Things to do in Formentera: Tips, Beaches, Boutique Hotels
Formentera, the smallest of Spain’s Balearic Islands, is often mistaken for a Caribbean paradise due to its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches and relaxed atmosphere. Situated just south of Ibiza and accessible via a 30-minute ferry ride, Formentera offers a peaceful alternative with fewer crowds. Playa Illetes has ranked among the best beaches in Europe and the island is worth far more than a day trip. The best things to do in Formentera? I have stayed here a couple of times already and made a complete guide covering my favourite restaurants, beaches, hotels and a whole lot more.
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Introduction to Formentera
With a length of just nineteen kilometres and a width of only two, Formentera is perfect to explore by scooter or car. The water is so intensely blue it almost looks unreal. That is thanks to posidonia, a unique type of seagrass that filters the seawater and reflects sunlight. Sadly, this fragile ecosystem is under threat from boats dropping anchors onto it.
You can still feel the island’s hippie roots everywhere. In the 1960s, American draft dodgers fled here because of the lack of police presence. That laid-back, free-spirited vibe is still very much alive. And yes, naturism is completely normal here.
Mar Suites, Formentera | Things to do in Formentera | Best Hotels
Best boutique hotels in Formentera: things to do in Formentera
– Click on the names for rooms and rates –
Formentera has boutique hotels that feel like a dream. I stayed at Mar Suites in Es Pujols: a chic and intimate spot where every suite comes with either a jacuzzi or a plunge pool. Close to Bocasalina and the beach. Win-win.
Teranka Hotel is pure indulgence and perfect for a special getaway. Even if your budget does not stretch to a room, you are welcome to join a yoga class on the sea-view platform or in the beautiful open-air shala.
Can Aisha is adults-only and pure peace. One of those places where you arrive stressed and leave restored.
Hotel Casbah is set in nature with an excellent restaurant on site. A great option for anyone who wants to feel immersed in the island rather than just passing through.
Hotel Es Mares brings minimal design and island charm together in San Francesc. Consistently well reviewed and beautifully positioned.
Also worth considering: La Gaviota for a budget-friendly and beachy stay and Micalet Formentera for something cosy, charming and affordable.
Things to do in Formentera: top activities
On Formentera, you will find peace, space and nature. You can go hiking, sailing or cycling, join a yoga class with a stunning sea view, taste the finest wines among the vineyards and indulge in delicious meals at some of Spain’s best seafood restaurants.
1. Cruise around the island
Rent a scooter or bike and explore Formentera’s 32 green routes. The dedicated paths make it ideal for discovering hidden beaches and scenic spots at your own pace.
2. Visit the hippie market at La Mola
Experience the island’s bohemian spirit at the La Mola market, held every Wednesday and Sunday from May to October. Browse handmade crafts and jewellery and enjoy live music in a vibrant garden atmosphere.
3. Yoga and wellness by the sea
For quality yoga sessions, head to El Nido at the Teranka Hotel. Even if your budget does not stretch to a room, you are welcome to join a class on the sea-view platform or in the beautiful open-air shala.
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4. Wine tasting at local vineyards
Discover Formentera’s winemaking tradition by visiting vineyards like Terramoll and Es Cap de Barbaria. Enjoy guided tours and sample local wines in picturesque surroundings.
5. Kayaking around the island
The coastline of Formentera is best explored from the water. Book a kayak rental and paddle along the turquoise water at your own pace, discovering hidden coves and sea caves that are impossible to reach on foot. One of the most memorable ways to experience the island.
6. Road tripping without traffic lights
In just forty minutes you can drive from north to south. The main roads are smooth, the views are wide and open and once you turn off toward the coast you will find yourself on bumpy dirt tracks. Fun fact: Formentera does not have a single traffic light. Book the guided 4×4 island tour if you want someone else behind the wheel, or compare rental cars through Discover Cars and explore entirely at your own pace.
Must-visit spots in Formentera: things to do in Formentera
San Francesc Xavier
This charming village is the island’s capital and full of personality. Pop into Centrale Parfumería for dreamy island scents, shop at Le Petit Atelier or Bohemian Balearic and do not leave without trying a local pastry from Forn Can Jeroni. For lunch or dinner, head to El Giovale, Tap.ita by Lucky or the always cosy Café Matinal.
Es Pujols
A lively seaside village with great beaches, restaurants and the island’s only nightclub: Tipic Club. You can dance here until the sun comes up. My favourite restaurants here are Bocasalina and Chezz Gerdi. Lunch at Chezz Gerdi is legendary: boats arrive from Ibiza and there is often a DJ spinning tunes.
Lighthouse at Cap de Barbaria
A winding road through a desert-like landscape leads you to this dramatic cliffside lighthouse. It has been featured in films and offers unbeatable sunset views with Ibiza’s mysterious Es Vedrà on the horizon.
Stargazing with no light pollution
Thanks to limited artificial lighting, Formentera is a stargazer’s dream. Bring a blanket and watch planets align from La Mola or Cap de Barbaria. NASA has even supported events here. Keep an eye on the Astronomia Formentera site for telescope meetups.
