There’s no better way to uncover the island’s most breathtaking underwater worlds than by going on a snorkelling adventure. With over 500 miles of stunning shoreline, Mallorca spoils you for choice. From secluded coves to reefs teeming with sea life, these turquoise waters offer adventures galore. So grab your gear, slather on the sunscreen, and let’s dive right in (no pun intended) to the 12 best spots for snorkelling in Mallorca.
Why Mallorca Is a Top Destination for Snorkelling
Crystal-Clear Waters
With its stunning coastline and turquoise waters, Mallorca offers some of the best conditions for snorkelling in Europe. The sea is calm, clear and shallow, allowing you to see marine life up close. Whether you’re in the north, east or west, the waters around the island are perfect for snorkelling.
Teeming Reefs and Sea Life
Mallorca’s waters are home to lush seagrass beds and rocky reefs that attract a variety of sea life. You can spot colourful fish like parrotfish, wrasses and damselfish, as well as eels, octopuses, cuttlefish and seahorses. Several spots along the coast are also excellent for seeing bigger animals like barracudas, tuna and even dolphins.
Secluded Coves and Sheltered Bays
The island has many secluded coves, sheltered bays and small beaches that provide calm, protected areas for snorkelling. Some spots like Cala Varques and Cala Magraner in the east, and Cala Deia in the west, can only be reached on foot or by boat, so they remain largely untouched. This means the marine habitats are very well-preserved.
Snorkelling for All Levels
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced snorkeller, Mallorca offers conditions suitable for all levels. The shallow, sheltered bays are perfect for newcomers, while more exposed spots with rocky reefs and drop-offs cater to experienced snorkellers wanting to see larger marine animals. There are also snorkelling schools and guided tours for those wanting an introduction.
The Best Snorkelling Spots in Mallorca
1. Cala Mesquida
The shallow, sandy seabed here slopes gently into deeper waters, making it ideal for snorkellers of all abilities. You’ll spot schools of sardines, sea breams and wrasses.
For the best experience, head to the northern end of the beach, where the rocks provide shelter and attract more marine life. Time your visit for high tide when the water is clearest.
2. Calo des Moro
Calo des Moro is a cove that is stunningly beautiful, enveloped by sand and cliffs covered in pines. This snorkelling spot is situated to the east in Mallorca, close to Cala Llombards. Many locals consider this one of the most gorgeous places for snorkelling in Mallorca because it is close to being untouched.
Snorkelers will enjoy the easy access to the deeper waters just off the shore where huge schools of fish await. As it is a natural beach, there are no facilities, amenities, or lifeguards on duty so come prepared accordingly.
3. Cala Deia
Although Cala Deia doesn’t have white sand, its rocks, boulders, and pebbles make for a picturesque beach for snorkelling along Mallorca’s northwest coast. Getting into the water requires care as the stones can be slippery; make sure to wear water shoes if you don’t use snorkelling fins.
The abundant marine life makes the effort worthwhile, especially around the rocky headland where visibility is clearest. One of the highlights of snorkelling at Cala Deià is that you can often spot octopi. During the summer months, however, jellyfish are sighted fairly often at the beach, so we advise that you head here either in late spring or early autumn.
4. Es Trenc
Mallorca’s most popular beach is also one of the best spots for snorkelling. The white sands stretch for over 2 kilometres, giving you plenty of space to find your own secluded area.
Swim out from the shore to discover Posidonia seagrass meadows, rocky reefs and even a few shipwrecks inhabited by moray eels and octopuses. Come early to beat the crowds and you might spot loggerhead turtles feeding in the shallows.
5. Cala Llombards
Cala Llombards is a secluded cove beach on the southeast coast of Mallorca. It is roughly 10 kilometres from the town of Santanyi and the nearby village of Es Llombards.
The beach has pristine white sand and turquoise waters that provide excellent visibility for divers, arguably making it one of the best beaches in eastern Mallorca. Facilities and amenities are limited, as is wheelchair access. You can spot a stunning array of sea anemones, coral, and cuttlefish when diving off Cala Llombards – they tend to be concentrated around the offshore rocks.
