Formentera Balearic Islands

The Formentera Balearic Islands are an unspoiled, peaceful paradise with gorgeous beaches, and sparkling waters.  You’ll find beaches with the whitest sand and waters more crystalline than you could ever hope for. This island is one of the most idyllic destinations in the Balearic Islands. Many believe that the beaches on Formentera are among the best in the world and when you get there, you will think so too. Playa de Ses Illetes is ranked one of the 20 best beaches in the world.  Off the beaten track and away from the main beaches, you can discover many deserted coves to take you away from the crowds.

Formentera is a great destination when you just want to lie on a beach, eat fine food, drink good wine and sleep long languorous hours.   You can stay on Formentera for  deep relaxation or just head over for a day’s visit from Ibiza. You could see the entire island in a day, but it’s better to take in the island at a slow pace. Laze on a beach, have lunch in a beach-side chiringuito, or take a walk around one of its small villages.  This is also a great place to take a walk, either by the coast or inland. Take in the breathtaking views from fields or cliff tops and stand in awe at the beauty. Many like to hike to the old lighthouses, or seek out ancient caves, and all go to watch the incredible sunset.

The sea, with its clear waters is perfect for snorkeling or diving with an amazing kaleidoscope of marine life just under the surface of the water.  The openness of the island means that there few shady spots, so you’ll want to use a good sunscreen.

The transparency of Formentera’s waters is due to the presence of the biggest area of Posidonia seagrass in the Mediterranean Sea that covers the seabed. These underwater grasses are protected by the Ses Salines Nature Park that extends from Ibiza. Ses Salines was once the center of Formentera’s salt industry, which is now no more, but the pretty pink salt flats remain.  The limited development on the island is what keeps the island unspoiled.  You won’t find any tall buildings, not on the beaches, or in the resorts.

Formentera Weather (When to Visit)

From December to February, the weather is characterized by sunny periods alternating with rainy periods. The wind blows frequently. Very cold days are rare, but sometimes night-time temperatures can approach freezing.  From March to May the weather is mild, but in April or mid-May, windy and rainy days are possible, with a bit of cold at night.  June to mid-September is hot and sunny. The air is a bit sultry, but sea breezes temper the heat. Very hot days are rare, however, highs can sometimes reach  95/97 °F in July and August.  From mid-September to November it is pleasantly warm with some wind and rain.  The amount of sunshine in Formentera is great in summer, and is also frequent in spring. In autumn and winter there is a moderate amount of sunny days with some periods of bad weather.

High season in Formentera is July and August. During these 2 months, hotel rates spike, and the Island gets pretty crowded with tourists.  During this time traffic will be pretty awful, and the beaches are so crowded that you can hardly lie on the sand or see the horizon due to the large number of boats and yachts moored in its wonderful waters.  Even if you do come during this time, relax and make the most of your time in Formentera!
The best time to visit Formentera is May, June, September and even October. Prices offer a good value for hotels and restaurants.  The shops are open and beaches are like heaven in paradise.  No multitudes, no traffic and excellent service in every sense.

Best Formentera Beaches

Ses Iletes, Formentera Balearic Islands, Ses Illetes, Formentera beaches, best restaurants in Formentera, best bars in formentera, when to visit Formentera, Top 20 Beach Destinations in the world, best Formentera Beaches, Formentera Trous & ActivitiesSes Illetes

There’s no doubt that the most famous beach in Formentera is Ses Illetes, which was voted as the most beautiful beach in Spain several times. It’s a 1.5 km long beach and the beach is very popular in summer, but since it’s very long, if you are patient enough to walk far enough from the parking, you can have a bath without too many people bothering you.

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Llevant Beach, Formentera Balearic Islands, Ses Illetes, Formentera beaches, best restaurants in Formentera, best bars in formentera, when to visit Formentera, Top 20 Beach Destinations in the world, best Formentera Beaches, Formentera Trous & ActivitiesLlevant Beach

In this side of the peninsula there’s always more wind and therefore there are more waves. It means of course that this beach is much less busy even in high season than Illetes. Llevant is the favorite beach of surfers.

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Calo des Mort, Formentera Balearic Islands, Ses Illetes, Formentera beaches, best restaurants in Formentera, best bars in formentera, when to visit Formentera, Top 20 Beach Destinations in the world, best Formentera Beaches, Formentera Trous & ActivitiesCaló des Mort

This cove is very small, and there’s only a tiny beach there, but it’s considered as one of the most precious beaches in Formentera. As it’s quite small and fairly popular, it can get very crowded in summer, so get there early if you want space for your towel.

