Las Salinas and Es Cavallet sit at Ibiza’s southern tip, where the famous salt flats meet some of the island’s most beautiful and lively beaches. When I visited, I found myself staring at shimmering pools that seemed to stretch forever, and wandering long, sandy beaches where wild nature blends with stylish beach clubs.
The mix of peaceful natural parks, white sand, and rolling waves really makes this area feel different from the rest of Ibiza’s coastline.
As I wandered along the salt flats, I totally got why people love the scenery and the soothing vibe here. Es Cavallet gives you sweeping views of Ibiza Town and distant Formentera, and it’s a prime spot to watch surfers or maybe catch a glimpse of a celebrity at a local restaurant.
Exploring Las Salinas and Es Cavallet, I realized how the area’s relaxed days, dramatic landscapes, and lively beach life all come together. If you’re planning a trip to Ibiza, these beaches and salt flats are honestly a must for a different, unforgettable experience.
Discovering Ibiza’s Southern Tip: Las Salinas & Es Cavallet
Las Salinas and Es Cavallet bring together wild natural scenery, iconic salt flats, and long sandy beaches. The landscape switches quickly from quiet, protected parkland to buzzing beach scenes that are somehow both relaxing and energetic.
Setting the Scene: Geography and Atmosphere
Down at the southern edge of the island, Las Salinas and Es Cavallet run along the Mediterranean. Las Salinas sits next to a big natural park where salt flats shimmer pink and white in the sun.
Flamingos and other birds wander the wetlands, making the place feel like a real discovery. Pine forests hug the edge of the beaches, then give way to soft golden sand and clear blue waves.
The sea breeze never really stops, carrying hints of salt and pine. Es Cavallet sits just past the salt flats, and on a clear day you can see Formentera across the water.
The area feels wild and untouched, yet it’s easy to reach. Each beach has its own vibe—Las Salinas mixes families, beach clubs, and nature, while Es Cavallet attracts a diverse, laid-back crowd with no dress code at all.
First Impressions and Arrival
When I stepped out of the car, the contrast between wild nature and curated beach spots hit me right away. The drive takes you through the Salinas salt flats, with bright piles of salt reflecting the sky and, if you’re lucky, a few flamingos in the distance.
At Las Salinas beach, I found parking pretty straightforward. Wooden walkways cross the sand dunes and protect the fragile plants as you head to the shore.
There’s a nice balance between untouched beauty and beachside comfort—sunbeds, little beach bars, and stretches of quiet sand all mix together.
Walking further to Es Cavallet, the landscape opens up and the crowds thin out. The waves get a bit stronger, and the sand seems even whiter.
It’s a different kind of welcome to Ibiza’s southern beaches, and honestly, it’s pretty special.
Exploring the Legendary Salt Flats
When I walked onto the salt flats, it felt like stepping into a living piece of Ibiza’s story. Centuries-old traditions, shimmering pools, and wild landscapes all make this natural park a must-see.
History of the Salt Pans
Locals call the salt flats Ses Salines, and they’ve shaped Ibiza’s history for over 2,000 years. The Phoenicians started digging out the pans to collect salt, figuring the island’s sunny climate and coastal shape worked perfectly for evaporation.
Image Source: Wikimedia Commons
As I followed the trails, I imagined ancient workers with wheelbarrows, tending the pools under the sun. Salt from here was Ibiza’s “white gold” for centuries, shipped all over the Mediterranean and traded for goods that built the island’s fortunes.
Some of the old salt structures and machinery still stand, reminders of how much salt mattered before refrigeration. Seeing them up close made me appreciate how connected Ibiza’s always been to the wider world.
Salt Harvesting Traditions
During the warmer months, workers still gather salt much like their ancestors did. From the footpaths, I watched them rake sparkling crystals into neat white mounds.
The process is mostly manual—sun and sea winds turn seawater into pure salt. Harvesting kicks off in late summer, when most of the water’s evaporated.
They pile the salt up and let it dry before scooping it into sacks. Some of it ends up in gourmet shops, but most goes for cooking or preserving local fish.
Some families have passed down their salt-harvesting roles for generations. During harvest time, the whole area feels alive, with hard work mixing with a real sense of heritage.
Wildlife and Nature Walks
The salt flats sit inside a protected natural park. I noticed the shallow pools and wetlands attract amazing wildlife.
Flamingos are the main event—wading through briny water, their pink feathers bright against the pale salt. Other birds fill the sky and reeds, from storks and herons to rare species passing through on migration.
Information boards along the trails gave me tips on what to look for and when. Some paths wind past tiny lagoons and pools that mirror the sky.
I spotted lizards, wildflowers, and curious insects as I walked. You don’t need hiking experience—the paths are easy and mostly flat, so it’s a relaxed way to get close to Ibiza’s wild side.
Las Salinas Beach: Chic Vibes and Crystal Waters
Las Salinas Beach brings together a stylish scene and stunning nature. Between the soft white sand and clear water, it’s no wonder this spot stands out on Ibiza’s southern tip.
The Beach Experience
The first thing I noticed at Las Salinas was the powdery sand under my feet. The water shines a bright turquoise, so clear I could spot little fish darting around in the shallows.
The shoreline stretches wide, so there’s plenty of space for everyone—whether you want to sprawl out on a towel or wander barefoot down the beach.
