Where to Book Your Stay in Ibiza for a Local Experience

To really know the island you have to immerse yourself in the capital, Ibiza Town. However, let’s be honest – you want to get plenty of sunning-by-the-pool action, too. At Los Molinos you have the best of both worlds. All the buzzy tapas bars, museums and historical landmarks are within strolling distance, including the walled acropolis of Dalt Vila. And when you return, all the pleasures of an upscale resort hotel await.

Aguas de Ibiza captures the spirit of the island with an unrivalled elegance. The three elements of air, water and light are reflected throughout dreamily designed spaces, with delicate touches such as tiles that recreate the iridescence of seashells. Ecoluxury is also a big part of the hotel’s ethos, and it has been recognised as the most environmentally friendly boutique hotel on the island.

While Simbad looks every inch the mid-range holiday hotel from the outside, this waterfront property is popular with locals, too. It’s largely thanks to the authentic Mediterranean menu served in the hotel restaurant, with an emphasis on native produce and flavours. The glorious views over Talamanca certainly add to the appeal, which you’ll also find in the bright, tastefully modernised rooms and suites. A bayside pool with straw parasols and sun loungers add that touch of Balearic chic.

Located on the northern edge of Ibiza Town centre, Royal Plaza is in one of the more residential neighbourhoods in the capital, complete with authentic bars and local buzz. The hotel also channels the essence of the island through excellent dining, with a menu that digs deep into the gastronomic heritage of Ibiza. A sixth-floor sun terrace also means you can dine while gazing out towards the dramatic hilltop fortress of Dalt Vila, or from the comfort of your poolside lounger.

If you’re looking for somewhere that captures the more spiritual side of Ibiza, then Mikasa is for you. Each of the 16 rooms is named after a lunar phase or the four seasons, and is simply styled with touches of rustic-chic and natural woods. A rooftop terrace offers glorious views over Ibiza harbour and a real sense of place. It’s also a perfect base to explore the island from the water, set opposite the port and Botafoch marina.

Whitewashed bungalows lining footpaths that meander through lush Mediterranean gardens on a peaceful hilltop setting – Can Vistabella captures the rustic side of the blissed-out Balearic spirit with aplomb. Poolside daybeds bring beach club glamour to the resort, especially when reclining with an ice-cold mojito. But what really sets this boutique resort apart, and connects it to the island, is the food. The farm-to-table philosophy means it’s always local and seasonal, with some of the organic veg grown just yards away.

Sometimes living like a local means feeling like you’re staying in your own Ibizan home. Choosing the right accommodation can achieve just that, but you are on holiday, after all, so you want something a little fancier. Sud Ibiza Suites offers luxury-level studio-apartment-style lodgings in which you can really settle. It sits on the Figueretas waterfront, so you’re an easy stroll away from Ibiza Town centre and a long stretch of golden sand, where even the locals hang out – it’s one of the top places to stay in Ibiza for a local experience.

A stay at Aparthotel Urban Spaces means tapping directly into the rich artistic vein of the island. More than 30 artists contributed to the spectacular and unique look of the hotel. Super-helpful, friendly staff are always on hand for insider tips on what’s going on around the island – they can also plug you straight into the clubbing scene, arranging tickets for the best nights. The location puts you a short hop from the bustle of Ibiza Town centre.

For a buzzy, fun and friendly place to stay that’s very much part of the San Antonio surrounds, look no further than Hotel Puchet. Its colourful Trigo Trago street-front hamburger bar pulls in locals and tourists alike, while the huge pool is a microcosm of glammed up Ibiza – complete with plenty of Instagram influencers who regularly frequent the hotel. Staff at the 24-hour reception are mines of info on everything happening in the area.