The smaller sister of Ibiza, Formentera enchants sailors with its beauty: turquoise waters, coves of pale sand, shimmering salt flats and a peaceful atmosphere. Provided you choose the low season, which reveals another side of the Mediterranean, softer and more authentic.

A Mediterranean gem suspended between sky and sea, Formentera is an irresistible destination for sailors seeking authenticity, crystal-clear waters and relaxed atmospheres. This guide takes navigators on a journey to discover the island: from geographical coordinates and coastal morphology, to ports, the best anchoring spots, beaches and the most fascinating inland locations.

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Geographical position and territorial context

Formentera is the smallest of the main islands of the Balearic archipelago, located south of Ibiza and separated from it by a stretch of sea of about 3.5 miles, known as Es Freus. This channel, characterised by shallow waters and emerging rocks, requires careful navigation, but also offers scenery of rare beauty and turquoise transparency worthy of the Caribbean.

The island stretches for about 19 kilometres in length and features a gentle, flat morphology, dominated by sandy dunes, inland lagoons and wild coastal stretches. The natural environment is protected by a marine park and reserve areas that safeguard the Posidonia oceanica seagrass meadows, essential for the clarity and biodiversity of the sea. Sailing along its coastline is a sensory experience: the scent of pines and junipers blends with the sea breeze, while the island’s profile changes according to the light and wind.

Ports and marinas

For sailors wishing to make a stop, the main landing point is La Savina, located on the northwest coast, overlooking the Es Freus channel. It is the island’s only equipped port, home to a modern marina with full services: moorings for yachts and sailing boats of various sizes, water and fuel supply, technical assistance, laundry and supermarkets. The port is also well connected to Ibiza, with regular ferry services.

La Savina still retains a pleasantly relaxed atmosphere: the seafront is lined with seafood restaurants, boutiques and bars where you can enjoy an aperitif at sunset. From here, it is easy to rent scooters or bicycles to explore the rest of the island.

During the summer, it is advisable to book a mooring in advance, as the port fills up quickly.

Recommended bays and anchorages

Beyond the main port, Formentera offers numerous bays for anchoring in protected, crystal-clear waters. Among the most picturesque:

Platja de Illetes: located in the north of the island, it is perhaps the most famous. The white sand strip stretches towards Ibiza, dividing two seas with Caribbean hues. It is a spectacular but very popular spot; it’s best to arrive early in the morning and respect the protected Posidonia areas.

Cala Saona: a small cove on the west coast, sheltered from the easterly winds. The sandy seabed and red cliffs create a unique color contrast. At sunset, it is one of the most enchanting spots on the island. Excellent anchor holding, although space is limited during peak summer hours.

Es Caló de Sant Agustí: a series of small coves on the east coast, ideal for a quiet stop. The old wooden fishermen’s huts add charm to the landscape. A scenic trail from here leads to La Mola.

Playa de Migjorn: stretching over five kilometres on the southern side. It offers ample space for anchoring, although it is less sheltered from southerly winds. It is perfect for an overnight anchorage in calm seas, immersed in silence.

The golden rule for sailing around Formentera is caution: shallow waters and the presence of Posidonia require careful use of nautical charts and mooring buoys where available.

Historic centre and island life

Formentera has no large cities, only small settlements that retain an authentic Mediterranean soul. Sant Francesc Xavier, the capital, is a white, orderly village dominated by an 18th-century fortress-church. Its pedestrian streets are home to artisan shops, markets, art galleries and cafés where time seems to slow down.

Another charming village is Sant Ferran de ses Roques, once a meeting point for artists and hippies in the 1960s and 70s. Today it still preserves that bohemian atmosphere, with live music, restaurants and informal-style bars.

Towards the eastern tip of the island, the La Mola lighthouse stands atop a cliff over 100 metres high, offering breathtaking views of the open sea. Near the lighthouse, the El Pilar de la Mola craft market livens up summer evenings with stalls, music and an authentically island atmosphere.

Things to do and see

Beyond sailing and relaxing at anchor, Formentera offers many opportunities to explore and enjoy nature. Visiting sailors can follow the “camins verds”, a network of over 30 trails crossing pine forests, dunes and cultivated fields. Snorkeling and diving enthusiasts will find seabeds full of colorful fish, caves and pristine Posidonia meadows. For those interested in local culture, the Formentera Ethnographic Museum in Sant Francesc, which tells the story of traditional farming and seafaring life, and the ancient salt flats of Estany Pudent, home to flamingos and other migratory species, are not to be missed.

Days on the island pass slowly, between sunbathing, markets and evenings by the sea. The overall atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, far from the hectic pace of Ibiza: Formentera retains the charm of simplicity, ideal for sailors seeking balance and natural beauty.

The discreet magic of Formentera

Sailing around Formentera means attuning yourself to the rhythm of the sea and nature. It is an island that rewards those who know how to appreciate calm, silence and the purity of the landscape. Between gentle winds, transparent seabeds and fiery sunsets, a course around Formentera offers authentic emotions that are hard to forget. For sailors, it is a must-visit stop: a small Mediterranean paradise where the sea still tells stories of freedom.

Formentera cannot be explored—it must be contemplated. Between ever-changing salt flats, sharp dunes and translucent coves, it reminds us that beauty comes in small packages: a breath of wind, a flicker of light, the perfect anchorage. It is a lesson from the sea, and perhaps also a lesson for life.

Photo credits immagine apertura: WeRoad.

 

Discover the best boat rental deals in Formentera