The gentle slope into the water makes swimming easy and safe. Eucalyptus and pine trees line the back of the beach, giving the salty air a fresh scent.
I always see a mix of locals and travelers—families building sandcastles, friends sharing snacks under umbrellas. Las Salinas attracts a stylish crowd, but it never feels snobby.
If I want to fit in, I just throw on some light clothes, sunglasses, and settle in with a book or my favorite playlist.
Beach Clubs and Local Hotspots
Las Salinas is home to some of Ibiza’s best-known beach clubs, each with its own music, food, and chill-out space. Sa Trinxa is a favorite of mine, tucked at the far end of the beach—perfect for live DJ sets and a sea breeze.
Many clubs serve up Mediterranean classics—grilled fish, fresh salads, colorful cocktails. Lunch could be a plate of paella or just some olives and a cold drink.
I’ve found the staff usually friendly, even if you’re just popping in for a snack or to get out of the sun for a bit. If I’m after more energy, I’ll swing by Jockey Club or Malibu Beach Club.
These places attract a chic crowd and keep the music going all day, especially in summer. There are smaller spots and beach shacks too, if you want something more low-key.
Tables fill up fast, so I try to book ahead during peak season. Even if I only grab a cold water at a beach bar, it’s worth soaking up the Las Salinas vibe.
Image Source: Tripadvisor
Es Cavallet: Natural Beauty and Inclusive Charm
Es Cavallet caught my eye for its wild landscape, open vibe, and the way it welcomes everyone. The scenery and the social energy around the clubs and restaurants make it totally different from anywhere else I’ve visited in Ibiza.
Unique Character and Atmosphere
From the moment I arrived, I understood why Es Cavallet is famous for its natural beauty and relaxed spirit.
The beach runs for about a kilometer, backed by rolling sand dunes and the protected Ses Salines Natural Park. Soft white sand meets clear blue water, and the salt flats shimmer in the distance.
Es Cavallet is one of Ibiza’s official nudist beaches, and people of all backgrounds seem comfortable here, clothed or not. You’ll spot locals, tourists, LGBTQ+ visitors, and groups of friends.
I heard laughter from groups stretched out on towels or having drinks at the chiringuitos. Even in summer, the wide sand means you can always find your own space surrounded by nature.
The vibe is unhurried and friendly, with fewer noisy crowds than beaches closer to Ibiza Town. Surrounded by dunes and the scent of salt, I found it easy to relax and just be.
Image Source: Flickr
Dining and Daytime Activities
Es Cavallet offers more than just sunbathing. I enjoyed Mediterranean food at a beach club—fresh salads, seafood, Spanish tapas. Tables overlook the water, so you can linger over lunch with sandy feet and ocean views.
The beach is perfect for long walks or exploring the nearby nature reserve. I saw people playing beach volleyball, reading under umbrellas, and swimming in the calm sea.
There are a few restaurants and chiringuitos, each with its own style—one spot was buzzing with music and a super friendly crowd. Definitely bring a hat and sunscreen; there’s not much natural shade.
From sunrise to late afternoon, Es Cavallet delivers laid-back energy and that classic Ibiza beach charm.
Insider Tips for Visiting Ibiza’s Southern Coast
Ibiza’s southern coast feels worlds away from the party scenes elsewhere on the island. Here, salt flats and quiet beaches create a peaceful escape, but a bit of planning makes all the difference.
When to Visit for the Best Experience
Timing your visit really changes the whole experience. I’ve found early mornings are the best for Las Salinas and Es Cavallet—there’s a gentle hush before the beach clubs open, and the salt flats look magical in the morning light.
For the best weather and fewer crowds, I like late May through June or September. The water’s warm, and you might spot flamingos in the Ses Salines Natural Park.
Evenings can be pretty special too. Sunset at Las Salinas paints the water and salt piles gold. If you want a livelier scene, weekends get busy, but weekdays feel more local and mellow.
Getting There and Getting Around
Getting to the southern beaches is easy if you plan ahead. I love renting a scooter—it’s a fun way to travel, especially solo. The ride through the salt flats toward Las Salinas is scenic, with open views and barely any morning traffic.
If scooters aren’t your thing, taxis from Ibiza Town work but can get pricey during busy times. Parking is available at both beaches, but it fills up fast after 10 a.m. in summer.
Public buses run from the town center, but schedules can change in low season, so double-check before you go. I often walk between Las Salinas and Es Cavallet—it’s about 30 minutes along sandy footpaths lined with dunes and local plants.
Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat—shade is rare out there.
Responsible Travel and Preservation
The southern coast has Ses Salines Natural Park and some rare birdlife, like the occasional flamingo. I care about respecting the land and its wildlife, and honestly, locals do too.
I always stick to marked paths. I never step on the salt flats or dunes.
Littering is a huge problem, especially when the crowds show up in peak season. I always carry out my trash and, if I spot stray plastic, I pick it up.
Many beach clubs now use reusable cups. They also keep the music down to help protect the environment.
Supporting these efforts actually makes a difference. I hope other travelers start using biodegradable sunscreen and stop taking natural “souvenirs.”
Just making a few simple choices—like respecting wildlife, following signs, and helping keep the beach clean—can help keep this coast beautiful for everyone. And, selfishly, for my future trips too.
