Ibiza Month: Top 5 Clubs in Ibiza

This month we’re covering all aspects of the Balearic party island from the headline acts to the quieter spots away from the crowds, and next up for some Holiday Hype scrutiny are the best of the best clubs in Ibiza. So if you’re not sure where you’ll get more rave for your Euro, or where to head for some serious star DJ-spotting, read on for our guide to the top 5 clubs in Ibiza.

 

Space

Space is a massive mega-club complex long established in the lively resort of Playa D’en Bossa as a Mecca for bacchanalian 24/7 partying, hard house and appearances from top-flight international DJs playing epic-length sets.

Despite offering no fewer than five rooms, most of the action takes place on the huge terrace, where the hardcore mash it up outdoors at daytime parties while the planes regularly whoosh low over their heads. Nights here include some long held institutions in the clubbing calendar, such as Carl Cox’s residency and We Love Sundays at Space. Most events are in the 20-40 euro bracket, with one drink included.

Pacha

With a history stretching back over 40 years, Pacha’s glittery hot pants are firmly woven into the fabric of Ibiza’s clubland. Located near the classy Ibiza Town Marina, where its iconic cherry logo has become synonymous with partying in style, Pacha attracts a dressier crowd of scenesters than most, thanks to its highly coveted VIP areas.

It’s a labyrinthine place with several side rooms catering for different moods, mostly of the funky deep house variety, a chilled-out rooftop terrace and capacity for 5,000. A more exclusive vibe here means that tickets for its nights like Pure Pacha, Insane and Flower Power often change hands for over 50 euros. This is carried through to the bar, where you won’t expect much change from a 20 euro note.

 

Ushuaia

One of the newer kids on the block giving its neighbour Space a run for its money, this vast, glitzy outdoor venue has a statement swimming pool in the middle of the dancefloor and its own luxury hotel. Ushuaia opened to much fanfare in 2011 as a brand new concept in VIP clubbing accommodation. The nine-floor Tower Hotel offers suites with prime stage views, kitted out with full Pioneer DJ equipment and jacuzzis on every floor.

In line with the island’s gradual crackdown on al fresco, round the clock partying, Ushuaia opens late afternoon and closes by midnight. Due to its immense scale it attracts big name acts, like David Guetta, Swedish House Mafia and this summer’s showstopper Snoop Dogg, alongside trance luminaries Sasha, Armin van Buuren and Sven Vath.

 

Amnesia

Of all the super clubs, Amnesia perhaps best epitomises the true spirit of Balearic clubbing. This is the place where DJ Alfredo established outdoor nights with dancing under the stars , and the venue that inspired Paul Oakenfold, Danny Rampling and an entire generation of Brits to pack a sprinkling of house music magic home in their hand luggage.

Today it continues to fly the flag for fiercely eclectic programming, with two cavernous spaces where you can dance in the surreal company of massive trees inside the venue, plenty of communal, hands-in-the-air moments and an anything-goes attitude. The occasional torrents from the ice cannons further enliven proceedings. Expect to pay 40 – 50 euros for big nights including Cream, Cocoon and Together.

Privilege

Where else but Ibiza would you expect to find the world’s biggest club? Privilege is precisely that, with a main room that’s closer to an aircraft hangar than a nightclub. Privilege orchestrates proceedings on a grand scale, hosting riotous paint parties such as Neon Splash Ibiza with all guests issued with 3D glasses, as well as the ‘UFO and aliens’ antics of Reverse.

Privilege still offers plenty of theatrics and more risqué shows involving scantily-clad dancers; even having celebrated its 20th birthday in 2013, it shows no sign of letting up. A multi-level chill out terrace provides great views of the sunrise towards Ibiza Town. Entrance tickets vary from 20 – 50 euros, while 10 will snag you a pint of beer.