Cala Sa Nau - idyllic cove on Mallorca's southeast coast

Cala Sa Nau is a magical bay on the Southeast coast Mallorca . It lies at the end of a 350 m long sea inlet, reminiscent of a mini fjord. The bay is ideal for bathing and is framed by low rocks covered in pine and Mediterranean scrub. The crystal-clear waters at Cala Sa Nau attract not only paddler but also snorkelers are very fond of the bay - especially the cliffs on the left and right of the bay. Due to the protected location, waves are virtually non-existent and you only need to wade out to a depth of one metre to see some wonderful underwater sights.

Location of Cala Sa Nau

Cala Sa Nau is located on a rugged coastline halfway between the villages of Portocolom and Cala d’Or on the southeast coast of Mallorca on the southeast coast. The bay is located on a stretch of coastline that is not overly easy to reach. To get to the beach, Mobile in Mallorca on the main road from Porto Colom follow the signs and from there drive about 15 minutes, or alternatively it is a 12 journey from Cala d'Or. Leave the car at a paid car park near the bay. From here it you have a 500 m walk to Cala Sa Nau and descend the steps to the beach.

By public transport, the bay is extremely tricky to get to. However, the advantage of that is that the small beach is relatively unspoiled. Hiking Trails in Mallorca lead along the cliffs along the sea to Portocolom and Cala D'Or. Most are narrow trails that connect the individual bays on this stretch of coast. You can also reach the charming neighbouring Cala Mitjada on foot. As the beach at Cala Sa Nau can also be reached via a wooden walkway, people with physical disabilities can also access the beauty of the cove.

Swimming, snorkelling and other activities

With its pearl white sand and azure waters, Cala Sa Nau is a perfect destination for a day trip. Sunbathers and water lovers will not regret coming here. The beach is about 50 long and up to 70 m wide. In contrast to many beaches on the South coast Mallorca, this beach has quite a steep descent into the water. After just a few metres, the water has reached a swimmable depth. Families with children should be careful and keep an eye on their little ones - especially as this relatively secluded beach is not monitored by a lifeguard during the main season.

The rocky edges on both sides of the bay are ideal for snorkelers. The visibility under water is excellent. All you have to do is swim a short distance from the beach to admire the colourful underwater world through your diving mask. Water sports such as a pedal boats or surfboard hire are not available at the Cala Sa Nau. Active holidaymakers often opt for a short hike over the cliffs to the neighboring bay of Cala Mitjada. The Cova del Moro, which is a karst cave is also a pleasant hike from Cala Sa Nau. If you are fit and have the stamina, take the "Sa Ronda" trail, which leads, along the rocky coast to Porto Colom.

Facilities at Cala Sa Nau

Cala Sa Nau is, as mentioned above, not watched over by a lifeguard. Otherwise, the bay offers a comprehensive beach infrastructure. Sunbeds and umbrellas can be rented throughout the season. Lying in the shade, you can look out over the fjord-like bay and the watch the yachts bobbing in the distance. On-site, bathers can rinse off with a fresh water shower and toilet facilities for ladies and gentlemen are also available. A ground-level boardwalk leads to the beach beside the steps. Barrier-free access to Cala Sa Nau is also provided. The pay and display car parl at the end of the access road is open from 11:00 until 19:00. With a little luck you will find free parking on the roadside saving you the fee.

Cala Sa Nau as a day trip destination is a refreshing change due to the absence of hotels or campsites in the area. The usual tourist hustle and bustle is not anything to worry about here and visitors can enjoy their stay by the azure blue waters to the fullest. The cnearest Mallorcan Hotels - Mallorca holiday flair and apartment complexes can be found in the resorts of Porto Colom and Cala d'Or. While the facilities there are designed more for package tourism, you will find some pretty boutique hotels slightly Inland Mallorca, which have a certain je ne sais quoi.

Beach bar in the bay

Every day at 9:00 am, the beach bar at Cala Sa Nau opens its doors to beach visitors. It is located to the rear of the bay and keeps its guests refreshed. You can relax in comfortable seats and enjoy your cappuccino or cocktail with your feet in the soft sand. The menu includes simple dishes and snacks such as salads, paella and sandwiches. The drinks range from soft drinks to beer and cocktails to milkshakes, coffee and long drinks. The beach bar's kitchen is open from 10:00 until 23:00. Drinks are served till much later.

It has everything you need for a day trip. Those looking for typical Mallorcan dishes and a wider selection of Culinary Mallorca will find what they are looking for in the coastal towns of Cala d'Or and Portocolom. There are no other restaurants and bars in Cala Sa Nau.

Excursion destinations in the area

The whole range of tourist attractions can be found in the resort of Cala d'Or, which is about 12 minutes by car from the Cala Sa Nau. You can book a Sailing in Mallorca, paddle a kayak, take a Surfing in Mallorca or play a round of Golf in Mallorca. Several Bays in Mallorca with golden sands are enticing for a swim and in the main street fashion boutiques, souvenir shops, leather goods shops and restaurants spoil you for choice.

Portocolom is located north of the Cala Sa Nau and has retained the charm of a small fishing village to this day. It is the largest natural harbour in Mallorca, where colourful fishing boats sway side by side with expensive sailing yachts. The village is located on a peninsula with a black and white striped lighthouse at the top. Just a little inland, the monastery of Santuari de Sant Salvador - historic monastary on Mallorca is a popular destination. The former monastery is located on the top of a 500 m high mountain and can be reached via a narrow winding road.

A charming little town in the interior is Santanyi on the southeast coast of Mallorca. The town was built almost entirely of yellow sandstone, which is mined just outside the settlement. It has remains of the medieval city walls reminding visitors of its ancient population's constant need to defend themselves from pirates. The lively focal point of Santanyi is the Plaça Major. The square is dominated by the gothic rosary chapel, the church of Sant Andreu and the town hall dating from the early 20th century.

Cala Sa Nau is a hidden bathing paradise on the southeast coast of Mallorca. The bay with its snow-white sands and crystal-clear waters is an ideal destination for a day trip.