Aerial view of Ses Illetes beach in Formentera

Holidays to Formentera

Formentera holidays are like hitting snooze on reality. Hop on a boat from Ibiza to sink into the island’s beach vibe – it’s so laidback even flip-flops feel formal.

Barefoot bliss

Channel your inner flower child and embrace Formentera’s hippy beach scene, where the waves will wash your worries away. Soft white sand meets turquoise waters on Ses Illetes and Playa de Llevant – two picture-perfect beaches where no filter is required! Whether the kids are splashing around or you’re perfecting your sunbathing technique, Formentera delivers the ultimate beach holiday.

Make waves

Formentera’s inviting waters are begging to be explored! Rent a kayak or paddleboard to glide through secluded coves and rocky cliffs. If snorkelling is more your style, head to Cala Saona for waters teeming with colourful fish and striking underwater rock formations. You can also hire a boat for the day and spend the day sunbathing and diving off the deck into the crystalline sea.

Feel those bohemian vibes!

Ibiza’s quieter relative, Formentera is the effortlessly cool cousin who knows how to do laidback living. The island’s capital, Sant Francesc, is full of charm, with its whitewashed buildings and sleepy squares. Feel like getting artsy? Check out La Mola Hippy Market for tempting art, fashion and handcrafted treasures. No rushing here – just stroll, snack and let Formentera’s boho magic work its charm.

Two wheels, no sweat

Formentera is small enough to explore by bike (and has only a few cars), so rent a two-wheeler in La Savina and make the most of the island’s flat terrain and cycle-friendly trails. The village of Es Pujols is a popular pitstop, with a gorgeous beach and plenty of places to eat and drink, but if you’re feeling energetic, pedal up to the La Mola lighthouse for stunning views over the cliffs. It’s worth every bit of legwork!

Sneak Peek

Best for... Boho beach bums and sunset chasers 🌅

Go... In May or September for great weather and fewer tourists ☀️

You have to... Cycle to hidden beaches and pretend they’re yours 🚲

Formentera holiday deals

Five Flowers Hotel Formentera Meliá Collection

4.7

Excellent

Playa Es Pujols, Formentera, Spain
  • 25 May 2026
  • 4 nights
  • Bed & breakfast
  • From Gatwick

Prices from

£968 pp

Apartamentos Es Pujols

4.7

Excellent

Playa Es Pujols, Formentera, Spain
  • 15 Aug 2026
  • 10 nights
  • Bed & breakfast
  • From Newcastle

Prices from

£1,729 pp
Prices and availability shown can change. Always check pricing with the provider before booking.

Details

Currency

Euro

Language

Spanish

Time difference

GMT +1

Cost of a beer

€2

3-course meal

Around €27

Flight time

2 hrs

Top beaches: A sandy, hippy paradise

Formentera’s beaches are truly paradisical. Ses Illetes is the ultimate head turner, racking up a fair number of world’s best beach awards. For a quieter vibe, Playa de Llevant boasts equally stunning views and, blissfully, fewer people. Cala Saona has that small-bay charm, with shallow waters perfect for little ones or a spot of snorkelling, and don’t forget Migjorn Beach, where you can sip a sundowner and listen to the soothing sound of the waves.

Culture and history: Pirates, markets and fiestas

In Sant Francesc, an 18th-century church sits at the heart of a chilled square, where you can people-watch with a coffee. Or, stop by the island’s lighthouses, which once kept a lookout for pirates (and the occasional lost sailor)! And if you visit during a local fiesta, you’ll get to hear traditional ballades – the island’s go-to soundtrack long before Spotify playlists. Throw in La Mola market selling local crafts and you’ve got the perfect mix of history, culture and retail therapy!

Food and drink: Fresh paella and sunset cocktails

Food on the island is all about simple, fresh flavours. Seafood reigns supreme here – think grilled octopus and seafood paella – and the figs are fresh and abundant. Fancy a drink? Sip on a glass of pomada, Formentera’s gin and lemon lifesaver, to cool you down after a day in the sun. In the evening, it’s back to the beaches to discover your new favourite chiringuito beach bar for a sunset snack and drink.

When to go to Formentera

Formentera is a year-round dream, but if you want to dodge the crowds and bask in delightful weather, spring and autumn are golden. Your wallet will thank you for going in May or September, both of which strike that perfect balance of sunshine, serenity and cheap holiday deals.

In July and August, the island turns up the heat and welcomes a flurry of sun-worshippers. The beaches are irresistible though, so if you can handle the buzz, dive right in!

Winter is a tranquil escape, with beach days served with a side of solitude. Just be prepared for a few closed attractions.

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