Together with its reputation for hard partying, Ibiza has long been an open-minded, anything-goes destination popular with the gay community, and so it comes as no surprise that this Balearic island has more than its share of bars catering to the LGBTQ crowd. Here’s a rundown of the best.
This popular bar is situated in the throbbing heart of Ibiza Town’s main gay strip, Calle de la Virgen. It’s one of the island’s best-known gay venues, offering bargain cocktails and a relaxed and friendly place to start your night. There’s also a large outdoor terrace for soaking up the buzzy street vibe, plus a men-only darkroom. Don’t leave without trying one of their legendary mojitos.
Run by a friendly gay couple (Dragan and Jens) this welcoming bar is also located on Ibiza Town’s narrow and popular gay street of Calle de la Virgen. The clientele is usually a mix of gay, straight and swinger, most of whom tend to congregate on the terrace, soaking up the street vibe. It’s a relaxed but fun-filled spot that attracts plenty of fabulous outfits as much as flashing of flesh.
Set right next door to the Dado Bar, Sunrise certainly features more glammed-up interiors, with plenty of neon lighting, fancy lamp shades and colourful artworks. Swings as bar stools add to the fun, while the owner, Peter, always provides a warm welcome. While open to all, it’s a particularly popular haunt for lesbian revellers and – unlike many – stays open over the winter season.
An elegant little cocktail bar in the heart of Ibiza Town, Bar Monalisa has a reputation for pulling in both local and international glitterati. It’s a great option for both pre-disco drinks and an intimate party destination in its own right. It’s a contender for the best mojitos on the island, as well as hosting some of Ibiza’s more exclusive events.
Located on the perennially popular meeting spot for the LGBTQ crowd, Playa d’es Cavallet, this beach bar is the daytime place to hang out. Open for breakfast until sundown, the colourful and chilled-out bar has a chiringuito beach-house vibe and one of the best sea views on the island. A menu of Mediterranean cuisine can be enjoyed on tables set up on the beach, accompanied by the Balearic beats of regular DJ sessions.
A hetero-friendly bar and local landmark in Ibiza’s Figueretas neighbourhood, this super-friendly hangout is the top pick for many LGBTQ visitors to the area. Managers Vicky and Martin drum up plenty of laughs and good vibes, while drink prices are reasonable and music ranges from hip-hop and house to chill-out.
Open for over 25 years, Bar JJ holds the title of the first gay bar on the island. It features a terrace overlooking the harbour, friendly French-leaning clientele and some colourful, elegantly presented cocktails. There’s a dark room for hook-ups, plus the bar opens at weekends over the winter.