10 Perfect Beaches in Menorca You Shouldn’t Miss!

Menorca is the second-largest island in the Balearic Sea. It is regarded as one of the best locations in the Mediterranean for laid-back vacations, offering charming towns, breathtaking vistas, and world-class beaches.

While there are more than 50 beaches in Menorca, you should know at least 10 of them to decide on your next beach leisure spot.

---

Key takeaways

• South: Go to Cala Macarella, Cala Trebalúguer, and Cala Rafalet.
• North: Cala Pregonda and Cala Presili.
• Arrive early otherwise it won’t be easy to park your transport.
• Many Menorcan beaches are clothing-optional.
• Even in less popular Menorca, beaches can get pretty crowded during peak season.

---

What people say on Reddit

The Balearic Islands are having an extraordinary demand from tourists. The waters are clean and pristine. I love swimming and do some snorkeling. I always bring a bag with me and collect some plastic debris along the way. It’s not pretty, but it’s not massive.

sup3rfm

I know the Mahon side of the island better than the Cuitadella side, but if you base yourself where people live as opposed to tourist towns (Cala Galdana, Son Bou for example) then the local Spa supermarket will have what you want for a similar price to the bigger Eroski or Mercadonna.

stupre1972

My favourite place to spend my spare time. Every year I use to go on holiday. I would like to recommend you the stunning Cala Pregonda (where the menorquins usually go there), (near Fornells,in the north coast line), wild and not crowded like other beaches too much exploited by tour operators.

uricampre

I didn’t think it was boring at all, but I guess it all depends on what you’re looking for. If you are looking for a party vacation, Ibiza or even Mallorca would be a better place. Menorca has a very chill vibe. And sure, the beaches are one of the main draws but there’s a good reason for that, they are gorgeous.

Also, unlike other places along the Mediterranean, Menorca doesn’t feel excessively touristy. There are no huge resorts or massive hotels on the beach. In that sense the beaches in Menorca feel very wild and untouched

I would definitely recommend it for a quiet beach vacation.

JohnnyLizard

10 Best Beaches in Menorca

Menorca’s beaches are some of the best in the world. Many of them are hidden behind craggy coves and vast pine forests. You can find just about any beach you want: secluded, pebble, rocky, or sandy.

Read also: Best things to do in Menorca

This is my list of the best beaches that you need to know about when coming to Menorca: 

The South

1. Cala Macarella

A fantastic beach with clear blue water, striking cliffs, and a cove. Nice spot for families or couples.

• Must-visit: 9/10.
• Accessibility: 4/5.
• Parking: Yes (within a 15-20 minute walk). See on the map.
• Restaurants: Yes, one.
• Facilities: Showers, toilets.
• Crowds: Yes, in peak season.
• Some downsides: Seaweed in October.
• Access from other beaches: A 30-minute walk from Cala Galdana and a similar distance from Cala en Turqueta.
• The viewpoint

The most beautiful one. The surroundings are just spectacular, the beach is encased in a bay on the southern coast, and no surprise, it is a popular spot for tourists and locals. 

The beach has a smaller neighbor, Cala Macarelleta – which is usually busier. 

Parking near this beach can be challenging if you arrive in the afternoon. During the summer, the parking is only for buses.

It is usually best to park at Cala Turqueta in the car park and then walk for about 1.8 miles (3 km) on the Camí de Cavalls. You could also park at Cala Galdana, which is a longer walk. 

Be sure to walk the coastal track to the beach. The views are spectacular whether you are going to Cala Macarelleta or Cala Macarella. There is a lifeguard on duty in the busier months, and you can find a beach bar, rubbish bins, and toilets there. 

The beach also has loads of trees surrounding it, so there is plenty of shade if you need to get out of the heat. 

2. Cala Mitjana

It is a medium-sized beach set in a cove with fine white sand. 

• Must-visit: 8/10.
• Accessibility: 3/5
• Parking: Yes (within a 20-25 minute walk, partially shaded path). See on the map.
• Restaurants: No
• Facilities: Public toilets
• Crowds: In the midday, in peak season
• Some downsides: Some seaweed on the sand in winter and an occasional smell of algae.
• Access from other beaches: A 25-minute walk from Cala Galdana
• The viewpoint

Cala Mitjana is another spectacular beach in Menorca. It also has a “little sister,” Cala Mitjaneta – both are very busy in the summer months. 

The beach has a deep, lopsided shape, so there is more than enough sand for everyone to have their own space. It would be best if you parked in the main car park, signposted before the roundabout at the main entrance. Although the parking lot is big, you may struggle to find a spot if you arrive in the afternoon. 

You can then carry on by foot to the western side of the parking lot. Here you can find a small gap in the stone wall that you can go through. Go along the dirt path that eventually becomes paved, leading you to the beach. 

Just a heads up, the walk is all downhill and takes around 20 minutes. But this means the walk back will be uphill, so prepare for the trek. 

