article_detail

One of the Region of Murcia's most spectacular stretches of coastline has earned national recognition after being named among the finalists in a competition to find Spain's best beach of 2026.

 

Calblanque beach, located within the protected regional park near Cartagena, has secured a place in the final ten of the annual ranking organised by travel and lifestyle magazine Condé Nast Traveller.

 

The competition began earlier this month following an initial shortlist chosen by the publication's travel experts. Readers are now casting the deciding votes, with the winning beach set to be announced on June 28.

 

For Calblanque, it's another chance to shine on the national stage. The Murcia favourite finished seventh in last year's rankings and will be hoping to climb several places this time around.

 

Condé Nast Traveller praised the area's unspoilt natural beauty, highlighting its collection of wild beaches and hidden coves, as well as its setting between the Mediterranean Sea and the rugged hills that surround the regional park.

 

Unlike many of Spain's better-known tourist beaches, Calblanque has managed to retain a more natural feel, making it a popular choice for visitors looking to escape crowded resorts and enjoy a quieter day by the sea.

 

The Cartagena beach faces tough competition from nine other finalists located across Spain. Among those hoping to take the title are Bolonia in Cádiz, Ses Illetes in Formentera, Las Catedrales in Galicia and Playa de Los Locos in Cantabria, which finished third in last year's competition.

 

The current holder of the title is Cala Bassa in Ibiza, which was voted Spain's best beach in 2025. Los Genoveses in Almería claimed second place, with Los Locos rounding out the top three.

 

Whether Calblanque can go one better this year remains to be seen, but its place among the finalists is already another boost for one of Murcia's most treasured natural attractions.

 

Click for further local information about Cartagena, or for an overview of the beaches of Cartagena.

 

Image: Turismo Region de Murcia