The best beaches in the north of Menorca are wild and undeveloped, and many of them are a long or tricky walk from the nearest car park. As a skipper, I’ll tell you which ones are worth it and how to see them from the sea without walking.
In short:
- The north has golden or reddish sand, dark cliffs and almost untouched coves.
- Some of the most beautiful are Illa Colom, Cala Presili, Cala Tortuga and Mongofre, all on our north coast route.
- It is the coast most exposed to the tramontana wind, so we go there on days with light or southerly wind.
What the north coast of Menorca is like
The north coast is very different from the south. The sand is more golden, sometimes reddish, and the cliffs have slate and clay tones. There are hardly any buildings or services, and many coves can only be reached after a long walk or by boat. That is why they stay quiet even in August.
The best beaches in the north of Menorca
Cala Presili and Cala Tortuga
Very close to Favàritx lighthouse. Turquoise water and white sand inside the s’Albufera des Grau Natural Park. By land you have to walk from the lighthouse car park.
Mongofre
Small coves between rocks, with dunes and very clear water. Land access is restricted, so the best way to get there is by sea.
Illa Colom
An islet off Es Grau with small beaches and sheltered water, perfect for swimming and snorkelling.
Cala Pudent and Macar de sa Llosa
Two quiet coves with sandy bottoms and shallow water, great for families.
Further west: Pregonda and Cavalleria
Cala Pregonda, with its reddish sand, and Cavalleria beach are very well known, but they are far from Mahón and are not part of our usual routes. They are only possible as a custom route, planned well in advance.
Seeing the best beaches in the north of Menorca by boat
By boat you skip the walks and the parking, and you can stop at several coves in one day. We leave from Mahón harbour and explore the eastern part of the north: Illa Colom, Cala Rambla, Cala Tortuga, Cala Presili, Favàritx lighthouse and Mongofre. You will find every stop on our north coast boat route.
The north is the coast most exposed to the tramontana. That is why the skipper checks the wind every morning, and if the north is not right, he suggests the south coast route instead.
Skipper’s tip: Illa Colom is a little-known place and surprisingly beautiful.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best beach in the north of Menorca?
It depends on what you are looking for. For us, Illa Colom is one of the most surprising, and Cala Presili and Mongofre are among the quietest.
Can you walk to the beaches in the north?
To some of them, yes, but many need a long walk or have restricted access. By boat you reach all of them with no effort.
When is the best time to go to the north?
On days without tramontana, with light or southerly wind. We check the AEMET marine forecast every morning to decide.
Are the northern beaches good for children?
Yes, especially the sandy, shallow ones such as Cala Pudent or the Mongofre coves. You will find more ideas in our guide to a boat trip in Menorca with children.
How much does a boat trip with a skipper cost?
From 420 € per boat for 4 hours. You can see all prices on the skippered boat rental page.
If you want to see the best beaches in the north of Menorca from the sea, check the available dates for the Karnic SL601 or the Beneteau Flyer 7, or message us on WhatsApp.
