
What to see in Formentera in one day?
Do you have the opportunity to spend a day in Formentera, but you don't know what to see?
Well, first of all, you have to get to the island: the ferry and the ship are the main options to do it. The ferry is the most popular and accessible method, but opting for a private boat can offer a exclusive and personalized experience, allowing you to explore the surroundings with greater freedom and flexibility, discovering coves and beaches that could not be visited otherwise. Another option is to get to the island by ferry and then rent a boat in Formentera to be able to visit the best places on the island with greater peace of mind.
Once on the island, the possibilities for getting around are varied and adapted to the preferences of each traveler. The choice of a motorcycle It offers agility and speed, ideal for traveling along narrow coastal roads and discovering hidden corners. On the other hand, renting a car provides comfort and space, facilitating exploring more distant places and the transportation of equipment or supplies.
Without a doubt, the most outstanding and unique option is that of travel by boat around the island. This alternative not only offers a unique experience, allowing access to hidden coves and beaches that are difficult to access by land, but also avoids the concerns associated with the overcrowding of coastal areas. Furthermore, for those who do not have a navigation license, there is the possibility of rent a boat without a license in Formentera. In short, opting for the boat as a means of transportation on the island promises a unforgettable adventure, enriched by the freedom of the sea and the beauty of the landscapes that the island offers.
Ses Illetes Beach
Ses Illetes, one of the most emblematic beaches of Formentera, stands out for its turquoise waters and fine sand that extends for half a kilometer. This paradisiacal gem is located in the ses Salines natural park, a protected space that guarantees the preservation of its natural beauty. However, access to Ses Illetes is not unlimited, as capacity is restricted, especially during the high season in July and August.
To secure a spot on this beach, many visitors choose to arrive early in the morning. Furthermore, it is important to keep in mind that Access with vehicles involves the payment of a fee, which can vary depending on the season, ranging between €2 and €4 for motorcycles and between €4 and €6 for cars. If you prefer not to pay this fee, you will have to get to ses Illetes beach on foot or by bicycle. Many tourists, on the other hand, choose arrive by boat, not only for convenience, but also because it allows them to explore other nearby coves, such as Levante beach and the island of Es Palmador.

source: formentera.es
Ses Salines Natural Park
The Ses Salines d'Eivissa i Formentera Natural Park, recognized and declared in 2001, stands as a natural treasure that unites the Pitiusas islands. With an extension that extends from the south of Ibiza to the north of Formentera, this park stands out for its 2,752.5 terrestrial hectares and 14,028 marine hectares. Its uniqueness lies in being a vital refuge for migratory birds, exhibiting a wealth of Mediterranean biodiversity and unprecedented ecological, landscape, historical and cultural values.
Among the many attractions of the natural park, we highlight four:
- Posidonia Oceanica meadows: The park is home to extensive Posidonia oceanica meadows, crucial for marine biodiversity and part of Ibiza's declaration as a World Heritage Site.
- Defense Towers: The Carregador tower, built in the 16th century with a conical shape, protects the salt trade. In addition, we can also find the Ses Portes tower, at the southernmost point of Ibiza, which offers spectacular views of the Es Freus strait and Formentera.
- Beaches and Coves:
- Es Cavallet: A beach surrounded by junipers, famous for being the first naturist beach in Ibiza in 1978.
- Ses Salines: Beach with a family and bohemian atmosphere, with extensive sand, dunes and turquoise waters. Along the route, there are also authentic Ibizan stone coves.
- Picturesque Landscapes: The path runs between rocks carved with ethnic drawings and passes by the Pouet de Sa Trinxa, a small well used by salt mine workers.
To visit some of the most emblematic places in the park, we propose a fascinating itinerary that begins in front of the islet of the Sal Rossa, providing views of Dalt Vila, the old walled city of Ibiza. Descending along a little path, you reach tiny stone coves, the beach of It's Cavallet and the Carregador tower.
Continuing, one reaches the Ses Salines beach and, further ahead, the Ses Portes tower, providing impressive views of the Strait of It's Freus. The path reveals carved sandstone rocks and passes historic sites such as Pouet de Sa Trinxa.
The route culminates at Ses Salines beach, where wild nature combines with the lively offer of beach bars like Sa Trinxa, Jockey Club Salinas, and Beso Beach Ibiza, providing a well-deserved rest and entertainment after exploring the treasures of this magnificent Natural Park.
It's Caló d'es Mort
It's Caló d'es Mort, it is a small cove on the island, small but iconic and stands as a paradise corner. A visit here is worth getting up early to fully enjoy its charm. This small beach stands out for its natural beauty and crystal-clear waters, making it an ideal place for both diving and contemplating an unforgettable sunset. A small space, but full of beauty. However, it is important to keep in mind that it lacks services such as beach bars or shops, so it is essential to bring with you what you need to spend a day at the beach, including drinks and sunscreen.
Getting to Es Caló d'es Mort can be a challenge, since access is somewhat complicated and parking space is very limited. For those who opt for the motorcycle, it is advisable to follow the path around the Casablanca restaurant. On the other hand, those traveling by car can park at the Hotel Riu La Mola and access the cove on foot. Despite the logistical challenges, the unique experience that Es Caló d'es Mort offers makes the effort totally worth it, for lovers of nature and tranquility.
Mola Market
You may not know that another of Formentera's charms is found in its hippie markets, which have become an integral part of the island's culture. Since the 1960s Formentera has been a magnet for those who embrace the hippie lifestyle, and this cultural influence is still very palpable today, as you can easily see once on the island.
Among all the markets that give life to the island, La Mola stands out as the largest and most emblematic. Celebrated the Wednesdays and Sundays from 4:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., this market becomes a crucible of creativity and artistic expression. At this market you can explore stalls full of handmade pieces, unique jewelry and bohemian clothing. However, what really distinguishes the Mola market is the unique atmosphere that can be breathed in its cobblestone streets.
In addition to shopping, there is also space for live music performances, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere. With its mix of colors, sounds and positive energy, the Mola market stands as one of the most authentic and captivating attractions you can find on the island.

