Still relatively under the radar, this beach embodies, for many, the very image of a Mediterranean paradise.
Just in time for summer, Cala Macarella—nestled on the island of Menorca—has been ranked among the world’s most beautiful beaches by the World’s 50 Best Beaches list. A well-deserved spotlight on this still-preserved Mediterranean gem.
Cala Macarella, a Mediterranean cove with an almost unreal setting
What immediately sets Cala Macarella apart is its spectacular shape. The beach forms an almost perfect horseshoe bay, typical of the most breathtaking landscapes of the Balearic Islands.
Framed by high limestone cliffs and dense pine forest, the cove offers a striking contrast between rugged rock, shaded greenery and shimmering sea. Its crystal-clear turquoise waters reflect the light with almost unreal intensity, giving the place that ideal Mediterranean allure sought after by travellers from around the world.
One of the beach’s standout features, highlighted by World’s 50 Best Beaches, lies in the very configuration of the bay. Thanks to its enclosed shape, Cala Macarella is naturally sheltered from wind and swell. The result: waters that are often calm and glass-like—a relatively rare quality along more exposed Mediterranean coastlines. This makes it an ideal spot for swimming, where visitors can fully enjoy the clarity of the water and the gentle shoreline.
A balance between popularity and preservation
Although Cala Macarella is one of Menorca’s best-known beaches, it retains a remarkably unspoilt atmosphere. Located within a protected area, it has escaped large-scale development, limiting infrastructure and preserving its natural surroundings.
This regulated setting maintains a rare balance: a beach that is both accessible and appreciated, yet still retains its wild character. Here, there are no intrusive constructions—nature remains firmly in the spotlight.
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