Complete Guide to the Best Beaches in Northern Mallorca

Northern Mallorca is, without a doubt, the jewel in the Balearic crown for those seeking a truly dramatic and beautiful coastal experience. This privileged area, guarded by the majestic Serra de Tramuntana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is immediately distinct from other areas of the island. Here, the landscape transforms into a canvas of towering cliffs that plunge into the Mediterranean, creating a rugged and fascinating coastline, home to some of the most spectacular beaches in Northern Mallorca.

What truly sets this coast apart are its crystal-clear waters and the palpable feeling of being in a less crowded and more unspoiled corner. Beyond the golden sand, the North offers coves of polished pebbles, surrounded by pine trees that reach down to the sea. Read on and discover everything this area has to offer you.

Why Northern Mallorca is Special

The uniqueness of Northern Mallorca lies in its geography. The backdrop of the Serra de Tramuntana is responsible for shaping a coastline of unparalleled contrasts. The limestone cliffs drop abruptly, creating protected pebble coves, while wider bays shelter stretches of fine sand.

This dramatic orography guarantees crystal-clear waters of astonishing purity, especially in the rocky areas. Unlike the beaches in the south, which are often more extensive and touristy, the beaches in Northern Mallorca offer greater diversity and a quieter, more adventurous atmosphere. They are perfect places for snorkeling and diving, where nature has had the final say.

The 12 Best Beaches in Northern Mallorca

1. Playa de Formentor – The Queen of the North

  • Location: Northeastern tip, in the municipality of Pollença, near the famous lighthouse.
  • How to get there: By road, access is restricted in summer (check timetables). From the sea, anchoring is very popular, and the view of the cape is unforgettable.

It is one of the island’s most iconic images. It is a strip of fine, white sand, flanked by a dense pine forest that provides natural shade almost down to the shore. Its turquoise, calm, and shallow waters look like they are straight out of a Caribbean postcard. Despite its popularity, it maintains a natural charm and a serene elegance.

It is ideal for families, couples, lovers of postcards, and beaches with high-quality services.

2. Sa Calobra and Torrent de Pareis – Geological Spectacle

  • Location: Serra de Tramuntana, spectacular road access.
  • How to get there: Winding 13 km road (with the famous ‘Tie Knot’) or by ferry from Sóller. From the sea, it is accessible and allows you to appreciate the magnitude of the canyon.

More than a beach, it is the mouth of a canyon carved out by the Torrent de Pareis. The cove is small, made of pebbles, but the setting is what makes it a world wonder. Access on foot requires passing through a tunnel, opening up to a stunning view of the cliffs closing in over the sea. It is a must-see on the North coast of Mallorca. It is a unique geological environment, monumental cliffs, and a pebble cove. It is ideal for adventurers, hikers, photographers, and geologists.

You might also be interested in: Northern Mallorca: Complete Guide on What to See and Do

3. Cala Deià – Charming Bohemian Corner

  • Location: At the foot of the picturesque village of Deià, Tramuntana.
  • How to get there: Narrow road from Deià. Limited parking. From the sea, access is easy and it is a common stop on coastal routes.

It is a small cove of pebbles and rock, famous for its bohemian atmosphere and for being a refuge for artists. Its fishermen’s huts and a couple of simple restaurants (chiringuitos) give it a rustic and authentic feel. The waters are an intense blue and perfect for diving. It is a small place, so it is best to visit early. It is perfect for couples, lovers of tranquility and local culture, divers.

4. Playa de Muro – 6 km Family Paradise

  • Location: In Alcudia Bay, between Puerto de Alcudia and Can Picafort.
  • How to get there: Easy road access, with parking and public transport. From the sea, it offers ample areas for anchoring in the sand.

At over six kilometers, it is one of the longest and most accessible beaches in Northern Mallorca. It is famous for its fine white sand and incredibly shallow waters, making it ideal for children. It is divided into four sectors, offering everything from areas with full services to unspoiled areas like Es Comú de Muro (natural park).

5. Cala Sant Vicenç (4 coves in 1) – Barques, Clara, Molins, Carbó

  • Location: Small coastal village north of Pollença.
  • How to get there: Easy road to the village. From the sea, it allows you to easily jump from one cove to another.

Sant Vicenç is not one cove, but a set of four coves, each with its own personality. Cala Barques is the main one; Cala Molins is the most touristy; Cala Clara is tiny and rocky; and Cala Carbó is more unspoiled and quiet (not to be confused with Cala Carbó de Pollença). They all share the Tramuntana stamp with very clean waters and stunning views. Those looking to try different types of beaches in a single day, and divers, will be very comfortable here.

6. Cala Figuera de Formentor – Unspoiled Treasure

  • Location: Near Cap de Formentor, but with different access.
  • How to get there: Access on foot (about 30 minutes) from the parking lot on the Formentor road. From the sea, it is one of the essential stops for its tranquility.

It is a real treasure for lovers of wild nature. This cove of pebbles and rocks requires a somewhat demanding walk to reach, which guarantees its low influx. The waters are a deep and vibrant blue, ideal for snorkeling. It is surrounded by pine trees and low vegetation, offering a total disconnection experience on the beaches in Northern Mallorca. It is perfect for adventurers, nudists, lovers of snorkeling, and absolute peace.

7. Coll Baix – Wild Adventure

  • Location: Alcudia Peninsula, far from urban areas.
  • How to get there: A walk of about 45 minutes from the end of the road, through a forest. From the sea, it is the most comfortable and spectacular access, suddenly revealing the cove.

A pebble cove, famous for its shell shape and the wild beauty that surrounds it. It is one of the most pristine corners of the Alcudia area. The water color, an electric blue, is hypnotic and is due to the depth it quickly reaches. To get there, you have to walk, which adds a touch of adventure.

