Mallorca’s hidden coves

Mallorca is a mosaic of turquoise coves, honey-coloured cliffs and pine forests that scent the breeze. If you’re staying in Palma and want to slip away from the city buzz to swim in almost-secret corners, this guide takes you through ten wild, lightly developed coves across the south, east, north and the Serra de Tramuntana. You’ll find why to go, how to get there, and a local tip so you can enjoy each spot respectfully.

General tip: most of these coves have no services. Bring water, a snack, a hat and footwear for walking or rocky entries. Follow local rules and leave no trace.

1) Caló des Moro and neighbouring s’Almunia, Santanyí

Why go: perhaps the island’s most iconic cliff-flanked cove. A blade of intensely blue water that feels like a natural pool—perfect for an unhurried swim and admiring the colourful seabed.

How to get there: from Palma, drive towards Santanyí. The last stretch is on foot along a signed path. In high season, access is often regulated to protect the environment.

Local tip: avoid peak hours in summer and go early. If the cove is at capacity, try intimate Cala s’Almunia, just a few minutes’ walk away.

2) Es Caragol, Ses Salines

Why go: the southernmost beach in Mallorca—wild, broad, with dunes and a “land’s end” feeling. It forms part of a marine reserve, so the snorkelling is excellent.

How to get there: drive to the Ses Salines lighthouse and walk roughly 1.5–1.6 km along the coast. There’s no shade or facilities, so plan well.

Local tip: take mask and snorkel on calm days. Don’t step on the posidonia or dunes—they’re vital to the coastline’s health.

3) Caló des Màrmols, Santanyí

Why go: a natural amphitheatre of pale rock and glassy water. Small, solitary and perfect for switching off.

How to get there: a longer, somewhat demanding path from the Cap de ses Salines area, or by boat. Carry plenty of water and allow time to return in daylight.

Local tip: arrive early for tranquillity and avoid days with a strong swell.

4) Cala Varques, Manacor

Why go: one of the east coast’s most photogenic virgin coves—clear sand, nearby caves and a pure nature vibe.

How to get there: access via rural tracks and a final walk. In summer there may be occasional parking controls.

Local tip: wear sturdy footwear to explore the rocks—and remember there are no beach bars or parasols.

5) Es Coll Baix, Alcúdia

Why go: a deep-water bay between cliffs, with a shore of smooth pebbles and a powerful, adventurous landscape.

How to get there: a forest track and footpath with a descent at the end. You can also arrive by kayak or boat.

Local tip: water shoes make the entry more comfortable; check wind conditions before you go.

6) Cala Tuent, Escorca, Serra de Tramuntana

Why go: a cove of pebbles and coarse sand in a mountain setting, at the foot of Puig Major, with pines that almost meet the sea. Ideal if the Tramuntana calls to you.

How to get there: panoramic mountain road; parking is limited and in high season demand rises.

Local tip: water shoes recommended. If there’s swell, only swim if you’re experienced.

7) Cala Murta, Formentor (Pollença)

Why go: petite and protected between rock walls, with crystalline water and a hushed atmosphere. Perfect for seekers of calm.

How to get there: the final stretch—around 1.7 km—is on foot along a track. Road access to the Formentor area can be regulated in summer.

Local tip: pair the visit with Formentor’s viewpoints and bring everything you need—there are no services.

8) Cala en Basset, Andratx

Why go: rocky, transparent waters with views to the Torre de Cala en Basset and the islet of Sa Dragonera. A classic for coastal walkers.

How to get there: from Sant Elm, take the 2 km footpath to the cove; expect stony sections. Not ideal for prams or those with mobility issues.

Local tip: if you like hiking, add the detour to the 16th-century watchtower for spectacular panoramas.

9) Cala Na Clara, Artà

Why go: a quiet, virgin cove with open views over the Bay of Alcúdia. The name nods to the clarity of the sea.

How to get there: near the Betlem urbanisation; the final access is a sloping path. No facilities—plan provisions.

Local tip: best on calm days and with water shoes, as the entry mixes rock and sand.

10) Cala Figuera, Formentor

Why go: a virgin cove with dramatic scenery and crystal water at the island’s northern tip. It feels remote and elemental.

How to get there: on foot or by boat; no services. In peak season, check any road restrictions for Formentor.

Local tip: the terrain is stony. Wear decent footwear and swim cautiously—there’s no lifeguard.

How to plan your route from Palma

- Choose one area per day. Head south and south-east for cliff-lined coves and luminous turquoise; go north and into the Tramuntana for wilder, deeper scenery.

- Start early. You’ll nab a parking spot, enjoy soft morning light for photos and share the shore with fewer people.

- Avoid heat peaks. In coves without shade, plan swims for first thing or late afternoon.

- Check sea conditions. Many coves face open water—swimming is best with light winds and a calm sea.

- Respect the environment. Don’t trample dunes or uproot posidonia. Pack out all your rubbish and keep noise low.

One day, one zone: three quick plans

- Active south-west: a morning coastal walk to Cala en Basset, an easy afternoon in Sant Elm and dinner facing Sa Dragonera.

- Spectacular south-east: Es Caragol in the morning and, if you have energy, a gentle hike towards Caló des Màrmols—a 100% nature day.

- Wild north: Cala Murta at first light and, if you’re still in the mood for adventure, head to Es Coll Baix or the Formentor viewpoints.

The etiquette of visiting virgin coves

Virgin coves are a treasure—and fragile, especially in summer. If an access is regulated or a zone is roped off, respect the signage. It never hurts to carry a small bag to pick up any microplastics you spot nearby. We all help preserve what we’ve come to enjoy.

El Llorenç Parc de la Mar: the perfect base in Palma

If you want a convenient, sophisticated starting point for exploring these coves, El Llorenç Parc de la Mar is an excellent choice in the historic La Calatrava district, a short stroll from the Cathedral and facing the sea. It’s an Adults Only (+16) hotel with contemporary design and a rooftop infinity pool offering 360º views over the Bay of Palma—ideal for unwinding with a cocktail at sunset after a beach day. You’ll also find DINS Santi Taura, a Michelin-starred restaurant that celebrates Mallorcan cuisine with local produce. From here you’re well connected by road to every corner of the island, so you can alternate cove-hopping with culture, gastronomy and slow walks through the old town.