Formentera: the most beautiful spots on this small Balearic island

Contents:

• The most beautiful beaches on Formentera
• Es Palmador: A boat trip to a natural paradise
• Things to do on Formentera: nature, the sea and island tranquillity
• Diving and snorkelling on Formentera
• Lighthouses on Formentera: Cap de Barbaria and Far de la Mola
• Villages, markets and street art on Formentera
• Cuisine on Formentera: our restaurant recommendations
• Accommodation on Formentera: stylish hideaways rather than large resorts
• Practical tips for Formentera
• Conclusion: Formentera is small but unforgettable

The most beautiful beaches on Formentera

Formentera is famous for its beaches, which seem almost unreal in their beauty: light-coloured sand, shallow waters and shades of blue that shift from turquoise to deep blue depending on the light. The fact that the sea around the island is so crystal-clear is also down to the protected Posidonia seagrass meadows, which naturally filter the water and make Formentera one of the most beautiful seaside destinations in the Balearic Islands.

• Playa de Ses Illetes: Formentera’s picture-postcard beach: Playa de Ses Illetes is the island’s most famous beach – and probably the place where Formentera most resembles the Caribbean. Fine sand, shallow water and yachts sailing over from Ibiza characterise the scene. 
• Platja de Llevant: wild, vast and wonderfully natural: Just a few steps away, Formentera reveals a rougher side. Platja de Llevant is more open, windier and more unspoilt than Ses Illetes. Perfect for anyone looking for long walks along the beach, wide open spaces and a less staged island experience.
• Cala Saona: red cliffs and a golden evening glow: Cala Saona is one of Formentera’s most atmospheric coves. Nestled between red cliffs and pine forests, the water here glows with a particularly intense colour. It’s at its most beautiful towards evening, when the sun slowly sets and bathes the whole bay in warm light.
• Playa de Migjorn and Es Arenals: relaxing days by the sea in the south: On the south coast, Playa de Migjorn stretches for several kilometres along the island – ideal for anyone looking for a bit more space. The Es Arenals section is particularly lovely, where clear water, soft sand and laid-back beach bars create a real holiday atmosphere.
• Caló des Mort: small, secluded and picture-perfect: Caló des Mort may be small, but it’s one of the most photogenic spots on the island. Nestled between rocks, fishermen’s huts and turquoise-blue water, the cove looks almost like a film set. As space is limited, it’s worth visiting early in the morning or outside the peak season.

Es Palmador: A boat trip to a natural paradise

Just a few kilometres north of Formentera lies Es Palmador – a small, uninhabited island with bright white beaches, dunes and exceptionally clear water. It forms part of the Ses Salines protected natural area and feels even more unspoilt and secluded than Formentera itself.

During the season, Es Palmador can be reached by small passenger boats, which operate from Illetes, amongst other places. The trip is particularly worthwhile for anyone wishing to spend a peaceful day swimming in an almost untouched setting. Important to note: There are no restaurants or facilities on Es Palmador – so you should bring your own water, sun cream and food.

Things to do on Formentera: nature, the sea and the island’s tranquillity

Formentera is ideal for anyone who wants to explore the island in an active yet relaxed way. It’s particularly lovely to get out and about by bike, e-bike or on foot: the island boasts an extensive network of green routes covering more than 100 kilometres. Almost 20 different routes wind through pine forests, past salt pans and small villages, and frequently lead down to the sea.

There’s plenty to experience on the water too. Paddleboarding, kayaking, windsurfing, kitesurfing or snorkelling all showcase Formentera at its most beautiful. Those wishing to dive deeper will also find exciting diving spots all around the island, with clear water, rocks and Posidonia seagrass meadows. The natural rock pools at Punta de Sa Pedrera near Can Marroig are also well worth a detour. These former quarries were shaped by the sea and now form small natural pools with clear water – a lovely spot for anyone wishing to discover Formentera away from the usual beaches. Sturdy footwear is recommended, as the ground is rocky and uneven.

