Mallorca's Top 10 Beaches: Popular Gems and Hidden Coves

Discover Mallorca's 10 most stunning beaches. From famous hotspots like Es Trenc to secret paradises like Cala Varques – personal travel insights for families and adventurers.

Although my personal advice is always to enjoy the tranquility of June or September, I'm well aware of life's realities. Not everyone has the luxury of taking a holiday during these months. That's precisely why I've put together this guide for families who have to plan their 2025 summer holiday around the school calendar.

In this article, I won't just cover the 5 most popular beaches in Mallorca that grace the postcards, but I'll also share my 5 secret favourites—pristine coves that require a bit of effort but ultimately whisper the true spirit of the island to you. My goal is to give you a roadmap to discover both the popular face and the hidden beauty of Mallorca, without getting lost in the crowds.

So, for those who don't know Mallorca at all, let's have a brief introduction: this Spanish island in the heart of the Mediterranean boasts a coastline of about 550 kilometres. These long shores are home to bustling beaches frequented by world-famous names, as well as untouched coves that are still the secret of local fishermen. Now, let's begin our guide that brings these two different worlds together.

Mallorca's Most Popular Beaches

Those who follow my writing know that my heart usually beats for hidden coves that are hard to find on maps and require a sense of adventure. That's why one of the most common questions I get from you was: "But what about those famous beaches everyone knows?"

Of course, there are very valid reasons that make a place "popular." With their stunning beauty, excellent facilities, and easy access, these beaches haven't earned their fame for nothing. To truly tell the story of Mallorca, it would be incomplete to skip over these beauties that form its showcase.

In this section, I'm answering that much-asked question and introducing you to Mallorca's 5 most famous beaches. If you're ready, let's see for ourselves why the crowds flock to these shores.

1. Es Trenc - The Caribbean of the Mediterranean

Es Trenc

One look at the 3 kilometres of powder-white sand and stunning turquoise waters is all it takes to understand why Es Trenc is called "the Caribbean of the Mediterranean." This is one of the island's most precious protected treasures, and thanks to that, no hotels or concrete structures can spoil the enchanting natural landscape.

Here's a personal tip for you: if you can slip away from the crowds and arrive in the early morning, you'll witness the pinkish reflections created by the first light of day on the water. The secret to those famous Instagram photos lies right in that moment.

Remember, during high season, this beach welcomes up to 10,000 visitors a day, so arriving before 9 a.m. is almost a necessity to secure a good spot. For a quieter start, you can use the entrance on the Ses Covetes side. Since the beach is left completely natural, there are no trees for shade, so either bring your own umbrella or rent two sunbeds and a straw umbrella for about €15-20. I should also add that there are areas in different parts of Es Trenc where naturists sunbathe freely, and the general atmosphere is quite liberal in this regard.

Location: About 50 minutes from Palma (via the MA-6040 road through Campos).
Parking: Between €7-10 (may vary by season).
Ideal Time: 08:00-10:00 (before the crowds arrive and in the best light).

2. Playa de Palma - The Pulse of the City

Playa de Palma

For those who want to enjoy the Mediterranean without disconnecting from the vibrant spirit of Palma, Playa de Palma is the perfect fit. This wide, Blue Flag beach, stretching for about 6 kilometres from the city centre to El Arenal, promises a different experience at every hour of the day.

This beach isn't just for sunbathing; it's for living. In the morning, you'll see joggers on the palm-lined promenade; at noon, you'll find people taking a break at the "chiringuitos" (beach restaurants) serving fresh seafood; and around every corner, you'll spot water sports from jet skiing to parasailing.

The best part of Playa de Palma is that it offers a corner for every taste:

Western End (towards C'an Pastilla): This part of the beach, closer to Palma, is ideal for families and those seeking peace with its calmer and more relaxed atmosphere. The closest point to the Cathedral view is Can Pere Antoni beach, just a short walk away.
Eastern End (towards El Arenal): As you walk east, the atmosphere changes completely. This is the epicentre of the famous numbered beach bars called "Balneario" and the vibrant nightlife, especially favoured by German tourists and young people. Sunset parties and all-night fun start here.
Location: About 15-20 minutes from Palma city centre.
Transport: EMT bus lines 25 and 35 go directly to the beach.
Parking: Paid parking options are available along the coastline.

