Ibiza: How the White Isle Continues to Captivate the Ultra-Wealthy

Renowned for its bohemian spirit, idyllic beaches, and legendary parties, Ibiza—nicknamed the White Isle for its salt flats—has become a haven for the ultra-wealthy over the years. In August 2024, tourists spent €825.14 million on the island, according to a study by the Balearic Islands Statistics Institute (Ibestat). Between May and August, Ibiza ranked among the top ten European destinations for private jet travel, trailing only airports in Paris, Nice, Olbia, and Geneva, and just ahead of Athens, the gateway to Mykonos. In August, an average of 38.8 private jets departed daily from Ibiza, compared to 34.5 from Athens.

Despite this success, the cost-of-living crisis in recent years has visibly impacted Europe’s tourism market. Greece, for instance, reported a significant decline in tourism revenue during summer 2024, while Ibiza experienced a 10.4% drop in visitor numbers in July. Many mid-range tourists have opted for more affordable alternatives such as Lanzarote, Benidorm, and Salou, which offer better value than the upscale resorts of Ibiza or Mykonos.

Ibiza, where 84% of GDP relies on tourism, also grapples with overtourism during the summer, straining local residents. The island’s population triples during peak season, with a record-breaking 2,079,541 people recorded across the Balearics on August 7—67.8% more than the stable population, according to Ibestat.

To counter mass tourism, Ibiza has shifted its focus to enhancing luxury infrastructure and offering exclusive experiences, gradually abandoning the mid-range market.

The Six Senses Ibiza resort, opened in 2021 in the island’s north, is a prime example. Nestled in the secluded bay of Xarraca, the resort features 166 rooms and suites, some built into cliffs. It caters to the island’s most affluent clientele. “At Six Senses Ibiza, we go beyond traditional luxury by offering transformative and sustainable experiences that align with our guests’ values and expectations. Guests enjoy unique programming focused on wellness, farm-to-table dining, and a rich calendar of events,” says Oriol Juve, the resort’s director. This summer, guests at Six Senses Ibiza spent an average of €2,400 per day, a figure boosted by the addition of exclusive experiences and personalized wellness programs.