Caló des Moro and Cala s’Almunia: Mallorca’s Famous Coves
Guide
Caló des Moro and its neighbour Cala s’Almunia are two of the most photographed coves in all of Mallorca, on the beautiful Santanyi coast in the southeast. Caló des Moro in particular, a tiny pocket of white sand framed by cliffs and almost unreal turquoise water, has become an Instagram icon. The reality is just as stunning, but these coves are small, the access is steep and tricky, and they get very busy, so a little planning makes all the difference.
With the right expectations, a visit here is unforgettable. Here is everything you need to know before you go.
| Caló des Moro and Cala s’Almunia | Detail |
| Where | Santanyi coast, southeast Mallorca |
| From Palma | Around 1 hour by car |
| Beach | Tiny white-sand cove plus rocky ledges next door |
| Access | Steep, rough paths and steps down from the road |
| Facilities | None, bring everything you need |
| Good for | Photography, snorkelling, a short but spectacular swim |
📌 Quick answer: are these coves right for you?
- Go if you want jaw dropping scenery and clear water, and you are happy with a steep walk and crowds.
- Think twice if you need easy access, facilities, space or a quiet beach, especially in midsummer.
- Best for photographers, snorkellers and early risers who beat the crowds to one of the island’s most beautiful spots.
🏖️ What to expect at the coves
Caló des Moro is tiny, a small wedge of soft white sand at the foot of pine topped cliffs, with water that shades from pale turquoise to deep blue. It is breathtakingly pretty, which is exactly why it appears on so many postcards and social media feeds. Because it is so small, it fills up quickly and can feel crowded, particularly in the middle of the day in summer.
Cala s’Almunia, just next door, is more a series of rock ledges and tiny sandy patches than a sandy beach, reached by old stone steps. It is excellent for snorkelling and for slipping into the clear water from the rocks, and it tends to be a little less mobbed than Caló des Moro. Neither cove has any facilities, so the atmosphere is natural and wild, if popular. Many people visit the two coves together, swimming and snorkelling at Cala s’Almunia and then walking the short path to admire and photograph Caló des Moro. Seen early in the day, before the crowds arrive, it is easy to understand why this little stretch of coast has become so famous.
🚗 Getting there and the walk down
The coves lie on the Santanyi coast, around an hour from Palma by car. You park in the residential area above and then walk down. For Caló des Moro this means a rough, steep path and informal steps that can be slippery, taking around 10 to 15 minutes, with a demanding climb back up. Cala s’Almunia is reached by stone steps from near the same area.
Parking is very limited and on residential streets, and the crowds here are a real source of friction with local residents, so please park considerately, follow any signs and never block driveways. Arriving early in the morning is by far the best approach, both for parking and to enjoy the coves before they fill up. Wear proper shoes for the steep, uneven paths.
☀️ Best time to visit
Late spring and early autumn are ideal, with warm, clear water and slightly thinner crowds. May, June, September and October are the sweet spot. July and August are spectacular but extremely busy, so if you visit then, arrive at or soon after sunrise to have any chance of space and parking. The coves face the open sea, so pick a calm day for the clearest water and safest swimming.
For more on seasons and sea temperatures, see our guide to the best time to visit Mallorca.
🎒 What to bring (there are no facilities)
With no services at either cove and a steep walk involved, come fully prepared and carry everything back out.
- Plenty of water and snacks, as there is nowhere to buy anything.
- Sturdy shoes for the steep, rough paths and steps.
- A snorkel and mask for the wonderfully clear water.
- Sun protection and a parasol, as shade is very limited.
- A bag for all your rubbish, to protect these much loved coves.
🗺️ Nearby beaches and things to do
The Santanyi coast is full of beautiful coves and clear water. For something far more remote and wild, the long hike to Cala Màrmols beyond Cap de ses Salines rewards experienced walkers. The resort town of Colonia de Sant Jordi makes a good base, with boat trips and access to the long sandy beaches of the south.
If snorkelling is your passion, our guide to snorkelling in southeast Mallorca rounds up the clearest spots in this corner of the island.
❓ Frequently asked questions
Where is Caló des Moro?
Caló des Moro is a tiny, famous cove on the Santanyi coast in the southeast of Mallorca, around an hour from Palma by car, next to Cala s’Almunia.
Is the walk to Caló des Moro difficult?
Yes, somewhat. You park above and walk down a steep, rough path with informal steps, taking around 10 to 15 minutes, with a demanding climb back up. Wear proper shoes.
Are there facilities at Caló des Moro or Cala s’Almunia?
No. Neither cove has a bar, toilets or sunbeds. Bring water, snacks, sun protection and shade, and carry all your rubbish back out with you.
Why are these coves so crowded?
Caló des Moro is famous from photos and social media, but it is very small, so it fills quickly. Parking is limited and crowds cause friction with residents, so go early and park considerately.
When is the best time to visit?
Late spring and early autumn for warm water and fewer people. In July and August, arrive around sunrise for any chance of space and parking, and pick a calm day for clear water.