Diving and snorkelling on Formentera

Formentera is impressive not only above the water, but also beneath it. The clear water, rocky underwater landscapes and the protected Posidonia seagrass beds make the island a wonderful destination for snorkelling and diving trips.

Well-known diving spots around Formentera include the Mariana Platform, Punta Prima, Punta de Sa Gavina, Es Racó Alt, Rocabella, Es Banc and El Arco. Depending on the spot, the dives are suitable for different levels of experience – ranging from easier routes to more challenging dives. Those who don’t wish to dive can also discover the underwater world whilst snorkelling.

Tip: If you’d like to find out more about the underwater world and the dive sites around Formentera, the official brochure ‘Formentera Beneath the Sea’ provides a great overview of routes, marine life and background information.

Lighthouses on Formentera: Cap de Barbaria and Far de la Mola

Formentera’s lighthouses are among the island’s most impressive sights – not only because of the views they offer, but also because of the unique landscape surrounding them.

Cap de Barbaria in the south has an almost magical feel: a narrow road winds through a barren, expansive landscape to the white lighthouse overlooking the sea. The atmosphere here is particularly beautiful at sunset. Quite different, but just as impressive, is the Far de la Mola in the east of the island. It stands high above the cliffs and offers sweeping views across the Mediterranean. The drive there is particularly worthwhile in the morning or late afternoon – when the light is softer and the island feels even more peaceful.

Villages, markets and street art on Formentera

Even away from the beaches, it’s well worth taking your time to explore Formentera. In Sant Francesc Xavier, the island’s main town, you’ll find small boutiques, cafés, restaurants and the distinctive white church in the centre – ideal for a leisurely stroll.

Sant Ferran de ses Roques has a slightly livelier feel, where bars, small pubs and creative spots evoke the island’s old bohemian charm. Es Pujols is Formentera’s liveliest holiday resort, with a seafront promenade, restaurants and bars right by the sea. Es Caló de Sant Agustí, on the north coast, is quieter and more unspoilt. This small fishing village is known for its traditional boathouses, crystal-clear water and relaxed atmosphere. A visit to La Lola Market in La Mola, which takes place on Wednesdays and Sundays, is also well worth it. With its mix of arts and crafts, jewellery, clothing and music, this is a great place to soak up the island’s unique atmosphere. Added to this is the street art that you’ll discover in many places across the island as you go about your day.

Cuisine on Formentera: our restaurant recommendations

When it comes to food, Formentera remains true to its style: relaxed, Mediterranean and right by the sea. The menus mainly feature fresh fish, seafood, paella, grilled vegetables, aioli and light dishes that are perfect for long summer days.

Our recommendations on Formentera:

• Teranka – stylish Mediterranean cuisine in an elegant, designer setting, ideal for a quiet dinner with that special island feel
• Hannah – creative cuisine with modern dishes, a lovely atmosphere and a touch of fine dining
• Beso Beach – a well-known beach club on Playa de Cavall d’en Borràs, popular for its Mediterranean cuisine, music and relaxed lunches by the sea
• Chezz Gerdi – a lively spot right by the water in Es Pujols, known for its pizza, fish dishes, cocktails and boho flair
• Can Carlitos – a laid-back tapas spot in La Savina overlooking the harbour, ideal for sharing plates and a relaxed evening
• Es Molí de Sal – an iconic restaurant in an old salt mill near Ses Illetes, perfect for fish, seafood and sunsets by the water
• Cala Duo – a stylish spot for drinks and dinner with a summery atmosphere, particularly lovely in the evening
• Malagueña Formentera – a laid-back spot with Spanish flair, tapas, cocktails and a lively atmosphere

Especially during the high season, it’s advisable to book popular restaurants well in advance – particularly along the coast and at sunset. For a drink by the sea, the Blue Bar at Playa de Migjorn is well worth a visit; it’s a legendary beach spot with a relaxed atmosphere.

