The Ultimate Guide to Mallorca's Breathtaking Beaches & Calas
Mallorca, the largest of the Balearic Islands, is a jewel of the Mediterranean, renowned for its dramatic coastline, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and an incredible diversity of beaches and calas (coves). From long stretches of golden sand backed by dunes to hidden, rocky inlets accessible only by foot or boat, the island offers a perfect beach for every taste. Prepare to be captivated by the sheer beauty of Mallorca's shores as we guide you through its most iconic and breathtaking coastal havens.
The Southeastern Gems: Pristine Sands & Natural Parks
The southeastern coast of Mallorca is a treasure trove of stunning beaches, many nestled within protected natural areas, offering an escape into unspoiled beauty.
Considered Mallorca's most famous natural beach, Es Trenc boasts nearly two kilometers of pristine white sand and shallow, iridescent waters reminiscent of the Caribbean. There are no hotels or resorts directly on the beach, preserving its wild, natural charm.
This protected area is ideal for long walks, sunbathing, and enjoying the serene environment.
Nestled within the Parc Natural de Mondragó, Cala Mondragó is a stunning cove celebrated for its fine white sand, clear turquoise waters, and lush pine forests that stretch down to the shore. It's a Blue Flag beach, popular with families, and offers excellent snorkeling opportunities.
Adjacent to Cala Mondragó, and also part of the natural park, Beach S'Amarador offers a similarly breathtaking landscape. Often less crowded, it's accessible via a scenic coastal path from Mondragó, making it perfect for those seeking a quieter experience amidst nature.
A truly iconic and often photographed cove, Caló del Moro is a tiny, hidden gem with impossibly clear, emerald waters framed by dramatic cliffs. Its beauty attracts many, so arrive early to secure a spot on its small sandy patch. The descent can be steep, adding to its secluded feel.
Just a short walk from Caló des Moro, Cala s'Almunia offers a charming, rocky cove with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and jumping from the rocks. It's less sandy but equally beautiful, providing a rustic alternative to its famous neighbor.
A picturesque and relatively quiet cove, Cala Llombards features fine sand and calm, clear waters, flanked by traditional fishing huts. It's a favorite among locals and offers a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for a peaceful day by the sea.
A delightful family-friendly beach, Cala Santanyí boasts soft sand and calm, shallow waters, making it perfect for children. Surrounded by pines and rocks, it’s a postcard-perfect cove with amenities close by.
Tucked away at the end of a deep, narrow inlet, Torrent de Cala Pi is a unique beach experience. Its small sandy area is backed by towering cliffs and dotted with traditional boat houses, offering a secluded feel and stunning views, including an ancient watchtower.
For the adventurous, Cala Màrmols is a remote, pristine cove accessible by boat or a long, rewarding hike from Cap de Ses Salines. Its white sand and unbelievably clear waters make it worth the effort for an undisturbed slice of paradise.
The Wild East Coast: From Dunes to Hidden Coves
Mallorca's eastern coast presents a mix of expansive, dune-backed beaches and more rugged, secluded coves, each with its own distinct charm.
A popular and spacious beach near Cala Ratjada, Cala Agulla is known for its fine golden sand, clear waters, and surrounding pine forests and sand dunes. It's a protected natural area, offering both natural beauty and amenities.
With its impressive sand dunes and wild, natural feel, Cala Mesquida is a stunning stretch of beach on the northeastern coast. It's popular with surfers on windy days but also offers calm, clear waters for swimming and sunbathing.
For those seeking adventure, Cala Varques is a truly wild and secluded cove, often accessed via a challenging hike through pine forests. Its pristine turquoise waters and dramatic cliff backdrop make it a favorite for cliff jumping and exploring nearby caves.
This beach offers a raw, untouched beauty.
As its name suggests, S'Estany d'en Mas is a picturesque cove with soft white sand and calm, inviting waters. Surrounded by low cliffs, it offers a tranquil setting ideal for relaxation and swimming.
One of the largest and most developed beaches on the east coast, Cala Millor boasts a long stretch of golden sand and a vibrant promenade. Despite its popularity, its clear waters and excellent facilities make it a top choice for families and active holidaymakers.
A charming, smaller cove near Cala Ratjada, Cala Gat offers a delightful escape. Its fine sand and calm, clear waters are perfect for a relaxed swim, and it’s easily accessible from the town.
Northern Shores & Dramatic Landscapes
The north of Mallorca is characterized by its majestic mountain ranges meeting the sea, creating dramatic vistas and beautiful, often windswept beaches.
Tucked away on the Formentor peninsula, Platja de Formentor is a truly breathtaking beach surrounded by pine forests that stretch down to the water's edge. Its calm, shallow turquoise waters and stunning mountain backdrop make it one of the island's most iconic and picturesque spots.
A vast expanse of fine white sand, Platja de Muro is one of Mallorca's longest beaches. Its shallow, warm waters make it incredibly popular with families, while its natural dune system and pine trees offer a beautiful, serene backdrop.
This beach is perfect for long strolls and water sports.
Accessible via a rural track, Cala Torta is a rugged, natural beach located in a relatively undeveloped area. It offers a wild, untamed beauty with fine sand and clear waters, though it can be exposed to waves on windy days.
Southwestern Serenity & Chic Retreats
The southwest coast balances natural beauty with upscale amenities, offering sophisticated beach experiences.
