Cala Mesquida Resort Guide

Tucked away on Mallorca’s northeastern coast lies the secluded beach of Cala Mesquida.

This pristine bay offers travelers a peaceful escape from the island’s busier resort towns. With its crystal clear waters, soft sand, and breathtaking natural scenery, Cala Mesquida is one of Mallorca’s hidden paradises.

Introduction

Cala Mesquida is located in the municipality of Capdepera, about 60km from Palma. The bay is framed by forested cliffs and overlooked by the historic Talaiot defense tower.

While the beach itself is rather small, the entire cove stretches over 1km with various rocky inlets to discover.

The bay gets its name from the reeds that grow along the coastline.

‘Mesquida’ comes from the Catalan word for reed – ‘mesquera’. These tall grasses sway in the sea breeze, adding to the beach’s natural charm.

Despite being relatively unknown, Cala Mesquida has all the ingredients for an idyllic Mediterranean getaway:

• Pristine turquoise waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling
• Fine golden sand with tranquil waves
• Secluded coves and nature trails to explore
• Excellent beachside restaurants and amenities
• Stunning coastal scenery with pine forests rolling down to the sea

Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, enjoy water sports, or immerse yourself in Mallorca’s beautiful nature, Cala Mesquida offers it all. Discover this hidden gem on your next holiday to the Balearic Islands.

Beaches

Cala Mesquida’s main beach is a picturesque 350m stretch of golden sand. The beach slopes gently into the bay’s shallow, clear waters – ideal for swimming and paddling. Parasols and sun loungers can be rented in summer.

While the central beach gets busy in peak season, it’s easy to find a secluded spot. Follow one of the trails over the rocky outcrops to reach the quieter coves on either side. Here you’ll find smaller pebble and stone beaches tucked beneath the shady pine trees.

For the best sunset views, head to the Cap Freu headland at the south end of the bay. This rocky vantage point looks back over Cala Mesquida as the sun dips below the horizon. Pack a picnic and watch dusk fall over the tranquil waters.

Cala Mesquida’s beaches have excellent facilities to enjoy the Mediterranean lifestyle. Beachside restaurants serve up fresh seafood with ocean views. There’s also showers, toilet facilities and a first-aid post on the central beach.

Things to Do

Facilities

While compact in size, Cala Mesquida has all the amenities needed for a laidback beach holiday:

• Beach restaurants & bars – Choose between traditional Mallorcan cuisine or international dishes. Relax over sangria as you gaze out to sea.
• Water sports – Try pedalos, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, available to rent on the beach. There’s also boat trips to nearby coves.
• Sunbeds & parasols – Hire a sun lounger or shady parasol on the soft golden sand.
• Showers & toilets – Facilities are found behind the beach restaurants.
• First aid – There is a basic first-aid post near the central beach.
• Boutiques – Pick up beach essentials, souvenirs and snacks in the nearby shops.

Activities & Excursions

While days can easily be spent relaxing on Cala Mesquida’s beaches, there’s plenty of activities in the surrounding area:

• Snorkeling & diving – Explore the bay’s clear waters on a snorkeling trip or scuba dive. Spot colorful fish and possibly seahorses.
• Boat tours – Cruise along Mallorca’s scenic northeast coastline to idyllic coves like Cala Agulla. Departs from Cala Mesquida harbor.
• Hiking – Follow cliff-top trails through pine forest and olive groves. Breathtaking coastal views.
• Cycling – Ride through the countryside on quiet backroads. Bike hire available.
• Horse riding – Ride through the area’s rolling hills and rural farmland. Lessons and tours offered.

Nearby Attractions

Don’t miss these interesting attractions near Cala Mesquida:

• Capdepera Castle – Imposing 14th century fortress with museum. 9km away.
• Caves of Artà – Fascinating show caves with underground lakes. 15km away.
• Talaiot de Talaia Fosca – Ancient Talaiot defensive tower overlooking the bay.
• Capdepera Lighthouse – Picturesque 19th century lighthouse.
• Weekly Market – Lively market selling fresh produce, crafts and more. Held on Sundays in nearby Artà.

Bars, Pubs & Restaurants

With a front-row seat to the sea, Cala Mesquida’s eateries make the most of the sensational views. Tuck into Mediterranean cuisine on the outdoor terraces:

• La Terraza– Highly rated restaurant at the North end of the beach.
• La Guitarra Mexican – A great selection of Mexican based foods.
• Mirablau Beach Bar & Restaurant – Laidback beach bar serving cocktails, sangria and tapas. Chillout music.
• Chiringuito Cala Mesquida – Beach bar serving snacks, beers and ice cream. Seating avaiable on the terrace.

There’s also small supermarkets to pick up picnic supplies like bread, cheese, cured meats and olive oil. Stock up and find a secluded rocky alcove for lunch.

For sunset drinks, head to one of the cliff-top cocktail bars. Sip mojitos and take in spectacular views as another day in paradise draws to a close.

