Before EDC, there was and always will be Ibiza. Spain’s third largest Balearic Island is infamous throughout the world as a cultural mecca for electronic music with a legendary party scene, attracting a range of personalities from George Michael to Paris Hilton.
The island’s cultural beginnings can be traced to the ‘60s, though it was far from a party town back then. As peace, love and happiness was flowing through San Francisco with the rise of the hippie movement, Ibiza was emerging as a destination for free-thinking types around the world. Left-leaning thinkers like Joni Mitchell and Bob Dylan flocked to the island long before DJs were spinning records there.
The party scene wasn’t born until the opening of Amnesia in 1978, playing an influential role in both Ibiza and the music world. By the time the late ‘80s rolled around, Ibiza cemented its status as a nightlife capital. Freddie Mercury held perhaps the most infamous party of the island’s history for his 41st birthday party at Pikes, ordering 350 bottles of Moët for 700 guests that included Jean Claude Van Damme, Boy George and Naomi Campbell.
It was around this time a London DJ named Paul Oakenfold took a highly influential trip to the island. Unlike the single-genre clubs back home, Ibiza’s culture embraced a variety of sounds, blending an eclectic mix of dance music called Balearic Beat, a mixture of early house music with rock, hip-hop, Europop and any other sound that struck the DJ’s fancy. Clubs like Pacha and Ku (now known as Privilege), in addition to DJ Alfredo’s groundbreaking style at Amnesia, had a big artistic impact on Oakenfold, who took the Balearic ethos back home to help spawn the UK’s rave scene and a new era of dance music.
One of the most treasured places on the island is Café del Mar, open for almost 35 years on the east coast of Ibiza in San Antonio. The open-air bar overlooks Caló des Moro, and is famous for its beautiful sunsets, spawning what is now known as the “Sunset Strip” with the opening of Mambo, Savannah, Kanya and numerous other lounges along the water. Café del Mar is also famous for its resident DJ, Jose Padilla, who helped create Balearic Beat and still serenades the bar with his pioneering chill-out style. In 2014, they started hosting official pre-parties for Pacha, Amnesia and Es Paradis. The bar also has a series of mix albums, showcasing their eclectic sound.
Read This Next
Spring Break: Zrće Beach, Croatia
Spring Break
Nov 28, 2014#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedHotel
Mar 27, 20256 Eco-Friendly Resorts Honoring Earth Day Every Day
While Earth Day is a day to celebrate our planet, it’s important to respect and honor Earth every day. That’s just what these six resorts do, putting sustainability first year-round.
Sponsored Content
AmaWaterways’ Specialty River Cruises
When you embark on a river cruise with award-winning AmaWaterways, unpack once and step aboard a world of unparalleled experiences. With enriching excursions, exquisite locally sourced food and wine, nightly entertainment and more included in the fare, you will learn why AmaWaterways has the most returning guests out of any river cruise line.
Dining/Entertainment
Mar 27, 2025The Peninsula New York Introduces Sunday Brunch Buffet
The Peninsula New York recently introduced The Peninsula Sunday Brunch Buffet at Clement, the hotel’s contemporary American restaurant, offered weekly 11:30 a.m.–2 p.m. Popular brunch classics pair with live music, ensuring a perfect dining option for both hotel guests and Manhattanites alike.
Hotel
Mar 26, 2025Andaz, Hebru Brantley Debut Away We Go Collab
Andaz recently debuted its capsule collaboration with artist Hebru Brantley, named Away We Go and available at Andaz West Hollywood, Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht and Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills. Brantley is known for his Afrofuturist style and narrative-driven work. At the hotels, guests experience Brantley’s work through room takeovers and a limited-edition capsule collection.
Sponsored Content
Unveiling Europe’s Treasures with AmaWaterways River Cruises
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with AmaWaterways, recognized as Best River Cruise Line by Cruise Critic. What sets AmaWaterways apart is its commitment to offering you the luxury of more. With up to eight daily included excursion options, you have the freedom to tailor your journey to your interests. Whether you're a history buff, a culinary enthusiast or an architecture aficionado, there's something for everyone on the meticulously crafted itineraries. You will also be treated to a range of exquisitely prepared meals in the Main Restaurant and The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant, unlimited wine and beer during lunch and dinner, an array of complimentary host-led fitness classes, and so much more.
Hotel
Mar 26, 2025Have the Ultimate Solo Travel Adventure at This Belize Resort
With 40 percent of women expressing interest in solo travel, Alaia Belize welcomes solo female travelers like no other. This resort offers an immersive experience into local Caribbean culture while offering luxury amenities for ultimate relaxation.
ShareThis