Ses Illetes

Platja de ses Illetes

A dazzling white-sand beach on Formentera with Caribbean-like turquoise waters, ranked among Europe's best beaches. Its shallow, calm waters and dune landscapes make it a paradise for sunbathing and swimming.

Things to do

• Swim in the shallow turquoise water — The calm, waist-deep sea and powdery white sand make this one of the best swimming spots in the Mediterranean.
• Snorkel around the rocky points — Clear water near the rocky outcrops at the northern end reveals seagrass meadows and small fish schools.
• Walk the sandbar toward Espalmador — A scenic stretch of dunes and sand connects Ses Illetes toward the neighboring islet of Espalmador, great for a barefoot stroll.
• Take a boat trip to Espalmador's mud baths — Short boat excursions run from Ses Illetes to Espalmador, famous for its therapeutic natural mud pools.
• Rent a paddleboard or kayak — Several beach kiosks rent SUPs and kayaks to explore the calm, protected waters at your own pace.
• Relax on the dune-backed beach chairs — Sunbeds and umbrellas set among low dunes offer a comfortable base for a full day of sun.

Food to try

• Arròs de peix at Juan y Andrea — This iconic beachfront restaurant is famous for its fresh fish-based rice dishes served right on the sand.
• Grilled fresh catch — Local chiringuitos serve the day's catch simply grilled with olive oil and sea salt, showcasing Formentera's seafood.
• Ensaimada with local pa amb oli — A light breakfast option pairing the sweet Balearic pastry with bread rubbed in tomato and olive oil, found at nearby beach cafés.
• Frozen cocktails and Hierbas Ibicencas — Beach bars serve the herbal Balearic liqueur Hierbas as a post-swim digestif or mixed into refreshing drinks.
• Sobrasada and Mahón cheese platter — A simple Balearic snack of cured sausage and cheese often available at the beach's small kiosks.

Local customs & good to know

• Arrive early or by bike — Ses Illetes has limited parking and access roads close to cars in peak season, so most visitors come by bicycle, scooter, or the small tourist train from Es Pujols or La Savina.
• Respect the protected dunes — The beach lies within the Ses Salines Natural Park, so walking only on marked paths helps preserve the fragile dune vegetation.
• Book restaurant tables ahead — Famous beach restaurants like Juan y Andrea fill up quickly in summer, so reservations are recommended.
• Bring cash for beach kiosks — Some small beach bars and rental stands on Ses Illetes still prefer cash over card payments.