Cala Pi & Southwest Bays

Cala Pi is one of the most dramatic bays in Mallorca — and a hidden gem that hasn't yet made it into every travel guide. A deep, fjord-like bay cuts into the land between 30-meter-high vertical limestone cliffs. Below: a narrow sandy beach, above it an old watchtower ruin (Torre de Cala Pi, 17th century), surrounded by nothing but nature. Access is via a steep stone staircase (147 steps) carved into the rock — breathtaking, but not suitable for those with mobility issues or small children without supervision.

The water in the bay is so clear that you can see every stone on the bottom. Since the bay is protected to the south, the sea usually remains calm — ideal for snorkeling along the rock walls where fish seek shelter in the underwater caves. The beach is small (about 50 meters wide), so it gets quite crowded in high summer. Best to come in the morning or after 4 p.m.

Above the bay lies the eponymous Urbanización Cala Pi, a quiet holiday home settlement with a few restaurants and a small supermarket. There are also free parking spaces here (about a 5-minute walk to the stair descent).

Other Bays in the Southwest

Cala Llombards is a 20-minute drive east and is also a natural gem: a small sandy bay between golden rock walls, reminiscent of a miniature version of the Algarve. Access is easier than at Cala Pi (no steep descent). Park on the roadside above, about a 5-minute walk. No infrastructure on the beach — bring drinks and snacks.

Caló des Moro — the Instagram-famous neighboring bay of Cala Llombards — is a 10-minute walk south and offers turquoise water between dramatic rocks. However: Since the bay went viral, it is hopelessly overcrowded in summer (capacity: about 150 people). Come before 9 a.m. or not at all.

Cala Beltrán and Cala Marmols are the true hidden gems: both only accessible on foot (30 or 90 minutes hike from the nearest road), but guaranteed deserted. Cala Marmols is a dream — a 40-meter-wide sandy beach, framed by cliffs, not a soul in sight. But: be sure to bring enough water and sun protection, there is no infrastructure, and the way back is strenuous.