This summer, one of Ibiza’s most iconic sunset destinations, Café del Mar is celebrating a massive milestone, 45 years of soundtracking golden-hour magic.
With a slick new renovation, reimagined food and drink offerings, and a packed music release calendar, the season ahead promises to be anything but ordinary.
The world-famous venue is known for being the original home of chillout music. Since opening its doors in 1980 on the San Antonio coastline, it’s become a global symbol of Mediterranean freedom, Balearic beats, and soul-soothing sunsets. But while the vibes are timeless, the space itself is getting a bold, modern refresh.
The new season marks a full-on evolution. Expect an upgraded look, a stronger focus on Ibizan roots, and a killer lineup of post-sunset parties curated by resident DJs, local promoters, and some of the biggest underground labels. The spirit is the same, but the energy is getting a major boost.
Already this year, the venue dropped Volume 5 of its iconic Chill Out Mix series, and things are just heating up. As part of the celebration, a 30-track anniversary compilation is dropping soon, featuring legends like Frankie Knuckles, Aphex Twin, Röyksopp, Moby, Todd Terje, Derrick May, and Gerald. For longtime fans, there’s even more to get excited about, vinyl repressings of classic compilations are coming, plus a new artist album series launching with Pig&Dan on June 13.
The upgrades aren’t just visual or musical. The venue is stepping into elite audio territory by installing Ibiza’s first-ever Elara.6 mixer, designed by audio engineering icon Andy Rigby-Jones, the man behind the legendary Xone series and Master Sounds. It’s a serious game-changer for sound quality and booth experience, promising a completely elevated journey for both DJs and listeners.
Food’s also getting a glow-up. A brand-new kitchen launches this June, blending creative Mediterranean flair with Ibiza’s evolving food culture. As the island continues to grow into a lifestyle destination beyond the club scene, this reimagined menu will offer something unique to match the atmosphere. Expect bold dishes, fresh ingredients, and that same care-free elegance the island is famous for.
Resident DJ and Music Manager Ken Fan sums it up best: “We’re incredibly excited to be reopening this summer season and, most importantly, to be celebrating 45 years as an institution on the island. From pioneering the Balearic sound to releasing one of the most beloved chill-out compilation series in the world, we’ve been the backdrop to countless sunsets, memories, and musical journeys, and the story continues this season.”
What started as a humble beachfront bar with a love for ambient grooves has become an international brand, with locations in Spain, Thailand, and beyond. But Ibiza will always be its heart, and this anniversary is a love letter to everything it’s built.
With upgraded food, groundbreaking audio, historic compilations, and those legendary sunsets still going strong, this summer isn’t just about looking back. It’s about stepping into the next era with style, soul, and a perfectly chilled cocktail in hand.
Mia Brooks dives deep into the beats and rhythms of the music industry, covering everything from chart-topping albums to underground artists. With a passion for discovering new talent and exploring the stories behind the songs, Mia keeps readers updated on all things music.
