The 10 Best Beaches in the Balearic Islands

It can be hard to find decent beaches on Mallorca. Despite it being the largest of the Balearic Islands, in recent years much of the island is overdeveloped and touristy (we're looking at you, Magaluf).

That's not the case in Deià. Located directly north of regional capital Palma de Mallorca on the opposite side of the island, it's an idyllic gem of a coastal village most tourists don't even know exists. Popular among locals, the small beach does get quite crowded, but it's well worth showing up early to claim your spot with a towel. When you get hungry, head to one of the no-frills beach bars for deliciously fresh seafood and ice-cold beer.

Formentera is perhaps the least visited of the habited Balearic Islands among non-Spanish tourists, and they don't know what they're missing.

Ses Illetes, often known simply as Illetes, offers a pristine beach of fine white sand and glimmering bright blue water. But it doesn't just look great on Instagram—it's also one of the most popular beaches in the Balearic Islands for watersports enthusiasts. Whether you're into kitesurfing, sailing, diving, or anything in between, you can't get much better than this little stretch of paradise.

The name says it all—Cala en Turqueta's claim to fame is its turquoise waters that will take your breath away at first sight. The beach itself is a favorite among locals, who don't even mind that there are no restaurants or bars nearby. (Pack a picnic—it's all part of the experience.) This glittering gem of a beach on Menorca is worth a visit for the gorgeous views alone, and it's easily accessible from the nearby city of Ciutadella.

If you thought Ibiza had nothing more to offer than partying and nightclubs, think again. There's another side to the island, one that's best captured at Niu Blau Beach. A tranquil corner of nature with its own quiet charm, local families love this spot for its lush natural surroundings and relaxing vibes. It's a far cry from the main reason most tourists come to Ibiza, and that unexpectedness is exactly why we love it.

Sa Calobra is popular for a reason. Framed by dramatic, craggy rocks, its surrounding landscape is the kind of thing you have to see to believe. Despite its remote location, it does draw its fair share of crowds, so be prepared to get there early and stake out your spot on the sand.

Okay, so these are technically two separate beaches, but hear us out. While Cala Macarella is more accessible and has better facilities, the steep walk up the cliffs to get to nearby Cala Macarelleta is completely worth it. It's a small, hidden corner of paradise that most tourists on the main beach don't even know it's there.

Cala Bassa is one of Ibiza's most popular beaches among tourists and locals alike, and for good reason. It's packed with excellent facilities, many opportunities for water sports, and is easy to access by car or bus from the popular town of San Antonio. But it's also got plenty of natural beauty, and is much more aesthetically pleasing than many of the other popular beaches on the islands.

Formentera is the smallest of the inhabited Balearic Islands, and what it lacks in size, it makes up for in ambiance. Es Pujols, the only resort on the island, is a prime example of that. Elegant yet unpretentious, popular among tourists yet accessible to locals as well, it encapsulates the best of both worlds in every possible way. With so many shops and restaurants nearby, it truly feels like its own little world within the island.

As one of Mallorca's cleanest and most naturally stunning beaches, Cala Agulla might just be the closest any of us will ever get to paradise. Located in a calm, low-key area and often populated by Mallorca locals, it's a great place to go if you want to get a bit off the beaten path but not feel completely isolated. When you're done swimming and sunning, head into the nearby medieval town of Capdepera for a dose of culture.

Up for some snorkeling? Cala Xarraca, a gorgeous little corner of coastline on northern Ibiza, is calling your name. It's home to the clearest waters Ibiza has to offer, offering breathtaking up-close views of the underwater wildlife. If you're sick of tan lines, head to the more secluded part of the beach, where nudism is encouraged.