Cala Macarella
Menorca's jewel: Cala Macarella boasts pristine turquoise waters, white sand, and dramatic cliffs, with its sister cove Macarelleta nearby.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, best light
Cala Macarella
Best Time
Fewer crowds, best light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Menorca's jewel: Cala Macarella boasts pristine turquoise waters, white sand, and dramatic cliffs, with its sister cove Macarelleta nearby.
"Cala Macarella is, without doubt, the most beautiful cala in Menorca."
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The walk from Cala Galdana or the bus drop-off can be steep and rocky. Proper footwear is essential for a comfortable journey.
🚗 Parking is Limited
Car access is often restricted. Opt for the bus service from Ciutadella or be prepared for a scenic hike.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Turquoise Waters
Main beach area
Immerse yourself in the incredibly clear, shallow turquoise waters that Menorca is famous for. Perfect for swimming and wading.
Cala Macarelleta
Short walk from Cala Macarella
A smaller, equally breathtaking sister cove, often described as a hidden paradise. The short hike is well worth the effort.
Panoramic Views
Cliffs surrounding the coves
Hike up the cliffs for stunning aerial views of the coves. The perspective from above is unforgettable and offers incredible photo opportunities.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds to Paradise
Getting There: Bus or Hike?
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The walk from Cala Galdana or the bus drop-off can be steep and rocky. Proper footwear is essential for a comfortable journey.
🚗 Parking is Limited
Car access is often restricted. Opt for the bus service from Ciutadella or be prepared for a scenic hike. +1
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
The sun can be intense. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, especially if you plan to hike.
🥽 Snorkel Gear Recommended
The clear waters are perfect for snorkeling. Explore the underwater caves and coves for a magical experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The walk from Cala Galdana or the bus drop-off can be steep and rocky. Proper footwear is essential for a comfortable journey.
🚗 Parking is Limited
Car access is often restricted. Opt for the bus service from Ciutadella or be prepared for a scenic hike. +1
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
The sun can be intense. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, especially if you plan to hike.
🥽 Snorkel Gear Recommended
The clear waters are perfect for snorkeling. Explore the underwater caves and coves for a magical experience.
💰 Consider the Shuttle Bus
If you prefer not to walk, a shuttle bus service is available, offering a convenient way to reach the coves.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Cala Macarella is widely praised as one of Menorca's most beautiful coves, with its stunning turquoise waters and white sand. Visitors love the scenic hike and the opportunity to explore the nearby Cala Macarelleta. Some mention algae on the beach and the steep walk from the bus stop as minor drawbacks.
"Cala Macarella is, without doubt, the most beautiful cala in Menorca. I visited it by boat from Puerto Deportivo Cala en Bosc, which made the experience even more special.
Once there, you can hike for about 20 minutes on each side to enjoy breathtaking views of the cala from above—absolutely worth it.
Important to note: the parking area is closed, so if you want to access the beach by foot you’ll need to take a bus from the city.
A true gem of Menorca that you shouldn’t miss!"
Joaquin Ablatico
"Amazing views!
The water is clear and the sand pretty nice.
You can walk to Macarelleta and the path is awesome"
Delfina Zottola
"Clear water, it has a lot of natural shade and is within 45 min walk from Cala Galdana or 30-40 min with a Kayak depending on your pace
Both routes are beautiful and rewarding and if you have time you should do both
The caves and coves on the left and right part of the Cala are amazing and worth exploring with the kayak or snorkel"
Marios Italos
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way is to take bus line 69 from Ciutadella. This bus will take you close to the coves, and from there, it's a short walk. Some videos mention a shuttle bus service for around 11€ if you want to avoid walking.
Generally, parking at Cala Macarella is closed to private vehicles, especially during peak season. It's recommended to use public transport or hike.
The walk from Cala Galdana is approximately 30 minutes and is considered beautiful, though it can be steep in parts. Proper shoes are recommended.
Yes, kayaking is a popular option, especially from nearby areas like Cala Galdana. It offers a unique perspective and allows exploration of nearby caves.
Cala Macarelleta is a short walk from Cala Macarella, typically around 15 minutes. The path is scenic and leads to another stunning cove.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the beach itself is free. However, if you opt for the shuttle bus service, there will be a fee, around 11€.
Cala Macarella is a natural beach and is accessible at all times. However, access by car is restricted, and the bus service operates during specific hours.
No, there is no entrance fee to access Cala Macarella beach. It's a public natural space.
During peak season, car access is restricted. It's advisable to check local regulations or opt for public transport.
While the beach is accessible year-round, the best experience is during the warmer months. Access might be more challenging in winter due to weather.
📸 📸 Photography
The cliffs surrounding the coves offer incredible panoramic views. The turquoise water and white sand also make for stunning shots.
Drone footage of Cala Macarella and Macarelleta is popular, showcasing the stunning landscape from above.
Early morning or late afternoon, during the golden hours, provides beautiful lighting for photography. Midday sun can be harsh.
Yes, hiking up the paths on either side of the main cove offers elevated viewpoints that are perfect for capturing the beauty of Cala Macarella and Macarelleta.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A polarizing filter can help enhance the vibrant blues of the water.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a beach bar serving food like burgers and fries, as well as drinks. It's a convenient option for a quick bite.
The beach bar typically offers casual fare such as burgers, fries, and various drinks, including tap beers.
Prices at beach bars can be higher than in town. It's advisable to check menus or bring your own snacks if you're on a budget.
Yes, bringing your own picnic is a great way to save money and enjoy a meal with a view. Just remember to take all your trash with you.
For more upscale dining, you might need to travel to nearby towns like Ciutadella or Fornells, or consider beach clubs like Ivette Beach Club which is mentioned in proximity.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The beach features fine white sand, which is perfect for sunbathing and relaxing.
The water is clear and shallow, making it good for kids. However, the walk from the bus stop can be steep and challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues.
Yes, showers are available for a small fee, typically around 1 euro.
Besides swimming and sunbathing, you can explore nearby caves and coves, snorkel, and hike to viewpoints.
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a hat, water, snacks, and comfortable walking shoes if you plan to hike. Snorkel gear is also recommended.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶 Hikers & Adventurers
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
The best light for photography is during the golden hours of early morning and late afternoon. Don't miss the opportunity to hike up the cliffs for breathtaking panoramic shots of the coves. Drone footage is popular here, offering unique aerial perspectives of the stunning landscape. Remember to pack a wide-angle lens and a polarizing filter to capture the vibrant colors. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating to Cala Macarella: Your Options
Kayaking is another fantastic option, allowing you to explore the coastline and arrive at the coves from the sea. This method not only offers a different perspective but also provides access to sea caves and hidden spots.
The Magic of Cala Macarelleta
Many visitors find Cala Macarelleta to be even more intimate and breathtaking than its larger counterpart. The short trek between the two coves is highly recommended, allowing you to experience the full splendor of this coastal stretch.
Capturing Cala Macarella's Beauty
For the most dramatic shots, consider hiking up the surrounding cliffs. These viewpoints provide breathtaking panoramic vistas of both Cala Macarella and Cala Macarelleta, showcasing their unique horseshoe shapes and the expansive Mediterranean Sea. Golden hour, during sunrise or sunset, offers the most flattering light, casting a warm glow over the landscape and enhancing the colors of the water and sand.
Drones are frequently used here to capture sweeping aerial views, highlighting the coves' secluded nature and the surrounding pine forests. Remember to bring a wide-angle lens to capture the full scope of the scenery and a polarizing filter to deepen the blues of the water. Always be mindful of other visitors and any local regulations regarding photography equipment. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit