DISCOVER THE BALEARIC ISLANDS: MALLORCA, MENORCA AND IBIZA
DISCOVER THE BALEARIC ISLANDS: MALLORCA, MENORCA AND IBIZA

INTRODUCTION- DISCOVER THE BALEARIC ISLANDS: MALLORCA, MENORCA AND IBIZA
DISCOVER THE BALEARIC ISLANDS: MALLORCA, MENORCA AND IBIZA. Welcome to the Mediterranean paradise of the Balearic Islands, Spain! Imagine crystal-clear waters, stunning sandy beaches, and a vibrant culture that captivates every visitor. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a history buff, or simply looking for a serene getaway, the sun-drenched Balearic Islands have something for everyone. Did you know that these islands boast over 300 days of sunshine each year? Let’s dive into this Mediterranean gem and uncover what makes it an unbeatable destination for 2024.
As someone who has lived in the area for over a decade, I’m happy to share my inside tips and knowledge of this highly sought-after beach holiday destination.
(To find out more about this region see our related posts, “Discover Mallorca“, “Discover Menorca“, “Discover Ibiza“, “Guide to the Mediterranean Coast of Spain” and “Guide to the Mediterranean Coast“)

What Are The Best Things To Do and See In The Balearic Islands
Must-See Spots
Ah, the Balearic Islands! I’ve been lucky enough to visit several times over the years, and each trip leaves me wanting more. Let me tell you about some of the must-see spots that’ll make your trip unforgettable.
Must-See Spots: Ibiza
Dalt Vila is an incredible medieval walled village located directly in the town of Ibiza. It’s perched on a small mountain overlooking the sea, with incredible views. You’ll have to walk a whole series of stairs to get to the top but the views are definitely worth it. You can see the whole island stretching out before you, and it’s breathtaking.

Formentera Beaches
If you appreciate beaches, then Formentera is for you. The water is so clear you can see your toes wiggling in the sand beneath the surface. I spent a whole day just lounging on Playa de Ses Illetes, watching the boats bob in the distance and wondering how could I arrange to work remotely from here forever (Note: I’m still thinking about it!).
Must-See Spots: Mallorca
Palma Cathedral
One of the must see spots in Palma de Mallorca is the The Palma Cathedral, or La Seu as its called locally. It is by all measures impressive. Built between 1229 to 1601, it is Gothic in style and is built directly on the sea. Regardless if you are religious or not, this building is truly awe inspiring. TIP: Try to visit the cathedral around sunset if you can to see the sun play off of the sandstone walls.

Caves of Drach on Mallorca
The Caves of Drach on Mallorca are like something out of a fantasy novel. There are some massive underground caverns with stalactites hanging down like nature’s chandeliers. There’s even an underground lake with a tiny row boat. At certain times, they have little “boat concerts” where classical music echoes off the cave walls. It’s eerie and beautiful all at once.

Must-See Spots: Menorca
Ciutadella in Menorca
This town is like a postcard come to life. Narrow streets, cute little cafes, and a harbor that’ll make you want to buy a boat and never leave. I remember wandering around, getting completely lost (as usual), and stumbling upon this tiny plaza with the most amazing tapas bar. The owner couldn’t speak any English, and my Spanish is… well, let’s just say it’s a work in progress. But somehow, through a lot of pointing and laughing, I ended up with the best meal of my trip.

Must-See Spots: Conclusion
This is just a small list of spots to visit on the islands. I’ve been several times and still feel like I just scratched the surface. Each island has its own personality, its own flavor. But the best advice I can give you? Go see for yourself. Get lost in the streets, try the local food, and soak up that Mediterranean sun. Trust me, you won’t regret it. And who knows? Maybe you’ll fall in love with these islands just like I did.

Best Beaches
The beaches on the Balearic Islands are some of the best in the world. You will find them scattered across the islands. Some stretch out for miles and seem to never end. Others are small and hidden in secluded coves somewhere along the coast. Its impossible to cover all of them in this post but just know that they are out there waiting to be “discovered”. The following is just a small list of some of the beaches that you can find.
Top Beaches in Ibiza
- Cala Comte: Known for its clear waters and sunset views.
- Cala Bassa: Popular for its soft sand and beach clubs.
- Cala Saladeta: A small cove with turquoise waters.
- Cala Tarida: Offers a long stretch of sandy beach.
- Playa Cala Salada: Surrounded by pine forests and rocky cliffs.
- Cala Benirrás: Famous for its drumming sessions at sunset.