source: formentera.es
Cap Barbaria Lighthouse
The Cap Barbaria lighthouse stands as the most mythical and emblematic lighthouse on the island. Inmortalizado en la película «Lucía y el sexo», este faro atrae a numerosos turistas que buscan vivir el mágico atardecer desde su privilegiada ubicación en el southernmost point of the Balearic Islands, which places it closer to Africa. Although the lighthouse is still in operation, unfortunately it does not allow direct access, which does not diminish its attractiveness. The image and landscape it offers are spectacular, making a visit to this place an unforgettable experience.
From here you will have the opportunity to access another emblematic place on the island: the Cova Foradada. This intriguing site can be explored through a small hole near the lighthouse, which leads to the fascinating perforated cave. This addition to the visit to the lighthouse adds a touch of adventure to your experience at Cap Barbaria.
To get to this place from Sant Francesc Xavier, the capital of the island, you must follow the road that heads south. However, it is important to note that The road is narrow and requires maneuvers for the passage of two vehicles. For this reason, the most advisable option is to use more agile means of transportation such as motorcycles, bicycles or simply walking. The green routes 8, 10 and 11 They offer trails that lead to the lighthouse, allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty of Formentera during your trip to this emblematic point in the south. If you want more information about these routes, you can find it here.

source: formentera.es
Organize your full day in Formentera
In short, although Formentera offers a rich variety of places to explore, It is possible to enjoy the most emblematic points and the best beaches in just one day, completely immersing you in the essence of the island. To optimize your time, we recommend following a well planned route. Start early with a visit to the idyllic coves, as they tend to fill up quickly. Next, delve into the natural beauty of the Ses Salines natural park, continue with an afternoon of shopping at the lively Mola market and finish your day with the unique experience of watching the sunset from the majestic Cap Barbaria lighthouse.
It is essential to keep in mind that choosing the ideal route It will largely depend on the season in which you visit the island.. During the high season, it is advisable to allow extra time as the roads and all sites on the island tend to be more crowded, which can affect travel times. As a final piece of advice, consider the possibility of rent a boat in Formentera to access all the coves without capacity restrictions. This way, you will have the freedom to explore the coastal beauty of Formentera in a more relaxed way and without the limitations that could arise on dry land.