Looking for the most beautiful beach in Formentera, with white sand and a turquoise sea?
Welcome to Ses Illetes beach!
Nestled in the Ses Salines Natural Park, it is often named among the 10 most beautiful beaches in the world… Do not panic, we reveal its secrets: how to avoid the crowds, enjoy its legendary sunset and why its crystal-clear water hides a treasure protected by UNESCO.
Its prime location offers an exceptional view over several islets, which gave it its name (“Ses Illetes” in Catalan = “the beach of the little islands”): Illa de Tramuntana, Illa des Forn, Escull des Pou, Illa Redona & Escull d’en Palla
From the beach, you can see the island of Ibiza and Es Vedrà in the distance.
Formentera: discovering its star beach, Ses Illetes!
Dreaming of a little corner of paradise in Europe? Ses Illetes is waiting for you! It is THE cult, iconic beach of Formentera, in a UNESCO World Heritage setting, with breathtaking white sand (with pink tints in places).
Turquoise water worthy of the Maldives… except it is only about 2h20 from London by plane!
The beach is in the heart of the Ses Salines natural park, an exceptional site for biodiversity. It attracts a lot of visitors.
Because it is close to La Savina port (the island’s gateway), it is easy to reach (on foot, by scooter, by bike…), especially for those coming to the island for a day from Ibiza.
It is also very popular with celebrities (sport, film, music, influencers, business: Rihanna, Leonardo DiCaprio, Charles Leclerc…) who arrive by yacht.
Why the sand at Ses Illetes sometimes looks pink
In some photos, especially those circulating on Instagram and Pinterest as “Formentera’s pink beach”, the sand at Ses Illetes takes on a pinkish hue. It is not a separate beach: it is Ses Illetes, with a light and sand-composition effect that varies with the time of day and exactly where you are on the strip of sand.
It comes down to the make-up of the sand itself: a mix of local quartz, coral fragments and shells which, as they break down, tint some areas pale pink. It is the same phenomenon found on other well-known pink beaches around the world, but here on a subtle scale: do not expect bright pink sand across the whole beach; the colour mostly shows in patches, depending on the morning or late-afternoon light.
A postcard setting (for real!)
Ses Illetes is Formentera’s star, the beach you see on every postcard. A real painting by Mother Nature! The water is calm and shallow, ideal for swimming and snorkelling safely.
How do you get to Ses Illetes?
You have several options:
| Transport | Access fee | My tip |
|---|---|---|
| Bike / On foot | Free | Cheap and eco-friendly. Perfect for active types! Bikes can be rented at the port (about €20) |
| Scooter | About €2 – €4 | Maximum flexibility. Arrive early to park close by! |
| Car | About €4 – €7 | Practical for families. Park before 9am to avoid the rush! |
| Bus (L3) | About €8 return | From La Savina. Avoids parking. A 2 km walk to plan for, but no booking stress. |
Key tip: arrive before 9am to enjoy it in peace, especially in high season!
Watch your budget
Get your wallet ready…
The local restaurants serve Mediterranean food, but allow €50 for a main course and €7 for a bottle of water. Bring a picnic and water!
Sunbeds/parasol: between €30 and €50 a day (first come, first served). No booking possible, so get there at dawn.
Beware of the sun
No natural shade on the beach! Bring a parasol or serious sun protection, as the sun, especially in July and August, is very strong!
Beyond Ses Illetes
The beaches right next door: Llevant and Espalmador
After Ses Illetes, head for Platja de Llevant, its “twin sister” on the east side. Less busy, it wins you over with its translucent water and natural feel. Nudism is not signposted but common, and there are summer waves for surfers! Ideal in the early morning, when it is calm.
The island of Espalmador, a stone’s throw away, is simply incredible. Boat access from La Savina (10 to 15-minute crossing), emerald water and a rich seabed for snorkelling. Colourful fish, sandy bottoms… Bring a picnic and water: there are no facilities!
Ready to fall in love with Formentera?
So, you get the idea: Ses Illetes is one of Formentera’s unmissable natural wonders. Turquoise water, white sand, islets offshore… It is a little seaside paradise! But Formentera is so much more! Explore its coastal paths, horse rides, water sports and other unusual activities. The island blends culture, nature and relaxation.
