The Beaches of Mallorca

There are literally hundreds of beaches on Mallorca, varying from the impressively vast sandy expanse at Arenal, complete with palm-topped umbrellas, to the wild whiteness of delightful Es Trenc, to the multitude of tiny deserted coves. Whether your particular choice is the bustle and noise of a crowded tourist spot complete with lively bars and banana boats galore in the south, or far from the maddening crowd enjoying the privacy of your own unspoilt, sandy piece of paradise in the north - yes, it is still possible to have the beach almost to yourself on Mallorca.

A lot of the smaller coves on Mallorca are only reachable by boat or a bit of a hike, but the rewards for the determined are legion. We favour the beach at Formentor, where you can snorkel in the clean, crystal clear Mediterranean waters and swim through shoals of darting fish. If you're lucky, you may even spot an octopus or a cuttlefish or two. Add to all that the fabulous five-star restaurant (which opened in 1929 and has been pampering the well-heeled and famous ever since) and you have found the perfect place to while away a few sun-kissed hours.

The following is a list of some of the best beaches on Mallorca...

Formentor Beach

The beach at Formentor is a sandy beach of about one kilometre long that offers traditional bars, showers, sun-beds and an excellent sail and surf school. The Formentor Hotel is one of the most famous on the island.

Pollensa Beach

Until relatively recently, there was neither a beach nor sand in Pollenca. There is now a beach approximately one kilometre in length and thirty metres wide, where beachgoers can enjoy umbrellas, sun-beds and water sports as well as benefiting from first aid facilities. There are a few bars and restaurants, but generally, the beach is fairly quiet all year round.

Alcudia Beach

Situated at the most northerly tip of the island, Alcudia beach offers all the major water sports, such as dingh-yacht sailing, water skiing, "Hobie sailing", jet skiing and parasailing. Along its just over three kilometre stretch, you will also find plenty of shops, bars and restaurants to suit all tastes.

Cala del Aguilla Beach

A favourite with the young crowd during the summer months, this picturesque stretch of virgin white sand is fringed by a large pine forest extending all the way down to the sand, which gives the beach its wild, untamed character. Boasting a full range of water sports and attractions, the beach has only one restaurant, which offers its customers free access to a beach volleyball court and a small gym.

S'Illot Beach

Nestling at the mouth of Torrente de n'Amer, between Cala Millor and Porto Cristo, this beach has, in recent years, become one of the most popular on the East coast. Well known for its festivals around 15th August, the beach is surrounded by several hotels and boasts a plentiful choice of bars and restaurants along the seafront, as well as sun beds, umbrellas and water sports.

Es Trenc Beach

Situated between Campos and Colonia de St Jordi, there has been little development at Es Trenc, making it one of the best preserved stretches of coastline on the island. Soft white sand lapped by shallow, aqua-blue, crystal clear water, restaurants, bars, sun beds and the added bonus of a secure paid car park, makes this 3.5 kilometre beach very popular during the summer months. It is also a favourite destination for visiting yachts and pleasure craft.

Portals Nous Beach

With its clean, clear waters and protection from swell, this pleasant, peaceful beach is frequented mainly by yacht owners and their guests from Puerto Portals Yacht Club. Definitely the place to go if a small, busy beach is your preference. The Club itself is just a short walk from the beach, where you can enjoy restaurants, bars and shopping.

Portals Vells Beach

Lying within the Natural Area of Special Interest (ANEI) of Cap de Cala Figuera, the nesting spot for a large number of sea birds, this small beach is surrounded by greenery which extends right down to the shore. The two bar-restaurants have their own hatchery and specialise in delicious fresh seafood, rice dishes and fish stews.

Port de Sóller Beach

A major stream known as Platja d'en Repic separates the commercial area of the port from this long, narrow beach, which comprises mainly of very light shingle. Boat trips are available, as well as the usual attractions such as sun beds and pedalos.

Sa Calobra Beach

A decent map is recommended in order to find the road down to this beach, which is situated between Fornalutx and Pollenca at the mouth of the rivers Lluch and Gorg Blau. One of the most spectacular on the island, this beach, with its crystal clear waters and breathtaking scenery has been used as the location for several films and commercials. It is the definitive setting for a perfect day and a walk up the course of the rivers is a must-do.

Cala Deià Beach

A mixture of sand, rocks  and shingle with crystal clear waters, this beach is another one of those where you may encounter some of the famous celebrities attracted to Mallorca, many of whom have homes in this quaint part of the island.