With over 100 stunning beaches to choose from, this Balearic island offers something for everyone. I love Menorca and have explored many of these beautiful beaches and can’t wait to share my favourites with you.
In this article, I’ll reveal the 9 best beaches in Menorca that you simply can’t miss. From secluded coves with crystal-clear waters to long stretches of golden sand. Whether you’re after a lively atmosphere or a peaceful retreat, Menorca’s coastline has it all.
1: Cala en Turqueta
Cala en Turqueta, in Menorca, is a slice of paradise tucked away on the island’s south coast. Not only does it have soft, white sand, but also has crystal-clear turquoise waters that give the cove its name.
The beach is relatively small, which adds to its charm and intimate feel. I found it to be less crowded than some of Menorca’s more famous spots, making it perfect for a peaceful day by the sea. The surrounding pine forests provide a lovely backdrop and offer welcome shade on hot summer days.
My family and I spent hours swimming and snorkelling in the calm, shallow waters. The visibility was amazing, and I spotted colourful fish darting between the rocks. For those who enjoy a bit of adventure, there are some great cliff-jumping spots nearby, though we opted to stick to sunbathing and paddling.
Getting to Cala en Turqueta requires a bit of effort, as it’s only accessible by foot or boat. I parked at the nearby car park and enjoyed a scenic 15-minute walk through the pine forest. The trek is well worth it, and the secluded location helps preserve the beach’s natural beauty.
2: Playa des Talaier
Playa des Talaier is another gem among Menorca’s beaches. This secluded cove boasts crystal-clear turquoise waters that are perfect for swimming and snorkelling. The soft, golden sand feels luxurious underfoot, making it ideal for sunbathing or building sandcastles.
The beach is surrounded by lush greenery and rocky cliffs, creating a picturesque backdrop. I was struck by how unspoilt it felt, with no buildings or facilities in sight.
Access to Playa des Talaier requires a short walk through a wooded area, which adds to its sense of seclusion. I found the path easy to navigate, and the reward at the end was well worth the effort. The beach wasn’t crowded when I visited, allowing for a peaceful and relaxing day by the sea.
The beach’s sheltered location means it’s often protected from strong winds, making it a great choice for families with children.
3: Playa de Son Bou
Playa de Son Bou is another beach that blew me away with its beauty. This stunning beach stretches for nearly 3 kilometres, making it the longest sandy shoreline on Menorca. The golden sand is soft underfoot, perfect for lazy strolls along the water’s edge.
The clear turquoise waters are so inviting, I couldn’t resist taking a dip to cool off from the warm Mediterranean sun. The gentle slope into the sea makes it ideal for families with young children who want to paddle safely.
I was impressed by the facilities available. There are several beach bars and restaurants dotted along the beach, offering refreshments and tasty local cuisine. Sun loungers and parasols are available to rent, providing a comfortable spot to relax.
Nature lovers will enjoy the protected wetland area behind the beach. It’s home to various bird species and adds an extra layer of charm to this already picturesque setting. The sunsets here are not to be missed, painting the sky in vibrant hues of orange and pink.
4: Es Tancats – Algaiarens
Es Tancats – Algaiarens is a beautiful beach with pristine white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters.
The beach is split into two coves, each offering a unique experience. I found the larger cove perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The smaller one felt more secluded and ideal for those seeking peace and quiet.
Nature lovers will adore this spot as it is surrounded by the lush greenery and the area is part of a protected nature reserve, which explains its unspoilt beauty.
I recommend bringing your own supplies as there are no shops or cafes nearby. This lack of facilities helps keep the beach quiet and clean. It’s a great place to escape the crowds and enjoy Menorca’s natural beauty.
5: Playa de Cala Galdana
Playa de Cala Galdana is a stunning crescent-shaped cove, with soft golden sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters.
The beach is sheltered by tall limestone cliffs covered in lush pine forests, meaning there are gorgeous views in every direction. It’s perfect for families, as the shallow waters make it safe for children to splash about while you relax on the beach.
There are plenty of amenities nearby, including restaurants, shops, and hotels. I enjoyed a delicious paella at one of the beachfront cafes, watching the sun slowly dip towards the horizon. For those seeking adventure, you can rent kayaks, paddleboards or pedalos to explore the coastline.
The beach can get busy during peak season, but it’s well-maintained and clean. I recommend arriving early to get a prime spot on the sand. Don’t forget to bring a sun brolly, as there’s limited natural shade.
6: Playa Punta Prima
Playa Punta Prima is small but perfectly formed. It has lovely golden sand and, like most beaches in Menorca, gorgeous turquoise water. It is a great spot if you want beachside bars and restaurants that you can step straight onto the sand from.
Basico Sandwich Club was one of my favourites as it has great views out to sea so we could grab a drink and still watch our children playing on the beach. There are plenty of other bars, cafes and restaurants along the seafront which offer a relaxed atmosphere with gorgeous sea views.
