Menorca, part of the Balearic Islands archipelago, is often called the younger sister of Mallorca. Despite being recognized as one of Spain’s most respectable resorts, Menorca is not as crowded as Mallorca and not as noisy as Ibiza. It is a relatively young resort, not yet fully explored by tourists.
Its uniqueness lies in over 1,500 historical objects from different centuries and low-rise white buildings and hotels, painted as prescribed by UNESCO. The white sandy beaches of Menorca, with slight ochre touches in the north, stretch along the coast, most of which are embraced by enchantingly beautiful coves.
Cala en Porter
The 150-meter strip of white sandy Cala en Porter in the eponymous cove, surrounded by cliffs, can be found in the southern part of Menorca, 11 kilometers from the town of Alaior. The picturesque area with high steep cliffs, covered with dense vegetation on the left side and residential buildings of the resort on the right side, is notable for the ancient structures of Talaia de ses Penyes on the western side of the resort, at a height of 68 meters above sea level.
The gentle beach area, 200 meters deep, is divided by a mountain stream flowing into the sea, forming a gentle sandy slope that continues into the sea. Waves often interfere with sea bathing. The highlight of Cala en Porter is the arrangement and holding of a disco in a cave located on the cape. People usually get here by car, following road signs, and during the high season, there are regular buses. You can also get there by sea, anchoring where the depth is up to 3 meters.
Cala Mithaneta
In an incredibly picturesque bay on the southwest coast, near the village of Cala Galdana, lies the secluded miniature wild beach of Cala Mithaneta, surrounded by white cliffs descending directly into the sea. The narrow strip of white sandy shore, 30 meters long and 10 meters wide, is almost completely hidden by the sea during high tides. The bottom of Cala Mithaneta is sandy and rocky, and the sea, protected by the bay from the wind, is usually calm without waves.
Even during the season, there are not many tourists here, and the area is quiet and secluded, filled only with the sound of the sea and seagulls. There are no hotels nearby. Tourists book hotels in Cala Galdana, reaching them from the airport by bus. From the hotel, it takes about 20 minutes to walk to Cala Mithaneta along a trail or by sea, anchoring a boat. The sea here is quite deep, attracting diving enthusiasts.
Cala Algaiarens
Sunbathing on the wild Cala Algaiarens, protected from winds by natural sand dunes, will appeal to tourists who prefer peace and solitude. The entire coast, gently sloping towards the sea, is a kingdom of white sand that extends into the seabed. There are no trees here, and the entire coastal area is exposed to the sun, so bringing sun-protection umbrellas when heading here is essential.
The nearest hotels are 3 kilometers from Cala Algaiarens, best reached by rented car, traveling 5 kilometers, or by bus. There is a parking area for vehicles 200 meters from the coastline.
Cala Galdana
Near the town of Ferreries is the gorgeous bay of Cala Galdana, a favorite vacation spot not only for regular tourists but also for various celebrities. The tourist center, nestled in pristine nature, attracts with a spacious luxurious beach surrounded by small pine-covered cliffs. Two streams flow through the 445-meter-long and 50-meter-wide beach area into the sea.
The coastline, edged by tourist center buildings and residential houses, has excellent infrastructure for recreation. The edges of the bay are equipped with comfortable viewing platforms offering stunning views of the island and the sea. The shore, covered with fine white sand, slopes gently to the water’s edge. The sea impresses with its transparency, crystal-clear water, calmness, and sandy bottom, gradually gaining depth.
The Cala Galdana lagoon accommodates yachts of wealthy tourists, anchoring them in the northeast corner of the bay. The marine arm at the sea outlet stretches almost 300 meters. The bay’s depth is about 5 meters, ending in a sandy bottom with seaweed. You can reach Cala Galdana from the town on foot, by car, or by sea.
Arenal d’en Castell
In the picturesque resort town of Arenal d’en Castell, nestled on the coast of a circular bay in the northern part, lies a stunningly beautiful beach covered with golden sand. It is notable for its grand size, stretching 650 meters along the coast, and a sandy cliff standing alone on the shore. Small waves, crystal-clear water, and a gentle descent into the water with a sandy bottom provide ideal conditions for relaxing swimming.
