Best Beach Holiday Destinations for Nightlife

1. Ibiza, Spain

Best for: Iconic clubbing, world-famous beach parties and big-name DJs

Ibiza is the ultimate party holiday destination, globally renowned as the pulsating heart of nightlife. From House and Techno to Hip Hop, R&B, and Dance, the island’s legendary clubs, including Amnesia, Ushuaïa and Pacha, promise an unmatched party experience. Daytime revelry thrives at Ibiza Rocks and O Beach Club, where big-name DJs headline summer events, while Sant Antoni and Ibiza Town offer a mix of boozy beach fun and sophisticated bars along the marina. For the ultimate Ibiza experience, join private villa parties, sundowners at Café del Mar, or yacht excursions to beachside celebrations.

Outside of nightlife, Ibiza also offers plenty of relaxing options, from watching the stunning sunsets along the coast to enjoying yoga sessions or brunch in Santa Eulalia. Salinas Beach is perfect for soaking up the sun and observing the island’s stylish jet-set crowd.

Top Tip: For a seamless Ibiza adventure, consider staying in San Antonio for easy access to the main strip or Playa d’en Bossa to be close to the island’s biggest clubs.

2. Mykonos, Greece

Best for: Inclusive nightlife, LGBTQI+ friendly clubs and glamorous beach parties

Mykonos is one of the most vibrant Greek Islands, attracting revellers from across the globe. The hedonism centres on the western and southern beaches, with Buddha Bar at Ornos Bay offering cutting-edge music, tasty food and good-value cocktails, making it an essential daytime stop. Nightlife continues with all-night sets at clubs such as at54, VOID and Skandinavian, where top EDM DJs keep the party going until dawn. The island’s world-famous beach clubs, yacht culture and glamorous vibe make Mykonos a must-visit destination for any serious party-goer.

Outside of nightlife, Mykonos also offers relaxed options, including leisurely lunches at Nammos or Scorpios and quiet cocktail sessions for those seeking a more chilled experience. The island’s scenic beaches and iconic windmills also provide plenty of opportunities for daytime exploration.

Top Tip: For the full Mykonos experience, plan a mix of beach club afternoons and late-night dancing at Cavo Paradiso to capture both the island’s daytime and nighttime glamour.

3. Pag Island, Croatia

Best for: Festival-goers, open-air beach clubs and late-night partying

Pag Island has emerged as one of Croatia’s premier party destinations, with Novalja at its northern tip renowned for nightlife on the famous Zrće Beach. Clubs like Kalypso, Papaya, and Aquarius host world-class DJs and large-scale festivals such as Hideout, Sonus, Barrakud, and Fresh Island, offering nonstop entertainment from evening to morning. Daytime at Zrće Beach is just as lively, with poolside lounging, beach games, and cocktails setting the stage for the night ahead. With its reputation as the “Ibiza of Croatia,” Pag combines festival energy, top DJs and open-air clubs to create an unforgettable party holiday.

Beyond the nightlife, Pag Island offers cultural attractions such as Pag Town with its Renaissance architecture, local lace-making, and the award-winning sheep’s milk cheese, paski sir. Visitors can also enjoy seasonal carnivals and explore the island’s scenic coastline, accessible via bridge from the mainland. About an hour’s drive from the southern bridge lies Zadar, the most convenient entry point to the island and a charming coastal city worth exploring in its own right.

Top Tip: Plan your trip for summer (June–September) to catch major music festivals and make the most of Pag’s lively beach club scene.

4. Ayia Napa, Cyprus

Best for: Foam parties, all-night clubbing and beach raves

Ayia Napa is the largest tourist resort in Cyprus and one of the most popular party destinations in the Mediterranean. Known as Cyprus’s nightlife capital, Ayia Napa Square sits at the centre of the action with its back-to-back bars and high-energy clubs. From dancefloors pulsing with the latest beats to legendary beach raves and foam parties, this resort town offers non-stop entertainment from dusk until dawn. Renowned as one of Europe’s top hotspots for young party travellers, Ayia Napa guarantees a vibrant atmosphere and unforgettable nights out.

Beyond nightlife, Ayia Napa is home to beautiful white-sand beaches that rival its famous clubs, making daytime lounging just as memorable. Visitors can also enjoy a relaxing float along WaterWorld Themed Waterpark’s lazy river for the perfect recovery between parties.

