Formentera beaches
Formentera’s main attraction is its picture postcard beaches of pure white sand and crystal clear, turquoise coloured waters. The added bonus is that many of Formentera’s beaches are often deserted and with a bit of exploration and leg work you can often find a small, secluded patch of sand all to yourself and not see another living soul for the whole day. This is what makes the island popular among nudists as well as couples seeking a quiet and romantic island escape. It’s no surprise that the ‘Bounty’ chocolate bar advertisement was filmed here; the beaches represent the epitome of untouched island paradise, while the sunsets are simply breathtaking.
All but the most remote Formentera beaches offer sun bed services as well as food and drink stands. At the end of a day spent relaxing on the sand there’s nothing quite like enjoying a few drinks at the nearby beach bar as you watch the sunset. Nude sunbathing is frowned upon on the most popular and crowded beaches, but there are numerous more secluded beaches where nudism has taken a firm hold. The best way to explore Formentera beaches is by bicycle, while scooters are a popular form of transport for reaching the more remote beaches.
The most popular beach is at the resort town of Es Pujols and can get quite crowded during the summer. This is the island’s main beach and it is the preserve of package holiday tourists and families seeking a break in the sun without sacrificing the convenience of nearby supermarkets, banks and a wide variety of restaurants and bars. Windsurfing is popular here as well as on the salt lake behind.
Heading farther north along the protected peninsula of sand dunes and pine trees, you will find more wild and secluded Formentera beaches facing towards Ibiza . The coast along the northern peninsula is also protected by the meadows of Posidonia Oceanica, a World Heritage site.
Playa de Llevant boasts numerous small coves and secluded beaches that form a stark contrast to Es Pujols, situated just a couple of miles south. In between these two places lies Sa Roqueta, another peaceful location with one or two beach bars and mostly deserted beaches that are popular with the locals.
On the other side of the thin peninsula is Illetas, which attracts far more beachgoers. The water here is shallow, making it perfect for families. For the adventurous, a swim out to the island of Espalmador will reveal lovely beaches and forests, while just south of Illetas is Es Cavall den Borras, with plenty of lively bars.
The popular tourist centre of Cala Sahona lies on the western coast and is considered by many as the most beautiful beach and cove on the island. The beach here rarely gets overcrowded and the small bay is a favourite place for people to anchor their yachts. Two small promontories at each end of the bay shelter the beach, making for calm and smooth water conditions. There is only one hotel here, as well as sun beds, beach bars and pedal boats.
The three mile long Playa de Migjorn dominates the southern coast and is surrounded by several smaller and often deserted beaches. There are plenty of secluded sections along the coast here, making it a favourite among nudists. A lovely pine forest meets its western end, while along its length are several excellent restaurants and bars. Playa Es Arenal is popular among families and offers sun beds and great beach bars from where to watch the sunset. Other popular beaches include Es Cupinar, Ca Mari, Sa Platgeta, Es Mal Pas and Guarachas, which is free from sun beds and pedal boats.
On the northern side of the island is Es Calo, a former fishing village that now boasts several excellent restaurants. The main beach here can get crowded in the summer but a short walk along the sandy cliffs to the east will bring you to more remote beaches that are complete with small underwater caves and vegetation, making for great snorkelling.
