Ibiza Insider's Guide: Clara Da Costa

Image: Clara Da Costa

As the clubbing capital of the world, nowhere offers the same amount of rave-ready holiday options as Ibiza. It holds a special place in the heart of anyone who has taken a trip to the island, but for those slightly more unfamiliar with what is in store for the duration of the season, we've got the low down from Clara Da Costa. 

In 1990 a 13-year-old Clara Da Costa envisioned that one day she would play music on the island that she had been visiting since she was eleven, and it became a reality two years later when she ran away from home to pursue her dream, landing a DJ slot at Es Paradis. 

She then secured a residency at the club, earning her the title of Ibiza's first female DJ. Clara then went on to become Es Paradis' creative director, playing a pivotal role in the introduction of bringing British promoters to the White Isle. To this day she still makes the most of the many wonders Ibiza has to offer, whilst continuing her residency with Ibiza Sonica Radio (listen below). 

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

I stay just outside the centre of San Antonio, I love it here and that's why I have stayed here for 23 years. We have a great community and it really is a beautiful town despite what much of the media have said.

What makes Ibiza so special?

It's a unique island with a certain ambiance that you cannot find anywhere else.

Where are your favourite places to eat?

I love Can Pujol in the bay of San Antonio. It's the best fish restaurant on the island. You need to book in advance. Mint on the sunset strip in San Antonio is also a great place for a bite.

And the best places to go out? 

Depends what you want really. All the clubs are worth a visit as are many of the beaches and restaurants. You could go to Cala Conta beach in the day, eat at Can Pujol in the evening and try and time it for sunset as it is amazing from there. Then hit one of the big nights like Carl Cox at Space or one of the more traditional parties like Fiesta Del Agua at Es Paradis.

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

The tourists are always the stars, even if they do misbehave sometimes. Without them, the summer season would not be the same.

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

There's so many! Mambo, Golden Buddha, Kumharas. San Antonio is probably the best spot for all of that.

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

Take a trip to our Sister island Formentera, eat some local food like Paella, Flao (a local sweet type of flan), go to one of the big clubs. You don't get them like that anywhere else in the world, no matter what DJ is playing. The clubs here are something else.

What’s the island's greatest hidden secret? 

The island herself, she has a voice and she shakes things up when necessary. Usually the best hidden secrets are the last minute hidden parties in random coves. They are always amazing.

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

I have too many to mention. Meeting people, characters and sharing a love for the same things like music, sunshine and good living.

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

Do a bit of research, go off of the beaten track a bit, wear sun cream, save your pennies. Lastly, enjoy yourself and pace yourself.

For more on Ibiza including tickets and party line ups, head here.