Ibiza vs Majorca
Find out whether Ibiza or Majorca is best for your family getaway, with our handy guide.
What's better, Ibiza or Majorca for family holiday?
Choosing between Ibiza vs Mallorca for a family holiday often comes down to your children’s ages and your family’s travel style.
Mallorca (Majorca) is a top pick for families with younger kids, thanks to its calm beaches and easy-going atmosphere. Ibiza, on the other hand, is popular with multigenerational groups and families with older children who enjoy a livelier scene and a wider mix of activities.
When comparing Ibiza or Majorca for family holiday fun, both islands offer fantastic experiences with their own unique appeal.
Each destination has activities suited to different age groups, from relaxed beach days to adventurous excursions. Read on to discover what these two world-class Balearic Islands offer your family, and which one might be the best fit for your next getaway.
Popular villas in Ibiza and Mallorca
Ibiza or Majorca for Family Holiday: Which is Right for You?
When planning a family getaway to the Balearic Islands, choosing between Ibiza or Majorca for a family holiday often comes down to several factors. Most commonly these are the ages, energy levels, and personal interests of your children - or the youngest members of your group.
Both these Balearic islands boast sunshine, stunning beaches, and a wide selection of family-friendly villas. Combined with their own unique island identities, iconic attractions and things to do, they captivate and cater to all types of families and ages.
Why Choose Majorca for a Family Holiday
With its beautiful beaches, sun-drenched climate, friendly family vibes and plenty of things to see and do, Majorca (also known as Mallorca) is a long-time favourite of families with younger children and those seeking a more laid-back beach break.
Most popular in the summer months, you'll find Majorca packed with safe, shallow beaches such as at Alcudia, as well as charming, well-connected seaside towns including Puerto Pollensa and Playa de Muro.
The more lively seaside resorts of Palma Nova and Magaluf are also perfect for older families seeking stress-free exploration.
Top 5 family activities in Majorca include:
1. Take a Trip to the Palma Aquarium
This top-rated Majorca attraction for families makes for a fun, all-weather day out, especially for curious young minds. Home to hundreds of marine species from the Mediterranean and beyond, the Palma Aquarium combines immersive exhibits with hands-on experiences. Kids can wander through vast tanks, touch pools, and even a jungle-inspired indoor garden!
Beyond all the fun, this aquarium plays a vital role in marine conservation, from rescuing endangered species to restoring damaged ecosystems - all while inspiring the next generation through its education and research programs. Enjoy a 'fin' and immersive day out!
2. Soak up Beach days in Alcudia & Cala Millor
These Majorca beaches are a hit with families, especially those with younger children. Alcudia is located in the north of Majorca, near Alcudia town and Port d' Alcudia, whilst Cala Millor is a small bay on the east coast of Majorca.
Both beaches offer long stretches of soft sand, calm shallow waters, and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for paddling, sandcastle building, and stress-free supervision.
With family-friendly amenities nearby - from cafés to playgrounds - these top beach spots in Majorca make it fun and hassle-free to enjoy a beach day with the kids.
3. Dive into the Water Parks
For a full day of family fun, Majorca’s water parks deliver excitement for all ages.
Aqualand El Arenal is the island’s largest, with adrenaline-pumping slides like Tsunami and Tornado for teens, a lazy river, wave pools, and four themed zones for little ones.
In Magaluf, Katmandu Park blends quirky 4D rides, soft play, and adventure golf, while Western Water Park adds wild west flair with high-speed slides like the 100-ft Beast and tot-friendly splash zones.
Up in the north, Hidropark Alcudia is perfect for younger families, offering gentle slides, mini-golf, and shallow pools in a relaxed, open-air setting.
4. Tour the Drach Caves
Touring the Drach Caves promises to be a unique underground adventure for families.
Located on Majorca’s east coast, these spectacular natural caves stretch for over a kilometre, featuring dramatic rock formations, illuminated pathways, and one of Europe’s largest underground lakes.
The must-see highlight? A short classical music concert performed on the lake! This unique and enchanting experience captivates both kids and adults alike - for something truly memorable.
