Is Ibiza a Family-Friendly Holiday Destination or Just a Party Island?

This blog post features links and information which have been obtained on a press trip. However, as always, all opinions shared in this post are my own.

I’ve just returned from a family holiday to Ibiza. The phrases ‘family holiday’ and ‘Ibiza’ are rarely used in the same sentence. Instead, the island is often better known for its party scene. However, Ibiza is excellent for families.

I travelled to Ibiza with my wife and two young children, Oliver (almost three years old) and Patrick (2.5 months old). We chose Ibiza because:

• Short flight times from the UK – about 2.5 hours
• Moderate temperatures – it’s typically warm without being too hot
• Range of hotels with kids’ clubs
• Plenty of things to see & do

The demographic on our flight to Ibiza was mixed. Roughly 50% were looking for the nightlife, while the other 50% were families and elderly. However, this was towards the end of the season.

I went to Ibiza last July and found that 85% of the flight was looking for the nightlife. So when you go, is going to make a difference. At least when it comes to the flight.

Once you arrive in Ibiza, you’ll find that those looking for nightlife will head to the San Antonio area. Meanwhile, everyone else typically heads north.

Therefore, unless you choose to stay in San Antonio, you’re unlikely to be in the same hotel as partygoers.

When it came to travelling to Ibiza, we chose Jet2holidays. We went on our eldest son Oliver’s first trip abroad with Jet2 and find them great for families. Our Jet2 holiday included:

• Flights to Ibiza with Jet2 inc 22kg baggage & 10kg hand luggage per person
• Transfers from the airport in Ibiza to our hotel
• Four nights all-inclusive at the Invisa Figueral Resort

Jet2 currently flies to Ibiza from 12 UK airports. With flights from Manchester Airport, we had less than an hour’s drive to the airport. I can’t tell you the difference a short commute to the airport makes when travelling with kids.

This and the 2.5-hour flight meant we arrived at our hotel by lunchtime. This was essential as we were only visiting Ibiza for four nights and wanted to make every moment count.

While four nights in Ibiza sounds like a short time, it was surprising how much we did during our visit. Unlike before, when my wife and I travelled as a couple, there’s less time to relax by the pool and read a book. So, instead, we like to keep busy.

We typically structured our days as follows:

• 7:30am: Breakfast
• 9:00am: Morning trip out / visit to the kids’ club
• 1:30pm: Lunch
• 2:15pm: Trip to the beach or pool
• 4:30pm: Nap
• 7:00pm: Dinner
• 8:00pm: Mini disco
• 9:30pm: Bedtime

Morning trips out in Ibiza are likely going to vary depending on:

1. Where on the island you’re staying
2. The transport you have access to

Family holidays to Ibiza with Jet2holidays typically focus on hotels in the north. This includes:

• Santa Eulalia
• Playa Es Cana
• Playa Es Figueral

There are also some family-friendly hotels in the San Antonio area of Ibiza. However, as I mentioned earlier, this is the main nightlife area on the island. So, depending on your interests, you may want to stay in or avoid this area.

If you’re based in the north of Ibiza, then some of the best half-day excursions for families include:

• Caves of Can Marçà
• Las Dalias Hippie Market
• Walk to Torre de Portinatx
• Benirrás Beach
• Village of Santa Gertrudis

Meanwhile, if you’re looking for full-day, family-friendly excursions in Ibiza, I recommend:

• Ibiza’s Old Town (Dalt Vila) & Talamanca Beach
• Day Trip to Formentera
• Aguamar Water Park & Playa d’en Bossa
• Port de Sant Miquel, Benirrás Beach & San Juan
• Jeep Safari Ibiza