Cala Mesquida, Mallorca: wild nature and turquoise waters in the northeast of the island
At the north-eastern tip of Mallorca, surrounded by dunes, pine forests and a protected natural environment, lies one of the island’s most spectacular beaches: Cala Mesquida. Also known as S’Arenal de sa Mesquida, this corner of white sand and crystal-clear waters belongs to the municipality of Capdepera and has become an essential stop for those seeking a beach experience in a still wild environment, far from the hustle and bustle of the more urbanised areas.
History and interesting facts about Cala Mesquida
The history of this area is closely linked to that of the municipality of Capdepera. The origins of the town date back to the Talayotic culture, with remains from the Bronze and Iron Ages. Later, the Romans knew the area as Caput Petrae (‘stone head’), a name that would eventually become Capdepera. During the Middle Ages, Jaume II officially founded the town in 1300, and a few years later the defensive walls of Capdepera Castle were completed, built to protect the population from pirate attacks. Cala Mesquida, due to its strategic location and difficult access, was sparsely populated for centuries.
Even in more recent times, it served as a refuge for smugglers, who took advantage of its waters and relative remoteness to bring in goods such as tobacco and coffee. Today, in addition to its natural value, Cala Mesquida preserves remains of old watchtowers and Civil Guard barracks, witnesses to a time when the cove was more of a hiding place than a tourist destination.
Unspoilt beaches and crystal clear waters
Cala Mesquida is not a small cove, as its name might suggest, but a large bay about 300 metres long and 130 metres wide. Its fine golden sand, turquoise waters and spaciousness make it a popular spot for families and young travellers alike. However, the strong north wind and the currents that often arise also make it a favourite destination for surfers and water sports enthusiasts. In 1991, the Balearic Parliament declared the area of Cala Mesquida, Cala Agulla and Cala Moltó a Natural Area of Special Interest, a protection that guarantees the conservation of its valuable dune ecosystem and its rich birdlife, which includes one of the largest colonies of seagulls and cormorants in the Balearic Islands.
A beach of contrasts
What sets Cala Mesquida apart from other beaches in Mallorca is its dual character. On the right, there is a natural landscape dominated by dunes, pine trees and Mediterranean scrub, which retains that unspoilt feel that nature lovers adore. On the left, however, there is a small residential area with hotels, apartments and holiday villas, where there is no shortage of cafés, restaurants and tourist services. This balance between the wild and the comfortable makes it a versatile beach: both for those who want to lose themselves among the paths and dunes, and for those who prefer to have a beach bar and a sun lounger close at hand to spend the day.
Cala Mesquida offers basic services such as lifeguards, parasol and sun lounger hire, showers and a large beach restaurant. However, there are no toilets or changing rooms, and water sports are limited to low-impact activities such as snorkelling, diving and pedal boat hire. This is a wise decision that preserves the tranquillity of the place and avoids the crowds that are typical of other beaches in Mallorca.
The sea at Cala Mesquida: calm and wild
The waters of Cala Mesquida are shallow near the shore, making it easy for children to swim. However, the north wind can cause large waves, creating strong currents that require caution. Therefore, if you are travelling with children, it is essential to always check the flag at the lifeguard station and avoid going too far out on days when the waves are strong.
For many, these conditions make Cala Mesquida less suitable for families with young children; however, they are what attract surfers and windsurfers, especially outside the high season. The crystal-clear water and rich seabed make the cove a popular starting point for diving trips and snorkelling excursions. Several local companies organise dives, while those who prefer something more peaceful can explore the rocks on either side of the bay with goggles and a snorkel.
Hiking and excursions in the surrounding area
Cala Mesquida is not just a beach: it is also the starting point for several hiking trails that run through the northeast of Mallorca.
- One of the most recommended is the trail that connects with Cala Agulla via the ‘Coll de Marina’, a path that runs through pine forests and dunes, ideal for those who enjoy walking by the sea.
- Another very popular route is the one that climbs up to the Talaia de Son Jaumell, an old watchtower that offers spectacular views of the coast and, on clear days, even the nearby island of Menorca. The route is not excessively long, but it does require good footwear, as some sections are rocky and steep.
