Day Trip to Formentera, Spain

If you’re staying in Ibiza, make sure to take a day trip to fabulous Formentera Island. This is one of the smaller Balearic Islands and it’s loaded with beaches. One of its most beautiful is Ses Illetes, which was named one of Europe’s best beaches 2016 and often on various other lists as one of the best. Especially when it’s not crowded.

This island is only accessible via ferry or boat and is just a 30-60 minute ride, making a day trip to discover the incredible beauty here really easy. 

Formentera

The island has over 12 miles (20 km) of idyllic, clear, turquoise water with white sandy beaches. With just over 12,000 inhabitants, it has a remote, relaxed feel. In addition, there is minimal development along its beaches, letting the true beauty of nature shine.

Note how the concave shape of this small island maximizes it’s beachfront area.

Formentera has a history of being popular with hippies. It’s popular with famous people too. Bob Dylan once lived here and Joni Mitchel wrote an album here.

As it’s remote, some of its beaches are known for being ‘clothing optional’, so don’t be surprised if you stumble upon someone this way.

How To Get To Formentera

Ferries run regularly during peak season from the port in Ibiza Town to Port Savina on Formentera Island. Depending on which ferry line you choose, the ride will take about 30 or 60 minutes. There are several carriers, so check the link above for times and prices.

Note that only select ferries transport cars to Formentera. Check to make sure they transport rental cars before making your plans. And make sure your rental car company is ok with this if they do.

Beaches On Formentera

There are so many beaches on Formentera, it’s best to use local websites to see a full and updated listing. Select the main beach listing or the secluded beaches to see them all.

But if you plan to visit Formentera as a day trip from Ibiza, I recommend heading to Ses Illetes Beach, which was voted one of Europe’s best beaches by Trip Adviser users in 2016.

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This beaches has a long, narrow islet, resulting in a strip of white sand with beaches on both sides. Umbrellas and chairs are available for rent in the area.

Only a limited number of vehicles are allowed here, so once the parking is full, you need to arrive by bus or by foot. This means it’s best to arrive early. And actually, it’s best to arrive before it gets crowded anyway.

Getting Around On Formentera

Bicycles and motorbikes are the most popular means of transportation, as the island is only 15.5 miles (25 km) from end to end. 

There is also bus service on Formentera that provides independent travelers access to various beaches.

The bus that takes you from the ferry Port Savina to Ses Illetes beach runs regularly during peak season, making it really easy to access. It’s bus line 3. Note that it only runs during peak season.

If you want to explore other parts of the island, the map on the link above is really helpful to show where the other buses travel to.

Overall, I highly recommend a day trip to Formentera when visiting Ibiza. Of course, if you want to explore all the beaches, which you may decide to do, you can stay longer.

Use this link to discover the many lovely hotels on Formentera.

Want To Learn More About Ibiza?

Ibiza is a beautiful island with many stunning beaches and a fascinating history. To learn more about it see my post Top 7 Things To Do In Ibiza (For Non-Partiers).

Other highlights on Ibiza include Cala Llonga, my favorite beach, Portinatx, the rocky coast in northern Ibiza, and the stunning rock formation of Es Vedra.