Top Beaches in Formentera
(Fair Warning: I found these beaches hard to leave once I found them)
- Playa de Ses Illetes: Features crystalline waters and fine sand.
- Platja de Migjorn: Known for its long sandy stretch and tranquility.
- Platja Es Arenals: Offers clear waters and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Calo Des Mort: A small, picturesque cove with rocky surroundings.
- Platja de Llevant: Popular for its natural beauty and spaciousness.
- Playa es Pujols: A lively beach with nearby amenities.

Top Beaches in Menorca
- Playa de Son Bou: The longest beach on the island.
- Cala Turqueta: Known for its turquoise waters.
- Cala Macarelleta: A small, picturesque cove.
- Cala Pregonda: Features unique red sand and rocks.
- Cala Mitjana: Surrounded by pine forests and cliffs.
- Playa Arenal d’en Castell: A horseshoe-shaped bay with calm waters.

Top Beaches in Mallorca
- Playa de Muro: Offers a long stretch of sandy beach.
- Playa de Alcudia: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere.
- Platja d’es Trenc: Features clear waters and natural beauty.
- Calo Des Moro: A small, secluded cove.
- Cala Millor: Popular for its lively atmosphere and amenities.
Another long beach is at Playa de Muro which also stretches for miles. This beach has calm shallow waters, tons of amenities (lifeguards, washrooms, shops and restaurants nearby and is a family-friendly beach. I was there several years ago with my kids and found this to be one of the best family beach vacations ever.

Best Beaches: Conclusion
Picking a favorite among these beaches is not easy. Each one has its own personality, its own charm. Some days you might be in the mood for the buzz of Cala Comte, other days the serenity of Cala Mitjana might be calling your name.
My advice? Try to visit them all if you can. Pack a picnic, bring plenty of water (and maybe a beach umbrella – the Mediterranean sun is no joke), and make a day of it. And don’t forget to take a moment to just breathe it all in. These beaches aren’t just about swimming and sunbathing – they’re about connecting with nature, unwinding, and making memories that’ll last a lifetime.

Top Outdoor Activities in the Balearic Islands
Alright, let’s talk adventure! The Balearic Islands aren’t just about lounging on beaches (though that’s pretty great too). If you’re active and looking for a challenge, or just someone who loves to get out and explore, you’re in for a treat.

- Hiking in Serra de Tramuntana, Mallorca: Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site with trails offering stunning views of the island’s rugged landscape. More info
- Kayaking in Menorca: Paddle through crystal-clear waters and discover hidden coves and sea caves along the coast. More info
- Cycling in Alcudia, Mallorca: Enjoy scenic routes through the countryside and along the coast, suitable for all levels. More info
- Snorkeling in Formentera: Discover vibrant marine life in the clear waters around the island’s beaches. More info
- Caving in Mallorca: Explore the island’s fascinating underground world with guided tours of its caves. More info
- Stand Up Paddleboarding in Ibiza: Glide over the calm waters and enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery. More info
- Boat Tours in Menorca: Experience the island from the sea with a variety of boat tours available, including sunset cruises. More info
- Rock Climbing in Mallorca: Challenge yourself on the island’s limestone cliffs with routes for all skill levels. More info
- Diving in Ibiza: Explore underwater landscapes and marine life with diving excursions for beginners and experienced divers. More info
- Horseback Riding in Menorca: Discover the island’s natural beauty on horseback, with trails through forests and along beaches. More info


Outdoor Adventure: Conclusion
With outdoor activities in the Balearics – there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a hardcore adventurer or just someone who wants to dip their toes into something new, you’ll find your niche here. And the best part? No matter what activity you choose, you’re surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenery in the world.

My advice? Don’t be afraid to try something new. Push yourself a little. Maybe you’ll discover a hidden talent for windsurfing, or fall in love with the underwater world. And if things don’t go perfectly? Well, that’s how you end up with the best stories.
Balearic Cuisine
Make sure to try the local dishes here and try the seafood. You’ll thank me later.
Traditional Dishes
Ensaimada
A sweet pastry made from a coiled dough, often dusted with powdered sugar. It’s a popular breakfast treat and can be filled with cream, chocolate, or pumpkin strands. I tried it on my first day of one of my trips and I may or may not have gone back every single morning for the rest of my trip. Don’t judge me until you’ve tried one yourself!

