Cala en Porter Beaches

Overview

Cala en Porter is one of Menorca's most established and popular resorts, located on the island's beautiful south coast. Visitors are drawn to its magnificent setting, where a wide, sandy beach is protected by towering cliffs. The bay's geography creates exceptionally calm and shallow turquoise waters, making it a frequent question for visitors and a resounding answer for why it's considered an ideal destination for families with children. The town itself sits atop the cliffs, offering spectacular views and a relaxed holiday atmosphere.

While the main town beach, Cala en Porter, is a destination in its own right for its convenience and the famous Cova d'en Xoroi cave bar, the area is also a perfect base for exploring Menorca's legendary coastline. Among the must-see spots are the postcard-perfect Cala Macarella, the island's longest family-friendly beach at Platja de Son Bou, and Cala Turqueta, named for its intensely vivid blue waters. These beaches represent some of the most iconic coastal scenery in the Balearic Islands.

The stunning shoreline of southern Menorca offers more than just these famous names. Just a short distance from the main resort, you can discover other gems like the equally beautiful Cala Mitjana, a pristine cove surrounded by pine forests that is a favorite for locals and visitors alike. Whether you seek the convenience of a resort beach or the unspoiled nature of a secluded cove, the region around Cala en Porter delivers a memorable experience. For more inspiration, be sure to explore our complete guide to the area's many incredible beaches.

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FAQ

Is Cala en Porter good for a family beach holiday?

Yes, Cala en Porter is widely considered an excellent destination for families. The main beach is set in a deep, sheltered cove, which means the water is usually calm and shallow, making it very safe for children. The beach itself is sandy and has lifeguards on duty. Additionally, you'll find amenities like a children's play area right on the beach, toilets, showers, and nearby restaurants. The resort town is compact and offers a good selection of family-friendly restaurants and self-catering villas and apartments.

Cala en Porter

How do you get down to the beach in Cala en Porter?

The main resort of Cala en Porter is situated on top of cliffs overlooking the bay. To get to the beach, you can take a long, winding road down, which is accessible by car or on foot. Alternatively, there is a flight of about 190 steps that leads directly from the town to the beach promenade. For those who find the walk challenging, there is a tourist 'fun train' that runs regularly between the resort and the beach for a small fee, and taxis are also an option for the short trip.

Cala en Porter

Can you swim in the sea at Cala en Porter and what is the water like?

Absolutely. The beach at Cala en Porter is located in a beautiful, protected bay with crystal-clear, turquoise waters. The sea is very calm and has a gently sloping, sandy bottom, making it ideal for swimming and paddling. The water is typically very shallow for a good distance from the shore. The best months for comfortable swimming are generally from June to September when the water temperature is warmest.

Cala en Porter

Is Cala en Porter just for relaxing or is there any nightlife?

Cala en Porter offers a relaxed atmosphere but also has a unique nightlife scene. While it's not a wild party resort like some in Ibiza or Majorca, it is famous for the Cova d'en Xoroi. This is a spectacular bar and nightclub set within natural caves in the cliff face, offering stunning sea views, especially at sunset. During the day it's a relaxed cafe, and at night it transforms into a popular club. The main town also has a variety of bars, some offering cocktails and live music.

Cala en Porter

What are the best accommodation options near the beach?

Cala en Porter offers a mix of accommodation, primarily self-catering villas and apartments, along with a few hotels. For direct beach access, look for properties at the bottom of the hill, though most accommodation is located in the main resort on the clifftop. Hotels like the Hotel Seth Playa Azul offer great views and are close to the steps leading to the beach. Many visitors opt for private villa rentals, which are scattered throughout the resort, often with their own pools. Aparthotels like Nelva Resort are also a popular choice, offering apartment-style living with hotel facilities.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Cala en Porter

What is there to do besides the beach in Cala en Porter?

Besides the beach, you can explore the stunning cliffs and coastal paths, including a section of the Camí de Cavalls trail that leads to the rustic cove of Llucalari. A must-visit is the Cova d'en Xoroi, a famous bar and nightclub set in a cave. The area is also great for water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding, which you can rent at the beach to explore nearby sea caves like Cales Coves. The resort is also a good base for exploring the rest of Menorca, with the capital, Mahón, only a short bus or taxi ride away.

Cala en Porter

How does Cala en Porter beach compare to Son Bou?

Cala en Porter and Son Bou offer different beach experiences. Cala en Porter's beach is a picturesque, sheltered cove protected by high cliffs, making the water very calm and ideal for families with small children. Son Bou, on the other hand, is Menorca's longest beach, a vast expanse of open sand with more space and sometimes wavier conditions. While Cala en Porter is a self-contained resort, Son Bou is larger and part of a bigger tourist area with more extensive facilities. The choice depends on whether you prefer a cozy, protected cove or a long, open beach.

Cala en Porter

Platja de Son Bou

Are there sunbeds and umbrellas for rent at Cala en Porter beach?

Yes, you can rent sunbeds and umbrellas on the main beach at Cala en Porter. Prices can vary depending on the time of season, but you can typically expect to pay around €20-€25 for a set of two beds and an umbrella for the day. There are also sections of the beach where you can lay your own towel if you prefer not to rent.

Cala en Porter

People Also Ask

Is it easy to get from Cala en Porter to Mahón?

Yes, it is relatively easy to travel between Cala en Porter and the capital city, Mahón. There is a regular public bus service (Route 31) that connects the two, with the journey taking around 20-30 minutes. The bus stop is located in the main resort area. Taxis are also readily available and offer a convenient, though more expensive, alternative, with a typical fare around €25.

Cala en Porter

Are there any hidden beaches or coves near Cala en Porter?

Yes, for those willing to explore, there are more rustic coves nearby. A popular option is Cales Coves, a stunning bay with prehistoric burial caves carved into the cliffs. It's not a traditional sandy beach but is fantastic for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring by kayak or paddleboard from Cala en Porter. You can also hike a section of the Camí de Cavalls trail west from Cala en Porter to reach the quiet, stony cove of Llucalari.

Cala en Porter

What is the best time of year to visit Cala en Porter for a beach holiday?

The best time for a beach holiday in Cala en Porter is from June to September. During these months, the weather is consistently hot and sunny, and the sea temperature is warm and pleasant for swimming, often reaching around 25°C (77°F). May and October are also good options for those who prefer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, though the sea will be a bit chillier.

Cala en Porter

Is Cala en Porter suitable for couples?

Cala en Porter is a great choice for couples seeking a mix of relaxation and unique experiences. The resort has a laid-back vibe, beautiful scenery, and a good selection of restaurants for intimate dinners. The stunning sunsets viewed from the cliffs or from the famous Cova d'en Xoroi bar provide a romantic backdrop. There are also adults-only hotels available, such as the Hotel Sa Barrera, catering specifically to couples.

Cala en Porter