At the mention of Ibiza, probably the first thing you think of are the great clubs and the party atmosphere for which the island is famed. But don’t be fooled — the beauty and infinite opportunities offered by this Pityusic island go far beyond these first impressions.
The endless possibilities available on the coast, as well as inland, together with the island’s culture and its natural landscapes, make Ibiza the perfect holiday destination to visit with children. The youngest members of the family will be thrilled to go on holiday to a place so full of adventure and excitement.
Of course, the star attraction is going to be the beach, but in Ibiza you will also find a wide range of activities that will add to the island’s attractions as a place to spend a most enjoyable family holiday. Make a list of all the activities you don’t want to miss!
- Coves and beaches suitable for children in Ibiza
- What to see in Ibiza with children Dalt Vila, Ibiza Town’s historic quarter
- Snorkelling, a great activity to do with children in Ibiza
- More activities with children in Ibiza: paddle boarding and boat excursions
- Cool down in an water park
- Island-hopping to Formentera
- Staying at the Barceló Occidental Ibiza
Coves and beaches suitable for children in Ibiza
Obviously, some beaches and coves are more suitable than others when you’re travelling with children. Easy access is essential, along with services and even water-based activities. None of this is a problem on the island, as there is a plethora of beaches to choose from, depending on your needs and preferences.
One of the favourites among local families is Cala Llonga, in Santa Eulalia, a long stretch of sand, with plenty of restaurants and shops, a children’s playground, and pedaloes available for hire. If you’re in Ibiza Town, you could go to Talamanca or Figueretas, as they are both easily accessible, with very calm waters and plenty of services.
If you prefer the coves, one of the most suitable is Sa Caleta, in San José, as the water remains shallow for some distance out from the beach, and the turquoise waters will leave your children open-mouthed with wonder. Portinatx, in San Juan, is another fantastic cove, which also has schools where you can try various water sports.
Cala Vadella is the perfect spot for you if you prefer somewhere quieter but with superb restaurants. Las Salinas beach is set in the heart of a natural park, while Cala Tarida with its fine sands is one of Ibiza’s loveliest coves. There are endless options, so pack some sunscreen into your rucksack, grab your bucket and spade, and get ready to fall in love with this coast.
What to see in Ibiza with children Dalt Vila, Ibiza Town’s historic quarter
As you’re holidaying in a place steeped in culture, now is a good time to awaken your children’s interest by doing a spot of sightseeing in the island’s capital. The old part of Ibiza town is known as Dalt Vila (high town), and its picturesque, medieval streets are a sight not to be missed as you learn its history, in which pirates played a significant role. The fortification of the town was necessitated by the frequent pirate attacks.
In the old town, which is also a World Heritage Site, other attractions not to be missed include the fourteenth-century Cathedral, the impressive Renaissance town walls — a thrilling sight for young children — and the Town Hall. After this tour, you could have something to eat and drink in the Plaza de la Vila, while you soak up the atmosphere.
Snorkelling, a great activity to do with children in Ibiza
An activity that the whole family can enjoy (and one which you won’t want to miss on your holiday in Ibiza) is snorkelling. The wealth of marine life beneath the crystal clear waters around the island is a fascinating spectacle for both children and adults alike.
Snorkelling will give you a taste of adventure, along with a chance to learn about Ibiza’s undersea flora and fauna, and particularly its wondrous posidonia meadows. The presence of this plant shows the high quality of the coastal waters.
More activities with children in Ibiza: paddle boarding and boat excursions
To get the most out of your holiday in Ibiza, you need to see the secret caves at Cala Xuclar or the mysterious islet of Es Vedrà from a paddle board, whilst rowing. There are parts of the island that can only be accessed from the sea, so children will absolutely love an excursion of this type. A two-hour trip with an instructor who knows the area well and can find places to stop for a rest, will be enjoyable and won’t overtire the children. It is sure to be a fun-filled day.
A boat trip around Ibiza’s coast is another activity that children are sure to enjoy. But add to this a visit to the Can Marçà Cave, in Port de Sant Miquel, and you have an unbeatable day out.
Organised excursions are available with departures from different ports. These take you to Sant Miquel, where you are collected by a minibus and driven to Can Marçà, a remarkable cave full of stalactites, stalagmites, waterfalls, and special lighting effects. The cave is hidden among the cliffs and commands sweeping panoramas that will take your breath away; your children will never want to leave.
Cool down in an water park
Of course, when you travel with children, you need to plan activities that take account of their needs. A morning or afternoon is one of Ibiza’s fantastic water parks will give your children a chance to let off steam, especially if you’ve been focusing on more cultural activities.
The best parks are full of slides and water attractions; it is worth mentioning Aguamar, one of Ibiza’s best-known water parks, in Playa d’en Bossa, and Sirenis Aquagames, in Port de Torrent is perfect for younger children.
Island-hopping to Formentera
The other Pityusic island is Formentera, only a 30-minute ferry crossing from the port of Ibiza, with several departures daily. This idyllic island is another essential visit if you’re spending several days in Ibiza.
The turquoise waters here will delight the whole family. You can see the island on a tour bus, drive across it by car or hire bikes — one of the best options. The beaches at Migjorn, Es Caló and La Savina, the La Mola lighthouse, and the mouthwatering bullit de peix [Ibiza’s traditional fish stew] with arroz a banda [rice cooked in a fish stock] at the El Mirador restaurant are among the pleasures to be enjoyed here.
Staying at the Barceló Occidental Ibiza
An important aspect of planning a holiday with young children is deciding which hotel you’re going to stay in. One firm recommendation is the Barceló Occidental Ibiza hotel, set in an exceptional location just a stone’s throw from Port des Torrent, with easy access to the main coves and to the airport.
This hotel is a perfect choice, with its friendly atmosphere, children’s swimming pool, entertainment programmes, children’s playground, and multi-use pitch, along with many other services you may require.
These are just a few among many possibilities for things to do with children in Ibiza. Further additions you could make to your list of things not to be missed include watching out for flamingoes as you wander around the Ses Salinas Natural Park, or enjoying the hippy atmosphere at the island’s street markets, such as Las Dalias, while you search for that perfect, authentic souvenir.
