Long celebrated as a European summer playground, Ibiza faces amazing changes. Once a magnet for party attendees, influencers and sunseekers, the island has seen a prominent dip in tourist interest in the summer 2025 season.
Before transforming into a global tourist hotspot, Ibiza was known as a quiet island with close-knit communities. Its economy was primarily dependent on the agriculture and fisheries industries. However, tourism began to increase exponentially in Ibiza in the 1960s, attracting people craving leisurely holidays in the sun. Pacha, the island's first major nightclub, opened in 1973 and solidified its reputation as Ibiza's club mecca.
Fast forward to today, Ibiza is a top tourist destination, captivates millions of visitors each year, and wants to experience the island's famous beaches, nightlife and music scene for yourself.
However, new data suggest that the island is far less likely to search for hotel and villa holidays, and that the island may have become a victim of its own success.
A study by Luxury Yacht Charter Company 212 Yachts has identified destinations that appear to be less popular this summer. Surprisingly, Ibiza is on the minimum search list – 56% less than the previous year.
There are several reasons that may have contributed to this increase in tourists seeking vacation elsewhere. First, it expands anti-tourist sentiment in both Ibiza and the other Balearics.
Local protests against overtourism, including popular perspectives and barricades in graffiti messages, have created a sense of anxiety and negativity for some tourists.
Coupled with this, it is a general increase in overtourism in Ibiza. The vast amount of tourists, especially during the summer, strains the island's resources, including beaches, infrastructure and housing, casts a dark shadow on an idyllic holiday to the Mediterranean.
To limit tourism, Ibiza authorities have begun introducing measures, including restrictions on party ships and street drinking. These measures can also block visitors looking for hens and Stagdos destinations.
A new law — crackdown on the 2020 law banning the sale of alcohol between 9:30pm and 8am — was introduced last May. People drinking outside of designated areas could face fines ranging from £430 to £1,290.
Party boats are prohibited from voyages within a mile of several cities and towns in Ibiza and Mallorca. The captain is also prohibited from picking up and dropping passengers from these areas, and the ads are currently illegal.
The iconic Italian Venice city could have fewer crowds this summer. The introduction of visitor taxes and tourist hats appears to have put off many people planning to visit, with searches falling by 46%, according to the company.
