Northern Mallorca’s breathtaking coastline is home to an array of beaches, from sweeping stretches of white sand, to tiny pebbly coves. They range from accessible, convenient and brimming with facilities, to remote, wild and exclusive. Here are our picks of the best.
Platja del Port de Pollença
The nearest beaches to Pollença are Platja d’Albercutx, north of the marina in Port de Pollença, and Platja del Port de Pollença, south of the marina. Both of these beaches are sandy and spacious, and make for a wonderful stroll past the marina full of traditional fishing boats bobbing and clinking in the breeze. There is a good variety of restaurants and bars along this stretch, as well as sunbeds and parasols for hire, and kayak and pedalo rental. The beach can become busy in the high season but is usually less crowded that neighbouring Alcúdia, and retains its low-key family atmosphere. The port’s location in a large bay means it is sheltered from large waves and wind, so the calm waters are perfect for children, swimming and water sports.
Cala Sant Vicenç
Cala Sant Vicenç is a scenic cluster of 4 coves to the north of Pollença. The rocky inlets here form a stark contrast to the sweeping bay around Port de Pollença. The old fishing village provides a number of facilities, including restaurants serving fresh fish, and a large hotel, which can make this area busy during high season, although it’s wonderfully peaceful during the off season.
The four coves from west to east are: Cala Barques, the largest and with a small stretch of fine sand and pedalo hire; Cala Clara, which is the most crowded due to the hotel; sandy Cala Molins, which is popular for snorkelling and sea kayaking around the cliffs; and tiny pebbly Cala Carbó.
Cala Bóquer
Cala Bóquer is a mildly challenging 1.5km walk from Port de Pollença through pine trees, but is worth the hike for the crystalline waters and isolation. Park near the Urbanització Bóquer and complete the journey on foot; or alternatively, hiring a boat and anchoring in this charming cove is another excellent option.
Platja de Formentor
Approximately halfway down the Cap de Formentor is the world-famous luxury Hotel Formentor, which has hosted an array of celebrities and politicians from Audrey Hepburn to Winston Churchill. Next-door is the exclusive Platja de Formentor, one of the most idyllic beaches in Mallorca, with far-reaching views, shady pines, fine white sand and crystal waters. There is a beach bar, restaurants and sunbeds for hire. A spot on this beach is much-coveted and you’ll have to compete with the hotel guests to spend the day here, but if you’re successful it will be well worth your efforts. Access is via the spectacular coastal road along the Cap de Formentor, with paid parking at the beach. Alternatively, hourly boat trips run here from Port de Pollença.
Es Barcarés and Es Morer Vermell
This area close to Alcúdia is a favourite among locals and strikes a dramatic first impression against the backdrop of the mountainous Punta de Manresa. Clear, shallow waters make it a great spot for snorkelling or paddling with children.
Sant Joan and Sant Pere
These twin beaches in the Es Mal Pas area have a convivial family atmosphere and views of Port de Pollença. Both have 100m of sand, hammocks, parasols and a beach bar. There is a small parking area nearby.
Platja des Coll Baix
For our more intrepid guests, the stunningly beautiful Platja des Coll Baix is only accessible by a challenging scramble down the cliff from the pine-shaded car park at the end of the peninsula. Those who brave the walk will be rewarded with turquoise waters, sand, and unspoilt isolation, against the backdrop of the towering cliffs and breathtaking natural beauty of this area. Or, why not rent a boat to admire the beach from 100m offshore?
Platja d’Alcanada
Not far from the superb Alcanada golf course, this beach is quieter than many others and boasts clear waters and lovely views of the Illa Alcanada, a little islet crowned by a lighthouse. The 200m long stretch of pebbles and shady pines is easy to access from the road, and so if you can forgive the lack of facilities (and sand) it is a great spot for families, or for a picnic after a round of golf.
Platja d’Alcúdia
The beach in central Alcúdia is certainly convenient – there are plenty of facilities, restaurants and parking nearby, and it’s a spacious beach with plenty of sand and space to spread out. It’s also a great beach for families with calm, shallow water and lifeguards in many places. A range of water sports are on offer including windsurfing and sailing. However, the central location of this beach means that it can get busy with tourists and it lacks the beautiful natural backdrop of many other beaches in the area.
Platja de Muro
At 5.2km long, the Platja de Muro is one of the longest beaches on the island and also one of the best for families, with sand, shallow water, plenty of facilities, and lifeguards in many places. While it can get busy, the size of the beach means your chances of finding a sandy stretch to claim for the day is higher than some of the smaller coves. There are some lovely unspoilt sections dotted with pines and junipers, such as Es Comú. Nearby is the Parc Natural de s’Albufera, an important wetland nature reserve and a birdwatcher’s paradise.
Published 29th April 2021