You can walk along the Cami de Cavalls from the beach to Cala Mitjaneta. This beach is a little cove that offers peace and tranquility. It is not stroller or wheelchair accessible; unfortunately, there are no facilities. You must bring enough snacks and water for the day – and rubbish bags.

3. Cala Galdana

A long sandy beach with shallow waters and nearby 5-star Hotel Meliá Cala Galdana. Cala Galdana is suitable for families with kids. Overall, a perfect spot for a beach vacation.

• Must-visit: 7/10.
• Accessibility: 5/5
• Parking: Yes (within a 5-minute walk). See on the map.
• Restaurants: Yes, at least 4 of them.
• Lifeguards: Yes.
• Facilities: Sunbeds, umbrellas, toilets, showers.
• Crowds: In the midday, in peak season
• Access from other beaches: A 25-minute walk from Cala Mitjana
• The viewpoint

An overpass splits the town and the beach, and under that is a small waterway going to the harbor. You can rent boats and explore everything around the area.

Various viewpoints around have the most amazing views of the cove. You can also witness beautiful sunsets from this beach. 

The water is not very deep, making it ideal for people with babies and children.

4. Son Bou

A wide and miles-long beach with shallow waters, bordered by a dune with a small laguna.

• Must-visit: 6/10.
• Accessibility: 5/5.
• Parking: Yes (within a 3-minute walk). See on the map.
• Restaurants: Yes, at least 3.
• Lifeguards: Yes.
• Facilities: Sunbeds, umbrellas, showers. No toilets.
• Crowds: No, there is a lot of space.
• Downsides: No trees – no shade.
• Access from other beaches: No.
• The viewpoint: No.

Son Bou is the longest beach on the south coast of Menorca, bordered by a popular tourist town and protected dunes. The sand is very soft, and you can easily spend your whole day here. 

Due to the length of this beach, its character changes quite a lot the further you get from the tourist town. The furthest end of the beach by Santo Tomas has a remote and unspoiled atmosphere. It is accessible from the Cami de Cavalls trail – the end closer to town is packed with tourists and locals. 

Accessing the beach is easy, as all entry points are close to the car park and bus stops. Once you reach the sand, you can search for a spot to sit or rent a sun lounger for the day.

The town is a short walk away from the beach. 

5. Cala Trebalúguer

A picture-perfect remote beach. The hike is nice and well worth it. Bring water and have good footwear.

• Must-visit: 8/10.
• Accessibility: 3/5.
• Parking: Yes (within a 3-minute walk). See on the map.
• Restaurants: No.
• Facilities: No.
• Crowds: Not really.
• Downsides: No trees – no shade. The beach might be with larger waves and some seaweed.
• Access from other beaches: A 45-minute walk from Cala Mitjana.
• The viewpoint

This hidden beach can be seen through a beautiful, thick pine canopy on the south coast. When you emerge from the trees, expect long stretches of fine white sand, calm turquoise waters sprinkled with sailboats, and flowing freshwater from the creek.

You will first need to walk to Cala Mitjana to get here. You should notice a staircase on the beach that has been etched into a rock. It will lead you up into the bushes. Follow the path until you reach the “hidden” and beautiful Cala Trebalúguer. 

The walk is relatively easy, although some may find the last descent challenging. It is best to wear waterproof sandals or reef shoes to avoid slipping. You should also note that there are no nearby facilities. So take everything you need along with you, and be sure to take it back again! Leave the beach looking cleaner than you found it.

6. Playa de Binigaus

A tranquil sandy beach, perfect for swimming and long walks. There is also a nudist area on the right side of the beach (Cova De Cala Niu Llorc).

• Must-visit: 7/10.
• Accessibility: 5/5.
• Parking: Yes (within a 5-minute walk). See on the map.
• Restaurants: Yes, in the nearby village of Santo Tomas.
• Facilities: No.
• Crowds: Not really.
• Downsides: No trees – no shade.
• Access from other beaches: A 15-minute walk from Platja de San Tomas.
• The viewpoint

Platja de Binigaus is a pristine beach of white sand and turquoise-blue water. The beach has easy access, which results in a high level of occupation compared to other pristine beaches on the island.

The beach is located west of the Santo Tomas urbanization, in the municipality of Migjorn Gran, south of Menorca. It is part of a protected natural area, which starts in Cala Mitjana and reaches Playa de Binigaus.

The path that leads to this beach, the Camí de Cavalls, runs through a forest that borders the coastline. If you continue further away, you will find more isolated beaches with fewer crowds.

From the beach, you can see the Islet of Binicodrell on one of its sides, separating Binigaus beach from Santo Tomas beach. You can swim/dive to the islet, and I recommend snorkeling in the immediate vicinity. 

There are no facilities in Binigaus, but in a 15-minute walk, you can go to the neighboring beach of Santo Tomás to buy refreshments and food.

Pets are allowed on the beach between 7 pm and 9 am.

7. Cala Rafalet

Cala Rafalet is a small, narrow, mostly rocky beach located in the urbanization of s’Algar, very close to Mahón, the capital city of Menorca. 

