Crystal-clear waters lapping against soft golden sand, sunsets that turn the sky into shades of orange and pink, and an atmosphere that blends relaxation with energy. Ibiza and Formentera’s stunning beaches are the heart of the Balearic Islands’ charm. But shocking new research suggests that some of these paradise-like stretches of sand may not be here for future generations.
Greenpeace warns that twelve beaches across Ibiza and Formentera are at risk of vanishing permanently due to rising sea levels linked to climate change.
Rising seas: a threat to paradise
Greenpeace’s latest report, Destruction at All Costs 2025: Impacts of Urbanisation and Climate Change on the Coastline, reveals dramatic forecasts for the Balearic Islands. By 2050, the Mediterranean Sea is expected to rise between 16 and 33 centimetres. By the end of the century, that figure could reach up to one metre. Imagine half of your favourite beach swallowed by the sea – that is the future scientists warn about.
Over the last four decades, the sea temperature around the islands has already risen by 1.6°C. Warmer waters not only make swimming more comfortable today but also trigger marine heatwaves, eroding sandbanks and weakening ecosystems that naturally protect the coastline. Projections estimate another rise of up to 3.6°C this century, intensifying the pressure on Ibiza and Formentera’s fragile shores.
The stunning beaches of Ibiza most at risk
For many travellers, Ibiza means sun-soaked days by the sea. But seven of the island’s most beloved beaches could face permanent flooding:
- Es Codolar – A dramatic, pebble-fringed beach close to the airport, often overlooked by tourists but adored by locals for its wild beauty.
- Santa Eulària – A family favourite, lined with restaurants, hotels, and a lively promenade.
- Cala Pada – Surrounded by pine forests, this small bay is a peaceful hideaway for those seeking calm waters.
- Cala Martina – A hub for water sports and beach bars, buzzing with activity in summer.
- Es Figueral – Known for its long sandy stretch and shallow waters where children can play safely.
- Aigües Blanques – Famous for early morning sun and stunning cliffside views.
- Portinatx – A northern resort where turquoise coves meet vibrant beach life.
Each of these beaches paints a postcard-perfect image of Ibiza. Now imagine those wide sandy shores shrinking year by year – the thought alone creates urgency for visitors who want to see them at their best.
Formentera: five beaches under threat
Formentera has always been celebrated for its untouched charm and Caribbean-style coastline. Yet five of its most iconic beaches are at risk:
- Ses Illetes – Consistently ranked among the world’s most beautiful beaches, with its powdery sand and shallow, transparent waters.
- Llevant – A wilder, less crowded alternative just across from Ses Illetes, perfect for those who love wide open space.
- Sa Roqueta – A peaceful retreat with a natural, unspoilt feel.
- Es Pujols – The island’s lively tourist centre, where beach life merges with nightlife.
- Es Arenals – A vast beach with endless sand and a relaxed, laid-back vibe.
Formentera is smaller, more intimate, and more vulnerable. Losing any of these beaches would mean losing part of the island’s identity.
Why travellers should care
The truth is simple: these beaches are still here, and they are as breathtaking as ever. But their future is not guaranteed. For visitors, this makes travelling to Ibiza and Formentera not only about leisure but also about awareness.
Picture yourself wading into the warm Mediterranean waters of Aigües Blanques, or strolling along the powdery white sands of ses Illetes. Knowing that these places may not look the same in thirty years creates a deeper appreciation of every wave, every grain of sand, every golden sunset.
Sustainable travel: your role as a visitor
Climate change is a global challenge, but every traveller can contribute to protecting the places they love. On Ibiza and Formentera, this means:
- Supporting local businesses that promote sustainability.
- Respecting protected areas and avoiding leaving waste behind.
- Choosing eco-friendly activities such as cycling, hiking, or kayaking.
- Reducing single-use plastics when spending the day at the beach.
Small changes in travel habits can help preserve the beauty of the islands. By being a conscious visitor, you do more than enjoy a holiday – you help keep these beaches alive for future generations.
Beyond Ibiza and Formentera: a Balearic challenge
Across the Balearic Islands, a total of 44 beaches are threatened. In Mallorca, renowned spots such as Es Trenc, Cala Mondragó and Formentor face risks. In Menorca, places like S’Albufera des Grau and Cala Blanca could be affected. But it is Ibiza and Formentera, with their deep reliance on coastal tourism, where the impact would be felt most strongly.
For travellers, this highlights an important reality: climate change is not just a scientific prediction, it is a force already shaping the landscapes we visit and love.
Today, Ibiza and Formentera’s stunning beaches remain among the most beautiful in Europe. The turquoise waters are still irresistible, the sand still soft beneath your feet, and the sunsets still unforgettable. But the clock is ticking.
Plan your trip to Ibiza and Formentera now – enjoy their natural beauty, immerse yourself in their culture, and travel responsibly. Paradise is still here, but it needs you to witness it, to value it, and to help protect it.
