Beach Guide: Es Barcarès (Alcúdia)
Why This Local Cove Works
A short stroll from Alcúdia’s walled Old Town, Es Barcarès (Es Barcares) is where locals slip into calm, glassy water for a morning dip or sunset paddle. It’s not sandy—think rock shelves, ladders and pebbly pockets—but that’s the charm: clear snorkelling, SUP-friendly shallows, fewer crowds, and easy café access back in town. Ideal for couples, confident swimmers, and families happy with rocky entries.
📍 Location & Getting There
| From | Route / Transport | Typical Time | Notes |
| Palma | Ma-13 → Alcúdia town, then local streets to Es Barcarès | ~50–60 min | Park on local streets (respect signage); arrive earlier in July–Aug. |
| Alcúdia Old Town | Walk or cycle north toward Es Barcarès waterfront | 10–20 min (walk) | Lovely flat stroll past stone boathouses and low-key coves. |
| Port de Pollença | Ma-2220 → Alcúdia | ~15–20 min | Combine with Old Town tapas or the Mal Pas coves. |
🗺️ Map Pin (Start Here)
🏖️ Facilities & Beach Comfort
| Item | Details |
| Lifeguards | None (rocky local swim zone). |
| Loungers/Parasols | No formal rentals; bring a mat/umbrella. |
| Showers/WC | Limited/none along the waterfront; use cafés or Old Town. |
| Shade | Sparse—natural shade from walls/trees in small spots. |
| Access | Rocky shelves and small ladders; water shoes recommended. |
| Best Time | Mornings for glassy water; golden-hour swims at sunset. |
🌊 Things to Do at Es Barcarès
Swim & Snorkel
Rock shelves mean quick access to clear water. Expect sea grass patches (posidonia) interspersed with stone—look for small bream and wrasse along the edges.
SUP & Kayak
The protected, shallow bay is a gentle SUP warm-up. Hug the coastline toward Mal Pas/Sant Pere for the clearest blues on calm days.
Walks & Viewpoints
Stroll the Barcarès waterfront past old llauts (traditional boats) and boathouses, or loop to Alcúdia Old Town for ramparts and squares.
Nearby Cafés
Low-key cafés and bakeries sit on the approach to the Old Town; perfect for a pre-swim coffee or post-dip ensaïmada.
🍴 Where to Eat & Drink
- Old Town Tapas Bars – shaded plazas and quick lunch menus.
- Gelato & Coffee Spots – around the main gates and side streets.
- Casual Waterfront Cafés – simple sandwiches, cold drinks, and views.
🛏️ Where to Stay (Close & Convenient)
| Option | Good For | Why |
| Alcúdia Old Town boutique hotels | Couples, culture fans | Character stays, 10–20 min walk to the water. |
| Port d’Alcúdia beachfront hotels | Families | Sand-underfoot days; short drive to Barcarès for rocky swims. |
| Villas/Apartments in Barcarès/Mal Pas | Groups, longer stays | Doorstep swims, quiet streets, sunset views. |
🧭 Suggested Day Trip (Easy Mix & Match)
| Morning | Midday | Afternoon | Evening |
| Swim at Es Barcarès | Coffee & pastry in Alcúdia Old Town | Short drive/walk to Mal Pas (Sant Pere/Sant Joan) for a sandy interlude | Old Town tapas and rampart stroll at sunset |
⚠️ Safety & Seasonal Notes
- Rock entries: wear water shoes; enter via ladders where available.
- No lifeguards: swim to your ability; avoid choppy/windy days.
- Posidonia: protected seagrass; don’t drag SUPs/anchors through beds.
- Summer heat: minimal shade—bring an umbrella and extra water.
🗺️ History, Fun Facts & Did You Know?
“Barcarès” hints at boathouses and fishermen’s huts that dotted this shoreline long before tourism. The low-slung stone garages for wooden llauts are still part of the scenery, lending the cove an authentic, local feel.
❓ FAQ
Is Es Barcarès suitable for kids?
Yes if they’re comfortable with rocky entries and using water shoes. For easier sand, try nearby Sant Pere or Sant Joan beaches.
Where do I park?
On local streets around Es Barcarès (respect signage/driveways). In peak months, park near the Old Town and walk 10–20 minutes.
Is it good for snorkelling?
Yes—clear edges and rock shelves offer fish-spotting on calm days. Visibility dips with wind/chop; mornings are best.
Check live beach conditions: see our Platges de Balears – How to Use the Live Beach Conditions Tool guide.
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