Ibiza is one of the world’s premier destinations for the techno music and rave scene, with many of the world’s best DJ’s visiting for sets in the summer. The most famous nightclubs are Privilege, Eden, Space, and Pacha, and the gay club Anfora. Most straight clubs claim to have an open and mixed clientele, by which they really mean “straight.” Some have weekly gay nights, and the best one on offer is the Wednesday night parties at Space. Check the listings before you arrive, as it’s worth planning your vacation around to get the full party experience.

The major gay beach is Es Cavallet on the far south side of Ibiza Town. Take a bus to the end of town, then you must walk about two miles toward the sea to get to the gay beach. It’s worth the journey, as the beach is simply buzzing with gay sun-seekers from all over the world. The beach is clothing optional, and there’s a large cruising area in the dunes and bushes overlooking the sea.

For a more secluded Balearic adventure, take one of the daily ferries to Formentera, the smaller island just to the south. Tourist ferries offer return deals including free sangria on board, but cheaper trips can be had on the commuter ferries. Once on Formentera, rent a bike and cycle along the paved pathways through the mostly flat island. A snorkelling adventure is a must, given the island’s crystal clear and calm waters, and incredible diversity of colourful fish. Island beaches feature clean, white, soft sand and are comparatively empty, lending a feeling of perfect seclusion. The majority of visitors to Formentera are Italian, and most sunbathers go nude here.

The old medieval town of Ibiza is a charming place to get lost inside its fortifications and disused castle. Rooms in the castle have been repurposed as bars, clubs, cafes, and shops and the district is buzzing around the clock. The evening is the most magical time to visit, as the castle and alleyways are lit with coloured lights and its Cliffside perch offers a fine view over the harbor and town as the nightlife awakens.

The major destination for English tourists, San Antonio town boasts a number of attractions outside of the binge drinking and dancing scenes. The Egg of Columbus is a monument to the famous explorer – Ibiza is one of many places claiming to be his birthplace. As the westernmost town on the island, its beaches are also a fantastic place to watch the sunset over the Mediterranean. Try to get a table at the famous Cafe del Mar to watch the sun go down.