Review: Oku Ibiza

_Location: On the west of the White Isle, close to San Antonio. The airport is 30 minutes away by car while Ibiza Town can be reached in 20 minutes.

_{First impressions:} House music can be heard blasting out by the adult-only pool as we arrive at this trendy spot. The hotel, previously operated under the Thomas Cook sub-brand Casa Cook, opened to much hype under the new Oku umbrella in 2021. The decor is highly design-led with polished and poured concrete, and wood and stone features throughout.

All of that is complemented by neutral tones and huge, bold art from Steve Tepas. The vibe is chilled but buzzy. Think straw-thatched parasols, cocktails galore and slump-worthy daybeds filled with a young and trendy clientele worshipping the sun at the edge of the 50-metre[1]long adult pool. The rooms, many of which overlook the pools, are very minimalist with soft lighting, Marshall speakers and divine Le Labo products.

_{The facts:} The hotel has 189 rooms including 33 suites. It’s split across two sites straddling a driveway – one side features the aforementioned adult pool, the largest on the island, and the spa, while the other side is home to a smaller pool and ample dining space.

There are two restaurants helmed by Sushisamba chef Mark Vaessen, plus two bars. There’s also a juice bar where veg, fruit and herbs are blended with extra proteins and vitamins to create healthy concoctions – perfect for an energy boost after partying!

_Explore: Lively San Antonio is a short amble away. The nearest stretch of sand, at Cala Gració, is often quiet and filled with locals. Popular beach Cala Comte and its famed Sunset Ashram bar and restaurant can be reached in 25 minutes by car, while Cala Bassa and its bounty of beach clubs is a 20-minute drive.

Popular sunset spot and tapas restaurant La Torre lies just north of Oku and is well worth a visit. Recommend clients pay a visit to the old town, where they’ll find white-washed boutiques, bars and restaurants.

_{Ideal for:} The affluent young (or young at heart). This property leans towards couples or groups of friends. I travelled with my young son and while the property was perfectly fine for him with a child-friendly pool and facilities provided, it was a little noisy so I’d advise families to visit for the culinary offering, but probably not to stay overnight.

_Wow: The food is utterly incredible. The Oku Restaurant serves divine Japanese and South American flavours with sharing plates including tempura, sushi and skewers. To Kima is the more casual of the two restaurants with an Asian[1]inspired menu.

_{Book it:} From €650 in high season inclusive of breakfast.
okuhotels.com