Menorca has more than a hundred beaches and coves, and each one has its own character. The north coast is wilder, with reddish rock and wind; the south, with white sand and turquoise water. These six are not "the best" — that depends on the day and what you're looking for — but a small, varied selection to start discovering the island.
This is our cove, a short walk from the villa. It is not sandy: it is smooth rock platforms with steps down into the water. It is sheltered and the visibility is very good. More than a towel-on-the-sand beach, it is a place for long swims.
No sand and no natural shade; snorkelling goggles and water shoes come in handy.
Two unspoilt sandy beaches with easy access, surrounded by pine woods and dunes, on the north coast. It is one of the few wide sandy beaches near Ciutadella and keeps a wild feel because access is regulated.
In high season, car access is limited and the car park tends to fill up early. It is best to arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
One of the wildest and most unspoilt beaches on the north coast. Its reddish sand, the untouched surroundings and the walk through the woods make getting there part of the experience. With no facilities and no direct access, it keeps a calm that is hard to find even in summer.
Bring water, food and comfortable shoes; there is no shade, beach bar or toilets. Avoid the walk during the hottest hours.
One of the best-known coves on the island, on the south coast: small, with white sand and turquoise water. It is beautiful, and for that very reason it gets crowded in midsummer. You reach it on foot from Macarella or Cala Galdana, or by boat if you have the option.
In July and August, you won't see it at its best.
A long sandy beach on the south coast, near Es Migjorn. It is usually less crowded than the neighbouring coves and has plenty of space. A good option if you want sand and quiet at the same time.
There is a walk from the car park; the nearby Cova des Coloms is worth a visit.
A small islet off the northeast coast, next to Es Grau, within the s'Albufera nature park. It has a couple of beaches of its own and is reached by boat or kayak. A different kind of outing for a quiet day.
Access is by sea only; check the boat timetable or come ready to paddle.
In summer some coves have limited parking and fill up early in the morning. If you can, set out early or go late in the afternoon.
Several of these beaches have no beach bar or natural shade. Bring water, some food and a parasol; the most unspoilt ones have no toilets either.
If the wind blows from the north, head for the southern beaches; if it blows from the south, the northern ones are better.