You’re in Ibiza, the White Isle. You’ve danced on rooftops, soaked up sunsets in San Antonio, and maybe even lost your voice at Hï.
But now you’re craving something a little calmer.
A place where the beaches are untouched, the waters glow turquoise, and the vibe is effortlessly relaxed.
Good news: that place is Formentera, and it’s just a short ride away.
A trip from Ibiza to Formentera is one of the most rewarding day trips (or overnight escapes) you can do in the Balearics.
Whether you're up for a full-blown adventure or just want to spend the afternoon with your toes in the sand and a cold drink in your hand, this guide will walk you through exactly how to plan it.
From ferries to boat trips, beaches to beach bars, here’s everything you need to know to make your Ibiza to Formentera trip unforgettable.
Why Take a Trip from Ibiza to Formentera?
Formentera is Ibiza’s little sister island, and it’s wildly different in all the right ways. Where Ibiza is electric and ever-awake, Formentera is calm, natural, and soothing.
Think fewer crowds, no high-rise hotels, and some of the best beaches in Europe.
Why it’s worth the trip:
- It’s less than an hour away
- It has white sand beaches that rival the Caribbean
- You can rent a bike, scooter, or Mehari and explore freely
- It’s ideal for a detox day between Ibiza parties
- The sunsets? Unreal.
This is your getaway within a getaway.
How to Get from Ibiza to Formentera
There are a few ways to make the journey, depending on your budget, schedule, and travel style.
1. Fast Ferry (25–30 minutes)
If you want to get there quickly and comfortably, fast ferries are your best option.
Top operators:
- Balearia
- Trasmapi
- Mediterranea Pitiusa
- Departures: Every 30–60 minutes during high season
- Duration: 25–35 minutes
- Departure port: Ibiza Town
- Arrival port: La Savina, Formentera
- Price: ~€25–€35 one way
Ideal for: Day-trippers, couples, families, and anyone on a schedule.
2. Aquabus (Scenic Ferry – 45–60 minutes)
Prefer to cruise? Aquabus offers a slower, scenic ride that’s more affordable and perfect for soaking in sea views.
Departure points:
- Ibiza Town
- Playa d’en Bossa
- San Antonio (longer trip)
Price: ~€19–€25 one way
Vibe: Chill, open-deck, budget-friendly
Ideal for: Budget travelers, backpackers, relaxed explorers.
3. Private Boat or Speed Boat
Want to arrive in style? Book a private boat or speedboat and make the journey part of the adventure.
- You choose the route and stops
- Includes swim stops, drinks, and music
- Great for small groups or couples
- Travel time: ~30–45 minutes
- Price: From €600–€1,500 per day depending on boat
Ideal for: Groups, special occasions, romantic escapes.
4. Guided Boat Day Trips
You can also book a full day trip by boat that includes:
- Cruise to Formentera
- Swim/snorkel stops
- Free time on the island
- Drinks or snacks on board
Perfect if you want zero planning and maximum enjoyment.
Where You Arrive: La Savina Port
No matter how you get there, all routes land in La Savina, Formentera’s small and peaceful port town.
From here, you’re steps away from:
- Bike and scooter rentals
- Local cafés and shops
- Taxi and bus connections
- A short walk to beaches like Es Cavall d’en Borràs
- This is the launchpad to your Formentera adventure.
What to Do on Your Ibiza to Formentera Trip
1. Hit the Beaches
Let’s be clear: the beaches are the main event.
- Ses Illetes: Often called Europe’s best beach. White sand, shallow turquoise water, and unreal views.
- Cala Saona: A cove with red cliffs and some of the best sunset vibes.
- Es Caló des Mort: A quiet, hidden spot with crystal-clear snorkeling.
- Migjorn: Long, untamed, and perfect for peaceful swimming. Bring a towel, sunblock, and your best swimsuit. This is where you disconnect and recharge.
2. Explore by Bike, Scooter, or Mehari
One of the best things about Formentera is how compact and easy to explore it is.
- Rent a bike (~€10/day)
- Hop on a scooter (~€25/day)
- Cruise in a retro Citroën Mehari (~€70–100/day)
- You can circle most of the island in a few hours, stopping at beach bars, cliff lookouts, and photo spots along the way.
3. Eat at a Beach Club or Local Chiringuito
You didn’t come all this way to eat a sad sandwich. Here are some iconic lunch spots:
- Beso Beach – Famous for its food and its party energy.
- Juan y Andrea – Luxe dining with toes in the sand.
- Can Carlitos – Great tapas and marina views.
- Kiosko 62 – More casual, loved by locals, ice-cold mojitos.
Pro tip: Book ahead if you're heading to Beso or Juan y Andrea during high season.
4. Visit Cap de Barbaria
Formentera’s iconic lighthouse sits at the edge of dramatic cliffs with a winding road leading up to it.
At sunset, it’s breathtaking. It’s a peaceful, cinematic experience, especially after a day of beach hopping.
Sample Day Trip Itinerary
Here’s what a perfect day might look like:
Time Activity
09:30 AM Ferry or speed boat from Ibiza
10:15 AM Arrive at La Savina, rent scooter
10:45 AM Beach time at Ses Illetes
1:30 PM Lunch at Beso Beach
3:00 PM Explore Cap de Barbaria or Cala Saona
5:00 PM Sunset drinks at Es Caló
6:30 PM Return ferry to Ibiza Town
7:30 PM Dinner in Ibiza or head out for the night
Want to stretch it out? Stay overnight in a boutique hotel or eco-villa. Formentera after dark is quiet, star-filled, and totally magical.
Best Time to Go
Formentera is gorgeous year-round, but some months offer a better experience than others.
Month Vibe
May–June Quiet, colorful, perfect weather
July–August High energy, high demand, beach clubs buzzing
September Warm seas, golden light, fewer crowds
October Calm, ideal for photography and peace seekers
Avoid windy days if possible, it makes the sea crossing less comfortable and some beaches less swimmable.
5 Booking Tips
1.Reserve your ferry early, especially in July–August
2.Pack light , beachwear, water, sunscreen, and a charger
3.Download offline maps if you plan to bike or drive
4.Book lunch ahead if you’re aiming for a beach club
5.Wear your swimsuit under your clothes to save time
You can book everything (ferry, boat trip, combo deals, even club entry for later) via Clubtickets. It’s quick, secure, and gives you access to exclusive offers.
Who Should Take the Trip?
This is one of the most flexible experiences you can have in the Balearics. It works for:
- Couples on a romantic escape
- Solo travelers seeking something slower
- Groups of friends balancing party days with chill ones
- Families wanting safe beaches and space to explore
- Creatives, photographers, and nature lovers
It’s Ibiza’s calm counterbalance, and once you go, you’ll wonder why you didn’t do it sooner.
Final Thoughts: Two Islands, One Epic Day
An Ibiza to Formentera trip isn’t just a side excursion. It’s a chance to completely shift gears, see the Mediterranean at its most beautiful, and reconnect with the reason you came here in the first place, to feel something unforgettable.
So whether you’re planning a wild week of clubbing or looking for a quiet moment between the music, take a day. Take the boat. And let Formentera show you what island life really feels like.
Ready to book your Ibiza to Formentera trip?