Travel

The spirit of Ibiza captured in 14 vintage photos from the 1970s and the 1980s

Once a small fishing village in the Balearic Islands, Ibiza was a haven for hippies in the 1970s, before later becoming a hub for jet-setters in the 1980s. Take a look back over some of the best vintage vacation photos captured during the island's golden age.
The spirit of Ibiza in 14 vintage vacation photos from the 1970s and the 1980s
Slim Aarons

Seduced by its bohemian spirit, hippies flocked to the island of Ibiza in the 1970s. The destination quickly became a haven for aspiring musicians and artists, quickly mobilizing to construct communities within abandoned farmlands and all searching for a sense of liberty and love.

Hippies in Ibiza, 1970

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A group of hippies at a cafe in Ibiza, 1972

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Hippies in front of Bause Bar in Ibiza, 1970

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While the island was welcoming to its new visitors, it maintained its humble spirit as a fishing isle. Each day boats would leave the port, only to return with buckets of fresh fish to be sold at the local markets.

A fishing boat in Ibiza, 1975

Gianni Ferrari

As word continued to spread of Ibiza's beauty, more and more vacationers flocked to the island. The activities haven't changed much, from sunbathing to strolls through the old city.

Vacationers in Ibiza, 1975

Gianni Ferrari

Ibiza in the 1970s

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A mother and daugther vacationing in Ibiza, 1970

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Like any popular summer vacation destination, most visitors rented or bought charming little fincas, renovated by talented architects. Other vacationers chose to stay in one of the small local hotels.

Fosca, Vera, and Fiona Bertran on vacation in Ibiza, 1978

Slim Aarons

The pool at Hacienda Na Xamena hotel in 1978

Slim Aarons

Soon disco clubs began to open their doors. Most notably, Club 66, where each evening a host of young and vibrant night owls would come to dance the night away.

Club 66 in Ibiza, 1978

Fairfax Media Archives

Jamieson St. Disco, 1981

Fairfax Media Archives

Wham! in Ibiza while recording Club Tropicana, 1983

FG/Bauer-Griffin

From the 1980s onwards, Ibiza was a veritable hotspot. Welcoming VIP travelers, jet-setters, vacationers in search of laid-back fun, musicians, and Hollywood stars, the island was open to all. From there, the summer destination was a hit, often captured by photographer Slim Aarons.

Ibiza in 1978

Slim Aarons

The Valveken family at their house in Can Serratos, 1989

Slim Aarons

Translated by Zoe Hofmann

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