Playa de Espalmador (s'Alga)

The little island of Espalmador sits off the northern end of Formentera, just across from Ses Illetes and Llevant beaches. To some extent it is like a mirror of these beaches with the same crystal-clear shallow turquoise water and expanse of fine white sand.

Espalmador is one of the most pristine beaches in all the Balearic Islands. The whole island, along with the northern tip of Formentera, is a conservation area. This means nothing has been built here and you can just enjoy the unspoilt views over the beach and out into the Mediterranean.

All this means there is very little in the way of amenities over on Espalmador so you will have to come prepared for a day at the beach and bring your own food and drinks.

The main beach on Espalmador curves round a wide bay on the southern shores of the island. This provides a natural haven for yachts, and you will see plenty of these anchored here. For the rest of us, you will need to get a ferry, either from La Savina in Ibiza to the north, or from Playa Ses Illetes on Formentera. Whilst it may only seem like a stone’s throw from the tip of Formentera there are strong currents in the channel here so don’t be tempted to try and swim across.

If lounging on the beach is too relaxing for you then a little exploring may be in order. Head towards the centre of the island and you will find a wide salty lake bed which is a twitcher’s paradise with any number of bird species to be found here.

On the northern tip of the island is another beach, Platja de s’Alga. This curving stretch of white sand is usually quieter that the southern beach and is popular with naturists.