Best beaches in Formentera: things to do in Formentera
Let’s be honest: every beach here is stunning. But here are the ones that deserve a starring role in your itinerary.
- Platja de Ses Illetes: turquoise water, white sand, postcard-perfect. Located in the Ses Salines Natural Park, it is the island’s crown jewel.
- Cala Saona: great for a late afternoon swim and a sunset cocktail.
- Calo des Mort: tiny but magical.
- Migjorn Beach: five kilometres of sandy bliss with fab seafood spots.
- Es Caló and Punta de Sa Gaveta: snorkel heaven, minus the crowds.
- Platja es Arenals: long and wide, perfect for a lazy beach day.
Naturism is completely normal here, by the way. No stress if you forgot to pack a bikini.
A private pool at Mar Suites | Best Hotels | Things to do in Formentera
Best restaurants in Formentera
This tiny island knows how to do food. Whether you are after something refined or rustic, here are the best places to wine and dine. If you are combining Formentera with Ibiza, do not miss my guide to the best restaurants in Ibiza either.
- Bocasalina: hands down my favourite. Get the red shrimp tagliolini or the cod beignets with jalapeño mayo. Thank me later.
- Blat Picat: a cute little spot for healthy bowls, good coffee and dreamy smoothies.
- Chezz Gerdi: sushi, cocktails and dangerous shopping all in one place.
- Can Rafalet: fresh fish with views of Es Caló. A local favourite.
- Teranka Garden: gnocchi with sage butter and a glass of cava is heaven.
- Sa Platgeta: tucked under trees by the sea. Quiet, authentic, amazing.
- Beso Beach: the ultimate lunch party spot. DJs, mojitos and feet in the sand. Book well in advance.
- Can Toni: post-market perfection. Go for the anchovies in vinegar and a big jug of cava sangria.
- La Masa Pizzeria San Farra: probably the best pizza on the island. Yes, really.
How to get to Formentera
There is no airport here, thankfully. You will fly into Ibiza and hop on a ferry from the port. Go for a fast boat like Trasmapi: it takes around 30 minutes. If you are prone to seasickness, take a motion sickness tablet and sit outside. For a stunning boat excursion once you are on the island, book the trip to Espalmador and Illetes, the two most beautiful spots in the natural park, by boat.
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Gnocchi with sage butter at Teranka Garden | best restaurants | Things to do in Formentera
When in Formentera, skip the standard tourist menu and go for the real deal: local dishes that taste like sunshine. Try bullit de peix, a rich fish stew often served with arroz a banda, saffron rice cooked in the broth. Do not miss the sobrasada, a spicy cured sausage that is as addictive as it is messy. And if you spot ensaimada, the fluffy spiral pastry, on the dessert menu: say yes. Always.
Road tripping around Formentera is pure freedom. With no traffic lights on the island (not a single one!), you can cruise from one end to the other in under an hour. Windows down, salt in your hair and stunning views all around. The roads are quiet and scenic and once you veer off toward the coast you will find yourself bumping along sandy tracks that lead to hidden beaches and secret coves. Whether you are in a cute Mehari jeep or on a scooter with attitude, every turn feels like a little adventure. Compare rental cars through Discover Cars or book the guided 4×4 island tour and let someone else handle the navigation. My complete guide to renting a car in Ibiza covers everything you need to know before you arrive.
So, what are the best things to do in Formentera?
The real answer? Slow down, explore, sip sangria at sunset and let the island do the rest. From dreamy beaches to bohemian markets and unforgettable meals, there is so much to do in Formentera that one visit will never be enough. Trust me, you will be planning your return before you have even left.
ALL MY IBIZA TIPS AND HIGHLIGHTS
Things to do in Formentera: frequently asked questions
How do you get to Formentera from Ibiza?
By ferry from the port of Ibiza. A fast boat takes around 30 minutes. Book your return ferry ticket in advance during high season as boats fill up quickly. If you are prone to seasickness, take a tablet and sit outside.
How many days do you need in Formentera?
At least two to three days to do the island justice. One day is not enough to cover the beaches, restaurants and spots like Cap de Barbaria. If you can stay a week, you will not regret it.
Is Formentera worth visiting?
Without question. Formentera has some of the clearest water in the Mediterranean, no traffic lights, brilliant food and a relaxed pace of life that is increasingly hard to find in Europe.
What is the best beach in Formentera?
Platja de Ses Illetes is consistently ranked among the best beaches in Europe and deserves its reputation. Cala Saona is beautiful for sunsets and Calo des Mort is tiny but magical. All three are worth visiting.
When is the best time to visit Formentera?
May, June and September are ideal: warm weather, fewer crowds and better prices than peak season. July and August are the busiest and most expensive months. October is surprisingly pleasant for a quieter visit.
A BEAUTIFUL FORMENTERA BOAT TRIP
Planning to visit more of Spain? Check all my guides for Ibiza, Mallorca, Barcelona, Valencia and Nerja.
- Find the best hotels in Formentera at Booking.com
- Book tours and activities at GetYourGuide
- Compare rental cars at Discover Cars
- Book your airport transfer at WelcomePickups
- Get your eSIM at Saily
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