Mallorca, a jewel in the Mediterranean, is renowned for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking landscapes. The northern part of the island, with its unique charm and less crowded spaces, offers some of the best beach experiences you can find. Whether you're a sun seeker, a water sports enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates natural beauty, the north of Mallorca has a beach that's perfect for you. In this guide, we'll explore the best beaches in the north of Mallorca, focusing on the areas of Alcudia, Puerto Pollensa, and beyond.
Formentor Beach quickly became one of the highlights of my trip to northern Mallorca. Tucked away on the Formentor Peninsula, this beach truly feels like a slice of paradise—and getting there is an adventure in itself. We opted to drive from Puerto Pollensa, and the journey was breathtaking, with winding coastal roads offering some of the most spectacular views I’ve ever seen. That said, it's important to know that from June 1st to September 30th, access by car is restricted once the beach car parks are full. So, my top tip? Arrive before 10:30am to beat the crowds and secure your spot.
If you’d rather not risk the drive, there’s a super convenient TIB bus service that runs regularly from Alcudia and Puerto Pollensa. We tried that on our second visit—it was easy and hassle-free. Just head towards Playa Formentor after the roundabout with the seaplane sculpture; the bus stop is at the second roundabout. During the busy season, buses come every 30 minutes, and extra services are added when needed.
Parking at the beach does come at a premium—around €4 per hour—but honestly, it’s worth every cent. The beach itself is stunning: soft white sands, crystal-clear waters, and a tranquil atmosphere that feels worlds away from the more crowded resort beaches. Formentor is often listed as one of the best beaches in Mallorca, and I’d wholeheartedly agree.
One of my favorite parts of the day was discovering a quieter stretch of beach just beyond the main area. If you walk along the path that runs through the grounds of the new Four Seasons Hotel (which replaced the historic Hotel Formentor), you’ll find a scenic jetty and a more peaceful spot to relax—perfect if you're after a bit more privacy.
There’s a fascinating history to this place too. The original Hotel Formentor, which opened in 1929, was a favorite among celebrities and royalty. Big names like Winston Churchill, Charlie Chaplin, and Frank Sinatra all stayed here, and even Grace Kelly and Prince Rainier honeymooned at the hotel. Though the old building has been replaced by the luxurious new Four Seasons, the legacy of glamour and exclusivity lives on.
Whether you’re drawn in by the history, the scenery, or just the chance to unwind on one of Mallorca’s most beautiful beaches, Formentor Beach is a must-visit. Just be sure to plan ahead with the road restrictions in mind—or hop on that convenient bus and let the island do the rest.
Beaches around Pollensa: A Paradise for Families and Adventurers
Whenever we stay in the Cala Sant Vicenç area, we almost always find ourselves drawn back to Cala Molins. It’s definitely the most popular of the three beaches here—and for good reason. With easy access and plenty of nearby cafés and a small beach bar, it’s the perfect place to spend a full beach day without needing to leave for anything.
What really makes Cala Molins stand out for me is how ideal it is for beginner divers. I gave diving a try here for the first time, and I couldn’t have picked a better spot. The crystal-clear water is full of marine life, and local dive schools offer guided lessons that make it feel both safe and exciting. Whether you’re diving or just snorkelling close to shore, the underwater views are absolutely magical.
It’s true that Cala Molins can get quite busy during the summer, but even with the crowds, the beauty of the place shines through. Framed by rugged cliffs and that striking turquoise water, the setting feels like a postcard brought to life.
If you're after a beach that combines vibrant energy with authentic local charm, Cala Barques is the spot. It’s the largest beach in Cala Sant Vicenç and has a lovely, welcoming vibe that makes it perfect for both families and groups of friends. We spent an entire afternoon here hopping between swims and long, lazy lunches at the beachfront restaurants—nothing beats fresh Mallorcan seafood with a sea view.
The shallow waters are great for swimmers of all levels, and snorkelling near the rocks was surprisingly rewarding with plenty of fish to spot. One of my favorite moments was watching the sunset over the cliffs—the way the light hits the surrounding rocks creates this warm, golden glow that’s absolutely stunning.
Whether you’re here for the food, the views, or just to swim and sunbathe, Cala Barques offers a little bit of everything in one beautiful package.
For something more low-key, Cala Clara quickly became our favorite little hideout. It's the smallest and quietest of the Cala Sant Vicenç beaches, and that’s exactly what we loved about it. We visited in the morning, and there were only a handful of other people around, which made it feel almost private.
While it doesn’t have the restaurants or beach bars like the other two beaches, Cala Clara offers something far more special: total peace and a raw connection to nature. The water here is crystal clear, and the rocky shoreline adds a unique character to the beach. It’s the kind of place where you can close your eyes, listen to the waves, and completely unwind.
