Cala Macarelleta Menorca
A tiny, unspoiled cove in Menorca famed for its incredibly clear turquoise waters and dramatic cliffside setting.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Cala Macarelleta Menorca
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tiny, unspoiled cove in Menorca famed for its incredibly clear turquoise waters and dramatic cliffside setting.
"This is heaven."
Wear Sturdy Shoes
Good hiking shoes are a must for the uneven, rocky paths leading to the beach. :athletic_shoe:
Shuttle Bus Option
Consider the shuttle bus from Ciutadella to avoid parking hassles and road closures. :bus:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Turquoise Waters
The cove itself
Experience the incredibly clear, calm, and vibrant turquoise waters that make this beach a postcard-perfect paradise.
Scenic Hike
Path from Cala Macarella
Enjoy a rewarding trek over uneven terrain and rocky paths to reach this secluded gem.
Snorkeling Paradise
Crystal clear waters
Discover colorful marine life and enjoy excellent snorkeling in the pristine, shallow waters.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing Cala Macarelleta
Beat the Crowds & Heat
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Sturdy Shoes
Good hiking shoes are a must for the uneven, rocky paths leading to the beach. :athletic_shoe:
Shuttle Bus Option
Consider the shuttle bus from Ciutadella to avoid parking hassles and road closures. :bus:
Pack Essentials
Bring water, snacks, and sunscreen as there are no facilities on the beach. :water_wave:
Arrive Early or Late
To avoid crowds and heat, aim for early mornings or late afternoons. :clock1:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Sturdy Shoes
Good hiking shoes are a must for the uneven, rocky paths leading to the beach. :athletic_shoe:
Shuttle Bus Option
Consider the shuttle bus from Ciutadella to avoid parking hassles and road closures. :bus:
Pack Essentials
Bring water, snacks, and sunscreen as there are no facilities on the beach. :water_wave:
Arrive Early or Late
To avoid crowds and heat, aim for early mornings or late afternoons. :clock1:
Explore from Macarella
The path from Cala Macarella to Macarelleta is scenic but can be challenging. :hiking_boot:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Cala Macarelleta is consistently praised for its breathtaking beauty, with crystal-clear turquoise waters and an unspoiled natural setting. Visitors love the snorkeling opportunities and the sheer visual appeal of the cove. However, its small size means it can get very crowded, and the hike to reach it requires good footwear and can be challenging, especially in the heat.
"Prettier than nearby Macarella, an unspoilt setting with crystal clear waters. In the height of summer i’d recommend coming later in the day (4pm onwards) so you’re not walking there in the heat and can enjoy a bit more space and tranquility on this small but very pretty cove."
deniz ali
"Breathtaking beach with crystal clear turqoise water. It is an amazing snorkeling spot with colorful wildlife. It can be reached by foot or by swimming/ kayaking from the neighbouring beaches. The path from the Macarella has some quite challangeing terrain, so good hiking shoes are a must. There are no facilities here, only a guy with a cooler selling some drinks during high season."
Dóri Lukács
"Amazing beautiful little beach!
Not easy to get to if you’re not fully mobile (from our direction anyway)
We parked about a kilometer away to the north in a large free car park!
Walk down to a beach bar then access the first beach and up n over via a very uneven ground to get to the smaller beach!
But it was soooo worth it!
The water was cold but being British this didn’t bother us🤣.
I was able to climb the rocks and dive in a few times which was very fun😊
The were jellyfish in the area ( on a few & mostly the safer ones but there was a couple pelagia noctiluca which can sting pretty bad)
But it was all fine no issues!
Great swimming and bathing!
Got there early and it was almost empty but started to fill up quite a bit by 12ish we left around 1pm walked back to the bar restaurant on the next beach on to the car stopping for a pizza and a beer which was also pretty good!
The kilometer walk back up hill to the car wasn’t too bad as it was shaded by the trees!
The road however ( I am told closes in the hight is summer ) was very narrow and some drivers were a bit rubbish at slowing down and moving over!!
Apparently there is a bus from the city I think which may suit some but not me!
A moped would be great to get here I think best!
Overall a really nice beach!"
