Cala Saona

Cala Saona is on the western side of Formentera, and it is often described as one of the island’s most beautiful beaches. The cove is shaped like a horseshoe, with a curve of fine white sand enclosed by low cliffs and stands of Aleppo pine, so it is sheltered from most winds and the water is usually calm and shallow, with a clear turquoise tint. Because the bay faces west, it is also one of the best places on the island to watch the sun go down, and the beach fills in the evening for that reason.

The shallow, clear water makes the cove especially good for families and for swimming and snorkelling. A short way out, rocks and seagrass meadows provide places to see fish, and the water is warm for much of the summer. A few boats anchor in the bay, and the cliffs at either end offer short walks with views over the sea. Behind the beach there are pine trees that give a little shade, and the area is calmer than the beaches on the busier east and north coasts of the island.

The cove has basic facilities. Sun loungers and parasols can be hired, there are beach bars and restaurants serving simple Mediterranean food, and the setting is relaxed rather than sophisticated. There is a hotel above the bay, a small car park and a bus stop in season. Most people arrive by bicycle, scooter or hire car from La Savina, the main ferry port, or from Sant Francesc, the island’s small capital, and it is also reachable by road along the coast. Formentera is flat, so cycling to the cove is practical, and bicycle rentals are common in the island’s villages. Driving access is sometimes restricted at busy times, so go early.

From the cove, a coastal path leads along the cliffs, with good views, and the route towards Cap de Barbaria, at the southern tip of the island, passes through open scrubland and quiet coast. The Posidonia meadows off the coast are protected, and visitors are asked not to drop anchor over them, which keeps the water clear.

Formentera has no airport, and travellers reach it by ferry from Ibiza, a trip of about half an hour to La Savina. The best months for the beach are June and September, when the weather is warm and the island is less crowded than in July and August. Take water and sun protection, and bring cash for the beach bars.