3. Cala Agulla - The Pearl Among Pine Forests

Cala Agulla

Hidden on the eastern tip of Mallorca, near Cala Ratjada, Cala Agulla is a corner of paradise where nature, not concrete, reigns supreme. This 500-metre Blue Flag beach will enchant you not only with its crystal-clear waters and fine sand but also with the lush green pine forest that embraces it, protected as a natural park.

This forest doesn't just create a magnificent backdrop for the beach; it also offers a unique experience at different times of the day:

In the morning, a magical scene unfolds as beams of light filter through the pine trees and hit the water.
In the afternoon, these same trees serve as a natural canopy where you can take refuge during the hottest hours.

This place is not just for relaxing but also offers great options for those who want to be active. You can try water sports like windsurfing, sailing, and stand-up paddleboarding, and at the end of the day, refresh your soul with a short walk through the forest, accompanied by the wonderful scent of pines. If you want to end the day with a cultural touch, don't forget to visit the historic Capdepera Castle, just a few minutes' drive away; the view from the top is breathtaking.

Location: About 1 hour and 15 minutes from Palma (via Cala Ratjada).
Parking: There is a large, paid car park right behind the beach (around €5-6). Finding a free spot is nearly impossible, especially in high season.
Tip: Being just a 5-minute drive from the centre of Cala Ratjada makes it very convenient to combine a beach day with dinner and a tour of the town in the evening.

4. Cala Millor - A Family-Friendly Paradise

Cala Millor

If you're dreaming of a hassle-free and enjoyable beach day with kids, Cala Millor on Mallorca's east coast is perfect for you. The biggest advantage of this nearly 2-kilometre-long golden sandy beach is its shallow waters that deepen very gradually. You can relax while watching your children play safely by the water's edge.

This place feels like it was designed for the comfort of families. The wide and long promenade is great for cycling or a comfortable stroll with a pram. The beach itself is fully equipped with lifeguards, showers, playgrounds, and disabled access.

If you're looking for a change of pace, you'll never have time to get bored:

You can take a pleasant walk to the charming port town of Cala Bona to the north.
If you want to add a different adventure to your beach day, the Safari Zoo, just a 10-minute drive away, is a fantastic alternative.
Watching the fishing boats return to the harbour in the late afternoon and ending the day at one of the family-friendly restaurants that cater to all budgets is another delight.
Location: About 1 hour and 15 minutes from Palma (via Manacor).
Features: Very shallow water entry, Blue Flag, fully equipped facilities.
Ideal For: Especially families with young children and those who want all amenities at their fingertips on the beach.

5. Playa de Muro - Turquoise Waters and Colourful Kites

Playa de Muro

Stretching along the Bay of Alcúdia in the north of Mallorca, Playa de Muro proves at first glance why it always plays at the top of the island's best beach lists. This beach has two different spirits and appeals to completely different crowds at different times of the day.

A Family Haven in the Mornings: In the early hours, with its turquoise waters as calm as a sheet of glass and a shallowness that barely reaches your knees even after walking out for meters, it is a paradise on earth for families with children.
A Sports Arena in the Afternoons: When the thermal winds take the stage, the sky becomes a canvas of colourful kitesurfing kites, and the sea is dotted with windsurfing sails. The shallow waters also make it one of the best places in Europe to learn these sports.

The different sections of the beach also offer different experiences. While Sector 1, near Alcúdia, is more bustling with hotels, restaurants, and all amenities, as you head south towards Can Picafort, the Es Comu de Muro section begins, adorned with sand dunes and pine trees. This area has a wilder atmosphere, perfect for being one with nature and having a picnic. This natural texture forms a seamless whole with the S'Albufera Nature Park located just behind, a haven for birdwatchers.