Accommodation on Formentera: stylish hideaways rather than large resorts

Formentera isn’t an island of large resorts – and that’s precisely what gives it its charm. Many of the accommodation options are small, personal and unobtrusively beautiful: boutique hotels, designer hideaways and peaceful retreats that perfectly complement the island’s laid-back way of life. Those who stay here are usually looking for more than just a room; they’re seeking that special Formentera feeling of light-heartedness, nature and proximity to the sea.

Our hotel recommendations on Formentera:

• Teranka – an elegant designer hideaway offering plenty of peace and quiet, Mediterranean aesthetics and a sense of relaxed luxury
• Hotel Mares – a charming hotel in the heart of Sant Francesc, ideal for anyone who appreciates having cafés, boutiques and restaurants right on their doorstep
• Can Tres Formentera – a stylish retreat with a private atmosphere, perfect for independent holidays combining the beach, nature and the island’s tranquillity

Choice can quickly become limited, especially during the high season. If you’re looking for something special, you should therefore book well in advance. You can also find further selected offers and inspiration for your next trip on our Travel Deals page.

Practical tips for Formentera

• Best time to visit: Formentera is particularly lovely in May, June, September and October. The weather is pleasantly warm, the island is quieter and the beaches are less crowded. July and August are ideal for a classic beach holiday, but are significantly busier and more expensive.
• Getting there from Switzerland: As Formentera does not have its own airport, you’ll need to travel via Ibiza. From there, take the ferry from the port in Ibiza Town to La Savina on Formentera. The crossing takes around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the weather and the ferry; tickets usually cost around 25 to 30 euros each way. You can buy tickets directly at the harbour from the offices of ferry operators such as Formentera Lines, Trasmapi or Baleària, – or online via the operators’ websites.
• Getting around: The best way to explore Formentera is by bike, e-bike or scooter. The island is compact, with many short routes, and this slower pace of travel fits perfectly with the island’s laid-back character. During the high season, there may also be access and traffic restrictions.
• Events: It’s well worth taking a look at the island’s seasonal programme of cultural, sporting and wellness events. Formentera Zen takes place from 29 to 31 May 2026 and focuses on yoga, meditation, nutrition, fitness and holistic wellbeing. This is followed immediately by Formentera to Run from 31 May to 7 June 2026 – a stage race covering a total of around 60 kilometres, combining sport with the island experience. Music fans should also make a note of the Formentera Jazz Festival: in 2026 it will take place from 4 to 7 June. Sa Flower de Formentera, a colourful party in the style of the 60s and 70s, is also particularly atmospheric. You should check the official dates for 2026 again before travelling.
• Cash & Payments: The currency on Formentera is the euro. Card payments are common in hotels and many restaurants, but it’s still handy to have some cash for smaller bars, markets, car parks or unexpected expenses. You can conveniently order euros from the comfort of your own home before your trip using Swiss Bankers’ banknote delivery service.
• Travel insurance: Good travel insurance is particularly worthwhile when travelling by plane, ferry and staying in accommodation. With TravelProtect from Swiss Bankers, you’ll be better covered – subject to the terms and conditions – in the event of cancellation, trip interruption or luggage problems, amongst other things. Important: Activate your cover in good time before your trip and take note of the applicable terms and conditions.

Conclusion: Formentera is small but unforgettable

Formentera isn’t a destination for a hectic pace or long to-do lists. The island thrives on simple, beautiful moments: walking barefoot on the beach, a dip in the turquoise waters, a sunset at Cala Saona, dinner by the sea or a scooter ride through pine forests and small villages.

Precisely because Formentera is compact, there’s more time to settle in, take a deep breath and enjoy yourself. Anyone looking for Mediterranean ease, stunning beaches, tranquil nature and a touch of bohemian flair will find one of the most beautiful island destinations in the Balearic Islands here.