Where can I find a beach near a historical watchtower on the island?

Locals often head to the northern tip of the island where the Formentor Peninsula rises sharply from the sea, crowned by the iconic Cap de Formentor lighthouse. While the lighthouse itself isn't a watchtower, nearby you’ll find Torre de Cala Figuera, one of several coastal watchtowers built centuries ago to guard against pirate raids. The beach at Cala Formentor lies tucked beneath these historic structures, offering crystal-clear waters and fine white sand surrounded by fragrant pine trees.

Along the eastern coast, the stretch around Cala Rajada includes Torre de Canyamel, an imposing 16th-century watchtower overlooking the sea. Just a short drive south on the Ma-15, you can relax on nearby coves like Cala Agulla or Cala Mesquida, where the mix of golden sand and turquoise water is simply spectacular. These towers were once part of a chain of defenses watching for Ottoman and Barbary corsairs, and they provide a fascinating historic backdrop to days spent swimming or sunbathing.

For a quieter spot combining history and beach time, explore Cala Llombards near Santanyí, where a small watchtower stands sentinel close to the shore. On the west coast, too, near the charming port town of Sóller, ancient lookout towers overlook both beaches and rugged cliffs. Whether you’re driving the scenic Ma-10 through the Serra de Tramuntana or hopping on a TIB bus, these coastal watchtowers add a rich layer of history to your island seaside experience.