The most beautiful beach in Mallorca, a long crescent of white sand backed by pine forests on the dramatic Formentor peninsula. Shuttle buses run from Pollença in summer.
Platja de Formentor is widely regarded as the finest beach in Mallorca — a sweeping crescent of fine white sand sheltered within the steep-sided bay of Cala Pi de la Posada on the Formentor peninsula, in the far north of the island. The beach stretches for around 800 metres, framed by dense pine forest on the surrounding hillsides and dramatic limestone peaks rising above. The water is a remarkable layered turquoise, sheltered from open sea swells by the surrounding headlands and consistently calm, making it suitable for swimmers of all abilities.
The Formentor peninsula is a designated Nature Reserve and the scenery is arguably the most dramatic in the Balearic Islands. The Cap de Formentor road from Pollença passes through tight switchbacks above sea cliffs, offering views that have made it one of the most celebrated drives in Spain. The lighthouse at the peninsula's tip marks the northernmost point of Mallorca and is itself a popular destination.
The beach is immediately adjacent to the historic Hotel Formentor, which has operated since 1929 and built a reputation as one of the great European resort hotels, receiving royalty, heads of state, and writers through the 20th century. Sun lounger hire on the hotel beach section and a dedicated beach restaurant serve visitors through the season. Public showers and access points are located at the far end of the beach, separate from the hotel concession. Water sports including kayaking and paddleboarding are available to hire.
Vehicle access to Formentor beach is restricted from June to September: private cars are prohibited on the Cap de Formentor road between Port de Pollença and the beach during peak hours, typically 9am to 6pm. A shuttle bus service known as Pine Bus runs from Port de Pollença and Pollença throughout the day; advance booking is strongly advised in July and August when services fill. Outside restricted hours, early morning arrivals before 9am can drive to the beach car park directly.
The rocky headlands at both ends of the beach provide the best snorkelling. The sheltered position of the bay and the gradual sandy entry make Platja de Formentor suitable for families with children and less confident swimmers.
Amenities
- sunbed rental
- restaurant
- showers
- water sports
Good to know
- Best for
- couples, families, swimmers, photographers, sunbathers
Highlights
- Crescent of fine white sand set between pine-forested cliffs on Mallorca's dramatic Formentor peninsula
- One of Mallorca's most celebrated settings, directly adjacent to the legendary Hotel Formentor (established 1929)
- Crystal-clear, sheltered water suitable for families, leisure swimmers, and snorkellers in the rocky headlands
- Access by Pine Bus shuttle from Port de Pollença — private cars are banned on the road in peak season hours
- Cap de Formentor road en route to the beach is considered one of the most scenic drives in the Balearic Islands
Tips for visiting
- Book the Pine Bus shuttle in advance — it sells out quickly in July and August, and driving is prohibited during peak hours
- Early morning arrivals before 9am can still drive to the beach car park before vehicle access restrictions begin
- The public beach section at the far end of the bay, away from the hotel, has free showers but no sun lounger hire
- Snorkel the rocky headlands at each end of the beach for excellent visibility in the sheltered bay water
- Combine the beach with a drive to the Cap de Formentor lighthouse for a full-day peninsula experience
When to visit
June and September avoid the summer shuttle-bus queues while still offering warm, swimmable water. July and August are spectacular but require advance transport planning. The beach is at its most peaceful before 9am in high season.
Accessibility
Access from the shuttle bus stop or car park to the beach is short and relatively flat across compacted sand. The hotel beach section has more infrastructure. No dedicated beach wheelchair hire has been confirmed at this location.
Frequently asked questions
Can visitors drive to Platja de Formentor?
Private cars are prohibited on the Cap de Formentor road between Port de Pollença and the beach during peak season hours (typically 9am–6pm, June to September). The Pine Bus shuttle runs from Port de Pollença and Pollença, and advance booking is recommended.
Is the beach only for Hotel Formentor guests?
Platja de Formentor is a public beach. The hotel operates a section with sun loungers and a beach restaurant, but the full beach is freely accessible to all visitors. Public showers are available at the far end of the bay.
How long is Platja de Formentor?
The beach stretches approximately 800 metres in a sheltered crescent. The calm, clear water and gradual sandy entry make it suitable for families and all swimming abilities.
What can visitors see on the drive to Formentor?
The Cap de Formentor road passes through dramatic limestone scenery with switchbacks and clifftop viewpoints looking out over the sea toward the Tramuntana mountains. The lighthouse at the peninsula's tip is the popular final destination on the drive.