5 of Mallorca's Best Beaches for Hikers, Trail Runners and Outdoor Lovers
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The Spanish island of Mallorca is known as one of Europe's favorite getaways for sun worshippers and serious cyclists. During our summer vacation, we didn't mind sharing the winding roads and country lanes with cyclists, but to escape the masses, we sought the island's most secluded beaches. Off the beaten path and at the end of challenging trails, we discovered serenity rivaled only by the stunning scenery.
1. Cala Boquer
Running Southwest to Northeast, the Serra de Tramuntana mountains form the rocky spine of Mallorca. Standing sentry over the island, the mountains form a stunning backdrop - and natural barrier to tourists unwilling to break a sweat. Adventurers willing to log a few miles are rewarded with impressive views and sublime beaches.
Just minutes from bustling Puerto Pollensa in Northern Mallorca, a rugged 6.5 km trek (round trip) led us through a quiet valley to stunning Cala Boquer. We followed the well worn trail through the heart of the valley and enjoyed views of the rocky landscape and rising mountains on either side. Equally impressive were the manmade rock fences delineating property, although the nimble mountain goats paid them no attention.
After a few kilometers, the valley opened to reveal the turquoise sea. The trail clambered down rocks to the beach, but a quick detour to the cliff's edge offered incredible views. Only accessible by foot or boat, start early, and you'll likely have Cala Boquer to yourself. There's very little shade on the trail or beach, so wear a hat and carry plenty of water.
2. Cala Figuera
After spending the morning at Cala de Boquer, we took the harrowing drive up the island's northern peninsula to Cap de Formentor on Ma-2210. Every jaw clenching hairpin turn leads to a jaw dropping view, all the way to the lighthouse on the island's northernmost point.
On the return drive, we leaned out the car windows to see Cala Figuera's colorful waters beckoning from below.
The small parking lot at the trailhead was full, so we parked roadside. More of a short, steep scramble than a true hike, it was only 10-15 minutes to the beach.
Nestled below high cliffs, Cala Figuera is one of the island's most remote beaches. The beach itself is a mix of gravel, pebble and rocks, but there are large stretches of soft sand just offshore. Rustic wooden boat ramps kiss the water's edge, and the cliffs are perfect for sunbathers and jumpers.
Bonus Beach: Cala Murta
Across the road from the Cala Figuera is a small finca (farm) and the entrance to Cala Murta. Pass through the wooden gate and follow the paved path about 1500 meters to the beach. Surrounded by cliffs, this small stone beach is secluded and serene. Like Cala Boquer and Cala Figuera, sailboats often anchor offshore to enjoy the crystal clear waters and stunning surroundings.
3. Cala Mesquida & Cala Torta
Located on Mallorca's Northeast coast, Cala Mesquida and Cala Torta are hidden coves with golden sand, translucent water, and wild surroundings.
We started our day at Cala Mesquida under overcast skies. A beautiful beach with soft sand, the eastern side is a protected area boasting natural sand dunes and raised wooden walkways. A small resort sits to the west, but the beach is more than 300 meters long and 100 meters deep so there's plenty of room to spread out.
It was a bit chilly under the clouds, so we decided to explore the surrounding area. We drove to the mountaintop village of Capdepera for lunch and a visit to the 14th century fortress. Built to protect villagers from attacking pirates, the Castell de Capdepera offers 360-degree views of the countryside and coastline.
By early afternoon, the clouds cleared, so we drove through the countryside to Cala Torta. The road gets rougher and narrower as you approach the beach, and the last few kilometers are unpaved. But the drive is spectacular and well worth the effort. It's a short walk from the parking lot to the beach. There are no facilities, but there's a small beach shack that serves drinks and seafood.
Trails weaving through the hills link Cala Torta to Cala Mesquida and other beaches up and down the coast. Perfect for trail running or hiking, adventurers can spend the day beach hopping between spectacular coves. After leaving Cala Torta, we stopped at Sa Duaia, a small farmstay and restaurant nestled in the hills. The views were breathtaking, and the food was delicious.
4. Platja des Coll Baix
Another wild beach accessible only by foot or boat, Platja des Coll Baix lies below sheer cliffs. This shimmering crescent of smooth pebbles is a well-kept secret frequented by locals and hardy hikers. Trails high above the beach explore the Alcanada peninsula, medieval watch towers, and soaring outlooks. We spent 5 nights in Alcudia, and I spent the mornings running up the hills, gasping for air, from both the rocky terrain and breathtaking views.
To reach the beach, follow the signed road from Alcudia to the wooded parking lot. Hikers can take multiple routes from here, but the beach trail meanders through a pine forest before taking a sharp turn and steep descent to the water. We scrambled precariously over boulders and slowly picked our way to the shore.
5. Cala Pi
A quiet, natural harbor remotely tucked away in Southeast Mallorca, visitors must navigate 147 rock steps to reach picturesque Cala Pi. Sandwiched between two cliffs, Cala Pi offers stunning views that contrast the sandy beach, lush vegetation and rocky coastline.
Despite its remote location, Cala Pi attracts locals and tourists. The beach isn't very wide, but it's deep enough to accommodate plenty and never feel crowded. We spent our last full day on the island enjoying the laid back atmosphere and stunning scenery at Cala Pi.
I climbed the rocky path above the fisherman's buildings for a birdseye view of the beach and later returned in my trail shoes to run along the exposed cliffs. Hikers and trail runners can explore the wild coastline for miles and miles. A dip in the refreshing water is the perfect way to cool off after burning up the trails.
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