Snorkelling in Majorca: 5 Mind-Blowing Coves for Underwater Adventurers
Ready to be blown away underwater? Discover Majorca's 5 best snorkelling coves, perfect for young adventurers. A complete guide on where to find crystal-clear water, marine life, how to get there, and insider tips. Your 'Unlocked' underwater adventure awaits!
Dive into Majorca's Underwater Paradise!
Majorca doesn't just dazzle you with its landscapes on the surface—it hides a universe of wonders beneath its crystal-clear waters! If you're the type who can't resist the call of the sea and you're all about exploring what lies beyond the shore, then snorkelling in Majorca is about to become your new favourite thing. And yes, it’s way more accessible and affordable than you think!
The island is a true paradise for snorkelling fans, thanks to its endless little coves, the generally transparent Mediterranean waters, and the surprising diversity of its marine ecosystems. Underwater landscapes await you, varying from waving Neptune grass meadows on sandy bottoms to rocky cliffs full of nooks, crannies, and mysterious sea caves ready to be explored. It’s a real-life natural aquarium, all within reach of your mask and snorkel!
For you, the young, adventure-seeking traveller, snorkelling in Majorca fits perfectly with that desire to explore, connect with nature, and—let's be honest—create some epic content for your social media. Many of these coves are accessible by scooter, the ultimate way to get around the island with total freedom! An authentic and shareable experience is waiting for you.
In this "Unlocked" guide, we'll take you on a tour of the 5 essential coves for any young adventurer eager to put on a mask and snorkel. Forget about expensive excursions or complicated gear; here, we'll tell you where to find transparent waters teeming with life, intriguing rocky seabeds, and that feeling of peace and discovery that only the underwater world can offer. Ready to have your mind blown by the colours and life hidden along the Majorcan coast? Let's dive in!
#1 Caló des Moro & Cala S'Almunia: Iconic Beauty and Rocky Surprises
Caló des Moro is that cove of almost unreal beauty that everyone wants to photograph, and for good reason! Its turquoise waters are a genuine natural swimming pool. Right next to it, the more rustic Cala S'Almunia, with its old fishermen's ramps, offers a charming contrast and excellent entry points into the water. Together, they are a winning combo for snorkelling.
Why It's a Top Snorkelling Spot: The water transparency in both is exceptional. Caló des Moro has a mostly sandy bottom with rocks along the edges, while Cala S'Almunia is rockier, making it ideal for finding marine life. It's common to see bream, damselfish, and rainbow wrasse, and if you're lucky, an octopus or starfish among the rocks and small caves.
Snorkelling Difficulty Level: Beginner to Intermediate. The snorkelling itself is easy due to the usually calm waters, but access to the coves (especially Caló des Moro) can be a bit tricky and requires proper footwear.
'Unlocked' Tips for Your Underwater Adventure Here:
Arrive very early to avoid the crowds at Caló des Moro.
Explore the rocky sides of both coves; that's where you'll find the most life.
In Cala S'Almunia, the old fishermen's ramps are a good entry and exit point. Watch out for slippery rocks!
There are no services, so bring your own water, snacks, and gear.
How to Get There: From Santanyí, follow the signs to Cala Llombards. Parking is limited. For the bus, TIB line 505 (check schedules on tib.org) drops you near Cala Llombards, from where you have to walk for about 15-20 minutes.
#2 Cala Varques: Wild Nature and Sea Caves to Discover
Cala Varques is synonymous with adventure and unspoiled nature. Famous for its alternative vibe and, above all, for its fascinating sea caves accessible by swimming, it's a top destination for young explorers looking for a different and exciting snorkelling experience.
Why It's a Top Snorkelling Spot: Its crystal-clear, turquoise waters offer excellent visibility. The main attraction is the sea caves (like the Cova des Coloms, although there are smaller ones) that you can explore while snorkelling. The seabed combines white sand with rocky areas rich in Posidonia seagrass, where colourful fish, salpas, wrasse, and sometimes octopuses or moray eels take refuge.
