Choose from rocky limestone coves, hidden pine-lined bays and sweeping stretches of
dark red sand.
Secluded
Isolated sandy crannies dot the coastline. Scramble down a shady forest track to the
cove of Cala Macareletta, close to Cala Galdana; or wander hillsides
to the sticky red sands and odd rock formations of Cala del Pilar, from where
a spectacular gorge runs south to Cala Trebalúger, a tiny smudge of
grey sand with access through virgin forest.
See S'Algar from a parasail off the beach or scuba-dive off
Fornells. Skim the waves on a windsurfer at breezy Ses
Salines, or hire waterskis and jetskis at Son Bou. Kick
back on a glass-bottomed boat around the harbour at Maó or explore
the crazy coastal indentations from the deck of a sailing boat.
Many of Menorca's beaches are child-friendly as the sand shelves gently into
the sea and the water is clean. Kids play freely in the sheltered pine-fringed coves
around Cala Galdana, where there is a playground. The 3km of San Bou
is another safe bet, as is the circular bay at Arenal d'en Castell.
Snorkelling courses for youngsters take place at Cala Santandria or put them
on the waterchutes and go-karts of the Aqua Centre at Los
Delfines.
Visit Fornells in summer as it transforms itself from modest fishing village
to Euro-glitterati marina hotspot. Bar-hop along the waterfront in
Maó or party all day at the magical Cova d'en Xoroi
at Cala en Porter.
Take your costume, sun cream, towels and a blockbuster novel for kicking back in the
sand. Maó, Ciutadella and smart little Fornells dress up at night: guys
take linen, girls strappy dresses and towering heels.
