The beaches of Menorca

Two coasts, two kinds of beach

The island’s geology shows in the sand. In the north the coast is more open and rocky, with reddish and darker sands that come from older rock, and beaches such as Pregonda, Cavalleria, Binimel·là or Algaiarens. In the south limestone dominates: coves of white sand and turquoise water, often backed by pine woods, such as Macarella, Macarelleta, Mitjana, Mitjaneta or Cala Galdana. To understand why, read the article on the geology of Menorca.

Among the wider beaches are Son Bou, one of the longest stretches of sand on the island, and Cala Tirant on the north coast. The small coves, by contrast, tend to be tucked between cliffs and ravines.

Unspoilt beaches and how to get there

Most of Menorca’s sandy beaches are unspoilt, with no buildings on the sand. Some need a walk from the car park, and several can be linked by following the Camí de Cavalls. In high season parking and capacity can be limited: go early, or come in spring and autumn.

Looking after the coast

Bring water, a hat and everything you need, and take your rubbish home: unspoilt coves have no facilities.
Avoid anchoring on, or walking over, posidonia meadows, a marine plant that protects the seabed and the sand.
Respect the dunes and the vegetation; use only the marked paths.
Menorca is a Biosphere Reserve, at sea too: more in the article on the Biosphere Reserve.