10 Of The Best Beaches In Menorca

There’s more to Menorca than its historic twin cities and mysterious Neolithic monuments. The 200km-long coastline boasts some of the finest beaches in the Mediterranean, making it the ideal place to holiday for both sun-seekers and beach bums. Silky sand and sapphire waters characterise the sheltered calas (coves) of the south coast, while the northern beaches are wild and windswept. Read on for our round-up of the 10 best beaches in Menorca.

Best for swimming: Cala Macarelleta

The water on this virgin beach is so turquoise it rivals that of the Caribbean. Forested slopes tumble down to flour-fine sand, where it’s warm enough to sunbathe year-round. Take a dip among the brightly coloured fish that weave and dart between the sailboats bobbing in the bay. However, sadly, this stunning cove is one of the island’s worst-kept secrets, with visitors flocking here in the summer months. Arrive early to nab a spot on the pristine sand.

Best for hiking: Cala Escorxada

Another of the stand-out beaches on the south coast, Cala Escorxada comprises a thin strip of sugar-white sand situated between aquamarine waters and pine-cloaked cliffs. While boat taxis from Cala Galdana mean it’s not as remote as it once was, it still retains a secluded vibe. Hikers should opt for the picturesque hour-long walk from Santo Tomas along Camí de Cavalls – it’s one of our favourite things to do in Menorca.

Best for cliff-jumping: Cala Turqueta

Cala Turqueta is the tranquil alter-ego of sibling Cala Galdana. Despite being just a short hop from one another along the southern coast, Cala Turqueta feels more remote and untouched. That’s not to say it doesn’t get busy in peak season: it’s one of the most popular Menorca beaches. Get there promptly to make the most of the sheltered white-sand cove beach. Off to one side, you’ll find low cliffs from which adventurous types can leap into the azure waters.

Best for wildlife: Cala Trebalúger

This wild, untamed cove sits pretty on the south coast. A river flows through a gorge behind the beach, providing a habitat for terrapins and kingfishers. And while it’s one of Menorca’s better-kept secrets, the word is getting out. Visitors spill out of boats in the summer, and we’d advise arriving early or late to enjoy the cove at its most peaceful.

Best for water sports: Fornells

Menorca is fast becoming a hub for water sports, and with its strong prevailing winds, Fornells is one of the best beaches in Menorca for windsurfing, sailing, and kite surfing. A selection of dive centres around the bay offer PADI courses and trips to explore the reefs and underwater caves of the marine reserve. Fornells was also awarded a place on our top 10 list of towns in Menorca.

Best for kids: Son Saura

Two powdery arcs curving around to a central rocky point characterise Son Saura. Both Banyul and Bellavista are popular with Menorcan families, whose kids play in the sheltered shallows under the watchful eye of lifeguards. There’s plenty of space to lay down your towel, plus family-friendly facilities, making this a winner with parents.

Best for history: Cala Coves

From the limestone cliffs, honeycombed with prehistoric cave dwellings, to the Roman-era harbour, Cala Coves is sure to pique the interest of every history buff. Dip into some of the caves on foot before settling onto the small pebbly beach to soak up the scenery – and the history.

Best for families: Es Grau

There are serene shallows – and then there’s Es Grau. The water is barely knee-deep 50 metres out, so little ones can happily splash around, while older children can kayak, snorkel, and stand-up paddle board around the calm bay. The horseshoe-shaped beach backs onto the S’Albufera des Grau nature reserve, perfect for post-swim strolls and coastal cycles.

Best for snorkelling: Cala Pregonda

Last up on our list of the best beaches in Menorca takes us to the wilder north coast. The remote Cala Pregonda is a sweep of red-gold sand framed by coral-coloured rocks, just six miles from Es Mercadal and accessible only on foot. Park at Binimel-la beach and walk half an hour. A scattering of wind-sculpted islets shelters the bay, making the waters calm for snorkelling. The area is also a marine reserve, so is brimming with fish and sea life.

Best for scenic beauty: Cala del Pilar

Another beautiful cove biting into the north coast is Cala del Pilar, where rose-tinted sand bursts through pockets of dense shrubs. It’s a 30-minute walk from the nearest car park, but the colours are worth it and reminiscent of the fiery red Australian Outback. If you’re feeling sun-scorched, smear some of the red mud over yourself to nourish your skin.

Our handpicked collection of villas in Menorca can put you within walking distance of the best beaches in Menorca, so you can roll out of bed and down for a sunbathe (or an early morning stroll.) If you’d like to make your holiday that little bit more extraordinary, then our concierge team can help you add little extras to your stay.

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