Snorkelling Difficulty Level: Intermediate. Snorkelling from the beach is easy, but exploring the caves requires more confidence in the water and very calm sea conditions.
'Unlocked' Tips for Your Underwater Adventure Here:
Access to the cove is a 15-40 minute hike, so wear proper shoes and bring supplies!
To explore the caves, always go with someone and only if the sea is very calm. An underwater torch can be useful.
The rocky sides of the cove are also excellent for snorkelling.
Respect the environment; it's an unspoiled cove.
How to Get There: It's located on the east coast, between Porto Cristo and Portocolom. Access by car involves parking on dirt tracks (with caution) and then walking. There is no direct public transport.
#3 Cala Banyalbufar: Authentic Charm and a Unique Waterfall
In the heart of the Serra de Tramuntana, Cala Banyalbufar offers a different kind of snorkelling experience, with rustic charm and a unique feature: a small freshwater waterfall that tumbles directly into the cove. It's not your typical sandy beach, but a spot of rocks and pebbles with incredibly clean water.
Why It's a Top Snorkelling Spot: Its crystal-clear waters and uneven rocky bottoms are perfect for observing Mediterranean marine life like small fish, crabs, and sea urchins. Visibility is usually excellent. The northern part of the cove is especially good. The small grottoes and crevices in the cliffs are interesting to explore.
Snorkelling Difficulty Level: Intermediate. Access to the water is over rocks and the seabed is uneven, so water shoes are recommended. Sea conditions can vary as it's more exposed.
'Unlocked' Tips for Your Underwater Adventure Here:
Water shoes are your best friends here! The rocks can be slippery.
The freshwater waterfall is perfect for a natural "shower" and a unique photo op.
Explore the rocky sides for the best marine life.
The village of Banyalbufar, with its famous terraces, is well worth a visit after your snorkel.
How to Get There: It's accessed from the picturesque village of Banyalbufar. You have to go down a steep set of stairs or a ramp. Parking in the village is limited. TIB line 200 connects Palma with Banyalbufar.
#4 Delta Maioris (Cala Delta): Rocky Natural Pools and Biodiversity
The El Delta area, near Maioris, isn't a traditional sandy cove, but a spectacular rocky coastline that forms natural pools! It's a unique place for snorkelling and part of a Marine Reserve, which guarantees rich biodiversity and the chance for amazing encounters, like small stingrays!
Why It's a Top Snorkelling Spot: Its waters are crystal-clear and very clean. The rock formations from this old quarry create a fascinating underwater landscape with many natural pools to explore. It's common to see various Mediterranean species: damselfish, saddled sea bream, octopuses, and even small stingrays (especially in spring) hiding in the sand.
Snorkelling Difficulty Level: Beginner to Intermediate. Snorkelling in the natural pools and calm areas is easy, but access to the area and the rocky terrain require caution and proper footwear.
'Unlocked' Tips for Your Underwater Adventure Here:
Water shoes are essential here to avoid slips and cuts!
Take your time exploring the different natural pools; each has its own charm.
If you go in the spring (March/April), keep a close eye on the sandy areas between the rocks—you might spot a ray!
The area is part of a Marine Reserve, so maximum respect for the environment is a must.
The nearby Mhares Sea Club can be an option to relax with a view afterwards.
How to Get There: It's located in the El Delta urbanisation (Llucmajor). Access involves a descent down a path from the cliff. There are parking areas in the urbanisation. TIB line 520 goes to Maioris.
#5 Cala Lliteres (& its neighbour Cala Gat): Underwater Paradise in a Marine Reserve
Known as the "divers' bay," Cala Lliteres, in the lively area of Cala Ratjada, is a hotspot for snorkelling and diving. It's home to one of the oldest dive centres in Majorca (Mero Diving) and is part of the Llevant Marine Reserve, which guarantees abundant marine life. And right next door, the charming Cala Gat offers a more traditional beach option to complete the day!