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El Pujols Beach, Formentera Balearic Islands, Ses Illetes, Formentera beaches, best restaurants in Formentera, best bars in formentera, when to visit Formentera, Top 20 Beach Destinations in the world, best Formentera Beaches, Formentera Trous & ActivitiesEs Pujols Beach

Es Pujols is a nice moption if you like being close to a great variety of facilities or if you like beaches with a lot of people and even party there.  The beach itself is really pretty with the same crystal clean water you find on the rest of the island.

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Ses Platgetes Beach, Formentera Balearic Islands, Ses Illetes, Formentera beaches, best restaurants in Formentera, best bars in formentera, when to visit Formentera, Top 20 Beach Destinations in the world, best Formentera Beaches, Formentera Trous & ActivitiesSes Platgetes Beach

Ses Platgetes is a series of sand beaches with rocky areas in between. It’s a great beach area, because they are almost never crowded, the water is crystal clear to enjoy a great bath, and the sand is soft to lay down on it.

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Formentera Tours & Activities

Formentera Day Trip from Ibiza on Private Luxury Catamaran

Leave the Ibiza crowds behind on a luxurious private catamaran charter to Formentera Island and Espalmador Island, with a personal captain for your group of up to 11 people. Enjoy a sailboat stocked with snorkeling gear, stand up paddle board, Bluetooth speakers, and chilled soft drinks, dropping the anchor to swim and explore at the islands’ best beaches. This private sailing charter departs from Cala Jondal, with flat rate pricing and the flexibility to customize the day to your preferences.  Learn more about the Formentera Day Trip From Ibiza.

Exploring Formentera by Sailing Boat

Sail from the beaches of Ibiza into the calm, tropical waters around Formentera during this full-day sailing excursion. Stop in sandy Espalmador islet park, explore the island, and have lunch at one of the restaurants along Illetas beach. Plunge off the boat into clear blue waters to snorkel, swim, or paddle-board and watch a Mediterranean sunset in view of the iconic Es Vedra rock formation.   Learn more about the Exploring Formentera By Sailing Boat Tour.

Full-day Private Ibiza and Formentera Charter Cruise

The best way to explore the islands of Ibiza and Formentera is by boat, and a private charter means you can escape the crowds and enjoy a custom-made itinerary. Feel like a VIP aboard your chartered sailboat, with a personal skipper, space for up to 8 passengers, and plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, or paddle board at the islands’ beaches and bays.  Learn more about the Full-Day Private Ibiza & Formentera Charter Cruise.

Sunseeker Mohawk 29 Ibiza and Formentera Boat Experience

Enjoy a paradisiacal island-hopping excursion when you book this private, full-day tour of Spain’s sun-soaked Balearic Islands. Meet at the marina on Ibiza, and hop aboard your comfortable yacht. Venture first to the uninhabited island of Espalmador, where you can snorkel in the turquoise waters and enjoy a complimentary glass of cava. Next, transfer to the lovely Illetas Beach on Palma for a decadent lunch (own expense). Finally, finish the tour on Ibiza, where you’ll have the perfect perspective to take in sunset views.  Learn more about the Sunseeker Mohawk 29 Ibiza & Formentera Boat Experience.

Scooter Rental in Menorca

Zip around the sun-baked island of Menorca (or Minorca) and explore at your own pace with this scooter rental. Choose from a 24-hour rental up until a 7-day rental and whether you want to ride alone or with a passenger. Then, strap on your included helmet, plot out your journey on your included map and set off to discover the vibrant cities and town of Mahón, Ciutadella and Fornells, or seek out serenity at Son Bou beach, Calle Macarella coves and more.  Learn more about the Scooter Rental.

Best Formentera Restaurants

Aigua  $31 – 60

Located right on the marina at La Savina, and with a large outdoor terrace, Aigua is a great choice for a romantic dinner date. The menu is primarily seafood, with an emphasis on Italian cuisine, but also some excellent sushi and sashimi. It’s not cheap but it’s easy to see why this place is popular – the setting is stunning, and the food is great, and presented beautifully on the plate. The restaurant is only open in the evenings, and tables on the terrace are the place to be, so it’s best to book ahead.  Telephone:  +34 971 323 322  Web:   Aigua.