- The more adventurous can continue from here to Cala Moltó and Cala Torta, two unspoilt beaches that are much less crowded than Mesquida, ideal for those seeking absolute tranquillity.
Unukorno, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
What to see near Cala Mesquida
- Capdepera: this charming medieval village has preserved its cobbled streets and stone houses decorated with flowers. Its main attraction is the Castillo de Capdepera, a 14th-century triangular fortress offering magnificent views of the sea. Every May, the village is transformed by its famous medieval fair, a celebration that transports locals and visitors alike to another era.
- Artà: just 15 km away, this is the largest town in the area. Although it has grown with tourism, it retains a traditional, peaceful atmosphere. Its jewel is the Santuari de Sant Salvador, a 14th-century fortified church renovated in the 19th century, which dominates the entire valley. In addition, its caves —the Coves d’Artà— are an essential excursion to discover spectacular stalactite and stalagmite formations.
- Canyamel and the Tower of Canyamel: south of Capdepera, this 13th-century Gothic tower recalls the defensive importance of the area against pirates. Today it functions as a museum and cultural centre.
- Golf courses: golf enthusiasts will find renowned courses in the surrounding area, such as Golf de Capdepera and Golf de Canyamel, both with excellent facilities and picture-postcard landscapes.
Restaurants and gastronomy
On Cala Mesquida beach itself, there is a large restaurant by the sea with plenty of seating and a simple but varied menu: hamburgers, chicken, chips and, of course, Balearic classics such as tortilla, paella and pa amb oli. In the neighbouring residential area, there are more bars and cafés, perfect for a casual lunch or a relaxed dinner after a day at the beach. If you prefer a more authentic dining experience, simply drive to Capdepera or Artà, where you will find everything from traditional Mallorcan restaurants to international cuisine. Among the most notable in the area is the restaurant at the Cases de Son Barbassa hotel, which focuses on local and seasonal ingredients.
Practical tips for your visit
- Explore the surrounding area: combine your day at the beach with a cultural visit to Capdepera or a walk through the caves of Artà.
- Check the wind before you go: Cala Mesquida changes completely depending on the weather conditions. A calm day can be idyllic, but with a north wind the sea becomes rough.
- Arrive early in summer: parking is free, but it fills up quickly in high season.
- Wear comfortable shoes: if you decide to walk to Cala Agulla or Talaia de Son Jaumell, you’ll be glad you did.
- Be careful with children: the beach is wide and shallow at the shore, but the currents can be strong.
How to get to Cala Mesquida
Cala Mesquida is located 7 km from Capdepera and 15 km from Artà, the two nearest towns.
- If you prefer public transport, the TIB bus line 422 connects Capdepera with Cala Mesquida in summer. From Palma, the journey takes about two and a half hours with a change, and it is advisable to check the timetables before travelling, as this line does not operate out of season.
- It is easy to get there by car, following the road that connects the two towns, and there is free parking about 200 metres from the beach. From there, it is just a short walk to the shore.
- For those staying in the beachfront development, there is a paved walkway that connects directly to the sand, making it easy to get there without having to walk along dirt tracks.
Experience the beauty of Mallorca far from the crowds
Cala Mesquida is a place that enchants visitors with its contrast between unspoilt nature and convenient amenities, its history linked to smugglers and pirates, and the undeniable beauty of its turquoise waters. It is not the easiest or safest beach on the island for families with young children, but it is one of the most authentic for those seeking a different experience in Mallorca.
Whether you want to spend a day sunbathing, try your hand at surfing, walk among dunes and pine forests or explore nearby medieval villages, Cala Mesquida offers much more than sand and sea. It is a piece of the most natural Mallorca, the one that invites you to travel slowly and discover that, even on such a popular island, there are still corners of unspoilt beauty.
As a final tip, here are a number of products that will come in handy on your getaway to Cala Mesquida so you can go fully prepared:
- Hiking shoes
- Snorkel set
- Compact microfibre towel
- Waterproof sun cream
- Polarised sunglasses
- Non-slip flip flops
- Anti-theft backpack
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