The 12 Most Beautiful Beaches in Mallorca – Your Ultimate Guide to Mallorca’s Best Beaches

Plan early and youre going to beat crowds: start at Cala Mondragó at first light for turquoise water and white sand that stays cool as the day warms. This approach also gives you time to sketch your direction for a 2–3 beach day, keeping distances short and parking manageable.

Across Mallorca, the 12 beaches span pebbly coves to long, accessible bays. A fact is the island’s coastline runs about 262 km, with highlights such as Es Trenc’s white sands, Cala Mondragó’s lagoon setting, and the pebbly Cala Varques rewarding steady hikers.

Plan a north-to-south loop that begins at Formentor Beach and ends at Es Trenc, using a straightforward direction: drive the coast road MA-13 for dramatic views, then switch to inland lanes to reach Cala Mondragó, Cala Pi, and Cala Gran in comfortable time blocks.

One quiet gem is the murta coastline near Pollensa: Cala Murta is a pebbly cove with turquoise water and a steep trail to the headland, offering accessible routes for families who want a shorter hike before a swim.

Es Trenc features a long white-sand beach with shallow water, ideal for a cheap picnic and a quick dip. If you arrive before 9:00, you’ll find parking easier and the water stays clear longer into the morning.

Cala Pi sits in a sheltered bay with blue water and a gentle slope, perfect for staying longer or popping in for a quick splash. Nearby Cala Agulla offers a lively atmosphere with beach bars and easy access, while Cala Mondragó makes a good pairing for a varied day.

Playa de Muro and Playa de Alcúdia provide wide, sandy bays with calm water for beginners and families. If youre planning a quick circuit, you can stay near these beaches to reduce drive time and keep a flexible schedule for lunch and naps yourself.

In Cala Gran and Cala Barques you’ll find dependable parking, rental gear, and a handful of affordable stays within walking distance. Your plan can include markets for cheap supplies and a light lunch before the next hop.

For a wilder finish, Cala Mesquida’s dunes contrast with Formentor Beach’s dramatic headland. The former has a tight pebbly approach at low tide, the latter offers blue water and vistas that justify the drive from the island’s center. Park on the hilltop and descend for a quick dip.

These 12 beaches offer a spectrum from quick swims to full days by the sea. If youre visiting from europe, Mallorca is a compact, accessible choice with sun, sea, and sand ready to be sampled around the island. Yourselff, you can tailor stays to cheap rents and flexible schedules that keep you in control of the day.

Mallorca Beach Guide

Start your Mallorca beach day in colonia de Sant Jordi and cala mondragó. Go early to secure parking, enjoy calm water, and take in views from pine-fringed paths before the heat rises. Pack a light lunch and a towel; snorkel along rocky edges, then circle back to the town for a stroll along the shore.

If you want a quieter option, follow the road to tuent. The drive reveals dotted cliffs and tiny coves, with a floating platform catching the morning sun and a gentle tide inviting a refreshing dip without the crowds.

Within santanyí’s zone, the beaches near colonia de Sant Jordi offer calmer coves for families. cala llombards, cala figuera, and cala s’almunia are popular, but if you already visited the bigger names, try cala s’almunia for a tucked-away vibe or drift toward colonia for a sunset walk.

Francesc, a local from santanyí, says to lead with a short morning snorkel to warm up, then follow a coast-hugging route back to the town for coffee. His advice is practical, keeps you close to the water, and helps you read the signs along the way.

If you miss the busiest spots, keep a flexible plan and spend time at nearby coves that see fewer visitors. Snorkel gear can come along, and you can also discover quiet stretches around cala pi or cala ferrera, enjoying clear views of the shore and sky.

Before you set out, consider mobile coverage and weather; a simple map and a loose timetable help you stay on track. santanyí, colonia, and the tuent area all offer easy access, so you can spend a half-day or a full day chasing beaches and signs of good weather.