If you're craving a more secluded beach day away from the buzz, Cala Clara is a hidden gem worth seeking out.
What’s incredible about Cala Sant Vicenç is how each beach has its own distinct personality, yet they’re all framed by the same breathtaking backdrop. The dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear water, and peaceful atmosphere give this whole area a unique charm. Since the beaches face north, the sun dips a little earlier in the afternoon, which actually worked in our favor—it gave us a break from the heat and created the dreamiest golden hour lighting.
From learning to dive at Cala Molins, to soaking in the lively scene at Cala Barques, to completely unplugging at Cala Clara, this corner of Mallorca has something for every kind of beach lover. For me, Cala Sant Vicenç wasn’t just a beautiful destination—it was the kind of place I didn’t want to leave.
On our trip to northern Mallorca, we spent a full day at Puerto Pollensa’s main beach, and I can honestly say it’s one of the best family-friendly beaches we’ve ever visited. The beach stretches for over two kilometres, with soft golden sand and calm, shallow waters that made it ideal for our little ones to splash around safely while we kicked back and relaxed under a parasol.
What we loved most was how well-equipped everything was—sun loungers, parasols, showers, and beach cafés were all just a short stroll away. We grabbed coffees in the morning and ice creams in the afternoon without even leaving the sand. For the more adventurous among us, there were tons of water sports to try. My partner had a go at paddleboarding, while I opted for a chilled-out swim in the bay. Whether you’re up for some action or just want to unwind, this beach really delivers.
After a lively morning on the main beach, we took a slow stroll along The Pine Walk, and it completely changed the pace of our day. Shaded by old pine trees and edged with calm coves, this scenic promenade felt like stepping into a peaceful, locals-only corner of Puerto Pollensa.
We stumbled upon a few small beaches tucked between rocks—each one a little oasis. Voramar Beach became our go-to spot for a quiet swim, while Tamal Beach had the best views of the bay. The standout for us was D’Albercuix Beach—a narrow strip of sand surrounded by greenery that felt totally untouched.
We didn’t need much here—just a towel, a book, and a drink from one of the cafés nearby. If you’re after a tranquil beach day without the crowds, The Pine Walk beaches are where it’s at.
One of our favourite discoveries in Puerto Pollensa was the evening sand sculptures near the Mirador. We happened upon them by accident during a sunset walk and ended up spending nearly an hour admiring the artistry. These detailed sculptures of mythical creatures and famous faces were genuinely impressive—and watching the artists bring them to life was an unexpected highlight.
As dusk settled and the lights flicked on, the sculptures seemed to glow with a magical vibe. It’s a charming bit of evening entertainment that makes this beach destination feel extra special. Honestly, it’s the kind of experience you remember long after the trip ends.
What struck me most about Puerto Pollensa was how effortlessly it caters to different moods and types of travellers. We had everything—from energetic mornings at the main beach, to peaceful moments along the Pine Walk, to enchanting evenings spent watching artists sculpt sand under the stars.
It’s a rare beach town that blends convenience, beauty, and authentic local character so well. Every day felt different, and every sunset more beautiful than the last. Whether you’re coming with kids, as a couple, or just want a relaxed solo getaway, Puerto Pollensa is the kind of place that sticks with you.
When we wanted a break from the buzz of the main resorts, we took a local’s recommendation and headed to Sant Joan and Sant Pere beaches in Es Mal Pas—and I’m so glad we did. Just a short drive from Alcudia, these twin beaches offered the kind of peace and quiet we’d been craving.
These beaches are smaller than others we visited, but that’s part of their charm. Fewer people meant more space to stretch out, and the vibe was refreshingly laid-back. We grabbed a couple of sunbeds for the day—far cheaper than at the bigger beaches—and enjoyed cold drinks from the nearby beach bar without the inflated tourist prices.
But the real star of the show? The views of Cap de Formentor. Looking out at the jagged cliffs in the distance while floating in crystal-clear water was an unforgettable moment. This spot felt untouched and authentic, like a secret we were lucky to find.
Our beach-hopping adventure along northern Mallorca gave us everything we were looking for in a coastal holiday—and more. Every beach we visited felt unique and offered something different depending on our mood that day.
When we wanted action and convenience, Puerto Pollensa delivered in spades. For tranquil afternoons and natural beauty, Cala Sant Vicenç’s coves were perfection. And when we needed total calm, Es Mal Pas and the Sant Joan and Sant Pere beaches offered the kind of serenity that’s hard to come by in peak season.
Whether it was diving into the turquoise water, relaxing on quiet sands, or discovering local gems off the tourist trail, every stop left us with a new favourite. If you’re exploring Mallorca’s north coast, make sure to leave time to discover each of these incredible spots. It’s a beach lover’s dream come true.