Despite the small number of trees and other vegetation and the lack of extensive infrastructure, it is quite cozy and spacious here. The beach area extends 20 meters inland. Behind it are residential houses, hotels, nightclubs, and discos that do not stop until dawn. The bay’s depth, divided by two capes, is sufficient for anchoring vessels.
Cala Turqueta
The deep bay on the southwest side of the island, sheltered from the winds by cliff protrusions, is home to one of Menorca’s most popular beaches – Cala Turqueta. Fine white sand covers the shore, and the clear water, gentle entry into the sea, and shallow coastal water make it ideal for relaxing even with small children. As the depth increases, the bottom becomes sandy and rocky, but it does not affect the safety of swimming, which is constantly monitored by lifeguards from a tower.
Surrounded by lush vegetation, the beach area offers a picturesque view. The minimal infrastructure and many tourists do not interfere with sunbathing and pleasant swimming in the warm and calm sea. There is a cozy bar near the parking area where you can have a snack and quench your thirst.
Cala Trebaluger
On the southern coast, in a bay sheltered from the winds, surrounded by a protected area at the end of a natural canyon with a flowing river, lies the beautiful white sandy Cala Trebaluger. The long coastline is adorned with high cliffs and lush Mediterranean vegetation.
Despite the lack of infrastructure, this place is worth visiting to enjoy solitude surrounded by pristine nature, swimming in the clear sea with a gentle entry from the shoreline, and sunbathing. The sea near Cala Trebaluger is excellent for snorkeling and diving, with divers arriving by boat from Son Bou to dive here to their heart’s content.
Despite the challenging terrestrial route to the bay, stretching from the parking lot along a rocky path, the beach, extending 170 meters along the shore and 40 meters to the canyon, is crowded during the season. At the end of summer, it becomes less crowded, attracting topless sunbathers. The nearest hotels to Cala Trebaluger are in Cala Galdana. When planning a trip to the protected bay, be sure to bring all necessary swimming and sunbathing items, as well as food and water.
Son Saura
Not far from the city of Ciutadella, between the cape Punta des Governador and the beach Platja d’es Banyuls, stretches the 310-meter-long wild Son Saura, gently sloping 40 meters to the water’s edge. Before the eyes of tourists lies a coastal strip of the whitest fine sand, surrounded by a pine forest and a 16th-century defensive tower perched on a cliff.
The entry into the sea is quite gentle, with a sandy bottom and seaweed. As the bay is open to the winds, the sea is often rough, preventing vessels from anchoring. When there is no wind, the sea is calm for swimming. The left side of the bay is characterized by underwater rocky areas. You can get to Son Saura by following road signs and parking your car nearby for free.
Cala Pregonda
One of the most picturesque beaches in northern Menorca is Cala Pregonda, located 10 kilometers from the town of es Mercadal. This little-visited virgin stretch of coastline, 170 meters long and 60 meters wide, stands out with its slope covered in dark golden sand. The inland part of the coastal landscape, reminiscent of the surface of an otherworldly fantastic planet, is mesmerizing with its sand dunes standing parallel to the prevailing winds in these places.
The sea entry is steep, with turquoise water so clear that the stones on the bottom are visible, making it perfect for snorkeling. The bay can be reached by sea, anchoring the vessel. The land route is challenging, only possible by walking from a neighboring beach, taking about 20 minutes.
Cala es Talaier
Cala es Talaier is a virgin beach located in a small picturesque bay with a sandy and rocky shore and a similar bottom. The fine white sand contrasts beautifully with the clear azure water of the sea, leading down a long gentle and shallow slope, perfect for family vacations with children. The bay is sheltered from the wind, so the sea is usually calm with small waves. Trees grow on one side of the shore, creating natural shade.
There is no infrastructure, so you need to bring everything you need. Those wishing to relax at Cala es Talaier can stay in a hotel 6 kilometers away in the town of Cala en Bosch. The beach is conveniently accessible by ferry. You can walk from the neighboring Son Saura on one side and Cala en Turqueta on the other.
Son Bou
On the east of Menorca, in a bay between the capes Punta Rodona and Cap de ses Penyes, near the eponymous resort village, lies the longest beach on the island – Son Bou. It stretches along the coastline for 2400 meters, extending inland as a golden sandy slope for 120 meters. The gentle entry into the sea, crystal-clear water, calm sea, picturesque landscapes with the 19th-century defensive tower Torre Esfondrada, and the island of Escull de sa Galera located 300 meters from the shore make this place attractive for vacationers.
