It’s no secret that the island is grappling with over-tourism. In summer, it can feel like half of Europe has decided to visit. This means that most of the popular beaches are often swarming with tourists, with every inch of sand occupied. However, it is still possible to find tranquil spots where you can enjoy some peace and quiet. The catch? Be prepared for rocky coves, minimal amenities, and often a bit of a trek to get there.
Palma and Surrounding
- Cala Portals Vells is hidden away with three small sandy coves, surrounded by pine trees. It’s less crowded and has a charming, secluded feel. Don’t expect much in the way of amenities—nature provides all the entertainment here
- Cala Vella is a secluded, picturesque cove with clear waters, perfect for snorkeling and escaping the crowds. Access is via a long hike or by boat, and there are no facilities, so you'll need to bring everything you need for the day
Eastern Coast
- Cala Varques is a beautiful, secluded cove with turquoise waters, perfect for snorkeling and exploring sea caves. Access involves a 30-minute hike, and there are no facilities, so bring everything you need. You will also find Cala Falco nearby
- Cala Mitjana and Cala Sa Nau are small but lovely and often less crowded, perfect for a more tranquil beach day
- Cala Torta is a wilder beach with dunes and clear waters, a less crowded alternative to Cala Mesquida. The road to get there is rough, it is recommended to hike from Cala Mesquida. If you keep walking alongside the coast, you will reach Cala Mitjana and Cala es Matzoc even further
Southern coast
- Cala Beltran is a hidden gem near Cala Pi, reachable via a hiking trail. Secluded and quiet, it’s ideal for solitude seekers. Just remember to bring everything you need – there’s no snack bar in sight.
- Es Carbo and Es Caragol are quieter alternatives to Es Trenc, accessible by a hike from Colonia de Sant Jordi. They offer unspoiled beauty and fewer people. You’ll need to walk a bit, but it’s worth it for the peace and quiet.
- Caló des Màrmols is a picturesque cove with beautiful waters, surrounded by cliffs. The hike to get there is not for the faint-hearted and can take up to an hour
Northern coast
- Cala Figuera offers stunning scenery with dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters. The path down is steep and rocky, so good footwear is essential. The beach itself is pebbly, and there are no facilities—nature enthusiasts will love it, but comfort seekers may not
- Cala Murta is a peaceful, pebbly cove with crystal-clear waters. Getting there requires a 30-minute hike through the woods
- Platja des Coll Baix is a remote, pebbly beach, surrounded by cliffs and pine trees. Great for adventurous souls. Getting there requires a strenuous hike
- Cala Na Clara is a small pebbly beach with stunning clear waters. The path to the beach is rough and challenging, and there are no amenities, so you'll need to be self-sufficient
Western coast
- Cala d'Egos, located between Port d'Andratx and Sant Elm, is a secluded, rocky cove with crystal-clear waters, ideal for snorkeling and diving
- Playa Puerto des Canonge is perfect for a peaceful swim and some solitude. It’s more suited to those who don’t mind a bit of roughing it
- Nestled between the mountains, Cala Tuent offers breathtaking scenery and a tranquil environment. Ideal for a quiet day out. The beach is rocky, and it’s a bit of a trek to get there