Sobrasada
A cured sausage made from ground pork, paprika, and spices, known for its soft texture. It’s typically spread on bread or used as a flavorful ingredient in various dishes.
Seafood
No matter where you go on the island you will always be able to find fresh seafood caught fresh that day. Make sure to try the different seafood dishes during your stay and a great way to try a large variety is going on a “Tapas Tour” or “Ir de Tapas”.
As with most regions of Spain, the tradition of “Ir de Tapas” or Tapas Tour, is alive and well in the Balearic Islands and involves visiting several bars and restaurants and sampling different foods and drinks. Being on an island, naturally, you will find a variety of seafood specialties to choose from.

Balearic Cuisine: Conclusion
For the food in the Balearics – it’s not just about the taste. It’s about the whole experience. It’s the sound of the waves as you dig into your seafood paella, the smell of fresh bread wafting from tiny bakeries, and the chatter of locals at the market.
My advice? Come hungry and come curious. Don’t be afraid to try new things. Chat with the locals – they’ll often point you towards hidden gems that you won’t find in any guidebook. And, above all else, pace yourself. There’s so much good food to try, you don’t want to fill up on the first day!
Accommodation Options
The main industry on the islands is tourism, making it the cornerstone of the economies on Mallorca, Menorca and Ibiza. As a result, there is no shortage of hotel accommodations in the area. Whether it’s luxurious hotels, budget-friendly hostels, or family-friendly apartments, you can find it all on these Islands. However, as mentioned above, summer is the busiest time in the area so I recommend that you book well in advance.
Best Time to Visit and Travel Tips

Peak Tourist Season
The busiest tourist months in Mallorca, Menorca, and Ibiza are July and August, coinciding with school vacations in Northern Europe. As hoards of visitors flock to the Mediterranean, the area can become quite crowded. To help guarantee a smooth trip, plan ahead and secure your accommodations, rental cars, flights, and tours early.
Tip: For a more relaxed visit, consider traveling in May/June or September/October. The weather is still great, and you’ll avoid the peak season crowds.
Transportation options
- Flying: The main airport on the Balearic Islands is Palma de Mallorca Airport located in Mallorca at Palma. The airport has non-stop passenger flights scheduled to 171 destinations in 32 countries.
- Driving: If you live somewhere on the European mainland, you can reach the islands by ferry with the main terminals being in Valencia, Barcelona, and Denia. Mallorca, Menorca and Ibiza are also interconnected by car ferry service. Alternatively, it might be simpler and more cost-effective to fly to the island and rent a vehicle there.
Safety Tips for a Worry-Free Vacation
Here are just a few safety tips to keep in mind during your trip:
-make sure you have travel/health insurance coverage just in case.
-stay hydrated and use sunscreen
-although the islands are generally safe, keep an eye on your valuables. Leave unnecessary luxury items at home and try not to display expensive items in crowded places. Use a money belt.
-for water activities, always check the weather, wear safety equipment, and follow safety guidelines
-spend a few minutes before heading out to find out necessary emergency numbers. For example, in the Balearic Islands, the general emergency number is 112. It might be a good idea to know the location of the local hospital or medical facility
-Respect local Customs and Laws. This includes dress codes for certain places, local etiquette, and traffic laws if you’re renting a car.

FINAL THOUGHTS: DISCOVER THE BALEARIC ISLANDS
The Balearic Islands of Mallorca, Menorca, and Ibiza are a true Mediterranean paradise, offering a rich tapestry of experiences for every kind of traveler. From sunbathing on pristine beaches to dancing the night away, there’s no end to the adventures you can have. Ready to embark on your unforgettable journey? Pack your bags and let the magic of the Balearic Islands enchant you!
“Don’t Just Dream It! Do it!”
How about experiencing the Mediterranean firsthand? Use the map below to inspire you and plan your next Mediterranean vacation right now!
Reg Auge
Reg holds an MBA, is a former Captain in the Canadian military and has worked as a consultant in industry for over 20 years. From his home in Spain, he has spent the last 10 years traveling throughout the Mediterranean, exploring the various countries and regions. He also regularly runs, windsurfs, and kite surfs, maintaining a healthy and active way of life. Captivated by this Mediterranean lifestyle, he began a Blog last year to inspire like-minded souls to learn about and discover this unique region for themselves.