Can Carlos  $31 – 60

With the outdoor terrace set in a beautiful garden with fairy lights twinkling in the trees, Can Carlos certainly makes for a picture-worthy romantic setting. It’s not all about the garden though, as the food and service are both fantastic, as is the wine list. The menu is Mediterranean with a heavy leaning towards Italian, and the seafood is particularly good, with the local squid and tuna carpaccio being firm favourites. This restaurant is extremely popular, and only opens for dinner, so booking ahead is essential, particularly if you want to sit outside. Telephone:  +34 971 322 874   Web:   Can Carlos.

Juan Y Andrea  $31 – 60

The restaurant is instantly recognisable by the four huge palm trees surrounding it, which are the only trees on the beach. It was established in 1971 by a local fisherman and his wife, and was originally a small seafood shack but is now a large restaurant with a huge shaded ‘terrace’ with tables directly on the sand. The premise of the restaurant hasn’t changed, and it is still a family-run restaurant, whose local seafood specialities are outstanding.  Telepone:   +34 630 258 144  Web:  Juan Y Andrea

Es Caló  $31 – 60

At Es Caló, tables are set on an open-sided wooden structure on a beach of the same name, with clear views over the pretty cove and out to sea. For a delicious seafood lunch, in a relaxed and tranquil beach setting, this is the place to come. Their paellas and other rice dishes are excellent, and the spiny lobster casserole, (which doesn’t come cheap, and has to be ordered in advance) is a real treat. Local dishes like the octopus or salads with dried salty fish, are also worth trying. Telephone:  +34 971 327 311 Web:  Es Caló.

Es Moli De Sal  $31 – 60

Chi-chi but family friendly, this beach side bar and restaurant is the place to come if you want perfect sunset views with your pre-dinner drinks. Es Moli de Sal is located in an old windmill right on the edge of the sea, and is apparently a favorite of the King of Spain, among other celebrities, which would explain the eye-watering prices. Drinks however are fairly reasonable, and if you are prepared to splash out on a nice meal, the extensive seafood menu is very good, and the homemade ice-cream is raved about.  Telephone:  +34 971 187 491 Web:  Es Moli De Sal.

Best Formentera Bars

Piratabus

Started by a couple of hippies from Germany who arrived over 40 years ago, Piratabus is one of the Formentera’s oldest bars and one that still manages to retain plenty of its seventies island vibe. Originally a bus (hence the name) its now a wooden beach hut located on the sand dunes of Mitjorn. As well and cold beer and outstanding mojitos, it serves up some excellent tapas that can be gobbled down while enjoying some great music and spectacular sunsets. Telephone:  +34 637 011 998  Web:  Piratabus.

Kiosko 62

Another off-the-beaten-track chiringuito, Kiosko 62 is located at the other end of Mitjorn beach and shares the friendly and super-chill mood of Piratabus. You can almost dangle your toes into the crystal-clear water while supping back a cold one at this popular and reasonably-priced beachfront bar. Don’t leave without trying their specialty – the pomada – a refreshingly simple mix of Balearic gin and cloudy lemonade. Telephone:  +34 697 840 795 Web:  Kiosko 62.

Gecko Beach Club

Just along the beach from Kiosko 62, but a world apart is the super-swish Gecko Beach Club. Dubbed “barefoot luxury” by its owners, expect the well-heeled, the jet-set, and the occasional A-list (certain Dicaprio once dropped in) to be lounging around custom-designed loungers ordering expertly-mixed cocktails. Why not join them and splurge on a canopied day-bed and enjoy the sunset in style? Telephone:  +34 971 328 024 Web:  Gecko Beach Club.

Blue Bar

With a peace sign on its roof that can be seen from the air, this quirky bar also features a resident alien mascot and galactic-themed decor. Expect a mix of reggae, ambient, and jazz music from live DJs as well as regular – and rather bizarre – extra-terrestrial performances. Set on the dunes overlooking Mitjorn beach, it can also claim some gorgeous sunsets and rumors abound that the likes of Dylan kicked back here in the sixties. Telephone:  +34 666 758 190 Web:  Blue Bar.

