Es Cavallet Beach

Es Cavallet is the long natural beach next door to Salines, sharing the same protected salt park but trading some of the gloss for space and an easygoing spirit. It is one of the pioneering naturist beaches in Spain and a long standing gay friendly favourite, more than a kilometre of pale sand backed by dunes, with clear park water and a relaxed mood that feels a world away from the island party strips even though it sits minutes from them.

The beach reads in sections, which is the key to enjoying it. Near the main entrance there is a family friendly stretch, the middle is the established naturist zone, and the far southern end by Chiringay is the lively gay friendly heart of the beach, where the chiringuito serves drinks to the sunbeds and the afternoon music drifts down the sand. Whichever section you choose, the dress code and the crowd shift accordingly, so it pays to know the layout before you set up.

The chiringuitos give it its comforts without ever tipping into a club scene. El Chiringuito is the quiet, carefully styled option, Chiringay anchors the LGBT end with food, drinks and afternoon music, and La Escollera is the well known Mediterranean restaurant that draws a crowd in its own right. Amenities exist but can be pricey, the water is clear with occasional seagrass after a strong wind, and the open aspect means the breeze can pick up, so a settled day is the one to pick.

Who it suits: naturists, the LGBT crowd and anyone who wants a long natural beach with a relaxed scene, clear water and good food inside a protected park.

Who should skip it: travellers uncomfortable with nudity, or those wanting a lively club beach or a sheltered family cove, will be more at ease elsewhere.