Balearic Blues

Ses Salines is Ibiza's most iconic beach, a long stretch of fine white sand backed by ancient salt flats and pine forests within a protected natural park. The crystal-clear turquoise water and the parade of beautiful people make it the island's premier see-and-be-seen beach. Several beach bars and restaurants line the shore, with Sa Trinxa being the most famous.

Cala Jondal is the superyacht beach of Ibiza — a wide pebble bay on the south coast where the world's most impressive vessels drop anchor. Home to Blue Marlin Ibiza and several high-end restaurants, the beach combines natural beauty with an unmistakably glamorous atmosphere. The water is deep, clear, and perfect for swimming.

Cala Conta is widely regarded as having the most beautiful water in Ibiza — an impossible gradient of turquoise, azure, and deep blue created by the rocky seabed and offshore islands. The beach faces west, making it the premier sunset destination on the island. Several small coves and a beach bar add to the appeal.

Cala d'Hort offers the most dramatic view in Ibiza — the imposing rock of Es Vedrà rising 400 metres from the sea directly offshore. The beach is small but the setting is extraordinary, with several restaurants perched on the cliffs above. The mystical energy attributed to Es Vedrà adds an almost spiritual dimension to the experience.

Talamanca is the closest quality beach to Ibiza Town, a long crescent of sand just five minutes from the marina. The beach offers calm, shallow water ideal for families, and is lined with restaurants and hotels including Nobu Hotel Ibiza Bay. The views across the bay to Dalt Vila are stunning, especially at sunset.

Cala Benirrás is Ibiza's most bohemian beach, famous for its Sunday sunset drum circles that have been a tradition since the 1970s. The bay faces west, framed by dramatic rock formations, and the atmosphere combines natural beauty with the free-spirited energy that defines Ibiza's hippie heritage.

Es Cavallet is a long, natural beach within the Ses Salines Natural Park, known for its wild beauty and liberal atmosphere. The beach is backed by dunes and salt flats, and the water is consistently clear and warm. Several stylish beach bars, including El Chiringuito and Experimental Beach, add sophistication to the natural setting.

Cala Bassa is one of Ibiza's most popular family beaches, a wide bay of fine sand surrounded by pine-covered hills. The water is calm, shallow, and brilliantly turquoise. The Cala Bassa Beach Club (CBbC) occupies the prime position, but there is ample public beach space. A boat service runs from San Antonio throughout the summer.

Ses Illetes is consistently ranked among the best beaches in Europe and the world. Located on the narrow peninsula at the northern tip of Formentera, the beach offers Caribbean-quality white sand and impossibly clear turquoise water on both sides. The setting is wild and unspoiled, with views across to Ibiza and the small island of Espalmador.

Cala Saona is a small, sheltered bay on Formentera's west coast with stunning sunset views. The beach offers fine golden sand, calm turquoise water, and a more intimate atmosphere than Ses Illetes. The cliffs on either side frame the bay beautifully, and the sunset here — with the silhouette of Ibiza on the horizon — is extraordinary.