Things to do in Formentera: Highlights, Hotspots and Tips
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 40-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 definitely worth a longer visit than a day trip. The best things to do in Formentera? I have stayed on this beautiful island a couple of times already and made a list of all my favorite restaurants, beaches, hotels and whole lot more…
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With a length of just nineteen kilometers 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’s 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 their 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 totally normal here.
Mar Suites, Formentera | Things to do in Formentera | Best Hotels
On Formentera, you’ll 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…
Explore Formentera: Top Activities
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.
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, jewelry, and enjoy live music in a vibrant atmosphere.
3. Yoga and Wellness by the Sea
For quality yoga sessions, head to El Nido at the luxurious Teranka Hotel. Even if your budget doesn’t stretch to a high-end room, you’re more than welcome to join a class—either on the sea-view platform or in the beautiful open-air shala.
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 amidst picturesque settings.
5. 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’ll find yourself on bumpy dirt tracks. Fun fact: Formentera doesn’t have a single traffic light!
THE BEST RENTAL CARS FOR FORMENTERA
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 don’t 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 cozy 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 favorite restaurants? Bocasalina and Chezz Gerdi! Lunch at Chezz Gerdi is legendary—boats arrive from Ibiza and there’s 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’s 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. Bonus: NASA has even supported events here. Keep an eye on the Astronomia Formentera site for telescope meetups.
Beach-Hopping Bliss: Best Beaches in Formentera \ Things to do in Formentera
Let’s be real—every beach here is stunning. But here are the ones that deserve a starring role in your itinerary:
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Platja de Ses Illetes – Turquoise water, white sand, postcard-perfect. Located in the Ses Salines Natural Park, it’s the island’s crown jewel.
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Cala Saona – Great for a late afternoon swim and sunset cocktail.
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Calo des Mort – Tiny but magical. Instagram loves this one.
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Migjorn Beach – Five kilometers of sandy bliss and fab seafood spots.
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Es Caló & Punta de Sa Gaveta – Snorkel heaven, minus the crowds.
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Platja es Arenals – Long and wide, perfect for a lazy beach day.
Naturism is totally normal here, by the way. So no stress if you forgot to pack a bikini…
A private pool at Mar Suites | Best Hotels | Things to do in Formentera
THE BEST RENTAL CARS FOR FORMENTERA
Best Restaurants in Formentera
This tiny island knows how to do food. Whether you’re after something refined or rustic, here are the best places to wine and dine:
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Bocasalina – Hands down my favorite. Get the red shrimp tagliolini or the cod beignets with jalapeño mayo. Thank me later.
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Blat Picat – A cute little spot for healthy bowls, good coffee, and dreamy smoothies.
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Chezz Gerdi – Sushi, cocktails, and dangerous shopping all in one place.
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Can Rafalet – Fresh fish with views of Es Caló. A local favorite.
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Teranka Garden – Gnocchi with sage butter and a glass of cava = heaven.
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Sa Platgeta – Tucked under trees by the sea. Quiet, authentic, amazing.
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Beso Beach – The ultimate lunch party spot. DJs, mojitos, and feet in the sand. Book well in advance.
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Can Toni – Post-market perfection. Go for the anchovies in vinegar and a big jug of cava sangria.
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La Masa Pizzeria | San Farra – Probably the best pizza on the island. Yes, really.
Where to Stay on Formentera
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. It’s also close to Bocasalina and the beach. Win-win.
Other fab options (click on the name for rooms & rates)
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Hotel Casbah – Set in nature, with an excellent restaurant.
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Hotel Es Mares – Minimal design meets island charm in San Francesc.
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Can Aisha – Adults-only and pure peace.
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La Gaviota – Budget-friendly and beachy.
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Micalet Formentera – Cozy, charming, and affordable.
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Teranka Hotel – Pure indulgence, perfect for a special getaway.
How to Get to Formentera
There’s no airport here—thankfully. You’ll 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’re prone to seasickness (like yours truly), take a motion sickness tablet and find a seat outside.
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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 straight for the real deal: local, soulful 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). Don’t miss the sobrasada, a spicy cured sausage that’s as addictive as it is messy. And if you spot ensaimada—a fluffy spiral pastry—on the dessert menu, say yes. Always. This is island comfort food at its best.
Road tripping around Formentera is pure freedom. With no traffic lights on the island (yep, none!), 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 towards the coast, you’ll find yourself bumping along sandy tracks that lead to hidden beaches and secret coves. Whether you’re in a cute Mehari jeep or a scooter with attitude, every turn feels like a little adventure.
THE BEST RENTAL CARS FOR FORMENTERA
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 are so many things to do in Formentera that one visit will never be enough.
Trust me—you’ll be planning your return before you’ve even left.
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The best flights to Ibiza
I like to book my flights with Vueling #nospon. The rates and felixibility are excellent. I once changed my dates 2 times after booking without an additional fee and the app is super easy to use!
- For a hassle-free car rental, head to Sunny Cars.
- Find the top hotels in Formentera on Booking.com.
- Check out Vueling for the best flights to Ibiza.
- For unique experiences and excursions, visit Getyourguide.com.
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