If you've started planning your trip to the island, you've probably got well-known beaches on your list that, in summer, tend to fill up quickly. As a skipper, I'm often asked about the real secret coves of Menorca, unspoilt corners that don't appear in the guidebooks and where you can breathe the authentic calm of the Mediterranean.
Reaching these paradises by land is extremely complicated, demanding hours of walking under the sun along stony paths. The magic happens when you decide to swap the car for the sea breeze and set off from the imposing Port of Mahón. Chartering a boat in Menorca lets you not only reach these beaches effortlessly, but live them from the best perspective: anchored on the front line and in total silence as you sail under canvas around Menorca.
Anchored in an unspoilt, remote corner of the island, ready for an instant swim.
The 5 secret coves of Menorca you'll only discover by sea
Here I reveal my five favourite secret coves of Menorca, true hidden treasures that reach their full splendour when you arrive by sailing:
1. Platja de Sa Torreta (Cala Rambles)
Set in the heart of the s'Albufera des Grau Natural Park, this unspoilt beach of fine white sand stands out for its peace and its wild surroundings. Reaching it on foot means a walk along the Camí de Cavalls, but at Elan Menorca we have the immense privilege of anchoring here during our day trip, jumping straight into its crystal-clear waters effortlessly.
2. Cala Tamarells (Illa d'en Colom)
Illa d'en Colom is a small islet off the north-east coast that hides unrivalled spots. Cala Tamarells is a paradisiacal beach that can only be reached by sea. It's one of our favourite anchorages and a star stop on our day trip. Being sheltered, it offers a calm, turquoise sea perfect for snorkelling surrounded by untouched nature.
3. Cala de Mongofre
Hidden among the imposing reddish cliffs of the north coast, Mongofre dazzles with the contrast of its golden sand and the turquoise blue of the water. Getting there by land is an arduous trek. For reasons of sailing time, this cove tends to fall outside our single-day trip, but it's one of the magical corners we do visit on our multi-day voyages on board.
4. Cala Pudent
Although its name means "smelly cove" because of the natural build-up of posidonia, the reality underwater is spectacular. It's a tiny unspoilt inlet in Es Mercadal with a much-prized seabed. Like Mongofre, its remoteness means we can't reach it in just a few hours, but we take it in with pride on our multi-day itineraries sailing around the island.
5. Cala Calderer
A rustic, wild and extremely solitary cove on the north coast. Land access from Binimel·la requires several kilometres of hard walking. Anchoring here is a reward for total disconnection. Because of its remote location, we reserve it exclusively for the adventurers who join us on our multi-day voyages, where time is no longer a problem.
They are true hidden treasures waiting to be enjoyed, among the coves you can only reach by boat.
Frequently asked questions about the secret coves of Menorca
Which secret coves of Menorca are best to visit by boat?
Some of the most spectacular secret coves of Menorca we usually sail to are the little corners near Illa d'en Colom or the unspoilt coves of the north coast, where the anchorage is far calmer and away from the crowds of the southern beaches.
Can you reach these hidden coves of Menorca on foot or by car?
The vast majority of these small unspoilt coves have no road access and require long, demanding walks along the Camí de Cavalls. The most comfortable, cool and exclusive way to enjoy them is by arriving from the sea on a private sailing trip.
What are the advantages of visiting Menorca's secret coves under sail?
Sailing under canvas, you reach these corners in total silence, without the annoying noise of engines and in a 100% sustainable way. From the boat you also anchor right on the front line, can jump straight into the turquoise water and enjoy maximum privacy.
Can we decide which secret corners to visit during the trip?
Of course. As skipper, I always assess the day's wind to guarantee your safety and comfort. As it's a private trip, we design the route together to explore the secret coves of Menorca that offer you the best experience.
What's the best time to discover these hidden coves without crowds?
Although July and August are wonderful for sailing and enjoying the sea at a good temperature, if you're after maximum solitude in Menorca's secret coves, I strongly recommend coming in May, June, September or October.
Come and discover the most hidden Menorca
If you're looking to experience a deep connection with the Mediterranean, I encourage you to step aboard the Elan Impression 384 sailboat. We take care of everything: safe sailing under canvas, comfort on board and a spectacular route through the areas you can only reach by sailing.
Get in touch with me directly and I'll help you plan your private sailing trip around Menorca. See you on deck to set course for your next hidden paradise!
Ready to hoist the sails?
Availability is very limited during the summer months. Secure your day in paradise to explore Menorca's secret coves on board.
