Ibiza, a destination that fascinates with its breathtaking natural landscapes, its small Ibicenco-style villages and its vibrant nightlife. Every year, millions of travellers flock to the beautiful white island in search of idleness and wild celebrations. And yet, Ibiza was much less famous in the past and served as a refuge for hippies fleeing the constraints of the new consumer society.
The hippie markets throughout the island are a good example of this bohemian past. The most famous is the hippy market of Es Canar, a small seaside resort located on the east coast of Ibiza. A must-see place full of magic that will amaze young and old alike!
A village where hippies and tourists meet
The island of Ibiza has long suffered from its geographical location which is far from the Spanish mainland. When tourism began to emerge, it gave a new impetus to the island's economy. It was in the 1960s that the first hippies arrived in large numbers in Ibiza to enjoy the sweetness of life, the wild landscapes and the superb festivals. Stays that have extended over time to a permanent installation on the island, and in particular in Es Canar.
The small seaside town has therefore been the lair of many hippies for decades. Many tourists come to Es Canar to explore the charming alleys of the hippy market of Punta Arabi. However, Es Canar also has pretty fine sandy beaches with crystal clear waters and a lively atmosphere.
The village is mainly composed of hotels, restaurants and bars, and many shops of all kinds. Its population increases significantly during the summer months and families are the most inclined to turn to Es Canar, in search of relaxation and serenity. If you travel with your children, it is therefore an opportunity to take a walk and enjoy its beautiful beaches during the day and then have a delicious meal in the evening. Es Canar is also famous for its breathtaking sunrises so if you are an early riser, you will love it!
The small seaside town of Es Canar is easily accessible by road and has a bus station, but you can also access it by ferry which stops at various towns and villages on the island's east coast.
The famous hippy market
The Es Canar hippie market has been held in Punta Arabi since 1973 and is known as the oldest and largest market in Ibiza, hence its great popularity. Open every Wednesday from May to September, the hippy market contains treasures and original objects of all kinds. Despite its size, this market has lost some of its authenticity over the years in order to meet the expectations of a more touristic clientele but still retains a certain charm and is worth a visit.
Stroll through the small, colourful alleys of the Punta Arabi Club Hotel and let yourself be immersed in this pleasant bohemian atmosphere. More than 500 stands are present in this market where artists exhibit their creations every year and where original and atypical objects from different parts of the world, fashion items, accessories to learn about local bohemian fashion called "Adlib", craft products or costume jewellery following Flower Power fashion are sold. A real paradise for lovers of bohemian craftsmanship ibicenco! Musical instruments typical of hippie festivals such as the didgeridoo or the djembe are also in the spotlight. Even if you don't shop at the hippy market, you will certainly be charmed by the particular atmosphere of the place, the bohemian scents and the colourful stands.
The hippie market also has a playground for children, a bar for refreshments and a large tent where concerts and shows are held in the afternoon. Not to mention the famous kiosks offering delicious local dishes, including a wonderful homemade paella. Es Canar's hippie market is definitely the ideal place to combine small culinary pleasures, a bohemian festive atmosphere and souvenir purchases to take home!
