While the Spanish mainland offers heaps of picturesque towns to explore, the Spanish islands are home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, making them the best destinations for ultimate family getaways. From the hedonistic paradise islands of the Balearic to the volcanic scenery of the Canary Islands, the Spanish Islands will make your family travel truly unforgettable.
To help you decide which island to visit, refer to this list of the best Spanish Islands perfect for family travel.
Menorca
If you want to visit an island that’s not too crowded, make it Menorca. Despite being one of the most popular Spanish islands, it was able to maintain its laidback charm. In fact, it has the most unspoiled beaches of all the islands in the Balearic. Menorca offers a variety of stunning landscapes and seascapes and has many secluded beaches where you can spend quality time with the family.
In Menorca, you’ll have access to long stretches of pristine white sands and rocky bays with turquoise lagoons, set alongside pine forests overlooking the deep-blue ocean of the Mediterranean. But Menorca is not just about the beaches. The island is also packed with history – its picturesque old town is home to 13th-century architectural marvels. Menorca’s countryside is also brimming with megalithic monuments, some dating back to the early Bronze Age.
Menorca has plenty to offer for families who love to hike. The Camí de Cavalls, a 115-mile circular, is a true haven for hikers. It threads together the coastline and will take you to some of the most secluded beaches on the island.
Ibiza
Ibiza rightfully deserves its title as the “party island” of Spain. It constantly comes out as a destination of choice for travelers who love to party. But this does not mean that you can’t enjoy a relaxing family holiday here. It offers plenty of family-friendly amenities, and many of the luxury villas in Ibiza you can book, cater to families with kids.
During the day, you and your kids can enjoy the wide and spectacular sandy strips that border the azure waters or travel back in time as you explore the ancient ruins and archaeological sites in the Old Town. But most of Ibiza’s charm lies in its many stunning beaches. Cala Tarida, an idyllic beach along the west coast, boasts rippling blue waters, perfect for young ones to paddle and frolic in.
The best part about visiting Ibiza with your family is that anything goes – you can dance the night at the laid-back beach clubs or spend your days discovering the island’s secluded beaches. All over the islands, you’ll find several family-friendly parties and music events that you could take advantage of, from live music in the evenings to fun-filled dinners with cool music and a variety of entertainment.
Formentera
Formentera is the sister island of Ibiza, whose laidback charm and unspoiled coastlines are lined with rugged cliffs and beautiful blue lagoons. Families looking for a quieter alternative to Ibiza should head to Formentera. It’s the perfect retreat for those who need to break from all the partying and clubbing in Ibiza. There are regular ferry services to get you between the islands in only half an hour.
Some of the island’s most family-friendly beaches include Es Pujos, Cala Saona, and Migjorn. These beaches have calm and crystal-clear Mediterranean waters, ideal for families with kids. Discover Formentera from a different perspective by taking a boat tour with your family aboard a wooden boat called llaut. These boats will take you to the nearby islands with a stop at some beautiful beaches, including secluded coves.
For families who love adventures, go on a scuba diving excursion at the Ses Salines d’Eivissa I Formentera Natural Park, which lies between the islands of Formentera and Ibiza. The marine park occupies around 75% of the park’s surface area, offering the most unforgettable diving experience.
Majorca
Majorca is a great destination for families looking for a change of scenery. Aside from its stunning white sand beaches with turquoise waters, it’s also famous for its mountain, the Serra de Tramuntana. At the height of 1455 m above sea level, it’s an ideal spot to enjoy a scenic hike with the family.
For families who are not into hiking, wander around the streets of Palma to explore its historical sites, including the gothic cathedral of La Seu, built around the 13th to 14th centuries. Marvel at an old Muslim castle, the Almudaina Palace, and indulge in delicious foods at one of Plaza Mayor’s cafes and restaurants.
Take your family on a fun boat trip to Cabrera National Park and be ready to spot dolphins and other interesting marine animals along the way. Go on a guided excursion at the Cuevas de Genova Cave and admire the striking lighting effects throughout the tour. For kids who love a bit of adrenaline rush, take them to the Aqualand El Arenal theme park. Your little adventurers will have a blast trying out the many exciting rides at this park, especially the Banzai, a super-fast slide!
Tenerife
As the largest among the main Canary Islands, Tenerife features a rugged and volcanic landscape and enjoys a moderate climate, earning its moniker, “The Island of Eternal Spring”. The island is pleasantly warm all-year round that you can enjoy sunny days at the beach even in the winter months.
One of the best things to do in Tenerife with the kids is to go whale and dolphin watching. The moderate seas surrounding the island are home to different species of dolphins and whales, and you can best view them from a boat. These boats will depart from Los Gigantes or Los Cristianos and take approximately three hours. If you want to escape from the beach, take the kids to the island’s largest park, the Siam Park, a Thai-themed park with numerous water rides, lazy rivers, and a gigantic wave pool.
Make your family holiday relaxing by renting a luxury villa with a pool. You’ll find plenty of Tenerife holiday rentals and lettings all over the island ideal for families, as they come equipped with child-friendly amenities.
Lindsay Nieminen hails from Vancouver, Canada and shares her love of travel on this website. She is passionate about showing others that they should not put off traveling the world just because they have young children or are single parents. She aims to encourage them to seek out adventure, whether it is at home or abroad by providing information on how just about everywhere can be a destination to explore as a family.