OKU IBIZA

"If there is a place where you can find inner peace and connect with yourself, that place is OKU Ibiza."

"Why book? This laid-back luxury retreat is a small paradise within a paradise, and the best place to discover—or rediscover—the so-called White Island: wabi sabi-inspired design, serene swimming pools (one of them is the largest on the island), regular yoga sessions, fusion cuisine... If there's one place where you can find inner peace and connect with yourself, it’s Oku Ibiza. Set the scene The hotel is located on the west side of the island, near San Antonio—30 minutes away from the airport and 20 from Ibiza town. Nestled among foothills and pines and close to the beautiful Cala Gracio bay and beaches, Oku Ibiza has the pool where everyone wants to swim and the restaurant where everyone, both locals and visitors, wants to eat. The whole area is famous for its magical sunsets and stunning beaches. Here, young and boho-chic people from all over the world chill and enjoy cocktails under the umbrellas at the adults-only pool, while kids are welcome at the family-friendly pool, surrounded by lush palm fronds, cozy bean bags, and double sunbeds. The backstory OKU Ibiza arrived on the scene in 2021, as well as OKU Kos in Greece. They are the first two openings of OKU Hotels brand: “OKU Kos and OKU Ibiza are sister hotels where you’ll find attention to detail everywhere,” says the firm, whose name comes from a Japanese concept meaning “inner space.” OKU Hotels’s guiding principle is to provide its guests with a soulful environment “to unwind, re-energize, and indulge their passions.” The firm was born out of the ashes of Thomas Cook brand’s collapse, and created by an investment company, Westfort Capital. The rooms OKU Ibiza's rooms are inspired by the island way of life, which mixes boho vibes with a nature-inspired design. Natural materials—such as rattan, oak, hessian, and stone—along with the earthy tones, provide a cozy and relaxed space. Here you can find exquisite mattresses, linen sheets, hand-picked accessories, and locally crafted pieces, as well as some furniture from Mexico and Bali, and Marshall speakers. Each room—from the rooftop to the swim-up pool ones—has its own terrace or balcony, rain showers, and Le Labo amenities. Suites are the best option if you want to enjoy an even larger luxurious barefoot living, overlooking the signature 50-meter pool. The four-bedroom villa definitely deserves a separate mention. This private escape, set in a tranquil corner of the hotel’s grounds, accommodates up to eight people and has its own pool (complete with sun beds and a relaxing seating area), lounge, bar, dining area, and the option of hiring a personal chef for an exclusive dinner on the terrace. Food and drink Local ingredients are the stars in the kitchen, all mixed with international inspiration and a Japanese twist to create a delicious fusion cuisine where everything is about flavor. The renowned Executive Chef, Mark Vaessen, (formerly at Sushisamba in London) has created the menus for OKU Ibiza’s four drinking and dining spots: To Kima (the casual restaurant), the pool bar, the juice bar, and OKU Restaurant, the signature dinning space. Kima is the best way to start the day, after a yoga class and some meditation. Here, you can enjoy a colorful breakfast and an all-day menu full of sharing dishes, fresh salads, and small bites. There's also a juice bar, better known as the “healthy paradise,” that offers fresh juices, protein smoothies, and vitamin boosters all day. Asia and South America meet for dinner at OKU Restaurant, entering the island’s place-to-be list as soon as it opened. Japanese wagyu, hamachi, Robata meats, and all the raw selections are must-tries. At the main pool, you can find the pool bar—a great option to end the day or start the night with some cocktails and the best DJs. The spa The spa and wellness area are essential parts of the hotel. In fact, this is where you'll finally find complete inner peace during your stay. Take a deep breath at the daily yoga and pilates classes—or book a one-on-one session—and have a look at the spa treatments menu: A well-trained therapist will guide you through a sensory journey with local ingredients and traditional techniques. The neighborhood/area Vitamin sea everywhere: The hotel has a top-notch location that gives you access to the most beautiful beach spots on the island—from large and sandy beaches to hidden small coves—as well as popular beach clubs and restaurants with sea views. Cala Gració and Cala Gracioneta are love at first sight, as well as Cala Salada and Cala Saladeta. If you're looking for peace and quiet, Punta Galera is your place. Cala Bassa and Platjes de Comte are also good options to swim in crystalline waters and explore some little islets by kayak. Café del Mar, opened in 1980, and Hostal La Torre are two of the most emblematic—and nearby—places to enjoy the sunset. For a fine dining experience, go to Es Tragón, the first Michelin-starred restaurant on the island. The service Professional, friendly, and helpful. All the staff members know the best local spots for everything: chilled out rooftops and the coolest nightclubs, deco stores and fashionable boutiques, hidden beaches and down-home restaurants. You can contact the guest relations team to help you arrange all manner of things, from an airport transfer to a boat trip or rental car. Therapists, trainers, concierges, waiters, bartenders—they're here for you, so don't hesitate to ask.  For families Again, there's a child-friendly pool; and if needed, you can always count on an extra bed in your suite. Eco effort The farm-to-table philosophy is the common thread of all the gastronomic spaces of OKU. They work with local providers, and the food that you'll enjoy at lunch was probably collected that morning from the surrounding orchards and fields. The building is also energy-efficient and has been designed to leave the most minimal mark on the environment. Accessibility. There are elevators, ramps, and accessible rooms. Anything left to mention? Don't forget to visit the gym, even if you're not planning to exercise: You'll probably change your mind when you see its retro style and hi-tech machines. Finally, in 100 words or less, what makes this hotel worthy of Hot List? Ibiza is one of the most amazing and unique places in the world. The Mediterranean island is unique for so many reasons: idyllic beaches, fantastic nightclubs (you're not a DJ if you haven't played in Ibiza), hidden gems you can only reach by walking, famous beach clubs where movie stars and artists toast with locals, and sunsets that warrant celebration. Ibiza's hotel scene is lucky to have OKU: a calm hideaway nestled in nature but close to where it all happens. All in all, it’s a peaceful oasis where you'll fall in love with the island, with the sea, and—most importantly—with yourself." - María Casbas