Exploring Mallorca in the summer offers an idyllic escape with picture-postcard beaches and a rugged coastline. The island attracts travellers from all over, especially Germans and Brits. Whether you're seeking the best beaches in Mallorca for families, romantic spots for couples, or the clearest waters off the coast, the largest of the Balearic Islands has it all. Mallorca's mix of hidden coves and expansive sandy shores provides endless opportunities for seaside adventure and relaxation.
Which part of Mallorca has the best beaches?
The southeast coast, particularly around the region of Santanyí, is renowned for its picturesque coves and turquoise waters, making it a top choice for those seeking incredible natural beauty. The area between Cala d'Or and Cala Llombards features some of the island's most iconic and beautiful beaches, perfect for relaxing and exploring. The northeast coast near Alcúdia and Pollença boasts long sandy beaches ideal for families and water sports enthusiasts. If you're looking for comfort and convenience, Palma de Mallorca's beaches are also a great option, and still boast the signature turquoise waters and fine sand.
Best beaches around Mallorca
Playa de Muro
With crystal clear waters and fine sand, Muro beach in Alcudia stretches for more than five kilometres and offers an idyllic setting ideal for everyone. Part of the beach is included in the S'Albufera Natural Park, a highly valued wetland area that is home to diverse flora and fauna.
The beach has numerous facilities and services, including beach umbrellas and sun loungers for hire, showers, and a wide range of restaurants and beach bars where you can enjoy local cuisine. Its calm, shallow waters make it perfect for families with children, while its extensive coastline is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts.
Playa de Alcudia
Next to Muro, Alcudia beach is the perfect place for relaxation and fun in equal measure. This area has a lively atmosphere and is close to the port, so it is a good option if you want to stroll around the streets or have lunch in one of the restaurants.
Here, besides relaxing in the sun, you can also enjoy a variety of water sports such as windsurfing, kitesurfing and paddle surfing. Plus, there are children's areas, making this a family-friendly beach.
Playa des Trenc
This unspoilt beach in the south of Mallorca is famous for its turquoise waters and tranquil vibe. It is one of the nicest beaches in Mallorca and great for families. Although services are limited, its natural beauty makes it a must for nature lovers. Es Trenc is one of the last unspoilt beaches in Mallorca with no major hotel developments in sight, allowing visitors to enjoy an almost pristine environment.
Es Trenc beach is also known for its salt marshes, which are an important habitat for migratory birds, making it a must for birdwatchers. Moreover, its shallow waters make it ideal for swimming and snorkelling. Be sure to pack everything for a beach day, as the services here are really basic.
Caló des Moro
Nestled between rocky cliffs, Caló des Moro is a paradise for those seeking privacy and crystal clear waters. Getting there on foot can be a little demanding, but the reward is a remote, spectacular setting. Also, south of the island, it is known for its picture-perfect views and crystal-clear water.
Caló des Moro is a 20-minute walk from the nearest car park. Although the path can be steep and somewhat slippery, the views and the peacefulness are well worth the effort. Wear suitable footwear and take plenty of water, especially during summer when temperatures can be quite high.
Sa Calobra
Surrounded by the imposing cliffs of the Sierra de Tramontana, Sa Calobra has a unique landscape where the sea and mountains meet. Access via a winding road is part of the adventure. This area is not only famous for its natural beauty but also as a meeting point for hikers and photography enthusiasts.
The road leading to Sa Calobra is known for its hairpin bends and spectacular views, making it a thrilling experience for drivers. After reaching the cove, you can explore the Torrent de Pareis, a canyon that leads down to the beach. The combination of turquoise blue waters and huge stone walls creates a magical, otherworldly setting.
Formentor
Playa de Formentor, located on a spectacular peninsula in the north of Mallorca, is known for its breathtaking views of the Mediterranean and its quiet atmosphere, ideal for families. The beach is easily accessible both by road and by boat, making for a unique experience on every visit. The road to Formentor winds through unforgettable scenery, making it one of the island's most scenic routes.
Once in Formentor, you will find crystal clear, shallow waters, perfect for children to play safely. Moreover, the beach is equipped with basic services such as sun loungers and parasols for hire, and small kiosks where you can buy drinks and snacks. Nature lovers will be delighted by the numerous trails inviting you to explore.
Cala Agulla
Cala Agulla, located east of Mallorca, is a 500-metre-long beach with golden sand and transparent waters. It's a popular destination for its natural beauty and is also a great place to practice water sports such as snorkelling and kayaking.
Surrounded by pine trees and mountains, Cala Agulla is a well-preserved natural environment that forms part of the Llevant Natural Park. The protected environment ensures that the beauty of the cove is kept unspoilt and provides a habitat for various species of flora and fauna. It is also close to other small beaches and coves, allowing visitors to explore different landscapes and environments on a day trip.