The bay is divided by rocks, near which yachts and other vessels are not recommended to anchor. Beyond the beach area begins the natural reserve with reed beds and beautiful ponds, attracting waterfowl. The Son Bou coastline is surrounded by three settlements with hotels accommodating package tourists, campsites, and bars. During the summer season, it can be reached by public transport.
Best Beaches for Family Vacations
Menorca is designed to make family vacations comfortable. Wherever you stay, you’ll find many playgrounds, cafes with small water parks, high chairs in restaurants, and even baby changing rooms. Don’t be afraid of the island’s hard-to-reach beaches. Menorca offers several excellent options.
One of the most popular family beaches is Cala Galdana. The bay, edged by cliffs and pine forest, is protected from the wind and permeated with the healing aromas of pine and sea salts. The infrastructure includes all amenities, sun lounger rentals, and restaurants with playgrounds. The sea entry is gentle with a long shallow area. You can rent a catamaran, go on a boat excursion, or hire a motorboat to visit any of the nearby beaches.
Santandria, located on the western side of the island near the city of Ciutadella, has long been favored by families with children. In the bay, almost closed from the sea, the water is warm and calm in any weather. Shallow water stretches for about 10 meters, where children can safely splash around. Two local cuisine restaurants are near the shore, making it possible to spend the whole day at Santandria.
Cala Blanca, a compact beach in a bay next to Santandria, is surrounded by hotels and restaurants. Here, too, the sea entry is gentle with shallow water. The downside of this bay is its openness to the wind, so it’s comfortable to relax here in calm weather.
Cala Mithyana, a beautiful white sandy beach with white cliffs overhanging the bay and pine trees, usually has calm waters with a gradual sea entry. Most of the road to the shore from the parking lot is paved, making it convenient to walk to the sea.
Hotels with Private Beaches
Tourists who prefer not to trouble themselves searching for the best wild beaches for swimming and sunbathing will find tours to Menorca with hotels that have their own equipped beaches ideal.
Meliá Cala Galdana 5*
The location of the Meliá Cala Galdana hotel in the resort town of Cala Galdana right on the beach and its excellent service attract many tourists. Guests are accommodated in comfortable rooms offering beautiful sea panoramas. The elegant design of the rooms, luxurious bathrooms, and satellite TV provide complete relaxation after swimming, sunbathing, and active leisure. The picturesque hotel garden features two pools with sun terraces equipped with umbrellas, sun loungers, and towels, which can be used for free.
The fitness center, two hot tubs, yoga, and Pilates classes help maintain good physical shape. The Casa Nostra restaurant offers Italian cuisine à la carte, and breakfasts are served buffet-style, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free dishes. At the Cape Nao club, you can order lunch and enjoy a cocktail anytime. The lounge bar in the lobby offers a wide selection of drinks. The sandy beach near the hotel is well-maintained, with the necessary infrastructure and clean water. The hotel is surrounded by a pine forest.
Menorca Binibeca by Pierre & Vacances Premium 4*
The Menorca Binibeca by Pierre & Vacances Premium hotel is located on the first coastline, 8 kilometers from Menorca Airport, near the fishing village of Binibeca, offering excellent conditions for a comfortable vacation. The quiet sea with azure clear water, a sandy beach with the necessary amenities, and beautiful nature surround the hotel complex. You can enjoy swimming in three outdoor pools with a stunning panorama of the sea and the village of Binibeca.
Guests are offered modernly equipped comfortable rooms with balconies, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi. The hotel restaurant serves Mediterranean and local cuisine à la carte and buffet-style. Guests can use the snack bar by the pool, relax on panoramic terraces, and in gardens. At the reception, you can rent a bike or car anytime to explore the picturesque surroundings or nearby wild beaches.
Artiem Audax – Adults Only 4*
Located in a nature reserve near the bay of Cala Galdana, its fashionable rooms, decorated in bright colors and services, are geared towards adult relaxation. The hotel’s highlight is a modern, well-equipped paid spa center with three indoor pools, saunas, and contrast showers. Swimming in the outdoor pool is a pleasure, with picturesque bay landscapes. The hotel beach has the necessary conditions for swimming and sunbathing.
