Why book?

For chill Balearic vibes on a peaceful stretch of coastline—but close enough to the Ibiza-grade action that you don’t feel like you’re missing out.

Set the scene

Don’t rely on first impressions here: a blockish, concrete-and-glass exterior, the purple lights in the lobby, the in-your-face modern art. Because right after, you’ll see the pool, a vast stretch of blue, and a glimpse of turquoise sea beyond. This pool, you’ll quickly learn, is the focal point of the hotel: all drinking and dining spaces look onto it, as do many of the rooms. This is where you’ll end up spending most of your time, surrounded by young European families splashing about and beautiful, bronzed couples on loungers with giant sun hats and colorful cocktails exerting themselves only long enough to motion for a top-up. However, if you’re looking for a bit of buzz (it is Ibiza, after all) ME has that, too: there are on-site DJs, sundowners on the adults-only rooftop bar, and Nikki Beach next door for more committed partying—none of which prevents you from pursuing a peaceful break, should that be your preference. Which is to say that this hotel is a little bit of everything; and in its case, that’s a good thing.

The backstory

ME is one of three Ibiza properties run by Melia Hotels, a chain with more than 350 hotels and resorts in 35 countries. The newest of these, Melia Ibiza that opened in 2024 about an 8-minute drive south of ME, is an adults-only retreat, and Innside by Melia, its oldest, is a more pared-back, simply outfitted option by Cala Pinet beach. However, ME, which just celebrated 10 years in 2024, will likely stay MVP, attracting both the fashionable set and young families to its boho-chic vibe and panoramic views of the ocean.

The rooms

The 149 rooms range from entry-level cozy-sized rooms all the way up to suites with private pools. We stayed in the Studio ME+ room with a terrace that had stunning views on both sides of the Mediterranean and the pool. In addition to an open-plan bathroom with a freestanding bath by a window and a walk-in rain shower (toiletries are by C.O. Bigelow ), there was a large walk-in wardrobe area and a small dining section. The decor, like the rest of the resort, is minimalist (to let the sea views reign supreme) with bleached wood floors and crisp white linens. Admittedly, I was nervous about party sounds drifting in to disturb the peace, but was thrilled to note the room was soundproofed. If you really want to splash out, book the hotel’s Ultimate ME+ Suite with its own 24-hour dedicated ‘Aura Manager’, three large connecting bedrooms, a private swimming pool, and an expansive terrace overlooking the bay.

Food and drink

Breakfast, served buffet-style, is the standout meal here where options exist for everyone—from savory pastries to freshest of fruit and à la carte eggs and pancakes. The free-flowing Cava is a much-loved perk here, as is the Bloody Mary station. There are two on-site restaurants: Origens—where breakfast is served each morning—is good for Mediterranean cuisine relying on fresh, seasonal ingredients; we enjoyed a delectable salmon tartar and white-fish ceviche with glasses of blush rosé. There’s also the Italian poolside option, Bianco Mare, for wood-oven fired pizzas and pastas. Adults always have the option of heading to the kid-free rooftop for mojitos and tapas (and chill beats) with 360-degree views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Santa Eulalia Bay.

The neighborhood/area

Located conveniently to the beautiful (and peaceful) town of Santa Eulalia on the island’s north coast, ME Ibiza is a great base from which to explore both the less trammeled North and Old Town, with its twin pleasures of iconic nightclubs and shopping. The upper reaches of the fortified Dalt Villa, with its art galleries and vintage shops, is a half an hour’s drive away, as is the cool neighborhood of Santa Getrudis. To adventure further out, the hotel offers boat access for guests to visit neighboring Formentera island.

If you prefer to stay super local, you can always enjoy the slip of beach just beyond the pool (take a dive off the jetty) or follow a snaking path around the perimeter of the hotel to reach the sheltered Cala Martina beach with a couple of cute restaurants, a surfing school, and calm shallow waters. There’s also a Nikki Beach club right next door if the itch to party should strike–but the need to stay close enough to your bed is even greater.

The service

Staff are helpful and friendly, milling about and ready to top up your rosé or refresh your towels—while also staying fairly discreet. The concierge was particularly helpful, managing our preferences for activities on-site (yoga, massages, etc.) but also offering recommendations for excursions elsewhere on the island. Special mention must also be made of the valets who oversee a steady coming and going of taxis for guests—always with a smile.

For families

ME is very popular with families, particularly at the start and very end of the school holidays (to avoid peak season), and you can see why. The main pool and beach are the prime attraction (and there are plenty of loungers and swings, so don’t worry about having to grab the “good spots”), but there’s also a crèche and play room. Interconnecting rooms are available to suit bigger groups, so just ask while booking. We had friends staying with their young son at the same time as us, and they said it was the kind of hotel where they felt like they were vacationing as a family, but that also feels grown-up.

The spa

While the hotel doesn’t brand itself as a wellness resort, there is a Thai-style spa with treatment rooms and a smaller pool that’s dotted with Balinese beds. My massage therapist was excellent but the room itself could’ve used an update. In addition to a fully equipped gym, the hotel runs daily classes that include aerial yoga and water sports. Book early as these fill up fast.

Accessibility

There is wheelchair-accessible parking and stair-free access to the main building. Rooms and bathrooms (with walk-in showers) have been designed with wide corridors and doors for wheelchair access. Guests with mobility issues may inquire about adaptable leisure equipment.

Anything left to mention?

One thing to note is that, on our visit, there was some seaweed on the beach—but that didn’t stop us from getting in (the water was deliciously warm and calm). Plus, the further out you swim, the less it will bother you.