The cast jet off to Portugal for sun, sea and drama as Dan and Ella are reunited for the first time since their break-up and Freddie sends messages that cause tension in the group.
Everyone is hoping for a relaxing time as some of the group head out on a boat to celebrate Amy's birthday while the rest of the gang have a pool day, but the peace doesn't last.
The sun in Portugal isn't the only thing that's getting our Essex crew hot and bothered as Harry and Freddie go head-to-head and Saff has a heated confrontation with Chloe.
The Portugal trip is coming to an end - while some of the group have had a great time, others are looking forward to getting back to Essex and escaping the dramas.
The group are back in Essex as Dan gets some motherly advice from Wendy, Joe and Junaid spend quality time with Terry and Diags surprises Bear with a teddy bear-themed party.
Tensions are still high in Essex as Saffron and Chloe's disagreement causes a rift and a divide and Freddie, Joe, Junaid and Ella throw a party that has unexpected repercussions.
There are much bigger things going on beneath the recent chaos in Essex as Courtney goes to see her sister while Saff goes to see Lauren and they bond over their shared grief.
Courtney brings Chloe and Saff together for a day out where the girls open up about how they feel, and Ella's invitation of Harry to a birthday party backfires due to a bombshell.
The drama continues in Essex with Ella questioning Jodie's loyalty, Elma organizing a surprise 30th birthday bash redo for Courtney and Amy's brother Wills arriving on the scene.
There is cause for celebration in Essex as Dani finally passes her driving test, but Saff's decision to throw a congratulatory party for her goes wrong when she invites Junaid.