Chezz Gerdi

While principally a restaurant (and a fine one at that), Chezz Gerdi is also one of the finest places on the island to sink a sundowner or two. A playfully-decorated chill-out area provides a great spot for exploring their impressive cocktail menu – the Green Tea Gin is a highlight – and if the mood takes you stay for their delicious traditional Italian-inspired cooking. To find it look out for the rooftop VW camper van just on the outskirts of Es Pujols. Telephone:  +34 648 020 106 Web:  Chezz Gerdi.

Best Formentera Hotels


36 Comments

  1. Bel

    I have been looking for a good beach destination in Spain, and I think I just found it! It looks like a beautiful place to travel with lots of activities. Thanks for all the great information, as this makes my planning so much easier!

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      I love Spain, and Formentera is absolute paradise. You are going to have a wonderful time. If you need any additional help, or have any questions, please let me know.

      Reply
  2. Eden

    Formentera looks a stunning place and you would have a relaxing time there for sure. Spain is a country I want to go to in general in the future. A very detailed and interesting article.

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      Great Eden, and you will love it on Formentera. Absolutely beautiful! Thanks for stopping by!

      Reply
  3. Brandon

    You provide us with so many beautiful destinations and I hope to visit some of these some days. My parents want to plan something for their 30 year anny so I will be sure to keep these places in mind!

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      Boy, any of the beach destinations I have written about will make a great 30 year anniversary vacation. They will have a wonderful time! Thanks for reading about Formentera Balearic Islands.

      Reply
  4. Crystal Lim

    Hi,

    Thanks for your lovely recommendation! Spain is definitely one of my favourite countries! The people and the weather are amazing!

    Just wondering what are the exact water sports can I take there? I love to jet ski and scuba diving. Do you reckon they are doing both of these there? Also, as it can be difficult to carry my scuba diving equipment with me if there is no airport there, do you know if there are any facilities that rent the equipment?

    By the way, what’s the price of the Aquabus for taking you from Ibiza to the island?

    I know I might have too many questions here, but really wanting to know haha!

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      Hi Crystal, and thanks for reading about Formentera Balearic Islands. Yes, you can jet ski and you can scuba dive here. Both are popular water sports in Formentera. And you will find lots of opportunities to rent gear, so you do not need to lug yours along 🙂 Here is the Aquabus Link that gives the times and fees. It is relatively inexpensive and a nice ride 🙂 Please let me know if you have any additional questions.

      Reply
  5. Amy

    This Mediterranean paradise looks wonderful! I love the fact that these beaches are unspoiled and out of the reach of mass crowds! Exploring by bicycle sounds amazing and the white sandy beaches are calling my name. I would love to take a trip here to see the beautiful, transparent waters and explore the caves and beaches!

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      It is definitely a paradise Amy! And I agree that the best way to explore is by bicycle. I love to explore and not just lounge on the beach, however, that is sometimes just what I need as well. A trip to Formentera Balearic Islands is a trip to paradise!

      Reply
  6. Ahmad Ballard

    Hello once again Leah, it is always a pleasure to visit your site, and read about the best places to visit in the world. I have never heard of Formentera before, it is so beautiful!!! I will have to pay this place a visit when I start to travel the world. I will love to set foot on that lovely beach. Keep up the great work as always!!!

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      I will Ahmad and thank you so much for visiting Formentera Balearic Islands and taking the time to leave me comments. You will have a wonderful time when you get the chance to visit this heavenly beach destination!

      Reply
  7. Michael

    What an amazing place to go. I am definitely looking into this for one of my next vacations. Thank you so much for the informative article. It’s grat to have such a wide array of choices in staying, eating etc. to look into even before I start planning the trip. Makes the process so much more accessible.
    Thanks a lot!

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      I am glad I could help Michael! If you need any additional information or help in planning your next dream vacation, just let me know. I am here to help!

      Reply
  8. KB

    Thank you for making yet another good and thorough beach vacation post. I loved the scenery of the YouTube video for the Formentera Balearic from the drone’s point-of-view, gives a lively and authentic feel ( at least for me 🙂 ). Continue providing us with vacation ideas to keep in mind!!!

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      I will keep posting more beautiful beach destinations for you KB! It’s my passion and I love sharing my knowledge and experiences. Thanks for visiting Formentera Balearic Islands.

      Reply
  9. Stacie Stocker

    Oh my gosh! My family and I had just watched a movie set in Ibiza and we decided we want to go there someday. I think we’ll be adding these beautiful islands to our trip! What a wonderfully thorough article! Thank you!