Wayne Holland
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Accessing Cala Macarelleta often involves a walk. You can park at Cala Macarella and hike over, or use the shuttle bus service from Ciutadella, especially during peak season when private car access is restricted. Some visitors park about a kilometer north and walk down. :bus: :hiking_boot: 
During high summer season, the road to Cala Macarella and Macarelleta is often closed to private vehicles. It's best to use the shuttle bus or park and walk. :car: :no_entry: +1
The path is uneven, rocky, and can be steep in places, with steps cut into the rock face. Good hiking shoes are highly recommended. :athletic_shoe:
The walk from Cala Macarella to Macarelleta is about 20-30 minutes, depending on your pace and footwear. :stopwatch:
There is a large free car park about a kilometer north of the cove, from which you can walk down. Parking directly at Cala Macarella might be limited or restricted. :parking:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While there's no direct entry fee for the beach itself, you might need to pay for a shuttle bus service to access the area, especially during peak season. :ticket: +1
Cala Macarelleta is a natural beach and is accessible at all times. However, access roads may have restrictions during certain hours or seasons. :sunrise: :sunset:
There is no specific entrance fee for Cala Macarelleta itself. Access is generally free, but transportation to the area might incur costs. :moneywithwings:
Yes, swimming is a primary activity at Cala Macarelleta. The waters are calm and clear, making it ideal for a dip. :swimmer:
Facilities are very limited. During high season, you might find someone selling drinks from a cooler, but it's best to bring all your own supplies. :water_bottles:
📸 📸 Photography
The entire cove offers stunning photo opportunities with its turquoise waters and surrounding cliffs. The path between Macarella and Macarelleta also provides panoramic viewpoints. :camerawithflash:
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light and fewer crowds, making for more picturesque shots. Golden hour can be magical here. :golden_hour:
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expanse of the cove and its surroundings. A waterproof camera or phone case is useful if you plan on swimming or snorkeling. :camera:
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and regulations before flying a drone in protected natural areas like this. :drone:
The iconic view of the turquoise bay from the cliffs, the pristine white sand, and the clear water are all highly Instagrammable. :instagram:
🎫 🏊♀️ Onsite Experience
Absolutely! The calm, clear, and shallow turquoise waters make it perfect for swimming and enjoying the sea. :swimmer:
Yes, it's an excellent spot for snorkeling with colorful marine life visible in the crystal-clear waters. :fish_cake:
Bring plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, and good walking shoes. A snorkel mask is also recommended. :backpack:
Some visitors have reported seeing jellyfish, including potentially stinging ones like Pelagia noctiluca. Be cautious while swimming. :warning:
While beautiful, the hike and lack of facilities might make it challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues. Older children would likely enjoy it. :familymanwomangirlboy:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
For a more accessible beach experience with similar beauty, consider nearby Cala Galdana or other coves that might have easier access points. However, if your children are older and enjoy a bit of an adventure, the reward of reaching this beautiful cove is well worth the effort.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Adventurers
The journey itself is part of the experience, allowing you to appreciate the natural beauty of Menorca's coastline. Consider combining a visit to Macarelleta with other nearby coves accessible via the Camí de Cavalls coastal path for a full day of exploration.📸 Photographers and Content Creators
Aim for early morning or late afternoon for the best light, avoiding harsh midday sun. The path between Cala Macarella and Macarelleta offers incredible panoramic viewpoints that are perfect for capturing the scale of the landscape. Remember to pack a wide-angle lens and consider a polarizing filter to enhance the water's colors. Be mindful of other visitors and respect the natural environment when composing your shots.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Access and Transportation
For those who prefer to drive as close as possible, parking is available in a larger, free car park about a kilometer north of the cove. From there, it's a walk down to the beach area. Alternatively, some visitors choose to park at Cala Macarella and then embark on the hike to Macarelleta. Regardless of your starting point, be prepared for an uneven and rocky path, especially the section connecting Macarella to Macarelleta, which can be quite steep and involves steps carved into the rock. Sturdy hiking shoes are non-negotiable to ensure a safe and comfortable journey.
Consider the time of day for your visit. Walking in the midday heat can be intense. Many visitors recommend arriving early in the morning to enjoy the tranquility and cooler temperatures, or visiting later in the afternoon (around 4 PM onwards) to catch the softer light and potentially find more space as day-trippers depart.
The Allure of Cala Macarelleta's Waters
The cove's natural setting, with white sandy shores framed by pine-covered cliffs, enhances the visual appeal of the water. The gentle lapping of waves against the shore adds to the serene atmosphere. However, visitors should be aware that while generally safe, there have been reports of jellyfish, including some that can sting. It's always wise to be mindful of your surroundings when swimming.
For those arriving by swimming or kayaking from neighboring beaches like Cala Macarella, the experience of approaching Macarelleta through its pristine waters is particularly rewarding. The contrast between the deep blue of the open sea and the luminous turquoise of the cove is striking.
Maximizing Your Visit: Tips for a Perfect Day
Facilities are minimal at Cala Macarelleta. There are no beach bars or shops directly on the cove. While a vendor might sell drinks from a cooler during high season, it's essential to bring all your own provisions, including plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen. A hat is also highly recommended for protection from the sun.
For photographers, the golden hour before sunset or the soft light of early morning provides the best conditions for capturing the cove's stunning colors. The panoramic views from the path connecting it to Cala Macarella are also fantastic for photos. Remember to pack your camera and perhaps a waterproof case if you plan on getting in the water.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit