Our First Family Adventure Abroad – Ibiza Family Holiday with a Toddler

In 2018, my wife Fran and I took our first Ibiza family holiday with our two-year-old son, Oliver. As any parent knows, travelling with a toddler is equal parts excitement and apprehension – would he cope with the flight, the heat, and the new routine?

We chose the peaceful resort of Cala Llonga on Ibiza’s east coast for our first family adventure abroad, hoping for a gentle introduction to travel with a little one. What we found was the perfect balance of sunshine, simplicity, and togetherness – an Ibiza family holiday that set the tone for every family trip that followed.

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Cala Llonga – A Hidden Gem for Your Ibiza Family Holiday

Cala Llonga is a world away from Ibiza’s party image. Nestled between pine-covered hills, the resort sits in a picturesque, horseshoe-shaped bay with soft golden sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters. It’s a peaceful, sheltered spot—ideal for young families. The shallow beach meant Ollie could paddle and play safely, and we felt confident letting him explore.

We stayed in at the all-inclusive SuneoClub Sirenos Cala Llonga Resort, just steps away from the beach. Several swimming pools were available at the hotel, including a children’s pool that quickly became a favourite of Ollie’s. The water’s edge could be reached from our room within minutes, making it wonderfully convenient.

Hotel Highlights: The Good and the Not-So-Great

Like many all-inclusive resorts, both positives and negatives could be found at our hotel. The location was unbeatable, with the property set directly on the beach and offering scenic views across the bay. The swimming pools were well-maintained, and a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere was enjoyed throughout our stay.

The initial room allocated to us was dark and underwhelming, which was disappointing after a long day of travel. Fortunately, our concerns were addressed by the staff, and a much better room was provided. The food, however, was more mixed in quality — it was fairly average by all-inclusive standards, with limited variety and little local flavour..

Easy Evenings and Sunset Magic

One of our favourite parts of the trip was the way we were able to wind down each evening. We brought Oliver’s buggy, and he would often fall asleep while we were out exploring the nearby beachfront. That gave Fran and me time to enjoy a drink, watch the sunset, and play a couple of quiet games of cards at a nearby bar or café.

Cala Llonga has a lovely selection of seafront bars and restaurants, many of them family-run and offering a warm welcome. Sitting under the fading light, listening to the waves lap against the shore, we felt a real sense of calm—something you don’t always associate with Ibiza.

A Fantastic Boat Trip to Ibiza Town

One of the highlights of our Ibiza family holiday was a boat ride to the capital, Ibiza Town. The journey itself was fun for Oliver and a scenic way for us to see more of the coastline. Arriving by sea gave us a unique first impression of Ibiza’s capital, with its impressive port and dramatic clifftop fortifications.

Once there, we headed into Dalt Vila, the Old Town—a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s steeped in history. With its cobbled streets, whitewashed houses, and panoramic views over the harbour, it’s a fantastic place to wander. We loved popping into little shops, snapping photos in hidden alleys, and stopping for ice cream while soaking up the atmosphere. Despite its historic charm, Ibiza Town is also surprisingly family-friendly, with plenty of places to stop for a snack or just sit and people-watch.

Exploring the Iconic Hippy Market

Another must-do from our trip was the visit to the Punta Arabí Hippy Market in Es Canar. A short drive or boat ride from Cala Llonga. Open on Wednesdays, it’s the largest and oldest market on the island. The colourful stalls offer everything from handmade jewellery and artwork to boho clothing and local crafts.

We spent a couple of hours browsing, listening to live music, and trying local snacks. The relaxed vibe and creative energy make it a great place for both adults and kids. If you’re looking for souvenirs with a bit of soul, this is the place.

Looking Ahead – The West Coast Calling

Our Ibiza trip left us wanting more. Next time, we’d love to return as a family or perhaps take a couples’ trip, this time exploring the island’s west coast. Known for its epic sunsets, the west is home to some of Ibiza’s most iconic spots, like Café Mambo in San Antonio. We can already picture ourselves sipping a cocktail as the sun dips below the horizon—maybe even without a toddler in tow!

Love beach destinations and looking for something further afield? Don’t miss our Philippines Travel Itinerary: Donsol to El Nido for turquoise-water inspiration. Great for family, couples and solo travellers.

Final Thoughts: Why an Ibiza Family Holiday Is a Great Choice

Our Ibiza family holiday reminded us that travel doesn’t have to be far-flung or complicated to be meaningful. Sometimes, the simplest moments – paddling in the shallows, watching the sunset, or playing cards while your toddler sleeps – are the ones that stay with you.

Ibiza may be famous for its nightlife, but it’s also a haven for families seeking sunshine, connection, and calm. Whether you’re planning your first trip abroad with a little one or returning to rediscover the island, an Ibiza family holiday offers memories that last a lifetime.

Useful Resources for Planning an Ibiza Family Holiday

☀️ Ibiza Tourism Board – official visitor information and family-friendly attractions.
⛱️ Punta Arabí Hippy Market – opening times and vendor details for the island’s oldest market.
🚤 Balearia Ferries – island-hopping routes and schedules between Ibiza and the Balearics.