Menorca’s beaches and coves are one of the main reasons the island is considered a unique destination in the Mediterranean. Unlike many other places, Menorca has managed to keep much of its coastline almost untouched, with wild coves, wide beaches, and crystal-clear waters in shades of blue and turquoise.
The island offers options for every style: hidden coves, family beaches, white-sand spots, wilder corners along the north coast, and easy-access beaches with full services. In this guide you’ll find the main beaches and coves in Menorca, organized by area, with tips to help you choose the best one for each day.
South coast beaches and coves: white sand and calm waters
Son Bou: the longest beach in Menorca
Son Bou is the largest beach on the island, with more than two kilometers of fine sand. It’s one of Menorca’s most comfortable and complete options—ideal if you want space, accessibility, and services.
It also sits next to a protected wetland area, which adds an interesting natural setting despite the beach’s size.
Why choose Son Bou
- A wide beach—great even in peak season
- Fine sand and a very gentle entry into the sea
- Ideal for families with children
Services and surroundings
- Restaurants and bars nearby
- Sunbed and umbrella rentals
- Toilets, showers, and accessible access
When to go
- A great option with north wind
- Ideal on calm-sea days
- Recommended if you want comfort without giving up a beautiful beach
Tip: because it’s so long, walking a few minutes away from the main access points helps you find quieter areas.
Menorca’s south coast is famous for its fine-sand coves and calm waters, sheltered from north winds. They’re ideal for swimming, relaxing, and family time.
Cala Mitjana and Cala Mitjaneta – Cala Mitjana
Cala Mitjana and its neighbor Cala Mitjaneta form one of the most popular cove pairs in southern Menorca. They’re very close to each other and share a setting of pine trees, pale sand, and calm water.
Why choose Cala Mitjana
- Relatively easy access
- Fine sand and shallow water
- Great for a relaxed swim
Cala Mitjaneta
- Smaller and more tucked away
- A slightly quieter vibe
- Ideal if you want fewer people without going far
Access and tips
- Walk-in access from the designated parking area
- In summer there may be access restrictions
- Arriving early or late improves the experience
Tip: visit both in one go. Start at Cala Mitjana and finish at Mitjaneta for a more intimate atmosphere.
Cala Galdana – Ferreries
Cala Galdana is one of the biggest and easiest-to-reach beaches on the south coast of Menorca. Located in the municipality of Ferreries, it stands out for its shell-shaped bay, fine sand, and calm waters—making it one of the most complete beaches on the island.
Why choose Cala Galdana
- A wide, comfortable beach
- Shallow, calm waters
- Ideal for families and long beach days
Features and services
- Restaurants, bars, and accommodation nearby
- Sunbed and umbrella rentals
- Showers, toilets, and accessible access
- Water activities and kayak options
When to go
- A great option with north wind
- Perfect for calm-sea days
- Recommended to arrive early in summer
Tip: if you want a quieter feel, walk toward the ends of the beach—or use it as a starting point for hiking or kayaking to nearby coves like Mitjana or Trebalúger.
Cala Turqueta – Cala Turqueta
Cala Turqueta is one of Menorca’s most famous and most photographed coves, known for its turquoise water and white sand. It’s on the south coast and surrounded by a well-preserved natural setting.
Why choose Cala Turqueta
- Very clear, calm water
- Fine, white sand
- Natural surroundings with no visible buildings
Access and services
- Walk-in access from the designated parking area
- In peak season access may be regulated
- No food services on the cove itself
When to go
- Ideal with north wind
- Best early morning or late afternoon
- Very crowded in July and August
Tip: if you want a quieter experience, avoid the middle of the day and consider visiting outside peak season.
Cala Macarella and Macarelleta – Cala Macarella
Cala Macarella is one of Menorca’s most iconic coves, located on the south coast and surrounded by a protected natural environment. Just a few minutes on foot away you’ll find Cala Macarelleta, a smaller, more tucked-away cove—loved by those looking for a calmer vibe.
Why choose Cala Macarella
- White, fine sand
- Clear, calm waters
- Wild, protected surroundings
Cala Macarelleta
- Smaller and more sheltered
- More intimate atmosphere
- Great for snorkelling
Access and tips
- Access via shuttle bus in peak season
- Possible on-foot access via the Camí de Cavalls
- Car access is often restricted in summer
Tip: visit Cala Macarella first and end the day at Cala Macarelleta—especially late afternoon for a calmer feel.
Cala Trebalúger – Cala Trebalúger
Cala Trebalúger is one of the quietest wild coves on the south coast of Menorca. Its harder access means that—even in summer—it often keeps a relaxed, less crowded vibe.
Why choose Cala Trebalúger
- Completely untouched natural setting
- Pale sand and calm water
- A real sense of isolation and calm
Access and features
- Walk-in access from Cala Mitjana or Cala Mitjaneta
- Approx. 30–40 minutes on foot
- No services or beach bars
When to go
- Ideal with north wind
- Best early morning or late afternoon
- Perfect to spend a few hours without rushing
Tip: bring water, snacks, and sun protection. It’s a great cove if you want to disconnect and enjoy Menorca’s most natural side.
Caló Blanc: small, quiet, and crystal-clear
Caló Blanc is one of Menorca’s smallest and most tucked-away coves. Located in the southeast of the island, it stands out for its tiny size, rocky setting, and surprisingly clear, calm water.
It’s ideal for a relaxed swim in an intimate spot—away from big beaches and without crowds if you time it right.
Thanks to its orientation and enclosed shape, the sea here is almost always calm—even on slightly windy days.
