Cala Mitjana

TL;DR: Cala Mitjana is a stunning virgin beach on Menorca’s southern coast featuring crystal-clear turquoise waters, fine white sand, and incredible snorkeling opportunities. It’s easily accessible with a 15-minute walk from free parking, making it perfect for families and beach lovers seeking natural beauty without the crowds.

Why Cala Mitjana Should Be Your Next Beach Destination

Imagine stepping onto powder-soft white sand, gazing out at impossibly turquoise waters that rival the Caribbean, all while being surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs and lush pine forests. That’s exactly what awaits you at Cala Mitjana, one of Menorca’s most beloved beaches on the southern coast.

This isn’t just another pretty beach – it’s a slice of paradise that’s managed to maintain its wild, untouched character while remaining surprisingly accessible. The beach spans about 40 meters wide by 200 meters long, giving you plenty of space to find your perfect spot, even during busier periods.

What Makes Cala Mitjana Special

Crystal Clear Waters & Fine Sand

The sand is white and very fine, ideal for spending the day on the beach, while the intense turquoise waters offer visibility that’s perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The sheltered bay location means the crystalline water is rarely rough, making it family-friendly for all ages.

Virgin Beach Experience

Unlike many Mediterranean beaches, Cala Mitjana has zero commercial development. There’s no accommodation on it, no businesses, and no development beyond a whitewash fishing hut and a walking trail. This means you’ll experience the beach exactly as nature intended.

Incredible Photo Opportunities

The contrast between sea and landscape makes for incredible photos here that you’ll never forget. The beach even appears in the Estrella Damm video from 2010 and has become a favorite spot for influencers and travelers seeking that perfect Mediterranean shot.

How to Get to Cala Mitjana

Coordinates: 39.9344°N 3.97267°E

By Car (Most Popular Option)

Drive to Cala Galdana via the ME-1 road, then follow signs to the Cala Mitjana parking area. The dusty, unpaved Cala Mitjana car park just outside Cala Galdana is large and free, with capacity for about 250+ vehicles.

Pro Tip: Arrive before 10 am (earlier on summer weekends) to ensure a parking space, as it fills up quickly during peak season.

Driving Times:

• From Ciudadela: 25 minutes
• From Mahón: 35 minutes

By Public Transport

Take buses connecting Mahón or Ciutadella to Cala Galdana:

• Bus 51 from Mahón (50 minutes)
• Bus 52 from Ciutadella (35 minutes)
• Bus 53 from Ferreries (10 minutes)

Exit at the Cala Galdana roundabout, where you’ll find the car park entrance.

The Walk to the Beach

From the parking, you’ll walk for around 12-15 minutes to the beach. The path to Cala Mitjana is lovely and has pavement, something perfect in case you go with a person with reduced mobility. It’s just a 1.2 km signposted walk along a defined, mostly smooth downhill track.

Best Activities at Cala Mitjana

Snorkeling Paradise

Don’t forget a snorkel mask; some caves on the left-hand side of the beach are excellent for diving. The clear waters offer excellent visibility, making it perfect for observing Mediterranean marine life including sea anemones, starfish, and various fish species.

Water Sports

If you have a paddleboard, it can be a great place to take it for a spin, as there are sea caves and nooks to explore within the large cove. The calm, protected waters are also ideal for kayaking.

Exploring Cala Mitjaneta

Don’t miss the smaller sister beach, Cala Mitjaneta, just about 5 minutes away on foot. It has turquoise waters and amazing hills and forests to explore and is usually less crowded than the main beach.

Coastal Hiking

The beach connects to the famous Camí de Cavalls coastal trail, allowing you to explore other stunning coves like Cala Trebalúger, Cala Macarella, and Cala Escorxada.

Essential Packing List

Since this is a virgin beach with no facilities, you’ll need to bring everything:

Must-Haves:

• Shade (umbrella, pop-up tent), as there is little naturally available
• Water, food, a snorkel, and your camera
• Enough water and food; Cala Mitjana has no bars or restaurants
• Sunscreen and sun protection
• Comfortable walking shoes for the trail
• Cash for refreshments (a local vendor sometimes sells drinks and fruit)

Optional but Recommended:

• Waterproof phone case for underwater photos
• Paddleboard or kayak
• Picnic blanket
• Portable speaker (keep volume respectful)

When to Visit Cala Mitjana

Best Months

The best months to visit without overcrowding are May, June and September. In particular, we recommend you go in June and September when it’s not so crowded with tourists but still warm enough for a nice beach day.

Best Times of Day

It’s clever if you go early in the morning, or in the middle of the afternoon, in case you want to visit it in July or August. Alternatively, arrive around 13:00 or 14:00 hours, when some bathers begin to leave to go to eat.

Important Note: Due to its orientation, 1 hour and a half before sunset the beach is covered by the shade of the pine trees that surround it.

Where to Stay

Cala Galdana (Most Convenient)

Cala Galdana is the obvious choice of places to stay when wanting to visit these beautiful beaches. Popular options include:

• Hotel Sol Gavilanes: Beachfront location with bay views
• Comitas Floramar: Self-catering apartments with hotel facilities

Ferreries (Authentic Alternative)

If you want a more authentic stay, Ferreries makes a good choice too, offering a genuine Menorcan town experience while being just 10 minutes from the beach by bus.

Nearby Attractions

Cala Galdana

A 10-minute walk from the car park, this resort town offers restaurants, shops, and additional beach facilities. Cala Galdana is a hive of activity in the summer and makes a great base for exploring the area.

Other Stunning Beaches

• Cala Macarella & Macarelleta: Iconic postcard-worthy beaches
• Cala Trebalúger: Hidden gem with dramatic cliffs
• Cala Turqueta: Another pristine virgin beach

Boat Tours

One of the most scenic ways to reach this stunning pair of beaches is via a boat tour from Cala Galdana. These tours typically visit multiple coves and include snorkeling equipment.

Local Tips & Etiquette

Respect the Environment

Please help us maintain Menorca’s natural beauty. Dispose of your rubbish, cigarette butts included! Take some beautiful photos… but also take all your rubbish with you.

Accessibility

If you’re travelling to Cala Mitjana with young children, you should be able to manage most of the way with a pram or buggy if you wish, thanks to the paved walking path.

Crowd Management

If the beach is full of bathers and tourists, the best option is to walk to Cala Mitjaneta, about 5 minutes away on foot, which will be probably less crowded.

Budget-Friendly Tips

• Free parking at the designated car park
• Bring your own food and drinks to avoid vendor prices
• Use public transport to save on rental car costs
• Visit during shoulder seasons (May, June, September) for better value accommodations

Safety & Practical Information

• No lifeguards on duty
• No medical facilities nearby
• Cell phone coverage can be spotty
• Nearest facilities are in Cala Galdana (15-minute walk)
• The trail can be slippery when wet

Making the Most of Your Visit

To get the most out of its turquoise waters, it is best to spend at least one morning there. Consider combining your beach day with coastal hiking, snorkeling adventures, or exploring the nearby coves for a full Menorcan experience.

A great experience not to be missed if you are in Menorca – Cala Mitjana offers that perfect blend of accessibility and wild beauty that makes the Balearic Islands so special. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or simply the chance to disconnect in one of the Mediterranean’s most beautiful settings, this stunning beach delivers an unforgettable experience.

Quick Reference

Location: Southern coast of Menorca, near Cala Galdana
Walk Time: 12-15 minutes from parking
Best For: Families, snorkeling, photography, nature lovers
Facilities: None (virgin beach)
Cost: Free (bring everything you need)
Accessibility: Moderate (paved path, some hills)