The beach stands out for its cleanliness and comfortable sea entry, where you can enjoy a free workout in the gym, a relaxing massage session, and rejuvenating cosmetic procedures. The Oliva restaurant, notable for its modern design and open kitchen, offers buffet dining with Mediterranean cuisine. There is also a restaurant serving à la carte and a poolside bar with a wide selection of smoothies, snacks, and various dishes.
Carema Club Resort 4*
The Carema Club Resort hotel complex is located on Cala Tirant on the north of Menorca. It offers apartments with balconies, fully equipped kitchens, creating excellent conditions for family stays. The air conditioning constantly maintains a comfortable temperature in the rooms. Guests have unlimited access to two outdoor pools, equipped with sun terraces and the Splash water park operating on the hotel grounds.
The complex’s three restaurants provide guests with meals. The Vistamar restaurant operates buffet-style, with a terrace for culinary shows and a children’s buffet. The Marlet Playa restaurant serves Mediterranean à la carte cuisine, and the Marlet Grill BBQ restaurant specializes in grilling meat. The snack bar, operating on an all-inclusive basis, offers a selection of drinks, ice cream, and hot dogs. Guests can rent a car and use the water sports center’s services.
Royal Son Bou Family Club 4*
In the resort village of Son Bou, 100 meters from the gleaming white beach, the Royal Son Bou Family Club hotel complex, geared towards family vacations, stands out. The cozy apartments have everything to make guests feel at home: a living area, balcony, mini-kitchen. Children’s cots and high chairs are provided for children. The air conditioning maintains a comfortable temperature in the apartments. Adults prefer to combine relaxation with swimming in the large outdoor pool, while children frolic in the children’s pool.
Active leisure enthusiasts can play on the tennis court while children engage in activities on the playground or in the playroom with animators. Dining at the Royal Son Bou Family Club is organized in two restaurants serving buffets with a wide selection of dishes from various cuisines. Special children’s chairs and utensils are provided for children during lunch and dinner. The hotel organizes daily entertainment events for guests.
White Sands Beach Club By Diamond Resorts 3*
White Sands Beach Club is a resort hotel located 200 meters from the beach in the town of Arenal d’en Castell on the northern coast of Menorca. It offers guests comfortable apartments with balconies or terraces. The apartments and studio rooms are decorated in a classic style with bright details. Guests can use modernly equipped mini-kitchens, convenient for family vacations. Free Wi-Fi keeps guests connected with the world.
Alternating sea swimming with pool swimming and sunbathing on the terrace equipped with umbrellas and sun loungers is convenient. A bar with various drinks operates by the pool. The restaurant menu predominantly features Mediterranean cuisine. Near the hotel, there are tennis courts, bike routes, and neighboring beaches offer water sports activities.
Sol Milanos Pingüinos 3*
In the resort village of Son Bou, the Sol Milanos Pingüinos hotel offers excellent standard and family rooms kept impeccably clean. The rooms’ design is in light tones, with air conditioning maintaining a comfortable temperature, and large windows and balconies offering pleasant views of the sea or picturesque garden. Guests can spend time not only relaxing on the beach but also swimming in the lagoon-shaped outdoor pool.
The hotel’s two restaurants operate buffet-style, serving Spanish, Italian, and Asian dishes. You can snack at the hotel café and self-service snack bar on the terrace by the pool. Children aged 8 months to 17 years will find activities at the hotel’s Katmandu entertainment club. The constant assistance of reception staff in resolving current issues, renting a car, and providing information about nearby places and attractions speaks to the high quality of service.
Best Time to Visit
The resort season opens in mid-April and lasts for six months until mid-October. The island enjoys a Mediterranean climate with summer air temperatures around 27-29°C. Thanks to refreshing sea breezes, the heat is not felt and is easily tolerated. In May and September, the weather is comfortably warm at around 25-26°C. The summer is almost entirely sunny and dry. On average, July has 29 sunny days, August has 28, and June has 27°C.
The sea warms up to 22-23°C in May-June and remains around 26-25°C from July to September. In March-April, you can visit exclusively for sightseeing, health walks, bike rides, and horseback riding. The weather during these days is around 20°C. You can get an early tan on the beach, but swimming is still cold.
Discover Menorca: Best Beaches and Top Attractions on the Island
