A Little Island Named Mallorca - Part 1 - Top 4 Beaches

I recently returned from one of Spain's Ballearic Islands - Mallorca. Some of my favorite childhood memories were made here and although my parents say every year that it would be nice to explore a different destination next year, we somehow always find ourselves back on this beautiful and versatile island. 

I am starting this three part series off with my top 4 favorite beaches on the East Coast of Mallorca. Since I was little, I was always drawn to the ocean - no vacation is complete without being near the water - so I want to share some of the beaches where time seems to stand still for me:

1. Cala Gat

I visited this tiny little inlet for the first time during this year's trip. My sister came across it while helping me research for the blog and since it was so close to where we were staying, we checked it out. Driving through the very popular town Cala Ratjada, follow signs for Cala Gat. Tucked away from the road, with only one little house on one side of the beach and an exclusive hotel on the top of the hill to the other side of the beach, Cala Gat does not scream tourism. The little beach has a bar for refreshments and some cliffs for diving purposes if you dare. I suggest coming either early or late in the day. The beach is not very big and fills up even off-season.

2. Cala Torta

It used to be an adventure coming to this beach, which also happens to be my all time favorite. Many years ago, there were no signs and not even paved roads that lead to Cala Torta. Not sure how my parents came across it, but just getting there was part of the fun - at least for me. Today, it is easy to find from Artà, but the stunning view from the mountain roads has remained the same.

Once you make it to the bottom, drive over the short part of the unpaved road until you see a large lot. From there it is only a short walk to the beach. There are no hotels, only one small hut that stands in the landscape. Don't expect a full menu there, but a cold San Miguel - the local beer - and fresh fish is all you need to complete a perfect day at this beach. 

3. Playa del Muro

What makes this beach so special, besides crystal clear water, is how shallow the water is and how far in you can walk. Playa del Muro is lined with hotels and tons of entertainment and stores, but once you walk away from the beach and let yourself float in the Caribbean-like Mediterranean, you forget the noise of tourism. Water sports, such as paddle boarding and wind surfing, are offered for decent prices at the end of the beach, as well. 

4. Playa de Canyamel

Last, but not least, Canyamel is a place where some of my best childhood memories were made. We traveled here every summer since I was eight or nine, and although a lot has changed since then, there are moments when it seems like time has stood still. This beach is great for traveling with kids or just as a couple. There are several different restaurants to choose from for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The beach bars have a full menu and are definitely kid-friendly. If you want a more quiet and special experience, you can visit Cap Vermell Beach, which is also a hotel that offers stunning views of the ocean and beach. 

My friends are very familiar with how much I love this island - I hope for some of you who have never heard of Mallorca, I was able to spark some interest. Keep in mind that these beaches are all on the East Coast of the island - there are countless other beautiful spots to explore!

Hope you enjoyed this post - stay tuned for part 2!

Love, Lena