5. Go Cycling
For a fantastic way for families to explore Majorca’s varied terrain and scenic beauty, a bike ride offers the perfect outing and can be set at your own pace.
On the island families can embark on plenty of gentle, low-traffic routes ideal for younger riders - such as the 8-mile trail between Pollensa and the Port of Pollensa, or the 6-mile citrus-scented ride through the Sóller Valley.
For teens and more adventurous riders, you'll find more challenging routes too, including the iconic 9.5-mile climb up Sa Calobra or the 10-mile winding ride to Cap de Formentor - with breathtaking coastal views.
Verdict
With its relaxed ambiance, scenic countryside, and wide array of family-friendly attractions, Majorca is well-suited to families with kids under 10 or multigenerational groups seeking variety without overwhelming stimulation.
Why Choose Ibiza for a Family Holiday
Often famed for its nightlife, Ibiza also offers a surprisingly family-friendly side - particularly appealing to families with teens or older children who can enjoy a more adventurous or culturally rich itinerary.
Top 5 family activities in Ibiza include:
1. Explore Dalt Vila (Old Town Ibiza)
Step back in time, with a visit to Dalt Vila - Ibiza’s historic hilltop Old Town and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Families with older kids can enjoy wandering along cobbled streets lined with boutiques and cafés, explore ancient fortress walls, and soak up the sweeping panoramic views of the island and sea.
It’s a scenic, cultural outing with plenty of spots to pause and enjoy an ice cream along the way!
2. Go Snorkelling & Paddleboarding
Active families with older kids will love the crystal-clear waters of Cala Comte and Cala Bassa, perfect for snorkelling and paddleboarding.
These calm, shallow coves offer safe conditions, equipment rentals, and vibrant marine life just beneath the surface - ideal for a splash-filled adventure with a side of exploration.
3. Hiking coastal trails & pine forest paths
For nature-loving families, Ibiza offers an incredible range of hiking routes. Meander through fragrant pine forests or follow dramatic coastal trails with sea views and hidden coves.
Popular family-friendly options include the moderate 2.5-mile round trip Sa Talaia trail to Ibiza’s highest point, or the 3.5-mile round trip Cala Llonga to Sol d’en Serra route, offering an easy-moderate challenge with breathtaking coastal scenery.
4. Spend the day at a laid-back Beach Club
Ibiza’s beach clubs aren’t just for partygoers - many are surprisingly family-friendly! Popular family-friendly spots like Amante Beach Club or El Chiringuito offer laid-back beach vibes, great food, and family zones with comfy loungers and shade.
It’s the perfect way to enjoy Ibiza’s famous beach culture with a kid-friendly twist.
5. Take a boat trip to Formentera
For born bucaneers, this boat trip is a must! Hop on a boat from Marina Ibiza, Port'Eivissa (Ibiza Port) or the Santa Eulalia ferry for a family day trip to Formentera, Ibiza’s smaller sister island.
Known for its turquoise waters and unspoilt beaches, it’s perfect for swimming, shell hunting, and picnicking. Ferry rides are short and scenic, making them perfect for enjoying a mini island-hopping adventure.
Verdict
Ibiza’s creative energy, natural beauty, and balance of calm and culture make it a fantastic choice for families with children aged 10 and up who are ready for new experiences and a slightly livelier pace.
Ibiza or Majorca for Family Holiday: Our Verdict
Majorca is perfect for families with young children, thanks to its relaxed vibe, shallow beaches, and abundance of kid-friendly activities.
Ibiza, while still offering a family-friendly experience, is better suited to those with older kids or teenagers who will enjoy its more adventurous outings, cultural hotspots, and stylish beach clubs.
Whichever island you choose, you can expect plenty of sunshine, beautiful Mediterranean scenery, and luxury villas to call home - ensuring your family holiday is memorable for all the right reasons.
Villa Rentals for your Ibiza or Majorca Family Holiday
Our most family-friendly Majorca villas and Ibiza villas enjoy private pools, sun-drenched gardens with alfresco dining terraces and optional Concierge for a stress-free villa break.
With proximity to the family-friendly beaches and top island activities, Top Villas is here to make your family Balearic Island break the best yet!
Popular Villas for Ibiza or Majorca for Family Holiday