Port & Marinas

While Cala Mesquida doesn’t have a port, there are a few small fishing harbours nearby. The closest is Port de Canyamel, 9km south of Cala Mesquida. This pretty cove has a marina lined with seafood restaurants. Stop for lunch after a morning hiking to Cap Vermell lighthouse.

Serious boaters should head to the main ports of Porto Cristo or Port d’Alcudia. Both have extensive marina facilities located just 20km from Cala Mesquida. Sail or motor boat to the bay for seclusion and privacy. Mooring is allowed, but check regulations.

For organized boat excursions, hop aboard a cruise from Cala Mesquida harbor. Charters available include glass-bottom boats to admire the marine life, private yacht hire, and sunset cruises with champagne. A great way to explore Mallorca’s captivating northeast coast.

Golf Courses

While the coast steals the show, keen golfers are also drawn to Cala Mesquida’s surroundings. Within a 30 minute drive you’ll discover three superb golf courses:

Canyamel Golf

• An immaculately maintained 18-hole course 3km south of Cala Mesquida.
• Spectacular sea views and challenging layout woven through the hills.
• Facilities include driving range, putting green, club hire and lessons.

Pula Golf

• 27-hole championship course 20km west in Son Servera.
• Long par-72 course that regularly hosts tournaments.
• Water hazards on 16 of the holes adds challenge.

Capdepera Golf

• Easily accessible 9-hole course near Capdepera village.
• Compact layout ideal for beginners and high handicappers.
• Covered driving range and pro shop on-site.

With such excellent golf facilities nearby, Cala Mesquida is a top choice for a golf break. Play a round in the morning before relaxing on the beach in the afternoon.

History

While tourism is new to Cala Mesquida, this scenic stretch of coastline has a long history:

• Bronze Age settlers built defensive towers like the Talaiot de Talaia Fosca to protect Mallorca’s shores.
• Watchtowers were added in the 16th century to warn against pirate raids from North Africa.
• Mallorca’s coastline was regularly attacked until piracy finally ended in the 19th century.
• A small fishing village once existed in Cala Mesquida to service the agricultural estates inland.
• Mallorca’s northeast became a holiday destination from the 1960s with the first tourist apartments.
• Development has remained low-key, allowing the area to retain its unspoilt natural beauty.
• Today tourism blends seamlessly with traditional Mallorcan life in the nearby villages.

Though busier in summer, Cala Mesquida still feels like a peaceful escape known only to a lucky few.

Best Places to Stay

With limited hotels, the best accommodation options in Cala Mesquida are rental apartments and villas. These give you the freedom to cook and truly relax:

• Zafiro – Nice 4 star hotel with sea views available. Includes pool. Spa available.
• Villa Camomila – Spacious villa sleeping 4, with a private pool and magnificent sea views.
• Villa Del Mar 1980 – Well equipped villa, just minutes from the beach.
• Viva Cala Mesquida Resort & Spa – 4 star studios.

Nearby Canyamel also offers hotels, villas and B&Bs for all budgets.

For the full Mallorcan experience, rent a traditional finca (farmhouse) in the countryside. Many have been beautifully restored with private pools. A unique base for your Spanish holiday.

Weather

Thanks to the Mediterrean climate, Mallorca enjoys sunny weather for most of the year. Cala Mesquida is one of the driest parts of the island.

• Summer is hot and sunny. Average temperatures of 28°C, with 14 hours of sunshine. Sea breezes keep the heat pleasant.
• Spring and autumn see warm days around 22°C. Ideal for hiking and cycling.
• Winter remains mild, with average highs of 16°C. Some rainfall, but plenty of dry sunny spells too.
• The bay’s peak season runs May to October. July and August are the hottest and busiest months.
• For cooler weather, plan your break for late spring or early autumn. Good deals on flights and accommodation too.

With one of the longest summer seasons in the Med, Mallorca is a perfect year-round destination. Enjoy the island’s laidback vibe, whatever time you visit.

Getting There

Reaching this tranquil corner of Mallorca is surprisingly easy:

• Fly to Palma – Numerous flights from across Europe. Transfer time around 1 hour 15 mins.
• Hire Car – The best way to explore. Drive from Palma airport in just over an hour via the MA-15 motorway.
• Taxi – Book a taxi transfer from Palma or other resorts. Around 130 Euros from the airport.
• Bus – Get the train from Palma de Mallorca central station to Manacor, then the #411 bus to Cala Rajada. From there take bus #422 from Cala Rajada to Cala Mesquida. Limited service.

Mallorca’s small size makes it easy to discover untouched gems like Cala Mesquida. With a hire car you can be on the beach less than an hour after landing at the airport.

Escape the crowds and uncover this hidden corner of the Balearics. Let the natural beauty of Cala Mesquida work its magic, enjoying the laidback Mallorcan lifestyle.