For the love of the beach

So here`s the thing… no beachy land can be privatised in Spain, which we love because who are we to make ownership claims to nature? The beach is for everyone! Not the best news for ceremonies and group wellness sessions in the sand but what can we do? Beach yoga is actually not a great idea anyway and being in direct sunlight takes its toll on a bride & groom with their guests. So we use the beach for what it was meant for, relaxing between celebrations, enjoying the water, family down time and lazy summer lunches.

There is so much coastline to explore, with or without a car paradise is never far away on Mallorca. I have travelled the world and very few beaches have ever topped the gems we have right here in the Mediterranean. 

The really magical spots are kept secret in my heart and for my special clients (we have to keep some things sacred). I take beach days very seriously so here are some beaches on and off the beaten path where I have enjoyed many hours of SUPing, resting and playing over the past 12 years. As a good friend once said `If it's good enough for Sophie, it must be really good`

N

Playa de Muro

Yes it's full of tourists, but in the best way. The vast length of white sand and clear shallow water can host a large number of beach lovers and it has all the conveniences of a holiday beach. No steps, just loungers and parasols for a comfy convenient beach day with a group no matter the age or interest.

Port de Pollenca

Close to the old roman town with its roman ruins and quaint town squares is Platja de Port de Pollenca. If you`re looking to do a bit more than lay about or play beach ping pong, the long, luscious bay can get nice and windy for watersports, kite & windsurfing.

NE 

Cala Mesquida 

One of my favourite beaches, it is grand with dramatic rock formations, you can walk up and through the dunes via walkways for sea views far and wide. As you drive there you will pass through the closest town to the beach, Capdepera, a tiny historic town with its castle ruins statement piece.

E 

Cala Mondrago 

An amazing beach in a Nature reserve with transparent waters a short drive or bus ride away, as well as a possible bike ride from nearby Cala D'or resorts. Enjoy a beach day with turquoise water and a little rock jumping with only a couple of chiringuitos due to its nature reserve status. Recognised as a Special Protection Area for Birdlife (ZEPA) and a Site of Community Interest  (LIC) , remember to treat it with care and gratitude. This one will blow your mind.

SE 

Es Trenc beach 

Like a white sand Caribbean beach. The water is beautifully warm and there aren't hotels around in the nature reserve so you can really disconnect here. Local chiringuitos are maintained as affordable and traditional. You know that feeling of salty skin and bare feet whilst you sip a cold rose and refuel on local pa amb oli before an afternoon snooze on the beach followed by a long lazy recline in the clear shallow waters. That's the vibe you`ll find here, if you like that sort of thing.

Cala Pi

Pronounced like `I need a…` rather than `Apple…`

A bit of a drive and little parking for this narrow cove but if you get there early in the day or visit in low season this is such a treat! You will need a car for this one and there are many steps to get down there (and back up again) but it is soooo worth it! I`ll let the pictures say the rest!

S 

Illetas

Illetas has the best beach clubs on the island according to me. Not far from Palma, and very agreeable to go by bus from the city. If you are coming from further away you can combine a city visit in the morning with an afternoon in Illetas, having lunch with your feet in the sand right next to the water. 

SW 

Cala Banyalbufar

Meaning found by the sea

Tucked out of the way, this is an interesting find as you walk along the cliff edge the flat rocks and sliver of beach (only 100m) unveil themselves like a secret swimming spot except it's not such a secret to those in the know.

The seaside village is famous for its terraced mountains where oranges and tomatoes are grown. The lack of beach space isn't really an issue since the water is like a bath, you`ll want to float all day especially if you`re strong enough to carry your SUP down all the steps.

W

Cala Deia

A hidden turn off the MA 10 as you head north, just after you pass through the tiny artist village of Deia, a windy mountain side road will drop you off at Cala Deia. The tiniest little pebble beach is famous for the restaurant Ca's Patró March (reservation needed) and the perfect crystal water is popular for a boat day out. In cooler months hiking is better than driving and after a satisfying day of swim and sun you can drive just 20 mins to see the best sunset views on the island at Mirador de sa Foradada.

Island insights

Most beaches are nudist at one end or the other and anyone is welcome, clothed or not. Dress as you like and get into pure nature, this is your reminder to relax. 

Parking can be difficult in the summer so if you want a winning beach day set off early, take your snacks, umbrella and water and remember coins/cash for parking metres (especially Es Trenc).

The amount of inflatables I see dumped in bins after a week or 2 of use is heartbreaking. If you really must buy beach toys make sure you gift them to a fellow beach lover on your last day so the joy can be shared and we can cut down on plastic.

Leave it better than you found it! Let's keep the island as beautiful as it should be so future visitors get to enjoy it for all the years to come. Find out more about the preservation of the Island`s nature from Mallorca Preservation Organisation. Knowledge is Power!