• Must-visit: 8/10.
• Accessibility: 4/5.
• Parking: Yes (within a 5-minute walk). See on the map.
• Restaurants: Yes, in the nearby village of s’Algar.
• Facilities: No.
• Crowds: No.
• Downsides: Shady in the afternoon.

This beach is for the more adventurous looking for something different. Surrounded by cliffs, access to the beach is not easy as you will have to walk through a pine forest and overcome several rocks to find it.

The beach is relatively small, and most people will have to settle on the rocks since the small sandy area does not fit more than 5. It is not a comfortable beach. 

As you can see in the pictures, the sea has eroded this area of cliffs creating a natural pool in the shape of an “S” letter.

In the afternoons, the beach is shady, so I recommend visiting Cala Rafalet early in the day. With a bit of luck, you will be able to enjoy this beautiful natural pool alone.

North

8. Playas de Fornells / Cala Tirant

Great shallow cove with calm and warm water and a lovely village nearby. The beach is divided into two parts, connected by a wooden walk. 

• Must-visit: 7/10.
• Accessibility: 5/5.
• Parking: Yes (within a 5-minute walk). See on the map. There is another parking area, which is much smaller.
• Restaurants: A beach bar (chiringuito).
• Facilities: Sunbeds.
• Crowds: Not really.
• Downsides: No facilities.
• Access from other beaches: No.
• The viewpoint

Playa de Fornells is a calm beach on Menorca’s north coast. It boasts crystal clear turquoise waters and an idyllic white sand shoreline stretching over 1.2 miles (2 km) long. The beach is an ideal spot to go with children.

9. Cala Presili

Cala Presili (or Playa Capifort) is a beautiful virgin cove of white sand and crystal clear waters overlooking the nearby lighthouse of Favàritx. It is located in the north of the island, 10 miles (17 km) from Mahón, in the natural park of s’Albufera des Grau.

Helpful tip The beach is clothing-optional.

• Must-visit: 7/10.
• Accessibility: 4/5.
• Parking: Yes (within a 10-minute walk). See on the map.
• Restaurants: No.
• Facilities: No.
• Crowds: Absolutely not.
• Downsides: No facilities.
• Access from other beaches: From Tortuga Beach.
• The viewpoint is near the lighthouse.

Cala Presili has a low occupancy level and is usually frequented by nudists. Being a pristine beach, it does not have any facilities. So do not forget to bring water. This beach is perfect for the whole family, as the depth of the sea floor increases progressively. The average depth at 30 meters from the shore is 1.5 meters. 

To reach the neighboring beach, Cala Tortuga, you will have to continue along the beach access path, Camí de Valls, for another mile.

10. Cala Pregonda

Cala Pregonda is one of the most beautiful and less frequented beaches in the north of Menorca. It has unique red sand and crystal clear waters in a desert environment. 

• Must-visit: 9/10.
• Accessibility: 3/5.
• Parking: Yes (within a 20-minute walk). See on the map. 
• Restaurants: One restaurant.
• Facilities: No.
• Crowds: In midday.
• Downsides: No facilities.
• Access from other beaches: It is a 15-minute walk from Platja de Binimel-La.
• The viewpoint

The beach is located 10 kilometers from Es Mercadal. It is a relatively remote spot for those who stay in Mahón or Ciutadella. And the parking lot is not close either. However, the beach is fantastic, and I recommend using one of your days in Menorca to visit it.

In front of its shore is an islet, which can be reached by swimming, with its own small beach. Adrenaline-loving people climb to the highest point of the islet to jump into the sea from the cliff.

The beach is at a considerable distance unless you are near the area of Es Mercadal – Fornells. If you wish to visit it, you must take the detour to Cavalleria Beach, which is on the road that joins Es Mercadal with Fornells. Follow the road signs to Binimel-la and park in the free parking.

The only way to get to the beach is by walking along the coast from the parking lot of Binimel-la. The route to Cala Pregonda is quite challenging, as you will have to walk for 30 minutes under the sun on rocky terrain with significant slopes.

The beach is ideal for anchoring small boats. Keep in mind that larger boats stay away from the coast due to the islets in its vicinity. In addition, the north wind blows strongly in the area. In line with the islets, the depth of the seabed is approximately 3 meters.

Also, Cala Pregonda is the perfect snorkeling spot, so bring your gear. Don’t forget water and an umbrella as nothing can shelter you from the sun there.

Where is Menorca?

One of the seven Balearic Islands Menorca is the most eastern one. It is located in the Mediterranean sea, 132 miles (215 km) from Barcelona and 33 miles (55 km) from its touristy neighbor Mallorca.

The island offers 134 miles (216 km) of coastline, ranging from the soft sandy beaches in the south to the rugged red coast in the north.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

I hope you now have a better understanding of what Menorca offers in terms of beaches. As always, it is better to see and experience for yourselves.

Menorca’s beaches are pure magic, and I cannot recommend them enough. Have a pleasant stay!