turquoise waters by Playa Illetes, Formentera. Balearic Islands. Spain (Image: Getty)
We all know how the winter can leave us hoping for warmer days, longing for the toasty sensation of sun on your skin.
And whilst these days basking in the sun at your local beach are months away, Lonely Planet recently published their annual list of the world’s most stunning beaches and we think one contender should be brought to your attention.
Playa Illetes is a stunning beach located on the Es Trucadors peninsula, in the northern part of the island of .
The name means “beach of the small islands” in Catalan and is undoubtedly one of the most famous beaches in Formentera.
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Playa Illetes’s ‘twin beach’ – Levante Beach (Image: Getty)
A short distance from Playa Illetes, on the opposite side of the sandbar to be exact, we find Llevant beach. Due to the beach’s close proximity to one another, they are often referred to as “the twins”.
Choosing between the two will be determined by the wind. When the wind blows from the west, the sea will be calm at Llevant beach, but when it blows from the east, Playa Illetes will welcome you with peaceful, crystalline waters.
Playa Illetes boasts bright turquoise waters against fine white sand. Furthermore, being a natural park, surrounding areas are well kept, with dune protection areas, accessible walkways and specific areas to park your car to avoid impacting the terrain.
The beach can also be hailed family friendly due to its safety and different available services to visitors.
There are also a number of restaurants, offering different cuisines to be found along these coasts.
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Palm trees overlooking Playa Illetes’ calm waters (Image: Getty)
Due to the great stretch of this beach, it allows visitors to find space without the expected overcrowding, especially in the northern area with the Trucadors peninsula, an arm of sand that connects with the neighbouring Llevant beach.
There are several ways to get to Playa Illetes.
Access by bicycle or foot is free, whereas transportation by car costs €4 to €6 and by scooter costs €2 to €4 (seasonally).
Public buses (lines L3 and L7) also stop 500 meters from the beach and can take you to Ses Illetes. Lastly, calling a convenient taxi is an additional option.
Snorkeller by Playa Illetes waters (Image: Getty)
For those who prefer moving around to sunbathing, there are a variety of sports to choose from. You have the option of sailing, stand-up paddling, windsurfing, kitesurfing, or snorkelling.
You can appreciate scenery that is not visible from the hot beach and get a closer look at the water by participating in these sports.
Additionally, hiring a canoe or catamaran to get to the adjacent Espalmador is an option.
In conclusion, we highly recommend visiting Playa Illetes, voted one of the most stunning beaches in 2025.