Just a short drive from Palma, Platja d'Illetes is a chic and popular beach known for its fine white sand and exceptionally clear, calm waters. It offers an exclusive atmosphere with beach clubs and excellent facilities.
A small, charming cove nestled amidst pine trees and rocks, Cala Cap Falcó offers a tranquil escape. Its clear waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, and it has a relaxed beach bar.
A beautiful and well-sheltered bay, Camp de Mar boasts fine golden sand and calm, transparent waters. A unique feature is the small island restaurant connected by a wooden pier, adding to its charm.
Western Wonders: Mountains Meet the Sea
The dramatic Serra de Tramuntana mountains plunge into the sea along Mallorca's west coast, creating unique, often rocky, but incredibly scenic coves.
While not a typical sandy beach, the mouth of the torrent de Pareis at Sa Calobra is an absolute must-see. Nestled between towering cliffs, this pebble beach is accessed through spectacular tunnels and offers a truly dramatic, unforgettable landscape.
It's a marvel of nature.
A small, pebbly cove located below the picturesque village of Deià, Cala Deià is a favorite among artists and locals. Its clear waters, rocky surroundings, and a couple of rustic seafood restaurants make it a unique and charming spot.
The main beach of Port de Sóller , Platja d'en Repic, is a lovely sandy and pebble beach with a stunning backdrop of the Tramuntana mountains. Its calm waters and promenade make it a relaxing spot for families and those exploring the Sóller valley.
A beautiful, rugged cove located beneath the charming village of Estellencs, Cala Estellencs is a stony beach with crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkeling and enjoying the tranquility away from the crowds. The drive down is scenic but winding.
Palma Area
Platja de Can Pere Antoni is Palma’s most central beach, located just east of the city’s iconic cathedral. It features golden sand, clear Mediterranean waters, and convenient access to nearby cafés and bike paths. Though urban, it offers scenic views and is ideal for a quick seaside escape without leaving Palma.
S'Arenal Beach, stretching from Palma toward Llucmajor, is one of Mallorca’s liveliest and most touristy beach areas, known for its long promenade lined with bars, restaurants, and nightlife venues. Its wide sandy shore and shallow waters make it popular with families by day and partygoers by night. Located near the airport, it’s easily accessible and a hub for German tourism.
Conclusion
Mallorca's coastline is a testament to natural beauty, offering a diverse array of beaches and calas that cater to every preference. Whether you're seeking lively family fun, secluded tranquility, or dramatic natural wonders, the island's shores promise unforgettable moments under the Mediterranean sun. Remember to respect the natural environment, especially in protected areas, and always check local conditions before your visit. Enjoy your journey along the stunning coast of Mallorca!
Mentioned in This Guide
Explore all the locations mentioned in this guide on the map below.
Cala s'Almunia
S'Almonia, Diseminado Poligono 5, 1048, 07650 Cap des Moró, Illes Balears, Spain
Cala Varques
Cala Varques, Spain
Torrent de Cala Pi
07639 Torrent de Cala Pi, Balearic Islands, Spain
Cala Màrmols
Cala Màrmols, 07650 Santanyí, Balearic Islands, Spain
Cala Millor
07560 Cala Millor, Balearic Islands, Spain
torrent de Pareis
torrent de Pareis, 07315, Balearic Islands, Spain
Es Trenc
Es Trenc, Spain
Sa Calobra
07315 Escorca, Balearic Islands, Spain
Caló del Moro
Caló del Moro, 07650 Sant Antoni de Portmany, Illes Balears, Spain
Camp de Mar
07160 Camp de Mar, Balearic Islands, Spain
Cala Estellencs
Cala Estellencs, 07192 Camp de Mar, Illes Balears, Spain
Cala Torta
Cala Torta, Balearic Islands, Spain
Platja de Muro
Platja de Muro, Spain
Cala Gat
07590 Cala Gat, Illes Balears, Spain
Beach S'Amarador
Balearic Sea, 07690, Illes Balears, Spain
Cala Mesquida
Cala Mesquida, Balearic Islands, Spain
Cala Agulla
Cala Agulla, Carrer d'es Niu de s'Àguila, s/n, 07659 Cala Figuera, Illes Balears, Spain
Platja de Formentor
Platja de Formentor, 07460, Spain
Platja d'Illetes
Platja d'Illetes, 07181 Badia de Palma, Balearic Islands, Spain
Cala Mondragó
Cala Mondragó, 07691 Cala Mondragó, Illes Balears, Spain
Cala Estellencs
Cala Estellencs, Spain
Port de Sóller
Port de Sóller, Balearic Islands, Spain
Platja den Repic
Platja den Repic, 07100, Balearic Islands, Spain
Cala Cap Falcó
Cala Cap Falcó, 07181, Illes Balears, Spain
Cala Deià
Cala Deià, Spain
S'Estany d'en Mas
07680 S'Estany d'en Mas, Balearic Islands, Spain
Cala Santanyí
Cala Santanyí, Balearic Islands, Spain
Cala Llombards
Cala Llombards, Illes Balears, Spain
S'Arenal beach
S'Arenal beach, Platja de Palma, Balearic Islands, Spain
Platja de Can Pere Antoni
Platja de Can Pere Antoni, Illes Balears, Spain