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      You are so welcome Stacie and I am glad you enjoyed reading about Formentera Balearic Islands. I think you will have a wonderful time here!

      Reply
  10. shalisha alston

    “Formentera is a great destination when you just want to lie on a beach, eat fine food, drink good wine and sleep long languorous hours.” I feel like I just want to lie on the beach. But you can only get to Ibiza by boat, no plane? This is definitely honeymoon hot spot! Great job on the site and very informative post.

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      Thank you so much Shalisha, and yes it is a honeymoon hot spot. It is beautiful, secluded, and just wonderful! I think the remoteness makes it even more wonderful. Thanks for stopping by and visiting Formentera Balearic Islands.

      Reply
  11. holly knudson

    I have never even heard of Formentera. It sounds absolutely heavenly. Your post is very comprehensive in describing this idyllic destination and I’ve wanted to visit Spain. My son lived there for a couple years and loved it. Oh, how I would love to go there right this minute! Thank you. Reading this brightened my day.

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      I am so glad you enjoyed reading and learning about the wonderful beach destination Formentera Balearic Islands. It truly is paradise! Thanks for stopping by!

      Reply
  12. Stratos

    Another great place for vacations, another great article if you are considering to go to a place like this. Great read and so many options to choose from. Keep informing us!!!

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      Will do! Hopefully one day soon you will start planning your amazing beach vacation! Formentera Balearic Islands is a wonderful choice!

      Reply
  13. Sabrina

    Wow, how beautiful!! Can’t wait to get my business making money so I can travel and start going to the beautiful places I keep reading about! This is definitely getting printed out and going into my vision book for an awesome traveling spot!

    I’ve only gone snorkeling once, and I loved it. Was years ago, think it’s time to start exploring again. Thank you for the beautiful content and getting my ‘get up & go’ cranked up again 🙂

    Sabrina

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      You are so welcome Sabrina, and I wish you the best of success in your business, so you can start enjoying all these beautiful places! Thanks for reading about Formentera Balearic Islands.

      Reply
  14. Jack

    Another breathtaking location covered by you in fantastic detail, I love how much information can be found on just one page. The pictures of beaches and scenery found here are simply amazing, I love this website!

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      Thanks Jack, and thanks for visiting Formentera Balearic Islands. A truly wonderful beach destination. I hope you can make it there someday soon!

      Reply
  15. Robert M Doyle

    Another great post! Thanks. And once again, I want to go there–this time to Formentera. I would most likely pick either March, June, or October as a month to go. Sounds fairly good anytime.

    Still trying to place the location–an island in the Mediterranean?

    I suppose I would fly to Ibiza and then take a ferry to Formentera. I will keep Aquabus in mind. Then I will rent a bicycle with which to get around. Great way to get around and good exercise too! Thanks for sharing.

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      Hi Robert! Thanks for stopping by and yes, I would like to head there right now too! It is off the East coast of Spain in the Mediterranean. Your selections are perfect! Don’t forget about one of my hotel choices 😀

      Reply
  16. Gabbs

    Wow! Love your blog! The beaches here look absolutely beautiful, thanks for making such a detailed post 🙂

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      You are very welcome, thanks for stopping by Formentera Balearic Islands Gabbs!

      Reply
  17. Eric

    Formentera Balearic Islands off the coast of Spain seems like a nice little treasure to get to. I had to look up on a map where Ibiza was just to get the idea about the place. The many coves sound like a fun way to poke around and look for any lost items people could have dropped over the years. I was wondering about the history there and anything interesting that may have happened?

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      Oh yes, exploring all of the coves would be wonderful! Formentera is full of history and rather than put it all in here, here is the link that gives a low down on the history of the island. It is quite a wonderful place with the most breath taking beaches ever. Thanks for visiting Formentera Balearic Islands.

      Reply
  18. Jeremy

    This is definitely one of my favorite destinations you’ve shared so far that I’d love to take a trip to. I’m a sucker for the white sandy beaches and clear water. Nothing beats relaxing on a beautiful beach like this one listening to the waves crash up onto the shore! Thanks for sharing!

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      You are so welcome Jeremy. What is not to love? LOL This is really my only kind of vacation 🙂 Anyway, thanks for stopping by and taking the time to leave me some comments.

      Reply

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