should check out El Kiddo, which takes place at Bam-Bu-Ku in San Antonio, every Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, from 16 May to 19 September. These are brilliant events that are jam-packed with entertainment, including live music, DJs, dancers, entertainers, face painters, magicians, acrobats, and more. So be prepared to be awed by the magic that unfolds before your eyes.
Up north, Las Dalias is a beautiful outdoor venue that's well known for its authentic hippy vibes. Hosting a Saturday market offering a treasure trove of brightly coloured handmade wares, often with live music accompaniment, it also provides a delightful afternoon out for children.
The venue also hosts night markets, which run alongside other music events, where bands and DJs perform in the garden space. These mini-festivals of culture express freedom through music and other art forms and welcome children - with responsible adults in tow - well into the evening.
Not far away, in the resort of Es Caná, Punta Arabí Hippy Market is a Wednesday staple, with a huge number of stalls plus live music throughout the venue. Best of all, there is a “Hippie Kids” hut, located at the top of the market beside the stone tower, that hosts many activities and workshops to keep the little ones entertained.
Restaurants and beach clubs
There are many lovely family-friendly restaurants and beach clubs where you can enjoy a slice of the famous White Isle coast during the day and then some great musical talent by night. Here are just a few on offer.
Sunset time at Mambo Ibiza
Scattered along the iconic Sunset Strip are an array of exciting bars and restaurants to which admission is free, which come alive in the evenings with live music. Each one boasts sublime views of the famous golden sunset, so a trip here makes for a lovely addition to a holiday schedule.
Places such as Café Del Mar and Café Mambo offer live DJ sets every night under the glow of the stunning sunset. Both are restaurants by day, but by night, they bring in a friendly crowd of music-lovers to see top names in dance music take to the decks.
You can choose to pre-book a table so you and the family can enjoy the music from afar with a nice meal and drinks, or simply stroll along to join everyone in the dancing on the pathway outside.
A little further along the coast in San Antonio Bay, Kumharas is a stunning sunset spot, with a beautiful open terrace that's loved by both holidaymakers and families of locals. Its relaxed evening vibe, with live DJ sessions, makes it the perfect place for children to have as much fun as adults.
Terrific entertainment at Tanit Ibiza's Kids Club
Set on the golden shores of Playa d'en Bossa, Tanit Beach Ibiza is a renowned restaurant with international cuisine. During the day, you can recline on the beach beds and listen to dreamy chill-out tunes, while, up until 17:00, children have their own menu and can amuse themselves in the Kids Club Zone in between courses. A few moments' walk away, Beachouse Ibiza offers laidback vibes, stunning sandy scenery and fantastic food along with its own kids craft zone. Here, kids can go on their own Ibiza adventure with yoga, face painting, crafts and games between 13:00 and 17:00 daily.
Other venues include Word of Mouth in Santa Eulalia, which often offers a musical backdrop and sunset sessions, where DJs ease the transition from day to night. For more ideas, head to our event calendar and use the 'families' filter.
If you'd like a day playing on the sand and in beautiful waters, there is a great selection of gorgeous beaches that are ideal for little ones.
Playtime
Splashing fun at the Gran Piruleto Park in Playa d'en Bossa
If you need the youngsters to blow off a little steam, then the island offers fantastic play areas, both indoor and outdoor, to keep them occupied. If you'd like to stay active and have a fun day for the whole family, then our activity guide, which is suitable for every age, should be your next go-to.
Helping hands
Perhaps you'd like to have a little time to yourselves, or enjoy a date night with your partner. In this case, Mima Childcare could be your answer. Offering a team of experienced childminders and babysitters on both Ibiza and Formentera, they can keep your little ones entertained while you enjoy some grown-up time.
No matter what age you are, Ibiza has something to keep everyone happy and entertained.
WORDS | by Jo Dargie, Stephen Hunt & Hayley Morgan
