Cala Alcaufar, also known as Playa Alcaufar, is a small, serene beach situated in the municipality of Sant Lluís on the island of Menorca. The beach is located approximately five kilometers from the town center of Sant Lluís and can be easily reached by following the signs from Maó to Sant Lluís. During the summer season, public transportation services are available that connect the beach with the towns of Sant Lluís and Maó.
The beach is characterized by its large bay and warm, turquoise waters, which are notably transparent and almost glow under the sunlight. The beach is wider than it is long, with a length of 40 meters and a width of 75 meters. The beach features white sand and shallow waters, with a gentle slope and a bottom covered in sand and algae. The waters at Cala Alcaufar are calm and protected by rocky outcrops and islets, making the beach an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. However, scuba diving is not recommended due to the beach's exposure to southeast winds and waves.
Cala Alcaufar is surrounded by white houses, traditional docks, and a residential area that preserves some traditional summer houses from before the advent of mass tourism. This gives the beach a charming and unique atmosphere reminiscent of an old fishing village. Near the beach, there is a historical monument known as the Torre de Alcalfar, a defensive construction built in 1787. A path leading from the beach to the tower offers magnificent coastal views and is a popular twenty-minute excursion.
The beach is not typically crowded and maintains a peaceful atmosphere even during peak times, likely due to its small size. The beach area is small enough that bathers often utilize the area where the boats are docked. Despite its size, it is a popular destination for local families during the summer.
In terms of amenities, there is a hotel with a restaurant located near the beach. The restaurant offers a terrace with magnificent views of the beach. However, the beach does not offer water sports facilities or a disabled access ramp.
For parking, visitors are advised to arrive early to secure a spot. Despite this, the beach does not tend to get overly full, even during peak times, making it a peaceful spot for visitors to relax and enjoy the surroundings.
