Cala s’Almunia is a small rocky cove with crystal clear water and picturesque fishing huts. It is located in the southeastern part of Mallorca, near Santanyí, and in proximity to the popular but often crowded Caló des Moro bay. While not a hidden gem or a secluded beach itself, under the right circumstances, you can spend some lovely hours at s’Almunia. Let me tell you how.
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The photos of Cala s’Almunia are not exaggerated: the cove looks just as charming and picturesque, with the old fishing huts built into the rocks and the intensely blue water. Naturally, this scenery attracts quite a few people, especially during the summer. Although Cala s’Almunia is not as crowded as its neighboring bay, it is still not a lonely place.
At this point, you may wonder how I know all this. Well, I live around the corner. Perhaps we might run into each other during your visit to Cala s’Almunia. However, it’s unlikely to happen during the summer.
No parking struggle: Take a boat from Cala Figuera to Cala s’Almunia.
Swimming & Snorkeling in Cala s’Almunia
Cala s’Almunia offers two bathing areas. The first one is located at the boat landing, directly below the boat garages that were built into the rock. Visitors can settle down on the rocks around the pier.
Getting into the water is not very difficult, but be cautious as the ramps are covered with algae and seaweed. It’s easy to slip and end up in the water faster than you’d like. We always wear swim shoes when swimming in Cala s’Almunia. They provide some grip and also protect against sharp rocks and sea urchins.
The second swimming option is located on the opposite side. This small beach is also known as Cala es Maquer, although it’s not a traditional sandy beach. While there is some sand, it is covered with large pebbles, which can make lying down on the shore and entering the water a bit challenging. However, the water gets shallow very gradually, which is a positive aspect.
Getting to Cala s’Almunia – Directions & Parking
There are several ways to reach Cala s’Almunia. The most common option is to use a car or rental vehicle. However, due to the challenging parking situation during the summer, it is recommended to consider public bus transportation.
By car
Cala s’Almunia is located approximately seven kilometers from the small town of Santanyí. You will need to bypass the town on the ring road. At the roundabouts, always follow the signs towards Cala Llombards.
At the entrance to Cala Llombards, immediately after the entrance sign, you will find a parking lot on the left-hand side. To the right, you can access the Cala s’Almunia bay. The parking options there are highly limited, so it is advisable to start looking for a parking spot at the roundabout.
Parking at Cala s’Almunia
Your task now is to find a parking option. The parking situation has been highly challenging for years. The parking lot right at the roundabout offers some parking spaces, but it tends to fill up quickly during the morning hours in summer. If that’s the case, you will need to look for alternatives in the side streets. Please remember to keep exits clear and note that yellow lines indicate no parking zones.
There are not nearly enough parking spaces available for all visitors in Cala Llombards. Additionally, parking is not permitted in the streets marked with “ACIRE” without a resident permit. If you do park there, you may receive a fine of up to 80 euros.
I cannot provide you with an ultimate tip at this point because there simply isn’t one. Except for one: avoid the bay in summer, or opt for taking the bus instead.
Taking the Bus to Cala s’Almunia
Getting to Cala s’Almunia by bus is not necessarily easy, but during the summer months, there is a bus connection to Cala Llombards with a stop right in front of the parking lot. This stop is served by Line 517, which operates between Santanyí, Colonia de Sant Jordi, and Campos.
Since Santanyí is not directly accessible by bus from Palma, the best option to travel from the island’s capital is Bus 501, which runs from Palma to Campos and then to Manacor. In Campos, you can transit to Line 517.
The price of the bus ticket varies depending on the payment method. If you wish to pay in cash, it costs €6, but if you use a credit card with contactless payment capability, it is only €3.60. When boarding and disembarking, you need to validate your journey at the ticket machine using your card.
Information about the timetables and routes of the bus lines changes every year and may be incomplete until shortly before the summer dates. It is always best to check the official website for up-to-date information.
By Foot to Cala s’Almunia
Regardless of how you arrive, in the end, you will need to cover the last stretch on foot. It takes approximately 15 minutes from the parking lot to reach the cove. You will first pass through a small residential area. Stay on the paved road until you reach a steep staircase.
After descending the steps, you will find yourself on a rocky plateau. The small beach lies to your right. On your left, you will see the boat garages and ramps that lead into the sea.
Getting to Cala s’Almunia by Boat
For those who don’t want to undertake a long walk in the summer, there is the option of reaching Cala s’Almunia by boat. You can either use your own boat (if you have one, that is) or join an organized boat excursion from Cala Figuera.
The advantage of traveling by sea is that you also have the opportunity to visit other interesting points along the coast, such as the rock formation Es Pontàs and the beach Caló des Moro.
