Platja de Formentor

Platja de Formentor stretches for a kilometer along Mallorca's rugged northern coast, where the Tramuntana mountains plunge directly into the Mediterranean. The beach delivers exactly what the postcards promise: powdery white sand, clear turquoise water, and pine forests climbing up dramatic limestone cliffs. You'll spend your time swimming in the shallow, protected bay (it stays chest-deep for 30 meters out), sunbathing on soft sand, or walking the shoreline with Cap de Formentor's lighthouse visible in the distance.

The setting feels almost tropical, with a contrast between dark green pines and blue water creating a Caribbean vibe. By 10am in summer, the beach transforms into a packed resort scene, with families claiming spots under umbrellas and the single beach bar serving drinks. The water stays refreshingly cool even in July and August, thanks to its northern exposure, and the swimming is excellent with no rocks or strong currents to worry about.

Honest talk: this beach is crowded during peak season, and the 20-minute drive down the winding peninsula road can be tedious with traffic. The beach bar charges resort prices (5 EUR for a beer, 12 EUR for a basic sandwich), so bring your own supplies. Consider skipping the crowded summer afternoons and come early morning or late afternoon when the light on those cliffs is spectacular, allowing you to enjoy the scenery without the crowds.