Hotel Caribe Ibiza

Housed in a long white building with an entrance shaded by a large wooden structure a few steps above street level, the Caribe Ibiza Hotel has a fresh feel from the outside. Although far from luxurious, the lobby is less basic than could be expected of a value property, with burgundy accent walls, beige floor tiling, two large metal elephant statues, floor-to-ceiling windows, and yellow and beige armchairs. The lounge off the lobby also has contemporary (if generic) decor with white couches, off-white rugs, large black-and-white paintings, and bamboo screens separating each cluster of seating. 

However, the rest of the common spaces and all guest rooms are in urgent need of a facelift. The pool bar has basic metal chairs, the fitness center (although equipped with up-to-date machines), features foam floor panels in faded colors, and the poolside loungers are made of hard plastic with no padding, which makes them uncomfortable. Overall, the property is average for the price and decor is dated throughout, but for a family-friendly vacation on the cheap, many will find this all-inclusive serves its purpose. 

The hotel is located on the corner of two quiet streets on the southern edge of Es Canar’s main beach. There are a few shops selling beach gear and souvenirs within a couple of blocks, and a handful of casual cafes and restaurants can be found in the immediate vicinity. The main bus and taxi stops are a block from the hotel, making moving around the island cheap and easy. The ferry to Formentera and to other towns on Ibiza is also within easy walking distance, while Punta Arabí’s popular hippie market (open here on Wednesdays only) can be reached on foot in about 10 minutes. Ibiza Town and the airport are a half-hour drive away.

The hotel has 265 rooms, each with a furnished balcony overlooking either the pool or the street. Decor is dated and bland with basic wooden furniture, baby blue accent walls, thin bedspreads, and flower-printed curtains in blue, yellow, and brown. Rooms are barebones in terms of amenities and have firm mattresses that may not be to everyone’s taste, but flat-screen TVs and free air-conditioning add value. Bathrooms are also basic but clean and feature shower/tub combos, generic toiletries, and plastic shower curtains. Some units have extra beds for additional guests. Safes, mini-fridges, and in-room Wi-Fi are all available for an extra fee. Cribs are provided free upon request.

The hotel has two pools -- a small one for kids and a larger one with entertainment for all ages. There are lots of loungers around both pools, but many guests have complained that the lack of padding makes them uncomfortable. Although there is a kids’ club with activities and a playground with a trampoline, the pools are the biggest hit with kids, making the deck around them loud and busy. The fitness center is equipped with a handful of cardio and strength-training machines, and there is a multi-sport court available for use. Additionally, the hotel offers free on-site parking, a decent buffet restaurant with a kids’ section, a poolside bar, and free Wi-Fi in the lobby.