Ibiza Insider's Guide: Hardwell

Image: Hardwell

Hardwell is one of the biggest and most in-demand DJs in the world, a title which he shows no sign of shifting any time soon. Two times winner of the DJ Mag's World's No. 1 DJ accolade and a regular at festivals like Tomorrowland and Ultra, the Dutch artist is more than worthy of his popularity. 

With a loyal following across continents and an extensive amount of tracks to his name, Hardwell continuously raises the bar, cementing his reputation in a competitive and challenging scene. 

Before he embarks on another season in Ibiza at Ushuaia on Tuesday 28th June with his DNA party, we caught up with the main himself to get the inside knowledge on the island.

Where do you stay on the island when you're there and why?

I stay in a villa with a few friends, my manager and my family - away from all of the other amazing things Ibiza has to offer. It also gives me a chance to stay in one place for a while and share quality time with friends and family. 

What makes Ibiza so special?

It’s really hard to say in a few words because there’s of course the clubbing side to the island but then you also have amazing restaurants, as well as beautiful beaches, countryside etc. The island really has everything you could ever need to live a happy life.

Where are your favourite places to eat?

It varies depending the mood and the people I’m with but I love to venture out and try different menus, and that’s the great thing with Ibiza and the season starting and stopping. Everything gets refreshed. The sushi on the island is great and I always make sure to visit Fish Shack.

And the best places to go out?

Ushuaia is my favorite place to go out and party. The venue has the perfect setting for a DJ to deliver those magical moments that last a lifetime. 

Who do you think will be the star of the season this year?

Because it is his last year at Space I think Carl Cox will be center stage this season. It’s going to be a very emotional season, it'll feel very strange not seeing Carl’s name on a Space line up for next season. Avicii is another artist who will have a very special part to play in summer 2016 on the island. He’s an incredibly talented producer and DJ and it’s a big loss to the scene that this will be his last year. 

Where is the best place to watch the sun set and rise on the island?

There are many different points but to be with a group of friends down by Calo d'es Moro, aka sunset strip, is something that really embodies the spirit of Ibiza that we all know.

For someone about to come to Ibiza for the first time, what are the three things they must do before their time is out?

Check out the multiple clubs and parties

Don’t lie in bed but get yourself out there and go and explore the island in the daytime

Watch the stunning sunset.

What’s the island's greatest hidden secret?

Its magic secret is its magnetic force. Once you go for the first time, you always go back. It’s an island that leaves a very special mark on everyone who goes there.

What is your fondest memory of your time spent on the island? 

My residency at Ushuaia has been an event in my life that has really helped shape me grow as a DJ. The fans who have come to the previous parties have been so amazing. Their energy and passion has made every show incredible.

Those opening shows when you first go on stage, and the hairs on the back of your neck are standing on end as the crowd goes nuts to the first record being play. It’s utterly insane. I’m so excited to be back on the island again this year and back with a new theme – DNA.

And finally, what one bit of advice would you give someone hitting Ibiza for the first time?

Don’t burn out on the first night! 

Deposit tickets for the Hardwell Ushuaia opening party are available below.

Hardwell also plays Ultra Europe next month and Creamfields in August.

Tickets are no longer available for this event