The island of Menorca is one of the most popular coastal destinations among tourists from all over the world, especially during the summer months, to enjoy its famously amazing beaches.
Summer, the best time to visit Menorca
Thanks to its excellent climate and high number of hours of sunshine per year, I can happily say that summer in Menorca starts at the end of May and goes on until the end of September. There are even those who go for a swim as late as November!
As well as enjoying the wonderful beaches of Menorca, in the summer you can admire its lush nature, with its fields full of flowers, not just in spring. You can stroll through the streets of the towns and villages, visit markets, prehistoric monuments and much, much more.
I hope I’ve convinced you. So let’s take a look at the TOP 10 things to see and do in Menorca in the summer!
TOP 10 things to see and do in Menorca in SUMMER
There are so many things to see and do in Menorca in the summer: the island shakes off the winter blues and offers its visitors all kinds of activities, for all tastes.
Shortening the list down to 10 things is no easy task, but I’ll do my best. Here are my TOP 10 things to see and do in Menorca in the summer:
1. Macarella e Macarelleta
I’ll start with what, without doubt, is one of Menorca’s greatest claims to fame: the famous beaches of Cala Macarella and, its little sister, Cala Macarelleta.
These two stunning coves, in the south of Menorca, are among the most popular with tourists and locals, due to their unique beauty. The pure-white sand contrasting with the turquoise sea and the green pine forest surrounding the coves will truly take your breath away! From 1 June until 30 September you won’t be able to get to Cala Macarella in your own vehicle; you will need to take the public bus that goes from the centre of Ciutadella.
But my advice would be to park your car at Cala Galdana and then walk a stretch of the Camí de Cavalls, you won’t regret it!
Macarelleta can be reached by a short scenic walk from Macarella.
Get up early, though! Both beaches get very busy in the summer.
2. Mahón, the capital of Menorca
The city of Mahón should definitely feature on your Menorca to-do list.
My tip would be to wander aimlessly through the streets of its old town and, of course, visit its incredible harbour. The Port of Mahón, the second largest natural harbour in the world, has its own unique charm and is certainly worth a visit.
But I wouldn’t just limit yourself to strolling along the seafront, exploring the shops and having lunch or dinner in one of its many restaurants; you should also view the harbour from above: in the centre of Mahón you’ll find various viewpoints offering stunning views of the harbour.
3. Walking the Camí de Cavalls
The Camí de Cavalls is an ancient trail 185km long, running around the entire coast of Menorca.
If you’re not used to walking, don’t worry! There are short sections of the Camí de Cavalls that are suitable for almost any walker. But do make sure that you put on appropriate footwear (preferably closed in) and take water and suncream with you.
4. Cala Turqueta
With its crystal-clear waters, lush vegetation and wild landscape, Cala Turqueta, in the south of Menorca, is a true paradise for sea lovers.
During the summer months, I’d advise you to visit this cove very early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid finding the carpark full.
5. Ciutadella
Ciutadella, the former capital of Menorca, has a charm that very few cities can boast.
I’d recommend you stroll aimlessly through the streets of its centre, losing yourself among the city’s historical buildings. It will be like going back in time!
6. Cala Pregonda
Cala Pregonda is, to my mind, the jewel of the north coast of Menorca. You can only reach it on foot, after walking for 40 minutes or so, and you’ll feel like you’ve landed on another planet.
Its reddish sand and the islets protecting the bay from the waves make it truly unique.
There are no amenities close by at Cala Pregonda, so take with you everything you need for a lovely day on the beach.
7. FORNELLS
The village of Fornells, in the north of Menorca, is famous for its restaurants serving traditional cuisine. It is, in fact, the best place for trying the famous Caldereta de Langosta, or lobster stew.
But Fornells is not only somewhere with excellent food; it’s a quiet fishing village where you can take some wonderful walks around its harbour and truly soak up the culture and traditions of Menorca.
8. Cova d’En Xoroi: landscapes and legends of Menorca
The island of Menorca is steeped in legend, but the most famous is probably the one surrounding the cliff-side cave, Cova d’En Xoroi.
This legend tells us that the pirate Xoroi, after his ship was wrecked, settled on the island of Menorca, stealing food and livestock from the farmers who lived there. Then one day, a girl from Alaior disappeared. They kept looking for her for a long time, but never managed to discover her whereabouts, until one day it snowed in Menorca!
The inhabitants followed some strange footprints, which led them to Xoroi, along with the missing girl and their two children, the fruits of their love.
Xoroi and his eldest child threw themselves into the sea to escape and were never seen or heard of again!
Nowadays, the Cova d’En Xoroi houses a nightclub with beautiful sea views. The ideal place for watching the sun go down in Menorca!
9. Cala Morell
Cala Morell, together with its necropolis, makes for a very interesting visit on the island.
It’s not the typical white sandy beach, of course, so characteristic of the island, but a small beach surrounded by an ancient necropolis from the Talaiotic Period. There are in fact 17 artificial caves dug out of the rock, where experts have found clues to how their inhabitants may have lived over 3,000 years ago.
You can also snorkel here and explore some beautiful underwater caves full of the marine plants and animals of Menorca.
Sipping on a sundowner at one of the lovely bars with a view is definitely an experience you’ll want to enjoy in Menorca!
10. Son Bou
Son Bou is the ultimate family-friendly beach, but not only that, it’s also Menorca’s longest. Stretching along the south coast of the island, it’s ideal for spending a day on the beach with all facilities and services to hand.
Here you can relax on the sunbeds for hire or enjoy the water sports. There’s something for everyone here!
Minorca è un’isola che ha davvero molto da offrire ai suoi visitatori, per questo motivo, questa lista potrebbe essere infinita. E tu, conosci Minorca? Qual’è il tuo TOP 10?