Location: About 50 minutes from Palma (via Alcúdia).
Transport: Ideal for public transport; bus line 302 passes near the beach.
Parking: There are free parking spots along the road, but in high season, you must arrive early to find one.

Mallorca's Lesser-Known Beaches

My travel philosophy is simple: the real treasures are not always found in the easiest places on the map.

A little effort, a little sweat, some time spent on a trail... These are the price of admission for the untouched beauty that awaits you at the end. A cove far from the noise of the crowds, where you can only hear the sound of the waves and your own breath—that, for me, is a priceless reward.

Leaving the pleasures of the popular beaches aside for a moment, I invite you to join me on the hidden paths of Mallorca that will speak to your adventurous spirit. Here are 5 of Mallorca's Lesser-Known Beaches, just for you.

1. Cala Varques - The Adventurer's Secret Cove

Cala Varques

If a beach for you is not just sand and sea but also about discovery and adventure, then Cala Varques should be at the very top of your list. This is one of Mallorca's most photogenic virgin coves, where your efforts will be rewarded handsomely.

Getting There: An Adventure in Itself

Reaching this cove is part of the reward. The old famous route involved parking on the main road and a 25-minute walk through a forest, passing through a gate marked "private property." Don't let that sign scare you; there is a legal right of way to the coast. However, parking on the main road is now forbidden, and the fines are steep.

My current and more hassle-free advice: park your car at the neighbouring beach of Cala Romántica (also known as S'Estany d'en Mas) and take a scenic 30-40 minute walk along the coastal path heading south. This route is both safer and turns into an adventure in itself with its stunning cliff views.

What Awaits You in the Cove?

The view that greets you at the end of the walk will be worth all the fatigue: the most vibrant shades of turquoise, untouched white sand, and a sense of peace that completely isolates you from civilization.

The Natural Rock Arch: This arch, which has become the symbol of the beach, offers fantastic photos, especially in the morning and evening light.
Snorkelling and Caves: Be sure to bring your snorkel gear. The coastline is full of small underwater caves and rich marine life waiting to be explored.
Rock Climbing (Psicobloc): This is a world-renowned spot for enthusiasts of "Psicobloc" (Deep Water Soloing), the sport of climbing on cliffs over the sea without ropes and then jumping into the water.
Location: In the Manacor municipality, south of Cala Romántica.
Facilities: Zero! Don't forget to bring plenty of water, food, sunscreen, and a rubbish bag (please leave only your footprints behind when you go).
Attire: You must wear trainers for the trail walk. You can switch to flip-flops on the beach.

2. Cala S'Estaca - The Stars' Secret Hideaway

Cala S'Estaca

This place, associated with Hollywood star Michael Douglas, is less of a beach and more like a private sanctuary hidden in the heart of the Tramuntana Mountains. It promises a completely authentic Mediterranean experience, far from sunbeds and bars.

Getting There: A Scenic Escape

Your adventure begins on the road from Valldemossa to Deià, just after passing the famous Son Marroig estate. You'll enter through a gate that looks like it belongs to a private property and step onto a steep but enjoyable path that winds through pine trees and olive groves. After about a 30-minute walk, this unique fishing hamlet will welcome you.

The Charm of the Port Village

When you get down, you won't find a sandy beach but a tiny port surrounded by about twenty traditional fishermen's houses. It's a place of true postcard beauty, giving you the feeling that time has stood still. Don't look for a sandy area to swim; instead, there are concrete piers and ramps, protected by rocks, that make it easy to get into the sea. The water is so clear you can see every detail on the rocky bottom.

The luxury here isn't dining in a restaurant (as there are no public facilities in the village), but sitting on the pier, watching the fishermen mend their nets, and listening to the majestic silence of the Tramuntana.

Location: Between Valldemossa and Deià, near Son Marroig.
Important Note: There are no restaurants or any facilities in the village. The famous restaurant in the area is Restaurante Sa Foradada, and the descent to it is via a different path. Be sure to bring your own food and drink when you come to Cala S'Estaca.
Parking: Parking space on the main road is very limited. Arriving early or taking a bus from Valldemossa and walking to the starting point is a good alternative.

