A day in Ibiza

Ibiza, Spain

Dawn - Ibiza coastline

Cool air sits on the stone as the first light reaches the coast. I smile while the night ends and the sea turns pale. This rocky Mediterranean island is best outside the midsummer crush, when the beaches and the clubs are quieter.

Golden Hour - Ibiza beach

Orange light lies across the sand and warms my feet. Along the shoreline I follow the tide as the sky deepens. From May to early July and again from September to October the island is less crowded than in midsummer.

Golden Hour - Ibiza beach

Salt air lifts my cover-up and cools my arms in the sea breeze. I smile as it blows across me, with the Mediterranean wide behind me. In summer most people on the island dress much as they would anywhere in southern Europe.

Golden Hour - the marina

Turquoise water slaps softly against the white hull and throws up a cool spray. I step onto the deck of the yacht in the marina. Boat trips pass close to Es Vedrà, the steep rock island about two kilometres off the west coast opposite Cala d'Hort.

Golden Hour - yacht deck

Cold glass meets my hand as the sun drops toward the water. I relax on the white lounge bed with champagne. A sweet herbal liqueur called hierbas, flavoured with local herbs and aniseed, is served in small glasses after a meal.

Golden Hour - yacht bow

Spray from the waves is cold on my skin as the boat moves near the cliffs. At the bow I hold my arms out over the water. Es Vedrà has a reputation in local legend that draws visitors to the cliffs above the coast.

Night - outdoor club

Bass thumps through the floor and the lasers feel hot on my face. I dance near the DJ booth as the night gets going. July and August are the busiest months for clubs and flights, and they are hot and humid.

Night - outdoor club

Confetti brushes my cheeks and the light show flashes overhead in the warm night air. I laugh as it falls from above during the show. The island has famous nightlife, and July and August are hot, humid and the busiest months for the clubs.

Night - club lounge

Gold light shimmers on the pool and the lounge air feels still. I step into this quieter corner away from the music. Caldereta de langosta, a rich lobster stew with tomato, pepper and rice, is served at harbour restaurants and is usually shared.

Night - water's edge

Sharp stars hang over the water while the night air turns cold away from the fire pits. I look up from the water's edge as the glow sits far off. From May to November beach weather usually lasts, and the sea is warm enough for swimming.