Ses Salines and the south of Ibiza

The salt pans

For centuries salt was Ibiza’s main economic resource, long before anyone arrived to sunbathe. The pans still work and still produce, and the landscape they form — still water, pinkish tones depending on the season, white mountains of salt — is one of the island’s most singular sights.

The whole area forms part of the Parc Natural de ses Salines d’Eivissa i Formentera, which protects both the pans and the stretch of sea between the two islands. It is a key site for migratory birds and for the underwater meadows.

Ses Salines beach

The most social beach in the south: fine sand, shallow water and several venues along the shore. From the boat you anchor at a distance, respecting the buoyed swimming channel, and enjoy exceptionally clear water.

In high season it is one of the busiest areas on the island for boats, so arrive with time if you want a comfortable spot.

Es Cavallet

Right alongside, separated by a headland, Es Cavallet is longer, more open and considerably quieter. Behind it are dunes and pine forest instead of buildings, which gives it a much more natural feel. Part of its length is traditionally a nudist beach.

There is usually more room to anchor than at Ses Salines and the water is just as good, so it is often the more sensible of the two.

The springboard to Formentera

This southern tip is the natural starting point for Formentera: from here the es Freus channel is a step away. That is why many days combine the two — a morning stop in the south of Ibiza and the rest of the day at Illetes or Espalmador.