After a lovely trip catching up with family and friends, I recently flew back to the island with one of my best friends who was visiting for the week. We were planning out our days and comparing our plans with the Mancunian lad who was sitting next to us on our flight. He said he had been to the island a few times and was buzzing to be back, so naturally, I thought to ask about his favourite beach. His response shocked me to my core... he had never stepped foot on a beach here! I think he was also equally shocked to find out that neither of us drink alcohol, and that we wouldn´t be going out as soon as we landed. Which got me thinking, how many other tourists come to our gorgeous island just to chase the discotecas—without ever sinking their toes into the sand?
So, here´s a bit of inspo for those of you that are ready to step outside of the confines of the club...
For context, my lovely friend Danielle and I met at university and over the years we have enjoyed our fair share of big nights out together. There´s a time and a place for everything though and for now, we have got a LOT of time for life without hangovers.
Danielle is an incredible drum and bass DJ and recently celebrated 1,000 days of sobriety (congratulations!) and often shares her insights into life as a sober DJ over on her instagram.
Anyway, let´s get into it.
BREAKFAST. EL DESAYUNO.
There is only one way to start your day right - and that´s with a breakfast from Ritas Cantina. The food, the prices, the location - it ticks all the boxes, and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Be sure to try one of their fresh juices to kickstart your day. Situated just off the port in San Antonio, you can also enjoy a refreshing walk along the coast pre or post breakfast to get your morning steps in.
YOGA.
If waking up in paradise without a hangover isn´t enough of a reason to have a good day, then why not greet the day at one of the island´s many yoga classes? From studios to day retreats and private classes in secluded spots, there are SO many to choose from. One that will leave you feeling nourished from the inside out is on the terraza at nūn in Cala Llonga, guided by the wonderful Suzanne. A grounding practice, a chance to connect to yourself and to la naturaleza, all topped off with a delightful breakfast bowl and a fresh juice. I highly recommend spending the rest of the day beach hopping, soaking up the sun and swimming in the crystalline waters that surround the island.
In some areas, you can even get around by water taxi - an idyllic way to travel between the beaches. If you feel like going further on the water, you could always visit Ibiza´s little sister - Formentera. No words can describe the beauty of this place - you must go and experience it for yourself!
I recently experienced quite possibly the most tranquil Sunday morning I have ever had - a yoga and soundbath session at Punta Galera, thanks to the lovely Francesca and Bri. We flowed on and off the mat to the sounds of the sea, before a dreamy meditation accompanied by Bri´s soundhealing. Another fresh juice and a dip in the sea for some snorkelling = core memory unlocked. Beyond grateful for days like this and the freedom I have: to choose between a debilitating hangover or meditating with the sounds of the sea - which do you choose?
NOT ANOTHER FRESH JUICE.
Said... no one, ever. As you can see - fresh juices are a key feature here - the Balearics are blessed with incredible produce year-round, but right now the seasonal stars of the show, such as watermelons and peaches, just taste too good to not blend them into some juicy goodness. As I said earlier, there´s a time and a place for everything though - so when you´re done juicing, why not indulge in a refreshing mocktail from Croissant Show, before adventuring up into Dalt Vila to explore the plethora of cute boutiques and restaurants.
While more and more places are expanding their 0,0 menus, there are two places that stand out for their alcohol-free offerings (as well as their tantalizing tapas and mezze dishes) - Tapas and sister venue, Aragma. Their beautifully curated menus will have your taste buds rejoicing with every mouthful.
WHEN THE SUN GOES DOWN...
If you´ve been lucky enough to watch the sun setting in Ibiza, you´ll know that the sunset is a spectacle in itself. Sure, you could spend your money on an overpriced cocktail in a crowded bar, but you could pack up some food and drinks, grab your snorkel, your tarot cards and pick a spot along the west coast for the most luxurious picnic experience. Tarot cards not essential, but, ¿Por qué no? (Why not?)
Sunset is a magical time to be getting your snorkel on - the sea bed comes alive with activity as the heat and light of the sun fade, keep an eye out for the octopuses!
Another spectacle not to be missed is Ibiza´s very own Stonehenge, also know as Time & Space - while this is stunning to visit at any time of day, the sunsets here feel extra special. No car? No problem! You can actually walk to Time & Space from Cala Tarida, which is reachable by bus, just drop me a message and I´ll be happy to point you in the right direction.
Once the sun has set, if you´re feeling energised by your alcohol-free choices, why not have a disco nap and head out to one of the clubs? Yes, you can still go raving and lose yourself in the energy of the dance floor - just do your research on the venue, the transport you´ll need and who´s playing so you know what you´re signing yourself up for!
Or maybe don´t do your research - just pick a venue and go with the flow, you never know what you might find, you could discover your new favourite DJ or favourite song - and lo and behold, you´ll be able to remember it the next day.
Ibiza proves you don´t need a drink to let loose. Be guided by the essence of the island. The music, the energy, the freedom - it´s all still there, just without the hangover.
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Love love love this ✨ beautiful words and I am so grateful for you showing me around the gorgeous island xx