Located on the San Antonio coastline, the original location of Café del Mar is where every sunset is paired with a perfectly curated soundtrack. From being at the start of the chillout sound to releasing one of the most famous compilation series in electronic music through its own record label, Café del Mar Music, Café del Mar has been a staple in Ibiza for almost half a century.
This year, the venue is stepping into a new era — one that’s reimagined, yet still stays close to its roots. Here are 7 things to know about Café del Mar as it celebrates nearly half a century of sunsets, sounds, and unforgettable memories.
1. It All Started in 1980
What began as a small seaside bar in San Antonio became the birthplace of the Balearic chillout sound. Since 1980, Café del Mar has shown guests what it means to watch the sun dip below the horizon with the perfect soundtrack. It’s truly the venue that helped make Ibiza the destination it is today. Over the years, it has also grown internationally, opening seven additional bars — including a location in Cartagena de Indias.
2. The Venue Just Got a Makeover
With this year’s new season, Café del Mar is showcasing a fresh look after a stylish refurbishment and expansion. Don’t worry — all the updates preserve the laid-back spirit, just with a few modern comforts and more space to unwind. If you’re visiting, the experience will feel both nostalgic and refreshingly new.
3. The Menu Got an Upgrade
Café del Mar is going beyond the beats this year with a reimagined menu launching in June. Diners can look forward to elevated Mediterranean dishes, creative twists on classics, and refreshing cocktails made with their upgraded signature alcohol line. For those who don’t drink, there’s also a generous selection of mocktails.
4. A 45th Anniversary Compilation Is Dropping
To celebrate four and a half decades of operation, Café del Mar is releasing a 30-track anniversary compilation featuring the likes of Frankie Knuckles, Aphex Twin, Röyksopp, Moby, Todd Terje, Derrick May, and more. As a bonus for vinyl fans, they’re also reissuing classic compilations and launching a new artist album series, starting with Pig&Dan on June 13.
5. There’s a New Mixer
Café del Mar is now home to Ibiza’s first-ever Elara.6 mixer, designed by renowned UK-based audio professional Andy Rigby-Jones (MasterSounds, Allen & Heath Xone). Simply put, DJ sets will sound better, smoother, and more immersive than ever before.
6. They’re Getting Deeper Into Ibiza’s Roots
While Café del Mar is world-famous, it also does an amazing job of staying grounded in local culture. This summer, visitors can look forward to a stronger focus on resident DJs, island-based promoters, curated post-sunset events, and label collaborations that showcase and honor the spirit of the island.
7. The Legacy Lives On — and It’s Still Just as Magical
As resident DJ and music manager Ken Fan said, “We’ve been the backdrop to countless sunsets, memories, and musical journeys — and the story continues this season.” From Ibiza to Thailand, Café del Mar remains a global phenomenon. But nothing compares to the original location, where the sunset meets the sea and the music tells the story.
As Café del Mar turns 45, it proves once again why music and sunset lovers come from around the world to enjoy an evening there. Whether you’re watching your first Ibiza sunset or returning, this season promises a deeper connection to the island and the same timeless energy that’s made Café del Mar beloved for all these years.
You can book your reservation here. And if you can’t make it to Ibiza this summer, don’t worry — Café del Mar shares mixes on their YouTube channel.
