The weather in Menorca, the climate in the Mediterranean isn’t always what you imagine
Alaior’s coast, which is completely south-facing, has five of the beaches and coves among the one hundred all around Menorca’s shores. However, our district can boast the longest beach on the island, in addition to a group of coves enclosed within huge cliffs that shelter them from the storms. We’d like to tell you about what’s on offer at our 3 most important beaches.
Son Bou, over 2 kilometres of white sand
The beach at Son Bou is the longest one in Menorca. With fine white sand and a gentle slope into the beautiful clear water, this beach is perfect for families. However, the large underwater trench that stretches over a few kilometres off the shoreline in front of Son Bou also makes this stunning beach a place that commands special respect, where visitors should be aware of strong currents when swimming. That’s why, along with lots of available activities, there are always several lifeguards on duty, who regularly check the horizon and any swimmers in the sea.
Apart from being very long, Son Bou is known for its beautiful crystal-clear water, very common on the south of the island. The beach rarely has any seaweed on it. There are plenty of activities available – you can relax on a sun bed with shade, or opt for a kayak experience and other water sports. In addition, on the left side of the beach, you can view the remains of a large Paleochristian basílica. As it’s by the urbanisation, Son Bou offers all facilities: from restaurants to bars, a pharmacy, supermarkets and car rental.
Safety in Cala en Porter
Cala en Porter is the other extreme of beach type to be found in the Alaior district: the beach sits right at the back of a bay enclosed by cliffs, nestled into the land behind. How can these two beaches be so different when they are just a few kilometres apart? It’s because of all the ravines made up of old rivers that dried up millions of years ago on Menorca’s south coast. The erosion of these streams has left its mark on the landscape, shaping deep and narrow openings running down to the sea like the one at Cala en Porter.
Sheltered and protected from large waves and swell, this lovely beach is also a great family option; it is safe but has a lifeguard service for your peace of mind, and also houses a very comprehensive children’s playground at the back. The urbanisation of Cala en Porter above the cliffs offers multiple services, with visitors being able to combine a morning dip with lunch above in one of the restaurants, followed by enjoying the playground when it’s cooler and shaded.
The magic of Calescoves
Although smaller than Cala en Porter, Calescoves looks similar to its neighbouring beach. This area is totally natural, with no urban development. Its cliffs soar over a quiet beach that is sheltered from storms, with stunning turquoise water. Be sure to plan your excursion carefully when you spend the day on this magnificent beach, taking plenty of sun cream, water and food.
To access Calescoves, leave your car in the car park nearby and walk for 15 minutes to reach the beach. There is less room than at Cala en Porter, but you will be fascinated by all the caves set into the cliff face. In fact, many of these caves were used in the past for burial purposes. End your day by wandering through this network to gain more insight into the most iconic and peculiar features on Menorca’s south coast.
Do you want to know more about the rest of Alaior’s coves? Click here to discover them all!