Es Trenc South: How to reach, parking tips, and best times to visit

Arrive by 8:30–9:00 a.m. to secure a parking spot and enjoy the first light. Drive from Palma along the coastal Ma-19 toward Colònia de Sant Jordi and follow signs to Es Trenc South; the approach stays close to the puerto area, with the dunes visible ahead.

Parking tips: use the main entrance lot where a daily fee applies, and if that fills up, a secondary lot a short walking distance away becomes an option. In peak season, plan for a 10–15 minute walk from the farther lot. Always bring coins or a card for the terminal, and expect a modest price per day. The official sunbeds and shade inventory is limited–consider bringing a lightweight umbrella or blanket so you still have a comfy spot.

What to do on site: The foundation of a relaxed day is water, shade, and respect for the dunes. Walking along the shore reveals a lovely landscape, and the calm water creates shallow pools where kids can splash. Snorkeling is possible in calmer pockets near the edge, but heed the flag signals and avoid swimming beyond marked zones. The northern side has a few limestone-streaked outcrops that give a scenic break from endless sand; thats a nice backdrop for photos and a short cliffside walk, if you enjoy a longer stroll.

Best times to visit: morning light lasts until about 11:00 a.m., after which the sun climbs and the sand warms quickly. Late afternoon offers cooler air and clearer reflections on the water, turning the place into a super scene for sunset photos. For those combining a city stay with a day trip, plan two to three days to explore Palma and the southern coast; Es Trenc South remains a paradise during any visit and a must for beach lovers aiming to soak up space, sun, and sea in a natural setting. Bring water, sunscreen, and a small bag, and be mindful of the sea’s mood so you can leave when the wind picks up or the flag changes color.

Cala Mondragó Reserve: where to walk, viewpoints, and family-friendly zones

Take the short coastal loop from Cala Mondragó car park to S’Amarador Beach for a family-friendly first visit. This loop stays on easy, hard-packed trails with occasional boardwalks tucked along rugged, craggy coves that remind you of Mallorca’s wild character; the route gets incredibly scenic as cliffs meet the blue horizon. October mornings are cooler and quieter, a great time to explore after a stay in Santanyí or Colònia de Sant Jordi.

The walk offers two main viewpoints that rise above the front of the reserve, giving you panoramic angles across Cala Mondragó and the sheltered coves below. Look for a sign at each junction to keep your bearings; the signs also point toward Colònia de Sant Jordi and the medieval surroundings of nearby towns. Bring your snorkel for a quick look at life along the craggy edges, where the waves massage the bottom in playful swirls.

Family-friendly zones center on S’Amarador Beach, where the water stays incredibly calm and the bottom stays sandy for easy paddling with little ones. Some stretches lead to rocky pockets, so supervise closely, but the main route stays well within safe, easy terrain. Snorkelling gets popular in mornings with gentle sea conditions; that’s when you’ll find some of the best sights close to shore. Pack a picnic with grilled treats and plenty of water; the front-facing dunes offer shaded spots for a quick rest break.

Distances are modest, so you can loop or split the visit into a shorter morning and a deeper exploration in the afternoon. If you stayed in Palma or you’re visiting from Deià or Santanyí, the park’s surroundings are a refreshing contrast to urban days. You’ll frequently pass lookouts that reward a patient pause, and you’ll find that some routes weave past tucked coves that feel almost private.

To extend the experience, consider a short detour toward deia and the coast, or a drive toward Santanyí’s town center, where Jordi–a local guide, sometimes spelled with a lowercase touch as jordi–can share easy routes and tips. Its medieval lanes and cheerful markets remind you that this corner of Mallorca blends rugged nature with historic charm. That’s why the reserve is named Mondragó: a simple signal of its enduring appeal for families and explorers alike.

