San Antonio Ibiza
Although San Antonio is trying to transform its media reputation as a 'lager
lout' destination it has a long way to go. Admittedly, there are some nice bars
and restaurants in the vicinity and there's easy access to some fine beaches but
its 'Ibiza Uncovered' fuelled reputation is still mainly justified. Such a
reputation ensures that the resort remains an 18-30 destination, at least in the
peak summer months, which families should avoid. If this description sounds
great then read on.
San Antonio Nightlife
On an island known for its exciting nightlife and fast-paced style, San
Antonio is famous for hard partying. In coming to San Antonio, you're heading
into a sea of opportunity in terms of all night parties, dancing and
bar-hopping, so be prepared for anything. If this is your idea of a summer
holiday then San Antonio is a fine choice and will suit you better than any of
Ibiza's other resorts. By day the streets are quiet as revellers sleep off the
previous night's excesses and only start to liven up in time for sundown. The
peak summer months of July and August are the wildest whilst a more family
atmosphere prevails outside these months.
Typically a night in San Antonio begins on the Sunset Strip which is lined
with bars and restaurants catering for the pre-nightclub crowd. Although there
are plenty 'here-today, gone tomorrow' bars and cafes it's well worth checking
out Café del Mar which is located directly on the strip as is a perfect spot to
watch the sunset. At this popular locale you can check out the local scene while
enjoying ambient, catchy music. If you're looking for an harder-edged sound, try
the Mambo or Savannah bars which are located nearby.
San Antonio Nightclubs
The San Antonio waterfront is a great spot for Ibiza
clubs. Eden is one of the newer clubs to the area but it's already made a
name for itself with its impressive sound system and legendary foam parties.
Eden can hold up to 5,000 visitors and the club seems to be trying to please
them all. You'll find a range of different music being played which varies from
night to night and even from hour to hour. Keep in mind that Eden is one of the
few clubs with a dress code so make sure you dress accordingly. Beachwear and
football shirts are not allowed.
As large as Eden and just as noisy, Es Paradis showcases a variety of talent in
a number of different ways. The music played at Es Paradis is quite eclectic and
above the dance floor you'll find a podium for professional exhibitionists. The
atmosphere of Es Paradis contrasts nicely with the stripped down feel of Eden
and you can enjoy a lush environment of marble and well-maintained greenery.
Keep an eye out for the notorious water parties which always ensure a full
house.
Should you want to get out of San Antonio and experience some of the other main
Ibiza clubs then all you need to do is climb aboard the Discobus will will
transport you to Amnesia in 15 minutes and the main nightlife attractions of
Ibiza Town and Playa d'en Bossa in 30 minutes.
San Antonio Beaches
As well as the nightlife of San Antonio the excellent beaches in the area are
another important attraction. The resort itself doesn't have a great beach but
you're only a short bus or ferry ride from many great sandy beaches nearby such
as Cala Vadella and Cala Tarida to the south of San Antonio Bay and Cala Gració
and Cala Salada to the north. Ferries also provide longer excursions along the
west coast providing stunning views of Ibiza's coastline. Another great
mini-excursion is to jump aboard the San Antonio Express. This is a little road
train which shuttles visitors out to the nearby Santa Ines valley and continues
on to El Mirador which is a great viewpoint overlooking the whole island.
San Antonio Restaurants
There are an enormous number of restaurants in San Antonio catering for all
comers. Many change hands year after year so cannot be recommended here as they
may have changed name by the time you read this. For a generally more upmarket
bar and restaurant scene get away from the Strip and head for the Club Nautico
where you'll find some fine charming locales overlooking the marina, many
offering excellent live music. A couple of better class restaurants near to San
Antonio which deserve a mention are Sa Capella and the Banyan Palace. The first
is on the the edge of town and is housed in a former monastery where great
seafood dishes are served on their outdoor terrace. The Banyan Palace in Port
d'es Torrent to the south is a top quality Thai restaurant.
San Antonio Bay & Port d'es Torrent
Just to the south of the main resort of San Antonio is San Antonio Bay which
extends to the neighbouring resort of Port d'es Torrent. This bay area has its
own fine beach yet it is only a short walk from the Strip giving visitors the
best of both worlds. This area is much more family orientated with plenty
tourist facilities. The nearby Cala Bassa is a popular beach with bus and ferry
services into San Antonio. |
