Location
Spain
Status
Unofficial / Tolerated
Suitable for
Families and adults
Terrain
Sand
Best season
May to June and September (July-August are very crowded)
About Cala Macarella
Cala Macarella is a white-sand cove on Menorca's south coast, about 18 km south-east of Ciutadella, between Cala Galdana and Cala Macarelleta inside the Natural Area of Special Interest of the south coast of Ciutadella. Pine-covered limestone cliffs enclose very clear, shallow turquoise water, and yachts often anchor in the bay. The nude bathing here centres on Cala Macarelleta, the smaller sister cove reached by a coastal path about 10 minutes west of Macarella: the Balearic tourism board describes it as a nudist beach about 140 m long with a wide rocky section, and other guides call it the cove with the most nude bathers on the island. Nude sunbathing is also seen on parts of Macarella itself, but the main beach is mostly clothed. Menorca's local paper notes the two coves' historic nudist tradition has been fading as summer crowds have grown, and both are among the busiest beaches on the island in July and August. Macarelleta has no services; Macarella has a beach bar nearby and buoyed swimming zones.
Getting there
Drive from Ciutadella along the Camí de Sant Joan de Missa, past the turn for Cala Turqueta, to the Macarella car park; from there it is about 1.8 km on foot to the beach, so wear proper shoes. In summer, road access is controlled and no more cars are admitted once the car park is full, so arrive early. From Macarella, follow the cliff-top path west for about 10 minutes to Macarelleta; it involves some uneven rock and steps and is not wheelchair accessible.
What visitors say
Visitors consistently praise the clear water and scenery but warn that both coves are packed in high summer, with the nude element at Macarelleta diluted by crowds of clothed day-trippers. Early mornings and the shoulder season are recommended for a quieter, more naturist atmosphere. Many advise bringing water and food, since Macarelleta has no services, and sturdy shoes for the walk in and the rocky path between the coves.
Summarised in our own words from public reviews and guides listed under Sources.
Amenities
Legal context
Nudity is not prohibited on Spanish beaches by national law, and no Menorcan beach is formally declared nudist; Macarelleta is described as a nudist beach by the Balearic tourism board, which reflects long-standing custom rather than an ordinance (2026). Summer vehicle access to Macarella is capped by the authorities when the car park fills.
Naturism at Cala Macarella sits under Spain's rules for de facto tolerance — usually left alone if you keep it non-sexual and low-drama.
Full country law: Spain public nudity guide.
Researched 24 October 2026. No official source confirms naturist status, so treat it as unverified.
Location
View on interactive map
Approx. 39.9387, 3.9371
Visitor tips
- 1 Informal / tolerated site — be discreet and leave no drama.
- 2 Towel, water, sunscreen. Sit on your own towel.
- 3 No photos without clear consent.
- 4 Check access, tides, and parking before you go.
- 5 House rules and local custom can be stricter than the law.
More in Spain
Frequently asked questions
Is Cala Macarella a nude beach?
Mostly not; the nude cove is neighbouring Cala Macarelleta, a 10-minute walk west, though some nude sunbathing happens on Macarella too.
Is nudity legal here?
Nudity is not banned on Spanish beaches, and Macarelleta is a traditionally nudist cove recognised by the Balearic tourism board.
How do I get there?
Drive from Ciutadella via Camí de Sant Joan de Missa to the car park, then walk about 1.8 km; in summer the car park fills and access is closed when full.
Are there facilities?
Macarella has a nearby beach bar; Macarelleta has none, so bring water and food.
When is the best time to go?
Early in the day, or in May, June or September, to avoid the summer crowds.
Sources
Important
Beach status changes. Verify current conditions before you go. This is guidance, not legal advice.
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