Cala Varques: access routes, safety notes, and tide-aware snorkeling spots

Plan your Cala Varques visit for an early start, and pack 1.5–2 liters of water per person, a hat, and sunscreen. Take a favourite route and stick with it to beat the heat, save energy, and enjoy a great day with families that want a calm shoreline experience here on Mallorca. For others who crave a dream escape, Cala Varques offers a rugged beauty that’s backed by surrounding cliffs and pine forest. Within this major east-coast setting, the bay invites you to settle in for a memorable beach day that feels far from the crowds.

Access routes

• Car-park to Cala Varques (the standard route): Park at the designated lot along the coastal road between Porto Cristo and Portocolom. From there, follow a pine-fringed trail for about 30–40 minutes; the path is rocky and uneven, so wear sturdy shoes. This route is a great choice for families with older kids who can handle a short hike and want a reliable arrival. Take water, a small first-aid kit, and a lightweight bag for drinks and snacks to save time on the way back.
• From sant Llorenç des Cardassar by sea: If you prefer a sea day, arrange a short paddle or private boat from sant Llorenç des Cardassar, Cala Anguila, or nearby harbors. Calm mornings offer a quieter arrival and a sheltered water entry near the left side of the beach. This option is popular with friends who want to combine snorkeling and sun without the long hike, and it’s a nice alternative when the hike doesn’t fit your plans.
• Timing and backup plan: Check the forecast and heat index the day before. If winds rise or seas look unsettled, have a backup plan to shorten the visit or swap to a nearby beach. Bring drinks for the whole crew and a shade hat; you’ll appreciate the option to rest in the shade if you’ve already logged a long walk.

Safety notes

• General safety: Cala Varques has no lifeguards. Rocks can be slippery, and paths are uneven, so wear closed shoes with good grip. Stay on marked routes, keep an eye on children at all times, and carry a whistle or a phone with a charged battery in case you need to call for help. Always swim with a buddy, and don’t push beyond your comfort level.
• Heat, hydration, and personal care: Start early to avoid the strongest sun. Bring enough water and some salty drinks to replenish electrolytes. Apply sunscreen regularly, and wear a hat. If you feel dizzy or overheated, regroup in the shade and hydrate before continuing. Taste of sea spray and sun can sneak up on you, so listen to your body and take breaks as needed.
• Environment and etiquette: Respect other visitors, keep noise to a minimum, and avoid leaving litter. If you’re with kids, set a clear signal for rejoining the group and designate a home base near the trailhead where you can settle for rest and hydration. If weather shifts or calls for a change in conditions, head back promptly to ensure everyone stays safe.

Tide-aware snorkeling spots

• Spot A – left-hand rocky shelf: Depth about 1–3 m, typically calm at low to mid-tide. Look for small wrasse, damselfish, and blennies among the gentle shelves. This area is ideal for casual snorkelers among families and beginners, with a straightforward entry from the sand and minimal surge when winds are light. Remember to stay close to the shore and take it slow to enjoy the view and avoid stirring sediment that reduces visibility.
• Spot B – behind the main rock formation near the cave entrance: Depth around 4–6 m, with a mix of rocky outcrops and sandy pockets. Best during rising or high tide when visibility improves and current is predictable. You may spot octopus, sargo, and small sea bass here. Always check the current before entering, and limit your swim to a safe radius if you’re unfamiliar with the area.
• Spot C – arta rock formations near the sea cave: Moderate depth and interesting silhouettes created by arta-shaped rock features. Visibility tends to be best in the morning or late afternoon. Snorkel slowly to protect fragile habitats, and if visibility drops, switch to another nearby spot to keep your experience enjoyable. This area offers a favourite backdrop for photos and the chance to see shy species up close, which makes it a memorable part of your Cala Varques visit.

Port de Sóller and Nearby Bays: getting there by train, transit tips, and shade spots

Take the Palma-to-Sóller train and then the historic tram to Port de Sóller; youll bypass traffic, save money, and enjoy the Tramuntana scenery along the way. Navigate this route, and youll arrive here ready to start your day with amazing views and a gentle breeze along the shore.