Activities in Cala s’Almunia
What can you do in Cala s’Almunia? Quite a few things. However, despite the buildings, there are no services available at the beach. You will need to bring everything you need for a day or the duration of your stay. And please remember to take your trash back with you!
Snorkeling in Cala s’Almunia
Due to its rocky seabed and crystal clear water, Cala s’Almunia is perfect for snorkeling adventures, whether you’re young or old. So, definitely don’t forget your snorkeling gear!
The power of the sea has shaped curious holes and caves in the cliffs, especially in the section to the right of the fishing huts in Cala s’Almunia. Many Mediterranean creatures thrive in these areas, offering a unique opportunity to explore small sea caves from the water’s edge.
Cliff Jumping in Cala s’Almunia
Cliff jumping is possible at various locations in Cala s’Almunia, offering different heights for jumps. However, it is important to ensure beforehand that the water is deep enough. Some daredevils even jump into the hole in the rocks located to the right of the boathouses. It is an undercut promontory where the sea has eroded the land over the years.
It is crucial to ensure calm conditions before jumping into the hole. Once it becomes windier and the waves pick up, this adventure can become life-threatening. During very rough sea conditions, it is not advisable to approach the hole closely. The force of the sea pushing through the hole can create powerful water spouts that shoot up into the air.
Detour to Caló des Moro
The neighboring Caló des Moro is incredibly overrated. The small sandy cove is undoubtedly beautiful and makes for a great photo opportunity. However, in summer, it becomes hopelessly overcrowded. In the summer of 2021, people had to wait in line for up to four hours just to be able to descend to the beach.
If you happen to be on Mallorca outside the peak season, you might be lucky and find fewer crowds. However, generally speaking, as soon as the weather is suitable for swimming, many people will flock to the beach. From Cala s’Almunia, you can reach Caló des Moro on foot in just a few minutes, at least to get a glimpse of the highly advertised cove from above.
Places of Interest near Cala s’Almunia
If you’re already here, you might be interested in exploring more of the Santanyí municipality. You will find other beautiful beaches, a natural monument, and an authentic weekly market.
The family-friendly beach of Cala Llombards
A sandy beach with boathouses – basically a combination of Caló des Moro and Cala s’Almunia – can be found just a few meters away from both beaches. The beach in this small town is relatively spacious and covered in fine sand. The water gradually slopes, making it perfect for families.
In terms of action, you can also enjoy snorkeling along the rocky edges and jump into the sea from a small boat platform at Cala Llombards. The advantage here is that there is a ladder attached, making it easier to get out of the water. For those seeking more thrills, there are even higher cliffs to jump from.
Unlike Cala s’Almunia, Cala Llombards has a small bar that is open during the summer season. Lifeguards are also present during the season. There are restroom facilities and a parking lot available as well.
Cala Santanyí and the rock formation Es Pontàs
A bit further away is Cala Santanyí, another popular holiday destination. It is comparable to Cala Llombards, but slightly larger and more bustling. There are several hotels near the beach, and the tourist offerings are more diverse in this area.
The landmark of the bay is a rock arch that protrudes slightly from the coastline into the sea. It is the former entrance to a cave system. Also worth seeing is the restored pirate watchtower on the eastern side of the bay. Both the rock arch and the pirate tower are stops on the treasure hunt we have designed through Cala Santanyí. You can play this treasure hunt traditionally or digitally through an app, which will guide you to all the hidden corners of the bay.
Market in Santanyí
Every Wednesday and Saturday, a market takes place in the town center of Santanyí. While it is smaller during the winter months and mainly focuses on food and household items, it grows to an unimaginable size during the summer.
The market in Santanyí is a true tourist magnet during the summer. If you want to enjoy it, it is advisable to arrive early to find a parking spot and have some time to explore the market before it gets crowded. In addition to a wide variety of arts and crafts, you will also find many opportunities to purchase small souvenirs to take home.
Hiking to the natural beach Cala Marmóls
If you want to see a truly beautiful and secluded beach, you’ll have to venture a bit further. Cala Marmóls is located halfway between Cala s’Almunia and the southernmost point of the island, Cap de ses Salines.
Apart from some small climbing sections at one point, the trail is mostly straightforward along the cliffs. However, it is important to note that there is little to no shade along the way. This can be less than ideal during summer, especially considering that the hike takes at least an hour, if not longer.
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Holiday Rentals and Hotels in Cala s’Almunia
There are no hotels near Cala s’Almunia. The attempt to build a luxury hotel directly on the promontory towards Caló des Moro fortunately did not materialize. However, there are many small houses that are rented out as holiday apartments to vacationers. You can browse through the available options to find your accommodation.
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