Mallorca's coastline ranges from vast white-sand bays to secluded pine-backed coves reachable only on foot or by boat, giving the island one of Spain's most varied beach scenes.
Often compared to a Caribbean beach, Es Trenc's fine white sand and turquoise shallows stretch for nearly 2 km along the island's protected southern coast, backed by dunes and pine woods rather than hotel development. Part of a natural park, it remains largely undeveloped, though beach bars operate in summer. Arrive early or use the paid parking areas, as the main access road fills up quickly on hot days.
Backed by a dense pine forest and framed by the mountains of the Formentor peninsula, this crescent of fine sand is regarded as one of the island's most beautiful beaches. Calm, sheltered waters make it good for families, while the surrounding cliffs and the historic Hotel Formentor lend the bay a genteel, old-world atmosphere dating to its early 20th-century heyday as a celebrity retreat.
Within a protected natural park on the southeast coast, Cala Mondragó comprises two adjoining coves of clear water and soft sand flanked by low pine-covered cliffs. Because development inside the park is restricted, it retains a wilder feel than nearby resort beaches. A short coastal path connects the two coves, and both offer good snorkeling near the rocky edges.
A small pebble cove below the village of Deià, reached by a steep 15-minute walk down from the main road. Two rustic beach restaurants serve fresh fish just steps from the water, and the setting, with dramatic cliffs rising behind, is among the most scenic on the west coast. Less crowded than sandy beaches, it draws swimmers who don't mind pebbles for the views.
This dramatic pebble cove sits at the mouth of the Torrent de Pareis gorge, one of Europe's most impressive canyons, where a short tunnel walk leads to a narrow beach wedged between towering limestone cliffs. Reachable by the famous switchback road or by boat from Port de Sóller, it's one of Mallorca's most striking natural sights, though it gets crowded midday in summer.
A long, gently sloping stretch of fine sand on the island's northern coast, backed by protected wetlands (S'Albufera Natural Park). Shallow, calm water makes it one of the best family beaches on the island, while the adjacent nature reserve offers birdwatching away from the crowds. The walled old town of Alcúdia, with its Roman ruins, sits a short drive inland.