From Palma’s Intermodal Station, Ferrocarril de Sóller departs roughly every 30–60 minutes in peak season; the ride to Sóller town lasts about 1 hour 15 minutes, after which the wooden tram to Port de Sóller adds 20–25 minutes. Tickets are available at the station or online; a cheap combo ticket for both legs saves time and money. There are seasonal changes, so check the timetable before you go, and plan your entrance to the port so youdont miss the first afternoon departures. Here you’ll find a straightforward way to align your ride with the shore.

Transit picks: buy the combo ticket, arrive early to avoid queues, and use the tram only when you’re ready to reach the port entrance. If you want to visit pollensa after Port de Sóller, the northern routes are easier by bus, and you’ll be back in time for sunset. dont rely on a single plan; there are options that keep you moving without long waits. If you care about a smooth day, this approach would suit visiting families, solo travelers, and photographers alike, making it easy to come back without stress.

Shade spots spread along the shore: the palm-lined promenade behind the main beach offers umbrella tables, and several sunbeds sit under green shade near the water. For a greener escape, a short hike to Cala Deià provides cliff shade and cooler air, while the northern coves offer pockets of shade among rocks and trees. If you stay in Colonia-style districts, many hotels provide shaded patios and pools where you can retreat after a dip–pool days and shaded terraces make it easier to spread your day without overheating. Sunbeds are available on the main beach, and beach bars with awnings add extra shade for those who want to linger by the shore.

Come prepared for a practical plan: go after 9:30 when the quay is lively but not packed; bring water, sunscreen, and a hat, and use the ferrying options to store belongings in shade. A balloon festival on certain days adds a playful backdrop over the bay, a lovely detail to photograph after a morning swim. If you’re visiting saramador or nearby areas, you can extend your day by catching a short bus back to Port de Sóller or continuing to pollensa for a northern coastal vibe. The coast is green, the routes are well-marked, and much of the experience is designed to be cheap and comfortable for travelers who want to explore the islands without a car–this world isn’t far away, and the options are spread across the islets and areas around you.

Cala Agulla and Cala Mesquida: facilities, snorkeling spots, and peak-season advice

Arrive before 9am at Cala Agulla to beat crowds, secure a convenient parking spot, and enjoy bright morning light over the turquoise bay. Parking price varies by season, so plan accordingly and soak in the cool air as you get ready for trips along the coast.

Facilities and amenities here cover the basics: clean toilets, showers, lifeguards in peak season, sunshade rentals, and snack kiosks. This foundation is a must for family trips and makes Cala Agulla and Cala Mesquida family-friendly experiences, still comfortable for couples and solo travelers who are getting ready to relax by the water.

Snorkeling spots: Cala Agulla’s clear water around the rocky ends reveals pockets of small fish and sea grass; Cala Mesquida offers better snorkeling along the eastern headland and near the dunes, with wrasse and blennies visible. Since mornings are usually calmer, conditions stay favorable for beginners and curious swimmers, and the underwater scenery can feel magical, natural, and inviting.

Peak-season advice: Weekends fill quickly and parking can be scarce, so aim for a midweek morning visit if you can. Bring sunscreen, hats, and water; shade is limited, so consider a quick loop into the pine forest or nearby coves for a cooler break. Prices for sunbeds and refreshments rise in high season, so factor that into your planning and keep your trips flexible because you want to enjoy both beaches without rushing.

Getting there and planning: From Palma, take the coastal road toward Capdepera, following signs to Cala Agulla and Cala Mesquida; the drive is straightforward and the routes offer sea views most of the way. This is only a portion of the northeast coast’s beauty, so plan other trips as well. Here is a quick list of practical tips to guide yourself: arrive early, park in the official lot if possible, bring snorkel gear, and for quieter scenery, a short trip to carbó coves offers rugged, natural beauty below the mountains.