Tour of the beaches of southern Menorca with paella included

Imagine sailing along the coast of Menorca, where white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and dramatic cliffs create a picture-perfect scene. For about $63.38 per person, you can spend roughly 7 hours exploring some of the most beautiful spots in the island’s south from the water. Led by friendly crews, this tour takes you to iconic coves like Cala Turqueta and Macarella, with enough time for swimming, sunbathing, and snapping photos. And yes, a tasty paella lunch is included — a genuine treat after a morning of sightseeing.

What we love about this experience is the combination of stunning scenery and relaxed pace. The stops at secluded coves mean you get a chance to truly unwind, swim in clear waters, and enjoy the tranquility that makes Menorca special. Plus, the onboard lunch — a well-prepared paella with sangria — adds a flavorful touch to the day. However, keep in mind that the boat can get busy, and weather conditions may affect the route, especially if the wind picks up.

This tour is perfect for travelers who enjoy a mix of adventure and relaxation. Families, couples, or small groups will find the organized stops and friendly atmosphere welcoming. If you’re looking for a scenic, well-rounded day with good value, this trip offers just that, with plenty of authentic moments and stunning views.

Key Points

• Beautiful coastal scenery with stops at Cala Turqueta, Macarella, and Son Saura
• Swim and snorkel in some of Menorca’s clearest waters
• All-inclusive paella lunch with drinks like sangria and orangeade
• Flexible stops for sunbathing, walking, or exploring nearby coves
• Ideal for families, couples, and those wanting a relaxing day on the water
• Weather-dependent route, so conditions can influence the experience

An In-Depth Look at the Menorca Beach Tour

Overview: What to Expect on the Water

This 7-hour boat trip around southern Menorca offers an effortless way to see the island’s most photogenic beaches and coves. Starting at Camí de sa Farola, 17 in Ciutadella at 10:00 am, the tour is organized by Menorca Blava, a reputable local operator with positive reviews for their friendly service and well-run trips.

The boat itself is designed to comfortably hold up to 170 travelers, but it often feels lively rather than crowded, according to visitors. You’ll spend most of your time on deck, enjoying panoramic views of the coastline, with stops for swimming and snorkeling. The onboard bar offers drinks, though they’re not included in the ticket price, so bring cash or your preferred payment method if you want something refreshing.

Why This Tour Stands Out

One of the biggest highlights is the itinerary’s balance: two main stops at Cala Turqueta and Macarella, plus a visit to the Cap d’Artrutx lighthouse. The stops are well spaced out, giving you plenty of time for bathing, sunbathing, or exploring on foot. Several reviews praise the delicious paella, which is served as a generous lunch, accompanied by sangria and orangeade. This makes the day feel like a true feast amid incredible scenery.

Another aspect many travelers love is the opportunity to snorkel in crystal-clear waters. If you bring your own gear, you can explore underwater during some of the swim stops — a big plus for those who enjoy marine life. The calm weather days are perfect for these activities, but windier days can cause some waves, as one reviewer noted.

Itinerary Breakdown: What’s Included and What to Expect

Stop 1: Platges de Son Saura
This first stop is at the beautiful Son Saura beach, where you can walk, sunbathe, or swim freely. The beach’s fine white sand and calm waters make it a favorite among visitors. For those who want a quick adventure, a 15-minute path leads to Es Talaier Cove, adding some exploration to your beach time. Reviewers mention enjoying the peaceful environment here, perfect for those who want to relax away from crowds.

Stop 2: Cala Turqueta
Known for its crystal-clear waters and fine sand, Cala Turqueta is often highlighted as one of Menorca’s top beaches. You can swim from the boat or walk onto the beach if it’s less crowded. Its shallow waters and vibrant marine life make it a popular snorkel spot. As one traveler noted, “It’s very popular to snorkel because it has the clearest waters on the island.” Expect about 1 hour and 30 minutes here, giving ample time to enjoy the setting.

