Playa de Sant Joan

The basics

Playa de Sant Joan is a great addition to an itinerary exploring northern Mallorca, particularly if you’re staying in or visiting the gorgeous historical center of Alcudia. Some sightseeing cruises pass by the beach on their way to Cape Formentor (Cap de Formentor), where the beaches are framed by rugged cliffs and pine forests. While some tours transport you by catamaran and include tapas and drinks on board, others use kayaks and stand-up paddleboards to get closer to the cliffs.

Things to know before you go

• There are no showers or bathrooms on this beach, so be sure to change before you arrive.

• You can rent deck chairs, loungers, and parasols on a first-come, first-served basis.

• A small beach bar serves drinks and food at the east end of the bay.

How to get there

Playa de Sant Joan is 1.5 miles (2.5 kilometers) from the town of Alcudia, where many people base themselves. You can reach it by driving for 10 minutes along Carrer de Xara, and street parking is available within a short distance of the beach.

When to get there

Because it’s a small beach, you’ll need to arrive at Playa de Sant Joan early to secure a spot—especially in the summer, when Mallorca is popular with people from mainland Europe on vacation. During the peak months from May through October, lifeguards look out over the beach.

The best coves and bays near Playa de Sant Joan

Thanks to its prime location in northern Mallorca, Playa de Sant Joan is close to some of the Balearic island’s best beaches. Top spots include Cala Formentor, with its golden sand and forest landscape; Cala de Sa Calobra, surrounded by dramatic cliffs; and Cala Mesquida, which is framed by sand dunes and an excellent place for water sports.