Beach Guide: Cala Murta – Formentor’s Quiet Hike-In Cove
Why Cala Murta Is Special
Sheltered by steep limestone walls on the Formentor peninsula, Cala Murta is a wild, pebbly cove with consistently clear water on calm mornings. There are no services or sunbeds — just shade from pines, a bright-blue bay, and easy snorkelling along rocky sides. It’s a perfect add-on to viewpoints around Cap de Formentor or a slower beach day from Port de Pollença.
🧭 Getting There Made Simple
| From Palma | Drive Time | Final Access | Notes |
| Ma-13 → Pollença → Formentor road | ~70–80 min | Short footpath from Cala Murta car park | Arrive early in summer; limited spots in peak hours. |
| From Port de Pollença | ~20–30 min | Same as above | Combine with Formentor Beach or Mirador es Colomer. |
- Trail: 10–20 minutes on a shaded, well-trodden path with a gentle descent to the pebbly shore.
- Footwear: Trainers or sturdy sandals; pebbles underfoot at the cove.
🏊 Swim & Snorkel Essentials
- Seabed: Pebbles and rock shelves — bring water shoes.
- Snorkel lines: Work either headland; move slowly and stay well inside swim areas.
- Best window: Morning for glassy water before breeze and boat traffic.
- Shade: Pine shade at the back of the cove; limited on the shore after late morning.
🍴 Food & Supplies
There are no facilities at Cala Murta. Stock up in Port de Pollença before driving in. Pack water, snacks, and a small rubbish bag — and take everything back out.
🗓️ When to Go
| Season | What to Expect | Our Take |
| Apr–May | Mild temps, clear water, fewer crowds | Lovely shoulder season for hikers and swimmers. |
| Jun–Aug | Warm water, busier midday | Park early; swim mornings, viewpoints late day. |
| Sep–Oct | Warm seas, softer crowds | Peak clarity + pleasant temps. |
| Nov–Mar | Quiet, cooler seas | Scenic walk and short bracing dips. |
🚗 Parking & Practical Tips
- Use the Cala Murta car park (signed along the Formentor road).
- In high summer, parts of the peninsula can have traffic controls — go early.
- Do not leave valuables visible in cars.
- Respect private land and signage; keep to the main path.
🧳 What to Pack
- 1.5–2 L water per person, snacks or picnic
- Mask, snorkel, compact towel, small dry bag
- Water shoes / sturdy sandals
- Hat, reef-safe sunscreen, light long sleeve
- Basic first-aid and rubbish bag
🗺️ Map Pins You Can Save
Cala Murta car park / trail start
Cala Murta (cove)
📸 Easy Day Plans
Half-Day Formentor Combo
- Morning swim at Cala Murta → quick photo stop at Mirador es Colomer → lunch in Port de Pollença.
Full Day North Coast
- Early Formentor Beach paddle → late-morning walk and swim at Cala Murta → sunset promenade in Port de Pollença.
🛏️ Where to Base Yourself
| Base | Good For | Why It Works |
| Port de Pollença | Families, simple logistics | Closest cafés, supermarkets, and boat trips. |
| Alcúdia Old Town | Character evenings | Walled streets, restaurants, quick hop to the bay. |
| Palma | City + day trips | Straight Ma-13 access north for flexible plans. |
🦺 Safety & Etiquette
- No lifeguards; supervise weak swimmers and kids.
- Jellyfish can appear on some summer days — scan shoreline before swimming.
- Keep the cove wild: no loud music, no fires, pack out all waste.
Is Cala Murta good for small children?
Pebbles and a quick drop-off make it better for confident swimmers; bring water shoes and consider Formentor Beach for shallow sand.
Are there toilets or a beach bar?
No. Plan café stops in Port de Pollença and pack everything you need.
Can I kayak or SUP here?
Yes, in settled seas — launches are easier from Formentor Beach or Port de Pollença.
Is there shade?
Some pine shade set back from the shore; on the pebbles it’s limited after late morning.
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