6. Dragonera Island
This hidden gem in Mallorca awaits those who enjoy exploring off the beaten path. Dragonera Island extends from the Tramuntana Mountain range covering Mallorca’s entire western coast. This ecologically protected area is a beautiful isle with some of Mallorca’s best snorkelling.
The uninhabited isle has native plants and animals like lizards and the largest colony of Eleonora’s falcons in Spain. Snorkelers and scuba divers enjoy the incredible underwater landscapes and diverse marine life, including short-beaked dolphins, barracuda and occasionally fin whales.
To explore this fantastic location, join a Dragonera Island boat cruise; you can swim and snorkel in the natural park’s crystalline waters or join a kayaking/walking tour for an even closer connection to nature.
7. Cala Santanyi Beach
The southern coast of the island features Mallorca’s best snorkelling beach, Cala Santanyi. This small sandy bay lies 5 kilometres from the town of Santanyi and 55 kilometres from Palma de Mallorca, the island capital.
The tranquil waters make Cala Santanyi beach an ideal spot if you’re coming here with your whole family. You can enjoy the white powdery sand offset by the surrounding cliffs.
Snorkelers find interest in the rounded rocks that emerge from the sea as you swim from the shore. If you’re brave and experienced enough, you can also explore an underwater cave that lies near the beach along the cliff to the left.
8. Cala Agulla
The beach at Cala Agulla is a must-see for those seeking great snorkeling opportunities in Mallorca. The rocky and sandy shore is located near the developed area of Cala Ratjada in Capdepera municipality. Cala Agulla is also the largest beach in this municipality.
After exploring the marine life in the crystal-clear waters, you can stroll around and find shade in the surrounding pine forest-covered natural area. The beach also entices tourists with rentals for kayaks, paddleboats and paddle-surf boards.
9. Playa de Cala Pi Nature Reserve
Powdery fine sand lines a stunningly turquoise beach encircled by pine trees at Playa de Cala Pi Nature Reserve. Visitors must descend a steep staircase to access the beach, where the calm waters make for pleasant snorkelling.
The soft sand and shallow water make this a favourite spot for families with young children. Rentable umbrellas and lounge chairs provide comfort while lifeguards monitor the beach during the busiest summer months. After a day of snorkelling in the incredible waters, you can rehydrate at the beach bar close by.
10. Cala d’Or
Cala d’Or, one of the original and crucial tourist centres on the island, features smaller sandy beaches and coves sheltered by rocky cliffs that offer superb snorkelling in Mallorca. The best-known beach is Cala Gran.
Snorkelers especially enjoy Cala Esmeralda beach due to the tranquillity provided by the sheltering cliffs. The shallow waters make it a good snorkelling spot for children as well.
11. Palma Nova Beach
Palma Nova Beach lies within walking distance of the popular resort town Magaluf on Mallorca’s southwest coast. The area is well-known for nightlife and active holidays, and this area also offers the best snorkeling near Palm de Mallorca.
The many lovely beaches near the town are all great places to enjoy the sun and sea. All feature fine powdery sand and crystal clear water, perfect for water activities.
If you have kids, they will absolutely love this place! At one point, an inflatable raft sits offshore where older children can jump or slide into the sea, and just behind the beach, there are a few playgrounds for the younger ones to play.
12. Sa Calobra
Nestled in the Escorca region, the cove of Sa Calobra is tucked away on Mallorca’s northwestern coast. The nearby village of Sa Calobra bears the same name, and the beach is notable for its mountain views and rocky outcroppings.
Many consider it one of Mallorca’s finest snorkelling spots due to its incredible coral formations. However, Sa Calobra is also remote, and conditions are often unfavourable. Make sure you only go here when the weather is calm.
You can access Sa Calobra via boat or foot, but beware – the hike is strenuous. Local amenities and facilities are minimal as well because of its remoteness.
With endless coastlines and underwater ecosystems to explore, Mallorca is a snorkel’s paradise. Pack your gear, round up your friends and family, and dive in to discover the colourful marine life and hidden gems this Balearic island has to offer. Be safe out there!
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