Menorca, a truly blissful oasis tucked away in the Mediterranean Sea. With its rugged landscapes, plummeting cliffs, and pristine beaches, it has easily become one of my favorite European island escapes.
For me, Menorca really is one of Spain’s best-kept secrets. Not only does it offer idyllic white-sand beaches, but it also maintains a more quaint and rustic atmosphere, especially compared to its more popular neighbors, Ibiza and Mallorca. Fewer crowds plus stunning natural beauty really is the perfect combination for a Mediterranean vacation.
I have visited all of the Balearic islands and can easily say that Menorca and Formentera are my two favorites. While Formentera is more charming and easy to navigate, Menorca in the end has more to offer. Whether you are planning a trip to Formentera or Menorca, both islands easily deserve a place on your summer European bucket list.
If you’re looking to dip your toes in the Mediterranean Sea this summer, this blog post is for you. In this Menorca travel guide, I’ll be covering everything you need to know on how to enjoy this stunning island to the fullest. From rocky coves to the best seafood spots in town, use this blog as a guide to plan your next European beach vacation.
How Menorca Differs From Other European Beach Destinations
What I love most about Menorca is its turquoise water and white, sandy beaches. Now, if you go to places in Italy like Cinque Terre, Sardinia, or the Amalfi Coast, you’ll notice that the beaches are stunning, however, they are made of pebbles and not sand. For me, this makes a massive difference when enjoying your beach time.
Another aspect that sets menorca apart is the fact that it has been beautifully preserved and still feels slightly untouched by modern developments. The scenery perfectly captures the island’s rugged landscape and showcases a natural beauty that can be hard to find in most destinations within this part of the world.
Another selling point? This island has hidden coves and stunning beaches all over the coast. The beaches change drastically from north to south, meaning you get a little taste of both dramatic red-sand coastlines mixed with soft sand and crystal clear water so clean you can see fish swimming at your feet. You won’t find high-rise condos or restaurants in most of these coves. In fact, some of these you have to hike on a dirt path to get there (the ones you have to work for are always the best).
Where to Stay in Menorca, Spain
When visiting Menorca, Spain, I highly recommend staying in Ciutadella. This town is the largest on the island and offers plenty of accommodation and restaurant options. If you feel like trying another area of the island, Mahon or Binibeca are also beautiful spots as well. Keep in mind you will need to rent a car no matter where you stay, so at the end of the day, it all boils down to personal preference.
Things to Know Before You Go to Menorca, Spain
First things first, before you pack your bags and throw on a bathing suit, keep these points in mind to properly plan out your trip.
Rent a Car
No matter where you stay on the island, you are going to want to rent a car. Unlike Formentera where you could probably get by with renting a scooter, it’s highly recommended to go for the car here. The distances from one point to another are always longer than expected. In fact, since there are fewer roads, it seems like you are always having to backtrack or go a longer route when driving.
Keep Distances in Mind When Planning
Since the distances are so long, you are going to want to plan accordingly. Getting from one side of the island to another can take just under an hour. If you plan on hitting multiple spots around the island in one day, consider bringing extra clothes in the car so you don’t have to back-track.
Make Reservations in Advance
When it comes to dining out, Menorca offers a number of amazing eateries and restaurants ranging from casual to fancy. You would be doing yourself a disservice if you failed to make a few reservations. Call ahead of time or reserve tables online before you go so you can enjoy the best spots on the island.
Make an Afternoon Out of Cova D’en Xoroi
Planning on checking the cool cave bars, Cova D’en Xoroi? If so, go as early as possible. In the summer, crowds line up well before they open and they only allow a certain amount of people in. We went two separate times during our stay in Menorca. The first time, we went right when they opened and couldn’t get a table. The second time, we got there an hour early and there were already 20 people in front of us. Even though it’s a pain, this is still the coolest bar I have ever been to so it is definitely worth it. Plan ahead of time, bring some snacks, and wait it out!
Head to The Calas Early
Remember, the calas that are the most well-known are famous for a reason. They are absolutely stunning. If you want to go to one of the more famous calas, plan on waking up early so you can stake out a spot. Lots of beaches have parking lots that can fill up by 10 or 11am. If you don’t want to wake up early, plan on going to a lesser-known beach.
Where to Eat in Menorca, Spain
Some islands in Europe tend to disappoint me when it comes to the food department. You can pay LA prices for good views and store-bought entrees that are frankly subpar at best. That is not the case in Menorca. This island boasts some amazing eateries highlighting local produce, seafood, and cured meats, making the island an exceptional culinary experience.
Below is a list of restaurants in Menorca that I have either tried myself or have been recommended to me by friends:
Menorca Restaurants & Bars
- Sa Llagosta (Fornells)
- Cas Consol (ask for a table on their terrace)
- Es Cranc (also in Fornell, and the best “caldereta”)
- Cap Roig (Sa Mesquida)
- Cafeteria Ca’n Bep (casual lunch spot)
- Rais (Mahon)
- Sa Pedrera des Pujol (Sant Lluís)
- Mon (Ciutadella)
- Es Port (highly recommend)
- Hola Ola Beach (cocktail spot right on the water)
- Isabella Beach Club (dinner and drinks in a stunning location, make a reservation)
Best Beaches in Menorca
Obviously if you are coming to Menorca, you are coming for the beaches. After doing a little research, you’ll quickly see that the beaches change in scenery depending on its location. For me, I preferred the smaller coves in the south. These coves, or calas in Spanish, each have their own unique character and offer some of the most turquoise waters I have ever seen. If you are in Menorca for a few days, I highly suggest choosing a few different beaches so you can get a feel of what this island has to offer.
Best Beaches:
- Cala macarella
- Cala Macarelleta
- Cala Mitjana
- Mitjaneta (from here you can do a short hike to Cala Trebaluger)
- Cala Escorxada
- Santo Tomás Beach
- Bingaus
- Cala Pregonda
- Platja de Cavalleria
- Cala Presili
- Cala d’Algaiarens
- Sa Mesquida
Sunset Spots in Menorca
Looking to kill some time before dinner? Here are some of the best sunset spots on the island:
- Coves d’en Xoroi (cliffside bar)
- Faro de Punta Nati (lighthouse)
- Faro de Cavalleria (lighthouse)
- Pont d’en Gil (cool rock formation)
Which Towns Should You Visit in Menorca?
While you may choose to stay in one of the larger towns that offer more accommodations and restaurant options, there are still several smaller villages that definitely deserve a visit. Some of my favorite spots include:
- Fornells
- Binibeca
- Es Mercadal
Wrapping Up
Now that you’ve gone through this Menorca travel guide, it’s time for you to start planning your very own Balearic Island escape. With its sandy beaches, hidden coves, and turquoise water, I can confidently say that this gorgeous piece of land will soon become your favorite summertime paradise just like it has for me.
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