The Caribbean is closer than you think
If you’ve browsed the internet, you’ll know that in Menorca you can find beaches that come very close to what you imagine the Caribbean to be. Crystal-clear turquoise waters and fine white sand that sparkles in the sun. Here, we trade palm trees for pine trees — true — but otherwise, the scene could easily belong to one of those exotic destinations we dream about from the movies.
The best beaches in southern Ciutadella de Menorca
These coves are perfect for those looking for that postcard-perfect Menorcan experience: white sand, calm turquoise waters, and easy access. Often framed by pine forests, they are ideal for families or romantic getaways.
This is where blue turns into a memory. We grew up visiting these coves, with our picnic of fresh fruit in tow. If you ask us which one is our favorite… it’s hard to choose. But here are our must-visits for an estiu autèntic, as we say in Menorca.
Cala Macarella and Macarelleta
Setting: Idyllic virgin coves surrounded by pine forests, white sand, and electric blue waters. Two of the most photographed beaches in Menorca.
Two iconic virgin coves of southern Menorca.
- How to get there from Hotel Sagitario Playa: Drive to Cala Galdana (approx. 25 min), then follow a 30–40 min walking trail along the Camí de Cavalls to Macarella. To reach Macarelleta, add another 10 minutes walking along the coast.
- Parking: From June 1 to September 30, the official car park is closed. Access is only via shuttle bus from Ciutadella de Menorca (Via Perimetral stop), or on foot from Cala Galdana. Free parking is available in Cala Galdana with a 15-minute walk to Macarella, plus 10 more to Macarelleta.
- Sagitario tip: Arrive early, bring a sunshade, water, and a torch if you stay for sunset.
- More info: Want to stay near Ciutadella? Discover Hotel Sagitario Playa, with spa and direct access to the Camí de Cavalls.
Son Saura
Setting: One of the widest and most tranquil beaches in southern Ciutadella de Menorca, ideal for families and shallow-water swimming.
Spacious family beach with calm waters.
- How to get there from Hotel Sagitario Princesa Playa: Drive along Camí de Sant Joan de Missa, about 12 km from Ciutadella. Well signposted. Park in the official car park and walk 5–10 minutes to the beach.
- Parking: Free. In high season it fills up very early (often before 9:30 am), so we recommend arriving early or later in the afternoon for a quieter experience.
- Sagitario tip: Perfect for a full beach day. Bring a picnic and enjoy the natural shade under nearby pines.
- More info: From Hotel Sagitario Princesa Playa, combine your visit with cocktails or a local buffet dinner.
Cala en Turqueta
Setting: Hidden cove with turquoise waters, surrounded by pines, with a wild but accessible vibe. A favorite for nature lovers.
Secluded cove surrounded by pines and turquoise waters.
- How to get there from Hotel Sagitario Princesa Playa: Drive via Camí de Sant Joan de Missa, then follow the signs to Turqueta (20–25 min). Free parking, then a 10-minute walk on an unshaded dirt path.
- Parking: Limited. It usually fills up before 9:30 am in summer. We recommend arriving early and bringing essentials (water, sunshade, proper footwear).
- Sagitario tip: Bring water, a sunshade, and closed footwear. Avoid peak hours for a quieter experience.
- More info: A 25–30 min drive from Hotel Sagitario Princesa Playa to Cala en Turqueta car park—ideal for exploring multiple coves in one day.
The best beaches in northern Ciutadella de Menorca
Less frequented and wilder, the northern beaches offer breathtaking landscapes with reddish tones, cliffs, and deep waters. The perfect retreat for those seeking tranquility, hiking, and a deeper connection with nature.
La Vall (Algaiarens)
Setting: A pristine beach in the north, divided into two coves of golden sand and clear waters, surrounded by native vegetation and protected dunes.
Virgin beach with two golden sand coves.
- How to get there from Ciutadella de Menorca: Drive towards Camí de Cala Morell, then follow the signs to La Vall. About 20–25 minutes. From the car park, a short 5-minute walk to the beach. In summer, you can also take the bus (line 62 Ciutadella – La Vall – Cala Morell), running frequently between 9:00 and 18:30. Check updated schedules before your visit.
- Parking: Free, right next to the trailhead. Limited availability during high season.
- Sagitario tip: For families or a calm visit, choose the first cove. The second is deeper and usually quieter.
- More info: Bring water and snacks for a beach picnic. No services available nearby—come prepared.
Cala Morell
Setting: Surrounded by white cliffs, this cove combines swimming areas with stone platforms, perfect for sunbathing and snorkeling.
Cove with cliffs and platforms ideal for snorkeling.
- How to get there from Ciutadella de Menorca: Just a 15–20 min drive along a direct, well-signposted road. Easy access, no hiking required. Bus ticket options are available—see our useful links section at the end of this guide.
- Parking: Free, next to the cove. It tends to fill up mid-morning.
- Sagitario tip: A perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon of snorkeling—especially at sunset.
- More info: Extra idea: visit the Talayotic Necropolis. Learn more about Menorca’s ancient culture in our post: Discover Menorca's Talayotic heritage with Sagitario Hotels.
Cala Pilar
Setting: Wild and remote cove with reddish sands and dunes, surrounded by lush vegetation—one of the most untouched beaches on the island.
Virgin cove with dunes and reddish landscape.
- How to get there from Ciutadella de Menorca: Drive towards Camí dels Alocs (about 35 min). From the parking, a 30–40 min walk along a dirt path with some incline.
- Parking: Free but very limited. No public transport.
- Sagitario tip: For those seeking peace and pure nature. Wear good walking shoes, bring water, and sun protection.
- More info: No facilities—bring everything you’ll need for the day. 100% natural Menorca experience.
Where to stay in Ciutadella de Menorca to explore these beaches
For more than 40 years, Sagitario Hotels has been helping guests find their special place of peace in Menorca. Our hotels are just that: your home on the island. A quiet haven, cared for by local hands, where every detail is designed with love for this land we so dearly estimam.
Apartamentos Menorca Mar (adults only)
Perfect for those who love coves like Cala en Turqueta or Son Saura. Enjoy an adults-only stay with pool, gym, and local cuisine.
Hotel Sagitario Princesa Playa
Ideal for those looking to combine the tranquility of beaches like Cala Morell with family activities and full hotel services.
Where to eat near the beaches of Ciutadella de Menorca
After a day on the beach, there’s nothing better than recharging with authentic local flavours. Here are some great options:
- Buffet restaurant at Hotel Sagitario Princesa Playa near Son Xoriguer beach
- Terrace restaurants at the ports of Menorca, perfect for fresh local fish dinners
- Adults-only dinner at Petit Sagitario, with an intimate atmosphere and Menorcan cuisine
You can also read our article about Gastronomic experiences in Menorca with products from our Sagitario Llocs estates.
Relax & Spa: your moment after a day at the beach
After exploring hidden coves and trails through pine forests, treat yourself to pure relaxation. At our wellness centres you’ll find spa circuits with heated pools, jacuzzi, sauna, and natural treatments designed to relax body and mind. Because taking care of yourself is also part of the journey.
24h hydration, elasticity, and glow for your skin.
Take the first step towards that estiu you’ll remember forever.
Useful links for your trip