Why It's a Top Snorkelling Spot: Being in a marine reserve, the flora and fauna are rich and protected. In Cala Lliteres (which is rockier and pebbly), you can see bream, damselfish, wrasse, groupers, and even octopuses. The waters are very clean. The neighbouring Cala Gat, with its fine sand, also offers great snorkelling along its rocky walls.
Snorkelling Difficulty Level: Beginner to Intermediate. The presence of the dive centre at Cala Lliteres makes it ideal for all levels, even for starting with courses or guided trips. Cala Gat is very easy for snorkelling from the shore.
'Unlocked' Tips for Your Underwater Adventure Here:
If you're a beginner or want a deeper experience, consider a guided snorkelling trip or a 'try dive' with Mero Diving in Cala Lliteres.
Explore the rocky sides of Cala Gat to see colourful fish.
Getting into the water at Cala Lliteres can be a bit trickier because of the rocks, so wear water shoes!
After snorkelling, enjoy the vibe of Cala Ratjada, a very popular area with young people.
How to Get There: Both coves are in the Cala Ratjada area (Capdepera). Cala Lliteres has the Mero Diving centre right there. Cala Gat is a short walk away. There is parking in the area and several TIB bus lines (like the 422) serve Cala Ratjada.
More Tips for Your Majorca Snorkelling Adventure
To make your snorkelling experience in these incredible coves perfect, here are some extra tips straight from the Maiorca Unlocked team:
The Essential Kit: What to Pack!
Mask and Snorkel: Obviously! Make sure the mask fits your face well to avoid leaks. A snorkel with a purge valve or splash guard is more comfortable.
Fins (Optional but Recommended): They'll help you move with less effort and cover more distance.
Water Shoes or Aqua Socks: Super important for rocky coves or those with sea urchins (very common!).
Reef-Safe, Water-Resistant Sun Cream: Protect your skin and the sea. Apply it at least 30 minutes before getting in the water.
Dry Bag: To keep your phone, keys, and wallet dry.
Water and Snacks: Especially if you're heading to coves with no services.
Microfibre Towel: Lightweight and quick-drying.
(Optional) Lightweight Wetsuit (Shorty): If you plan to be in the water for a long time or if it's spring/autumn, it will help you stay warm.
(Optional) Underwater Camera: To capture your discoveries!
Safety First: Snorkel Responsibly
Never Snorkel Alone: Always go with a partner or in a group.
Check the Weather and Sea Conditions: Avoid days with big waves, strong wind, or poor visibility.
Use a Safety Buoy: Especially if you're moving away from the shore or if there are boats nearby.
Know Your Limits: Don't go too far out if you're not a confident swimmer.
Watch Out for Rocks and Urchins: We've said it before, but it's important!
Respect Marine Life: Look, don't touch. Don't feed the fish, and don't collect "souvenirs" from the seabed.
Leave No Trace: Take all your rubbish with you.
Where to Rent Gear if You Don't Bring Your Own? You won't find rental shops at the more remote coves. Look in the larger tourist towns near the coves you want to visit (e.g., Cala Ratjada, Porto Cristo, Santanyí, Llucmajor, Palma). Many dive centres also rent snorkelling gear. Prices are usually around €7-€10 per day for the basic kit (mask, snorkel, fins).
Conclusion: Majorca's Underwater World Awaits!
As you've seen, Majorca is a true paradise for snorkel lovers, with options for all tastes and adventure levels. From the iconic beauty of Caló des Moro to exploring caves at Cala Varques or the rich biodiversity of the marine reserves, every dive will give you unforgettable memories.
So now you know, the next time you come to Majorca, don't just stay on the surface. Grab your mask, your snorkel, and get ready to "unlock" an underwater world full of wonders. And don't forget to tell us in the comments which of these coves has become your favourite snorkelling spot!
Y si después de un día de explorar los fondos marinos, te apetece seguir la aventura en tierra firme con la mejor fiesta... ¡ya sabes que en Maiorca Unlocked tenemos las Pre-Ventas Exclusivas para la nightlife que lo peta! 😉
Your key to getting Majorca sorted: from the biggest parties to hidden gems.