Why choose Caló Blanc
- A very small, sheltered cove
- Clear, shallow waters
- A quiet, local vibe
Services and surroundings
- No services on the cove
- Easy walk-in access
- Rocky, natural surroundings
When to go
- A great option with north wind
- Ideal early morning or at sunset
- Perfect for a short, calm swim
Tip: because it’s very small, it fills up quickly. Go early and avoid midday to enjoy it more peacefully.
The southeast coast of Menorca combines small, sheltered coves and calm waters—perfect if you’re looking for discreet, less crowded spots.
North coast beaches and coves: wild nature and unique landscapes
The north coast is more rugged and less touristy, with golden or reddish sand beaches and a wilder setting.
Cala Morell – Cala Morell
Cala Morell is a distinctive cove on Menorca’s north coast. Unlike the sandy coves of the south, it stands out for its rocky setting, deeper water, and a wilder landscape.
Why choose Cala Morell
- Very clear water—great for swimming
- Excellent snorkelling area
- Quiet, not overly crowded
Features and access
- No sandy beach—rock platforms for sea access
- Easy access by car
- Nearby residential area, but well integrated
When to go
- A good option with south wind
- Ideal late afternoon
- Great for a quick swim or sunset views
Tip: bring water shoes for easier sea access, and enjoy it at sunset when the light makes the scenery especially beautiful.
Cala Pregonda – Es Mercadal
Cala Pregonda is one of the most distinctive beaches on Menorca’s north coast, known for its reddish sand and an unusual natural setting for the island. It’s a wide, open beach with a very different landscape compared to the south.
Why choose Cala Pregonda
- Golden–reddish sand unique in Menorca
- Natural, minimally developed surroundings
- A real “wild beach” feeling
Features and access
- Walk-in access from the parking area (about 15–20 minutes)
- Wide beach with a few different sections
- No services or beach bars
When to go
- A great option with south wind
- Ideal on calm-sea days
- In summer, avoid the hottest central hours
Tip: bring water and sun protection. It’s open and has little natural shade—perfect for a longer stay if you come prepared.
Cala Cavalleria – Es Mercadal
Cala Cavalleria is one of the best-known beaches on Menorca’s north coast. It stands out for its natural setting, golden sand, and wide-open sea views—offering a wilder feel than the south-coast beaches.
Why choose Cala Cavalleria
- Well-preserved natural environment
- Wide, open beach
- Great color contrast between sand, sea, and cliffs
Features and access
- Relatively easy access from the parking area
- Short walk down to the beach
- No fixed services directly on the sand
When to go
- A great option with south wind
- Ideal for enjoying the landscape and a swim
- Recommended early morning or late afternoon
Tip: pair it with the nearby Faro de Cap de Cavalleria for one of the best viewpoints on the island’s north coast.
Cala Pilar – Ciutadella de Menorca
Cala Pilar is one of the wildest and least crowded beaches on Menorca’s north coast. Its reddish sand and completely natural surroundings make it one of the island’s most special coves.
Why choose Cala Pilar
- Untouched environment with minimal development
- Reddish sand and a unique landscape
- A real feeling of total isolation
Features and access
- Walk-in access from the parking area (about 30–40 minutes)
- Wide, open beach
- No services or natural shade
When to go
- A good option with south wind
- Ideal if you want absolute tranquility
- Avoid very windy days
Tip: the access is demanding, but it’s perfect if you want to fully disconnect. Bring water, food, and sun protection—there are no services nearby.
East coast beaches: easy and family-friendly
The east of the island combines urban beaches and small coves that are very convenient.
Es Grau – Maó
Es Grau is one of Menorca’s calmest and most family-friendly beaches. Located in the municipality of Maó, it’s part of the s’Albufera des Grau Natural Park, a protected area with high natural value.
Why choose Es Grau
- Very calm, shallow beach
- Ideal for families with children
- Protected, well-preserved natural surroundings
Features and access
- Very easy access by car or public transport
- Wide beach with fine sand
- Restaurants and services in the village of Es Grau
- Comfortable, suitable area for long stays
When to go
- A good option with north wind or light/moderate wind
- Perfect for calm-sea days
- Great to combine with a walk in the natural park
Tip: use the visit to explore trails in s’Albufera des Grau Natural Park, or rent a kayak nearby for a very relaxed way to discover the surroundings.
Cala Mesquida – Maó
Cala Mesquida is a small cove near Maó, loved for its quiet atmosphere and easy access. It’s a convenient option for a relaxed swim or to combine with other plans on the island’s east side.
Why choose Cala Mesquida
- Sheltered cove that’s not too crowded
- Clear, calm waters
- Relaxed, local atmosphere
Features and access
- Easy access by car
- Fine-sand beach
- No major services on the cove itself
When to go
- A good option with north wind or light wind
- Ideal for a short stop or a calm swim
- Recommended outside peak hours in summer
Tip: it’s perfect to combine with Es Grau or a coastal walk nearby—an easy, relaxed plan without long drives.
Which beach to choose based on your plan
- With kids: Cala Galdana, Es Grau
- Turquoise waters: Cala Turqueta, Macarella
- Peace and quiet: Cala Trebalúger, Cala Pilar
- Snorkelling: Cala Morell, Macarelleta
- Sunsets: Cala Morell, Cala Cavalleria
Practical tips for visiting coves in Menorca
- Arrive early in peak season
- Bring water and food to wild coves
- Respect the natural environment
- Check the wind forecast before choosing your beach
- Use organized transport if access is restricted
Conclusion
Menorca’s beaches and coves offer a variety that’s hard to match. Taking a little time each day to choose well—based on the wind, the time, and the type of beach—is the key to enjoying the island at its best.