Additional Coves and Sights
The boat also takes you past the Cap d’Artrutx lighthouse, a distinctive landmark on the cape, providing excellent photo opportunities. The route is designed to maximize scenic views while giving you enough time at each stop.

The Food: Paella and Drinks

The included paella is a major draw, often described as delicious and generously portioned. It’s served with sangria or orangeade, perfect for refueling after swimming. The tour emphasizes that no alternative menu is available for dietary restrictions, but you are welcome to bring your own food if needed, at no discount. A few reviewers mention that the paella is the highlight, with one calling it “very tasty” and “good value.”

It’s worth noting that drinks from the onboard bar are extra, and coolers are not allowed, so plan accordingly if you want beverages beyond what’s offered. The overall value is quite good considering the meal, the scenic stops, and the boat ride.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

Reviews consistently praise the scenery and the friendly crew. Gianluca describes it as “a beautiful boat ride,” emphasizing the “exciting experience” and the opportunity to swim and dive. Agnes highlights that “it was a beautiful, calm day with a wonderful crew and very delicious paella,” capturing the relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere.

However, some mention that weather conditions can influence the route. One reviewer notes that waves and algae made some beaches less enjoyable, which is typical in open water experiences. The tour’s flexible cancellation policy, allowing full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance, offers peace of mind in case of bad weather.

Group Size and Practicalities

With a maximum of 170 travelers, the tour can feel lively but not overwhelming. Some reviews mention that larger groups make it less social than smaller sailing options, but most find the organization smooth and the crew attentive. The tour departs at 10:00 am, giving a full day’s worth of exploration and relaxation.

Participants should arrive near public transportation, and the meeting point is easy to find. Note that coolers are not permitted, so plan to purchase drinks on board if desired.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is best suited for families, couples, and small groups wanting a relaxed day out on the water. If you love scenic beaches with opportunities for swimming and snorkeling, you’ll appreciate the stops at Cala Turqueta and Macarella. Food lovers will enjoy the authentic paella, and those seeking a value-packed day will find the cost justified by the scenery, food, and ease of organization.

However, travelers sensitive to windy conditions should keep in mind that weather can alter the route or impact the experience at certain beaches. Those who prefer smaller, more intimate boat trips might find the larger group size less ideal, but most reviews attest to the friendly crew and well-managed schedule.

The Sum Up

This boat tour of southern Menorca offers a well-rounded taste of the island’s best beaches, combined with the comfort of being on a boat and enjoying a traditional paella lunch. It’s a fantastic way to see the coast without the hassle of driving or crowded beaches, especially if you appreciate scenic vistas, swimming opportunities, and good value.

For families wanting a relaxing, scenic day, or couples seeking a mix of adventure and authentic cuisine, this trip ticks many boxes. The organization and friendly service make it an accessible and enjoyable experience, though travelers should be prepared for weather variability.

In essence, this tour is best for those who want to combine sightseeing, swimming, and local flavors in one affordable package. If you’re after a peaceful day on the water with plenty of photo ops and a hearty meal, this might just be your perfect Menorca adventure.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, starting at 10:00 am and returning to the meeting point in Ciutadella.

What beaches and coves are visited?
Stops include Platges de Son Saura, Cala Turqueta, and Macarella. There is also a sightseeing pass by the Cap d’Artrutx lighthouse.

Is lunch included?
Yes, you’ll enjoy a mixed paella served with sangria and orangeade. Bring your own food if you have dietary restrictions, but the price remains the same.

Can I snorkel during the trip?
Absolutely. Travelers are encouraged to bring their own snorkeling gear to explore underwater during swim stops.

What about drinks from the onboard bar?
They are available for purchase, but not included in the ticket price. Coolers are not allowed on board.

What is the group size?
The maximum capacity is 170 travelers, but most trips feel lively rather than crowded, with a friendly crew.

Can the route change?
Yes, depending on weather conditions or safety considerations, the route or stops may be altered or canceled for safety.