The Balearic Islands are an archipelago of four main islands — Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza, and Formentera — set in the western Mediterranean off the eastern coast of Spain. Renowned for their crystalline turquoise waters, dramatic limestone mountains, and a stunning array of hidden coves, the islands attract everyone from beach lovers and hikers to world-class clubbers and luxury travelers. Each island has its own distinct character: Mallorca offers the most variety with its Gothic capital Palma, the UNESCO-listed Tramuntana mountains, and a world-class food scene; Menorca is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve celebrated for its prehistoric monuments and pristine wild beaches; Ibiza is globally famous for its nightlife and bohemian spirit; and tiny Formentera offers some of the Mediterranean's most extraordinary beach scenery.
Family activities
Engaging experiences for travellers of every age.
Dragon Caves (Coves del Drac)
Underground caves with an underground lake concert - children aged 5+ love the theatrical boat concert on Lake Martel
Duration: 1.5 hours
Palma Aquarium
One of Europe's best aquariums with shark tunnel walk-through and touch pools; children are mesmerized
Duration: 3 hours
Sóller Vintage Train & Tram Ride
Children adore the vintage 1912 wooden train through mountains and the electric tram to the port
Duration: Half day
Formentera by Bicycle
Formentera's flat terrain is perfect for family cycling; child seats available; route to Illetes beach is easy and beautiful
Duration: Full day
Western Water Park, Magaluf, Mallorca
Mallorca's best water park with 30+ water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers; excellent for older children and teens
Duration: Full day
Menorca Prehistoric Monuments Tour
Children love climbing around the ancient stone monuments; the Naveta des Tudons burial chamber particularly fascinates kids
Duration: Half day
Snorkeling at Cala Macarella
The crystal-clear shallow water at Menorca's most beautiful cove is ideal for young snorkelers; colorful fish visible from the surface
Duration: 2-3 hours
Kayaking to Hidden Coves
Guided sea kayaking tours to caves and beaches accessible only by sea; departures from many Mallorcan and Menorcan beaches
Duration: 3 hours
Paddleboarding Lessons
SUP lessons available at most main beaches across all islands; teens pick it up quickly
Duration: 1.5 hours
Catamaran Boat Trip
Family catamaran trips with snorkeling stops, buffet lunch, and swimming at remote coves - children are guaranteed to love it
Duration: 4-5 hours
Family-friendly hotels
Accommodation designed with families in mind.
Hotel Formentor, Mallorca
Legendary 5-star resort on Mallorca's most beautiful beach with excellent kids club, calm beach, and multiple pools
Family features: Kids club (4-12), children's pool, beach activities, babysitting service
Sol Milanos Pingüinos, Menorca
All-inclusive family resort near Es Mercadal with multiple pools, kids club, and excellent children's facilities
Family features: Kids club, children's pools, all-inclusive dining, entertainment
Insotel Punta Prima Prestige Suites & Spa, Menorca
Modern adults-only and family sections; excellent beach location at Punta Prima with calm sheltered water
Family features: Kids club, family rooms, beach access, water sports
Protur Safari Park Aparthotel, Mallorca
Unique aparthotel with animal farm on site; children can interact with goats, pigs, and exotic animals
Family features: Animal farm, kids club, multiple pools, self-catering apartments
Dining with kids
Eating out as a family.
Spanish restaurants universally welcome children; high chairs available almost everywhere
Children's menus (menú infantil) typically €6-10 for pasta, chicken, and dessert
Lunch (2-4PM) is the main meal - children do well with the Spanish eating rhythm
Supermarkets are excellent for beach picnics with fresh fruit, bread, and local cold meats
Family travel tips
Practical advice for stress-free family trips.
Avoid July-August heat on the beach between 12PM-5PM; plan beach time early morning and late afternoon
Rent a car to access the best family beaches - many of the most beautiful coves have no bus service
Children under 12 get free or reduced entry at most museums and attractions
Consider Menorca or Formentera over Mallorca for a more relaxed, natural family holiday