Cala Mondragó
Located in a natural park in the southeast of Mallorca, Cala Mondragó is renowned for its natural beauty and crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkelling. The area's trails allow you to explore its rich flora and fauna. This place is not only a paradise for sea lovers but also for ecotourism enthusiasts, as it is included in a protected area that ensures its natural environment is preserved.
Besides water activities like snorkelling, Cala Mondragó is also a great place for hiking and bird-watching, making it ideal for those who wish to combine relaxation on the beach with nature adventures.
S'Amarador
Next to Cala Mondragó, S'Amarador offers a peaceful escape with its wide white sandy beach surrounded by pine trees. Ideal for those looking for a relaxing day in contact with nature. S'Amarador is less well known than some of Mallorca's larger beaches, which often guarantees more space and peace, even in the summer months.
The beach is accessible on foot from Cala Mondragó via a pleasant walk through the forest, adding a touch of adventure to the day. Once there, you can enjoy a picnic under the pine trees or take a refreshing dip in the calm waters. There are no sun loungers or parasol rental services, so you should take everything you need to ensure a comfortable stay.
Cala Varques
Cala Varques, a hidden gem on Mallorca's east coast, is a true paradise for people who love nature and calm. This unspoilt cove, accessible only on foot or by sea, is famous for its relaxed atmosphere and impressive underwater caves, making it ideal for diving and exploring.
Access to Cala Varques may be a bit of an adventure, as there are no direct roads and the path includes a walk along a nature trail. However, this small challenge means that the cove's serene beauty is still intact, without the crowds found on other more accessible beaches in Mallorca. Once there, you will find crystal clear waters and white sands, surrounded by cliffs and Mediterranean vegetation, a perfect setting to disconnect from the outside world.
Best beaches near Palma
If you prefer not to travel too far from the city, there are many excellent beaches right on your doorstep. Palma de Mallorca's beaches may be more developed, but they offer a wealth of amenities alongside the sandy shores and inviting waters. Enjoy day trips to nearby coastal spots without venturing far from the heart of the island.
Cala Mayor
This popular beach is perfect for those who enjoy a lively atmosphere combined with easy access to urban amenities. Sunbathers and swimmers appreciate the clear waters, while the surrounding restaurants and beach bars provide delicious local cuisine.
Its proximity to the city ensures that visitors can enjoy both the vibrancy of Palma and the relaxation of a beach day without venturing far. Despite its popularity, Cala Major remains well-maintained, offering sun loungers and parasols for hire.
Playa de Illetes
Illetes beach, located just southwest of Palma, is a small yet stunning beach celebrated for its picturesque setting and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Nestled amidst rocky cliffs and Mediterranean pine trees, this beach offers a more luxurious and tranquil experience.
Visitors can enjoy upscale beach clubs and fine dining options for couples, making it a popular choice for those seeking a touch of elegance and comfort. The clear waters provide excellent opportunities for snorkelling, allowing visitors to explore the marine life around the rocks.
Playa de Palmanova
Located just a short distance southwest of Palma, Palmanova beach is a family-friendly beach that offers a blend of relaxation and activity. The expansive sandy beach features crystal-clear, shallow waters ideal for swimming and is one of the best beaches for families.
With its broad shoreline, Palmanova Beach accommodates a variety of activities, from sunbathing to beach volleyball. Visitors can take advantage of the numerous facilities available, including sun lounger rentals, playgrounds, beachfront cafes, and a lively promenade lined with shops and restaurants.
How to get to the beaches
There are several ways to reach the beaches of Mallorca, depending on your starting point and preferences. The TIB (Balearic Islands Transport) bus lines offer extensive routes connecting the entire island. However, often the bus will only take you to the nearest town rather than directly to the beach. For example, Bus 302 services Alcudia's beaches, while Bus 334 connects Alcudia with Formentor Beach.
Living on Mallorca
Living on Mallorca is a unique experience given the combination of natural beauty and rich culture. The towns and villages are full of cobbled streets and traditional architecture reflecting centuries of Moorish and European influence.
The buzzing capital Palma, is modern yet traditional. With the majestic La Seu cathedral and lively cafés, it offers an enchanting setting. Its historic quarters, such as La Lonja and Santa Catalina, offer a fun nightlife and superb food scene.
Living in Mallorca: pros and cons, best areas and cost of living
Many dream about living on Mallorca for its superb climate, dreamlike landscapes and a great quality of life. However, making the decision to move to this Balearic island involves considering various aspects. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of life on Mallorca, the best areas to settle and the cost of living associated with this charming destination, which offers a wide variety of settings.