Top Tip: Plan your trip between May and August when the nightlife is at its peak and the energy along the strip is at its most electric.

5. Zakynthos, Greece

Best for: Varied nightlife, young party crowds and romantic evening spots

Zakynthos (also known as Zante) is a Greek island famous for its stunning beaches, but it also draws crowds for its vibrant nightlife scene - mostly centered around Laganas, Zakynthos Town and Argassi. The hub of late-night energy is Laganas, where clubs like Rescue, Zeros, Cocktail & Dream, and Sizzle keep young partygoers dancing until dawn. In Zakynthos Town, visitors can enjoy bar hopping along Alexander Roma Street and the port promenade, with hotspots such as The Base and Avant Garde, while the Barrage nightclub just outside the city is known for its iconic Tuesday and Friday theme nights. Argassi, by contrast, offers a more relaxed vibe with pubs and romantic bars like Portokali, creating the perfect balance for those who prefer quieter evenings.

Beyond its nightlife, Zakynthos offers breathtaking attractions such as Navagio (Shipwreck) Beach, the Blue Caves, and turtle spotting along its golden sands. For a more romantic setting, Bochali village provides stunning night views over the city and sea.

Top Tip: Visit Cameo Island, just steps from Laganas, for a memorable evening in a unique and picturesque setting.

6. Crete, Greece

Best for: Traditional tavernas, lively resorts and laid-back nightlife

Crete, the largest Greek island, offers nightlife that ranges from authentic to energetic, with Chania and Heraklion bustling in the cities and Malia and Hersonissos renowned for their glamorous seaside clubs. Malia is the island’s party hotspot, with clubs like Candy, Zig Zag, and Apollo keeping the crowds dancing into the early hours. Hersonissos also offers a lively atmosphere, where visitors can enjoy well-known venues such as Palm Beach Club and New York Beach Club along the waterfront. For those who prefer a slower pace, Chania and Rethymno offer charming evenings in traditional tavernas, jazz bars, and rooftop spots overlooking Venetian harbours.

During the day, Crete invites exploration of its sandy beaches, the dramatic Samaria Gorge and ancient ruins like the Palace of Knossos. Visitors can also enjoy traditional villages and the island’s renowned local cuisine.

Top Tip: Head to the waterfront of Agios Nikolaos in the evening for cocktails with views of the lake and sea, a favourite for a more relaxed night out.

7. Magaluf, Spain

Best for: High-energy nightlife, beach clubs and all-night partying

Magaluf, on the island of Majorca, is famed for its electrifying nightlife, centred around the legendary Punta Ballena strip. Clubs like BCM Planet Dance, Tokio Joe’s, Boomerang, and the iconic Carwash keep the party going with international DJs, foam parties, and themed events, while beach clubs such as Nikki Beach Mallorca, Oceans Beach Club and Island Beach Club bring a glamorous edge to the scene. The strip is packed with cocktail bars, pubs, karaoke spots and sports venues like Lineker’s Bar and Mambos Terrace, ensuring there’s something for everyone. From May to September, the resort is alive with partygoers, making it one of Europe’s most enduring nightlife capitals.

Outside of the nightlife, Magaluf offers fun-filled days at Western Water Park, Katmandu Park and the Pirates Adventure Dinner Show. You can also unwind on Magaluf Beach, try watersports or take trips to nearby Palma and Valldemossa.

Top Tip: For fewer crowds but the same buzzing nightlife, plan your trip in May or September - the perfect months for hen and stag parties.

8. St Tropez, France

Best for: Glamorous celebrity nightlife and chic beach clubs

Saint-Tropez is synonymous with glitz, glamour, and jet-set partying on the French Riviera. Begin your night at Pampelonne Beach, where clubs like Nikki Beach serve up champagne-fuelled afternoons that roll into sunset sessions. Around the marina, chic spots like Café de Paris and Bar du Port offer world-class cocktails, people-watching, and DJ beats that grow livelier as the evening progresses. For late-night dancing, Les Caves de Roy, The VIP Room, and Gaïo keep the energy soaring until dawn, with celebrities, models, and billionaires filling the dancefloors.