3. Es Coll Baix - The Raw Beauty of Nature

Es Coll Baix

Just a few kilometres from the crowds of Alcúdia, there's a world completely isolated from civilization: Es Coll Baix. This is the reward for those who seek nature in its purest and most untouched form and are willing to put in a little effort for it.

Getting There: A Descent That Requires Caution

The journey begins by reaching the Refugi del Coll Baix (a mountain refuge and parking area) via a narrow road through pine forests. From here, a path of about 20 minutes leads down towards the sea, bringing you to the edge of the cliffs. The real part of the adventure starts here: to get down to the beach, you need to carefully descend a rocky slope, using your hands at times and holding onto ropes/chains. This final section is a real descent that absolutely requires trainers and is not suitable for families with small children or those with a fear of heights.

The Reward: An Untouched Cove

Once you reach the bottom, you're greeted by a stunning pebble beach with deep blue waters, wedged between two giant cliffs. It's an ideal spot for snorkelling, with a rich underwater world. Remember that the beach is composed entirely of large pebbles, so bringing water shoes will greatly increase your comfort.

Location: On the La Victòria peninsula, north of Port d'Alcúdia.
Alternative Transport: If this challenging descent isn't for you, you can see the beach from the sea on boat tours departing from Port d'Alcúdia or Port de Pollença.
Important Correction & Bonus Route: Es Coll Baix is not on the Formentor peninsula. If you're looking for a nearby hiking route, you can follow the Talaia d'Alcúdia path, which starts from the car park and takes you to the summit of the Alcúdia peninsula. The 360-degree view from the top, overlooking both the bays of Alcúdia and Pollença, is breathtaking.

4. Cala Figuera - Where Time Stands Still

Cala Figuera

Set aside everything you think of when you hear the word "beach" in Mallorca. Cala Figuera doesn't offer you a sandy shore but the atmosphere of the island's best-preserved fishing village and a port life where time slows down.

Built into the arms of a Y-shaped fjord, this village is a living painting with its white houses with green shutters, boat garages ("escars") opening directly onto the water, and traditional "llaüt" boats gently bobbing on the surface. The magic of this place is being a guest in a living, breathing village, rather than a tourist resort.

You won't find a wide sandy beach for swimming here. The real pleasure isn't lounging on a sunbed but sitting on a harbour wall, watching the fishermen mending their nets, and savouring that authentic moment. Those who want to take a dip in the sea do so from the tiny pebble area at the end of the port or from the piers, just like the locals.

To-Do List:

Explore both arms of the village (Caló d'en Figuera and Caló d'en Busques) on foot.
Take your best photos as the light hits the harbour towards sunset.
Try some freshly caught fish from the boats at one of the traditional restaurants by the harbour.
Location: On the southeastern tip of Mallorca, near Santanyí.
From Palma: About 1 hour.
Beach Combination: If you absolutely must sunbathe on the sand, the beaches of Cala Santanyí or its neighbour Cala Llombards, just a 10-minute drive away, are wonderful alternatives.

5. Cala Magraner - Cliffs, Caves, and Turquoise Waters

Cala Magraner

If you loved the adventurous spirit of Cala Varques, you will fall in love with its slightly quieter but just as wild neighbour, Cala Magraner. This place is a playground, especially for photographers and rock climbers, with its giant cliffs, hidden caves, and untouched nature.

Getting There: A Walk in a Riverbed

Your adventure begins at a gate on the MA-4014 road from Porto Cristo to Cales de Mallorca, where you'll usually see a few cars parked by the roadside. The walk, which takes about 40 minutes, first leads you through private land and then through a dry riverbed (torrent) to the beach. The increasing silence with every step is a sign that you're on the right track.

Wild Beauty and Exploration Opportunities

When you arrive at the beach, you're greeted by a sand-and-pebble mix, flanked by towering rock walls and shaded by pine trees. Especially at midday when the sun is at its peak, the incredible turquoise colour of the water proves why it's known as a "Photographer's Paradise."

