Not only does it have some of the best nightlife in Europe, the largest of the Balearic islands is teeming with hidden coves and stretches of white sand for you to soak up the sun and dip a toe in the crystal clear waters. The quality of Mallorca’s beaches are no secret meaning thousands of holiday makers descend on the turquoise shores every summer turning a breath-taking breakaway into a battle for towel space on the overcrowded sand. That’s why we’ve done some digging and come up with seven of the island’s best hidden beaches.
Nestled in a beautiful cove, two secluded beaches reached by the equally spectacular Serra de Tramontana route, are calling your name. When you first pull up to the little piece of paradise you’re met with a stony beach set in front of a restaurant that forms a natural amphitheatre. Albeit a truly spectacular sight, don’t set your beach bag down just yet and rather walk a little further along the paved path and through a well-lit tunnel. Walk out onto the main beach of fine sand and get ready to relax until the sun dips into the ocean at dusk.
Take a step back in time at the next hidden gem on the list of Mallorca’s best hidden beaches. A natural refuge for sailors in the olden days, the beach at Cala Figuera has a nostalgic aesthetic which adds to the deep sense of tranquillity found on its secluded shores. Close your eyes and listen to the soft sounds of the ocean lapping against the rocky stone walls that surround the bay as you spend the afternoon at one of the island’s best kept secrets. The small pebbled beach on Cap de Formentor is located among high vertical cliffs making it the ideal place to go snorkelling along its rocky seabed. There’s a bit of a walk to get from your car to the ocean but its guaranteed to be worth it.
Head to the south east of the island for some of the clearest blue waters in the world. Bordered on each side by steep cliffs covered in vibrant greenery, the combination of colours at Calo des Moro is a sight for sore eyes. Only a fifteen minute drive from the town of Santanyi, plan to get to the beach early in the day and snatch up those prime sunbathing spots on the tiny stretch of fine white sand. The unspoilt beach is popular with the locals and when you arrive you’ll realise why. Surrounded by pine trees and low lying shrubs, the idyllic natural escape is unlike anything you’ve ever seen before.
Whilst driving on the spellbinding road to Formentor, it’s near impossible not to be distracted by the incredible sea views of Cala Murta. Signposted only by a small wooden post, be careful not to miss the turning as you trundle along the scenic route. Ditch the car and follow a narrow pathway down the cliff to the protected stony cala with water so clear you can see the yachts’ anchors at the bottom of the ocean. The cove of stones sits about twelve kilometres away from the Port of Pollenca and regularly attracts wild donkeys and goats to its shores. With its semi-circular shape sheltering it from the harsh northern winds, the beach itself is not visited very often meaning there’s a good chance you could have the whole place to yourself!
Taking its name from the Latin Santi Agnini, this beach was a former hotspot for pirate activity back in the day. Stretching for 80 metres, you’re guaranteed a peaceful afternoon at this easily accessed beach lover’s paradise. Rent a deckchair for the day, try your hand at scuba diving or watch the sun setting from your table at one of the beach front restaurants. A great spot for families, this beach offers you a taste of seclusion without throwing you straight into the wild.
A short hop away from Capdepera, the quiet cove with translucent waters is where the locals go to escape the invasion of tourists at the nearby Cala Ratjada resort. Breathe in the stunning surrounding area of the cove and its remarkable rock formations which offer plenty of diving platforms if you’re feeling brave. Get there early enough to bag one of the limited sun loungers and finish off the day with a drink at the beach bar overlooking the crystal clear ocean. The 40 metres of luxurious white sand will whisk all your troubles away and transport you to a tropical island far from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Perhaps the most picturesque of the hidden beaches, the fisherman’s oasis at Cala S’Estaca is more than deserving of a spot on the list of Mallorca’s best beaches. Located in the middle of Sa Foradada and Port de Valldemossa, the secluded bay is surrounded by about twenty little houses and was once the former home of movie-star Michael Douglas. The sublime landscape surrounding the miniature harbour coupled with the incredible views over the peninsula will have you lost for words. A perfect place to go for a swim, the jetties are protected by imposing rocks making it easy to get in and out of the water.
Planning a beach getaway to Mallorca soon? Be sure to tag us in your photos of the best beaches in Mallorca using the hashtag #ryanairstories, for the chance to be featured on Ryanair’s social media channels.
Flights to Mallorca
- Lucy Norris