Beyond the nightlife, Saint-Tropez offers plenty of charm by day with its golden beaches, historic old port, and cultural highlights like the Citadel and the Annonciade Museum. You can also enjoy boat trips around the Gulf for a taste of Riviera luxury.

Top Tip: For a break from the glamour, head to Kelly’s Pub - the laid-back Irish bar where flip-flops are welcome and the Guinness is always flowing.

9. Algarve, Portugal

Best for: Beachside parties, stylish cocktail bars and all-day fun in the sun

The Algarve’s nightlife is wonderfully diverse, ranging from sunset beach clubs and lively pool parties to sophisticated bars and late-night clubs. Albufeira is the heart of the action, while Vilamoura offers a more glamorous scene and Portimão’s Praia da Rocha is famous for its day-to-night beach parties. Highlights include NoSoloÁgua in Portimão, with its circular pool and ocean views, and Armação Beach Club, which blends barefoot luxury with live DJ sunset sessions. For a more laid-back vibe, beachside spots like Izzy’s, Julia’s, Caniço and The Shack serve great food, cocktails, and live music in stunning coastal settings.

By day, the Algarve’s beauty shines through its golden beaches, dramatic cliffs, and natural wonders. Don’t miss exploring Benagil Cave, hiking the Seven Hanging Valleys trail, or visiting Ponta da Piedade for unforgettable views.

Top Tip: For organised party fun, ShhAlgarve runs epic pool parties, boat parties and bottomless brunches in Albufeira - perfect for hens, stags and groups of friends.

10. St. Julian’s, Malta

Best for: High-energy clubbing, chic waterfront bars and live music nights

St. Julian’s is Malta’s nightlife capital, with Paceville at its heart - a buzzing district packed with nightclubs, rooftop bars, and late-night venues. Iconic spots like Havana Club deliver Latin beats and hip-hop, while Sky Club, one of Malta’s biggest nightclubs, hosts international DJs and large-scale events. For a more refined night, TwentyTwo offers panoramic city views and elegant cocktails, while Hugo’s Lounge and Caffe Portomaso blend stylish dining with vibrant atmospheres. Along St. Julian’s Bay, you’ll also find sophisticated gems like The Thirsty Barber, Black Sheep, and chic wine lounges that pair drinks with Mediterranean sea views.

Outside the nightlife, St. Julian’s offers plenty to explore - from the fishing boats of Spinola Bay to the luxury marina at Portomaso Bay. Relax on Balluta Bay’s seafront promenade or discover historic landmarks like Spinola Palace.

Top Tip: Paceville’s clubs get going after midnight - start your evening with sunset cocktails by the bay before heading into the action.

Which Should You Choose?

Top Tips & Party Holiday Mistakes to Avoid

A beach holiday built around nightlife can be unforgettable, but a few smart choices will make sure your trip is remembered for the right reasons. To help you get the best out of your party break, here are some top tips and common mistakes to avoid.

1. Book Club Tickets in Advance: Popular venues often sell out quickly, especially during peak season. Pre-booking guarantees entry and can sometimes save you money.
2. Avoid Overspending on Drinks: Club drinks abroad can be expensive, especially in tourist hotspots. Start your evening at a local bar or use happy hour deals before heading into the main clubs.
3. Know the Local Rules: Some resorts have tightened rules around street drinking, noise and behaviour. A quick check before you go ensures you won’t face fines or trouble with the authorities.
4. Sort Out Transport Early: Know how you’re getting back to your hotel after a night out. Whether it’s a shuttle, taxi or walking route, planning ahead saves stress at 3am.
5. Book Your Hotel Stay Early: Party destinations fill up fast in peak season, so secure your preferred dates well in advance. Check out Wowcher’s hotel deals to grab discounted rates and save big on your stay.
6. Don’t Forget Daytime Activities: The beaches, water sports and excursions are part of what makes these destinations special. Balance nightlife with daytime fun so you get the full holiday experience.

Whether you’re after world-famous superclubs, laid-back beach bars or sunset cocktails with a view, these best holiday destinations for nightlife promise evenings you’ll be talking about long after your trip. From sizzling beach club vibes to vibrant city strips, there’s something to suit every party style. 

For more inspiration, check out our travel guides below.