Ses Illetes
BeachThe colour of the water here is a by-product of what grows under it. The Posidonia oceanica meadow running from Es Freus, just off this shore, across to Ses Salines on Ibiza is some eight kilometres long, has been estimated at over 100,000 years old, and forms part of the UNESCO listing made in 1999.
What it actually is
A west-facing strip on the Es Trucadors peninsula at the northern tip of Formentera: more than 450 m of white sand in two sections divided by a low rocky spur, shallow a long way out. It takes its name from the islets in front of it — Illa de Tramuntana, Illa des Forn, Escull des Pou, Illa Redona and Escull d’en Palla. Land and water alike lie inside the Parc Natural de ses Salines d’Eivissa i Formentera.
The rules are what keep it looking like this
Access is deliberately awkward. Cars and motorbikes pay to use the park road while walkers and cyclists go free; the dunes are fenced and crossed on boardwalks, and you are expected to stay on them. Keep walking north and the sand narrows to the Trucador bar, where at low water people wade across to the islet of s’Espalmador — a crossing that depends entirely on the day, and is not always a sensible idea.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get there from La Savina?
About 5 km on the flat, which most people cycle. There is also a seasonal bus, and boats run up from La Savina in summer.
Is there shade or food?
A couple of beach restaurants and sunbed hire, but almost no natural shade at all. Bring a parasol and more water than you think you need.
Is it as crowded as people say?
In August, yes — especially the middle stretch nearest the car parks. Walk fifteen minutes north and it thins out noticeably.
Explore more of the Illes Balears
Ses Illetes is one of many destinations on the CostaMap interactive map — browse beaches, coves, castles and viewpoints across the islands.