Who is it ideal for? Hikers, lovers of unspoiled beaches, those looking for a reward after effort.

8. Cala Tuent – Under Puig Major

  • Location: Between Sa Calobra and Sóller, at the foot of Puig Major, the highest peak in Mallorca.
  • How to get there: Winding road (but gentler than Sa Calobra’s) or by boat. From the sea, anchoring is safe and the mountain views are impressive.

One of the few coves of coarse sand and pebbles on the Tramuntana coast that is surrounded by a dense forest of pines and holm oaks. It is larger and less crowded than its neighbor Sa Calobra, offering a quiet and familiar atmosphere. The feeling of being surrounded by the highest mountains on the island is unparalleled.

9. Sa Foradada – The Natural Arch

  • Location: Rocky peninsula between Deià and Valldemossa.
  • How to get there: Long walk on foot from the viewpoint. From the sea, it is the best place to watch the sunset and dive in its deep waters.

It is not a beach as such, but a rocky peninsula with a spectacular hole (“foradada”) that goes through it. It is more of an anchorage point and a place to watch the sunset than a bathing cove. At the base of the cliff, only accessible on foot or by sea, there is a small area where the crystal-clear water invites you to swim, next to the famous restaurant.

This Northern Mallorca beach is perfect for photographers, romantics, sailors, and lovers of panoramic views.

10. Cala Murta – Absolute Peace

  • Location: On the Formentor peninsula, near Playa de Formentor.
  • How to get there: Short walk from the car park. From the sea, it is a sheltered anchoring spot for a quiet swim.

A small cove of pebbles and rock, very well protected with calm and transparent waters. It is reached after an easy walk of about 20 minutes through a pine forest. It is less crowded than other coves in the area and offers almost absolute peace. It is ideal for snorkeling and enjoying the silence.

11. Playa de Alcudia – Sports and Services

  • Location: In the municipality of Alcudia, next to Playa de Muro.
  • How to get there: Easy by road, with public transport and parking lots. From the sea, there are marked areas for boats.

The other great beach in the bay, known for its fine sand and shallow waters. It is the area with the most services, hotels, restaurants, and water sports options, including windsurfing and kitesurfing. It is a very safe and family-friendly beach, guaranteeing fun and comfort in Northern Mallorca.

12. Cala Banyalbufar – Historic Terraces

  • Location: Below the village of Banyalbufar, in the Tramuntana.
  • How to get there: Steep track from the village. From the sea, it offers a unique view of the terraced fields (bancales).

A rock and pebble cove famous for the impressive landscape of terraced fields (bancales) that descend to the sea. It is a place of great scenic beauty and a refreshing swim in deep waters. The infrastructure is minimal, which maintains its authenticity.

You might also be interested in: Guide to Cala Vella, Mallorca: How to get there and what to do

Bonus: The Lesser-Known Coves

Cala Alcanada

  • Location: Right in front of the islet with the Alcanada lighthouse, Alcudia.

It is a small cove of pebbles and seaweed, distinguished by the spectacular views of the lighthouse, accessible by swimming or walking through the water when the tide is low. It is a quiet area, with a more local and residential atmosphere, ideal for a relaxing swim with a unique postcard view.

Cala Carbó

  • Location: Near Cala Sant Vicenç (not the one in Formentor).

One of the most unspoiled and peaceful coves in Northern Mallorca. It is a mixture of coarse sand and pebbles, in a rustic setting. Access is somewhat complicated, which deters many, guaranteeing an atmosphere of tranquility. Its waters are very clear and cool.

Cala Mesquida

  • Location: On the eastern edge of the north, near Artà.

Famous for its extensive dune system and its protected natural environment. It is a beach of fine white sand, with moderate waves on windy days. It is popular, but its extension prevents overcrowding. Ideal for those who enjoy large beaches with a touch of wild nature.

Discover the Beaches of Northern Mallorca by Catamaran

Although access by land to many of the beaches in Northern Mallorca is an experience in itself, the true magic of the North coast of Mallorca is only fully revealed from the sea. Exploring this area aboard a catamaran offers you an unparalleled perspective and advantages.

The main advantage is access to coves inaccessible by land, or those whose path on foot is strenuous (such as Coll Baix or Cala Figuera). A catamaran allows you to arrive effortlessly and anchor directly in the crystal-clear waters where the views are most spectacular.

You have the freedom to create your own route, forgetting about bus timetables, parking restrictions, or the crowds at tourist spots. You can decide to spend an hour in Cala Deià and then sail to the tranquility of Cala Murta on a completely personalized itinerary. Furthermore, the stability and spaciousness of a catamaran make the unique experience of anchoring and snorkeling more comfortable and pleasant, as the boat becomes your private floating base.

If you want to explore what we consider to be the best coves in Northern Mallorca at your own pace, designing your own route and discovering corners inaccessible from land, consider renting a catamaran with or without a skipper. From Attraction Catamarans you can create your ideal itinerary along the North coast, anchor in crystal-clear waters, and experience Mallorca from a unique and privileged perspective.

Are you ready to design your catamaran route and discover the beaches and coves in Northern Mallorca that are only accessible from the sea? Start planning your perfect itinerary today. At Attraction Catamarans, we look forward to welcoming you.

Contact

Muelle Office
Avda. Gabriel Roca, 13
bajos Palma de Mallorca (07014)
Balearic Islands, Spain

Opening
At 9:00 to 20:00 hours

Phone
+34 971 746 101
+34 675 263 206

Email
info@attractioncatamarans.com

Before: €75 / now: €60

Includes a 4-hour tour, DJ, exclusive catering, and a spectacular atmosphere. See you at Attraction!