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Spain has some of Europe’s clearest, most stunning waters, and two of its brightest stars come from the Balearic Islands. According to a recent chromatic study by car rental company Sixt, two beaches from the Pitiusas Islands, Ibiza and Formentera, are among the top ten bluest in the country after analysing 100 locations across Europe.

 

Formentera’s Illes beach, nestled in the heart of Ses Salines Natural Park, takes the impressive third place nationally. This sandy Mediterranean paradise has long been adored by visitors for its crystalline waters and breathtaking scenery, confirming why it’s one of the most photographed beaches in the world.

 

Not to be outdone, Ibiza’s Cala Comte ranks tenth on the list. Famous for its vibrant turquoise hues contrasting against nearby islets like s'Illa des Bosc and sa Conillera, this spot remains one of Ibiza’s iconic coastal jewels.

 

The study highlights what locals and tourists alike celebrate each summer: the Balearic Sea is a treasure trove of natural beauty, rivalling some of the world’s most sought-after beach destinations.

Across Spain, the report places the Bay of Biscay’s waters as the bluest nationally, followed by the Bays of Vigo and Cádiz. Together with Illetes and Cala Comte, a collection of Mediterranean beaches rounds out the top ten, showcasing the country’s wide appeal as a premier sun-and-sea destination.

 

As travel trends show a 44% increase in online searches for “crystal clear waters” in the last year, these findings come as little surprise.

 

But as the Pitiusas bask in their global spotlight, local authorities face the challenge of balancing tourism with sustainability. In particular, Illetes faces overcrowding that threatens the delicate ecosystem of Ses Salines Natural Park, where Posidonia oceanica plays a vital role in maintaining those famously clear waters.

 

Efforts are underway to protect these natural gems, because preserving the beauty that puts Ibiza and Formentera on the map is essential for future generations.

 

 

Image: wikicommons