Discovery Bonus (Three Birds with One Stone): Take the adventure a step further. Follow the short paths south from the shore to discover the neighbouring coves of Cala Pilota and Cala Virgili. Seeing three virgin coves in one hike is one of the best-kept secrets of this area.
Rock Climbing: The cliffs host dozens of sport climbing routes of varying difficulty levels and are one of the most popular climbing areas on the island.
Nearby Attraction: If you want to combine your beach adventure with a world-famous natural wonder, you can visit the Cuevas del Drach (Dragon Caves), just a 15-minute drive away.
Location: In the Manacor region, between Porto Cristo and Portocolom.
Remember: Just like in the other virgin coves, there are no facilities here. You must bring plenty of water, food, sunscreen, and water shoes.

Practical Tips for Your Beach Trip

Transport Options

Car Rental (Definitely Recommended) To truly experience the soul of Mallorca and especially to reach the hidden coves, renting a car is the best method.

Prices: Range from €25-50 per day depending on the season. Be sure to book in advance during high season (July-August).
Convenience: You can find all major companies at Palma Airport (PMI). Most beaches are registered in GPS systems.

Public Transport The island's TIB bus network is quite extensive. It's a great alternative for reaching the popular beaches.

The Most Practical Method: Simply tap your contactless bank or credit card when you get on and off the bus. The system automatically calculates the best fare for you. This is much easier and more economical than buying a ticket.
Example Routes: Line 530 (Palma - Es Trenc), Line 302 (Palma - Playa de Muro/Alcúdia).

Boat Tours Seeing some of the hard-to-reach beaches from the sea is a fantastic experience.

Popular Routes: Tours from Port d'Alcúdia to Es Coll Baix and from Port de Sóller to Cala Tuent are famous. Buying tickets online in advance can sometimes be cheaper.

What You Should Bring With You

Essentials for All Beaches:

High-Factor Sunscreen: The Mediterranean sun is no joke.
Hat and Sunglasses
Beach Towel or Peshtemal
Cash: May be needed, especially for parking fees and small kiosks.

Extras for Hidden Cove Adventures:

Sturdy Walking Shoes: Flip-flops are definitely not suitable for the trails.
Plenty of Water and Snacks: You won't find any facilities in these coves.
Water Shoes: A lifesaver on rocky or pebbly ground.
Your Own Umbrella: Finding natural shade is almost impossible.
A Rubbish Bag: Please leave only your footprints behind.
Power Bank: Your phone's charge can be vital on long hikes.

Best Times to Visit

Late May - Early June: Ideal air temperatures (22-26°C), the sea is starting to warm up, nature is in full bloom, and most importantly, the summer crowds haven't arrived yet.
September - Early October: My favourite period, when the sea water is at its warmest (24-26°C), the crowds have thinned out, and the sunsets take on more dramatic colours.
Times to Avoid: July and August. Extreme heat, unbearable crowds, and sky-high prices can overshadow your holiday enjoyment.

Feel Mallorca in Your Heart

The key to a perfect beach holiday in Mallorca is to combine a good plan with an adventurous spirit. This guide has offered you a roadmap, but the best discoveries are sometimes hidden in unplanned detours. From the Caribbean sparkle of Es Trenc to the authentic silence of Cala S'Estaca, every cove has a different story to tell you.

Remember, the most unforgettable views often require a little effort. Every step taken on that path, every step down that rock, is ultimately rewarded with a priceless memory.

My final and most important piece of advice to you is this: whichever beach you're on, take one last dip in the sea just before the sun sets. This isn't just about cooling off. That moment is when the warm colours of the setting sun touch your skin, and the magic of the island touches your soul. Don't leave without experiencing that magical farewell that Mallorca offers you.

¡Que disfrutes de las mejores playas de Mallorca!

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Publish Date: 12 Jun 2025

| Author: Jaseph

| Category: Romantic Getaways , Europe’s Beaches