7: Cala Son Xoriguer
This picturesque cove boasts crystal-clear waters that are perfect for swimming and snorkelling. The soft, golden sand feels lovely between your toes as you stroll along the shoreline.
The beach is well-equipped with amenities, making it ideal for families. I spotted several sun loungers and parasols available for hire, which is handy if you plan on spending the whole day here. There’s also a small beach bar where you can grab a cold drink or a quick snack.
Water sports enthusiasts will be in their element at Cala Son Xoriguer. I saw people enjoying activities like kayaking and paddle boarding. The calm waters provide excellent conditions, even for beginners.
While the beach can get busy during peak season, I found it less crowded than some of Menorca’s more famous spots. This makes it a great choice if you’re looking for a bit more peace and quiet during your beach day.
8: Playa Sa Mesquida
I recently visited Playa Sa Mesquida, and I was blown away by its pristine beauty. This hidden gem on Menorca’s east coast truly is a slice of paradise.
The beach boasts soft, golden sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters that sparkle in the Mediterranean sun.
As I walked along the shoreline, I noticed the beach is relatively quiet compared to some of Menorca’s beaches. This makes it perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat.
The surrounding landscape is dotted with lush greenery and rocky cliffs, adding to the beach’s natural charm. There are a few basic facilities nearby, including a small beach bar where I grabbed a refreshing drink.
The gentle slope into the sea makes it ideal for families with young children too. I also spotted some great snorkelling opportunities around the rocky areas at the edges of the beach. The clear water allows for excellent visibility of the marine life below.
9: Playa Des Bot
I stumbled upon this beach during my recent trip to Menorca. Playa Des Bot is another stunning beach with its crystal-clear turquoise waters and soft golden sand creating a picture-perfect setting.
The beach is relatively secluded and I enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere and the lack of crowds.
Swimming and snorkelling are fantastic here. I spent hours exploring the underwater world, spotting different fish and sea creatures. The gentle slope of the beach makes it safe for families with children too.
Again, I recommend bringing your own supplies as there aren’t many facilities nearby and who doesn’t love a picnic on the beach. The surrounding cliffs provide some shade in the afternoon, which we definitely appreciated.
Overview of Menorca’s Beaches
Menorca boasts a stunning array of beaches that cater to every taste. From secluded coves to bustling shores, the island’s coastline offers a diverse range of options for sun-seekers and water sports enthusiasts alike.
Geographical Features
Menorca’s beaches are spread along its 216 km coastline, creating a varied landscape. The north coast is rugged and windswept, with dramatic cliffs and rocky shores. Here, I’ve found some of the most secluded and untouched beaches.
The south coast, in contrast, is gentler with softer landscapes. It’s home to many of the island’s most popular beaches, like the beautiful Cala Macarella. These southern beaches often feature fine white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters.
Many of Menorca’s beaches are nestled in coves, known as ‘calas’. These natural formations provide shelter from winds and create picturesque settings. The island’s beaches are often surrounded by pine forests, adding to their beauty.
Types of Beaches
Menorca offers a wide variety of beach types to suit different preferences. Family-friendly beaches like Arenal d’en Castell provide shallow waters and amenities such as restaurants and shops nearby. These are perfect for those travelling with children or seeking convenience.
For nature lovers, there are numerous unspoiled beaches. Cala en Turqueta is a prime example, with its powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters surrounded by pine trees.
Water sports enthusiasts will find beaches suited to their needs, particularly on the windier north coast. Some beaches offer equipment rentals for activities like kayaking or paddleboarding.
I’ve also come across several nudist-friendly beaches on the island, catering to those who prefer a more natural beach experience. It’s worth noting that all beaches in Menorca are public, ensuring everyone can enjoy the island’s coastal beauty.
Activities and Attractions
Menorca’s beaches offer more than just sunbathing. I’ve found exciting water sports and fascinating wildlife encounters that make these coastal areas truly special.
Water Sports
Menorca’s crystal-clear waters are perfect for various water activities. I’ve tried snorkelling at Cala Macarella, where the underwater visibility is fantastic. The calm waters are ideal for beginners.
For those seeking more adventure, kayaking is brilliant. I’ve paddled along the rugged coastline, exploring hidden coves and caves. Many beaches rent kayaks by the hour or day.
Stand-up paddleboarding has become popular too. It’s a great way to enjoy the scenery while getting a workout. I’ve seen people of all ages giving it a go at Cala Galdana where the large sheltered cove offers perfect conditions.
Local Wildlife
Menorca’s beaches are home to diverse wildlife. I’ve spotted colourful fish while snorkelling. I saw sea bream and wrasse. The rocky areas near the shore are teeming with small crabs and sea urchins.
Birdwatching is another fantastic activity. I’ve seen seagulls and cormorants on the cliffs at Cavalleria Beach. If you’re lucky, you might spot an osprey fishing in the sea.
The pine forests surrounding many beaches, like Cala en Turqueta, are home to various lizards and small mammals. Keep an eye out for the Menorcan wall lizard, a species unique to the island.