Alcanada Beaches

Overview

Alcanada offers a distinct coastal experience in the Balearic Islands. Many visitors seek to understand its unique beach character. Unlike some bustling resort areas, Alcanada provides a quieter, more natural setting. The main local spot, Platja d'Alcanada, is primarily a pebble beach with a mostly sandy seabed, featuring calm, clear waters ideal for swimming. It's a favored destination for those desiring tranquility.

While Platja d'Alcanada charms with views of its lighthouse island, the region presents varied choices. Nearby, Platja d'Alcúdia is a popular, family-friendly sandy expanse. A short drive away, Platja de Muro is celebrated as Mallorca's largest sandy beach. For an adventurous escape, the secluded pebble shores of Platja des Coll Baix promise an unspoiled experience. Explore our guide for a more extensive list of beaches.

The allure of Alcanada's shoreline is its serene ambiance and natural integrity. The clear waters are home to Posidonia seagrass, a sign of a thriving marine environment. A memorable activity from Platja d'Alcanada is the shallow crossing to its iconic lighthouse island. Whether you seek pebbles or sand, lively areas or quiet coves, our full guide details more options.

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FAQ

Is Alcanada beach sandy or pebbly?

Alcanada beach is primarily a pebble beach, though some areas have sand mixed with pebbles. The seabed, however, is mostly sandy. Pine trees line the beach, offering natural shade.

Platja d'Alcanada

Can you swim at Alcanada beach?

Yes, Alcanada beach is suitable for swimming. The water is generally calm and shallow, especially near the shore, making it safe for families with children. The water is also described as clear and turquoise. It's recommended to wear water shoes due to rocks and sea urchins further from the shore.

Platja d'Alcanada

Are there facilities like toilets, showers, or lifeguards at Alcanada beach?

No, Alcanada beach generally does not have facilities such as public toilets, showers, or a regular lifeguard service. It's known for its more natural and less commercialized feel. Some sources mention lifeguard towers, but others state the beach is unmanned.

Platja d'Alcanada

Is Alcanada a good destination for a family beach holiday?

Alcanada can be a good option for families seeking a quieter, more natural beach experience. The shallow and calm waters are safe for children. The presence of pine trees offers shade. However, the beach is mainly pebbles, and there's a lack of typical beach facilities like playgrounds or extensive services directly on the main stretch of beach.

What is the water like at Alcanada beach?

The water at Alcanada beach is described as clear, azure, and turquoise. It is generally calm with a gently sloping, shallow, and sandy seabed, making it easy to enter the water. Posidonia seagrass is present, which is a sign of a healthy ecosystem, though it might detract slightly from the visual aspect for some.

Platja d'Alcanada

How do you get to Alcanada beach and is there parking?

Alcanada beach is easily accessible by car from Alcudia, with signs leading the way. There is generally plenty of free parking available along the street or in a dedicated parking area near the beach. It's also possible to walk or cycle from Port D'Alcudia (around a 30-minute walk). A public bus (line 356A in summer) also connects Alcanada with Alcudia and Port D'Alcudia, though services may be infrequent.

Platja d'Alcanada

What is there to do at Alcanada beach besides swimming?

Besides swimming, Alcanada is popular for snorkeling due to its rocky areas and clear waters. You can also walk or swim to the nearby lighthouse island. Kayaking is another popular activity, and some rentals may provide snorkeling gear. The area also has walking and hiking trails, including paths to nearby coves. The beach is also a good spot for picnicking under the pine trees.

Platja d'Alcanada

Can you walk to the lighthouse island from Alcanada beach?

Yes, you can walk or swim to the small island with the Alcanada lighthouse. The water between the beach and the island is shallow, reportedly no deeper than 1.5 meters, making it accessible on foot for many.

Platja d'Alcanada

People Also Ask

Is Alcanada beach crowded?

Alcanada beach is generally considered quieter and less crowded than the main beaches in nearby Port D'Alcudia, especially on weekdays. It's popular with locals and some tourists in the know. However, it can get busier on weekends, particularly the area with picnic tables, as local families often spend the whole day there.

Platja d'Alcanada

Are there restaurants or shops near Alcanada beach?

The main stretch of Alcanada beach itself doesn't have shops or restaurants directly bordering it, contributing to its peaceful atmosphere. However, in the small town of Alcanada, a short walk away, you can find a souvenir shop, a Spar supermarket for picnic supplies, and a few restaurants, including some beachfront options like Bar Playa and the more upmarket La Terraza.

Platja d'Alcanada

What is Posidonia and why is it at Alcanada beach?

Posidonia, often mistaken for seaweed, is actually a type of seagrass endemic to the Mediterranean. Its presence at Alcanada beach, and other Mallorcan beaches, is a sign of a healthy marine ecosystem. Posidonia meadows are vital as they protect beaches from erosion and absorb significant amounts of carbon dioxide. While some might find it visually less appealing on the shore, it plays a crucial role in the local environment.

Platja d'Alcanada

Are dogs allowed on Alcanada beach?

Yes, there is a dog-friendly area at Alcanada beach. It's typically located towards the end of the main stretch, from opposite the lighthouse and further around the bay. This section is more rocky and has Posidonia, but it allows dogs to run and paddle.

Platja d'Alcanada

How does Alcanada beach compare to Alcudia beach?

Alcanada beach offers a more natural, tranquil, and less commercialized experience compared to the long, sandy, and bustling Alcudia beach (Playa de Alcúdia). Alcanada is mainly pebbles with pine tree shade and fewer facilities, attracting those seeking peace and quiet. Alcudia beach is a large, white sand beach with calm, shallow waters, extensive amenities, watersports, and is generally much busier and more family-oriented with a lively atmosphere.

Platja d'Alcanada

Playa de Alcúdia

Are there any hidden coves or quieter spots near Alcanada beach?

Yes, if you explore beyond the main Alcanada beach area, you can find smaller, more secluded coves. By following the coast to the left from the point opposite the lighthouse, a small path leads along the edge of the Alcanada Golf Course to quieter nooks perfect for swimming or relaxing, some of which may be popular with nudists.

Platja d'Alcanada

What is the best time of year to visit Alcanada beach for swimming?

The summer months are generally considered the best time to visit Alcanada beach for swimming, thanks to warm sea temperatures and pleasant weather. During this period, the water temperature is ideal for swimming and other water activities.

Platja d'Alcanada