Menorca is the epitome of beach bliss. This unspoilt island’s intoxicating coastline steals hearts with its craggy coves, sun-baked shores and shimmering aquamarine waters. And while some are buzzing spots in the bigger resorts, a large chunk of them are tranquil havens to while away the days.

Spend a holiday here seeking out the most beautiful places to swim, sunbathe and soak up the scenery with our guide to six of Menorca’s best beaches.

Cala Macarelleta

Take one look at this stunner and it’s to see why it’s one of the island’s finest. Tucked into a bay on Menorca’s south side, Cala Macarelleta is enveloped by pine trees and lapped by mesmerising azure waters. The shallows are ideal for paddling or venture a little deeper for a swim in the sea. When you want to dry off, there’s a sandy nugget of shore to relax on.

Cala Turqueta

Feast your eyes on Cala Turqueta. Named for its sparkling turquoise waters, this cove’s a popular swim spot, with calm inviting waters to glide through and gleaming white sand for sandcastle building. While you’re unwinding on the shore, raise your gaze to watch boats regularly pull into the bay and anchor up.

Cala Pregonda

Sweeping around a golden-sand bay and backed by dunes, Cala Pregonda is a sheltered patch on the island’s north coast thanks to the dinky islets in ochre hues sprinkled across the bay. As it’s part of a marine reserve, this beach is an unspoilt gem to visit, with unbelievably clear waters that are perfect for snorkelling. As well as your goggles, you’ll need to pack your own parasol and towels too, as there aren’t any loungers to rent here.

Cala Mitjana

Hidden away by cliffs, Cala Mitjana is a prized part of Menorca. Waves tumble onto the cove’s white sand shore and pine trees pepper the rugged cliffs, creating a seductive scent. Paddling’s great fun here in the clear, shallow waters that gleam in a beautiful blue hue and there are sea caves to explore too. The beach is only teeny, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in natural beauty.

Playa de Son Bou

Clap your eyes on this little bit of heaven. Playa de Son Bou’s got a shoreline to rival any of the Caribbean and is the longest beach on the island. Pad along the soft, powdery shorefront, and find a place to flop down for the day - loungers and umbrellas are available to rent. When Playa de Son Bou sizzles, heed to the call of the incredible aquamarine waters.

Cala’n Porter

If you’re after a beach with plenty of buzz, you’ve just found it. Cala’n Porter is one of Menorca’s most popular resorts and its namesake beach is a big sandy affair. The shore slopes down to the turquoise sea and there are neat rows of loungers to pick from. Sit back, relax and take in the view. On one side of the bay you’ll find a rugged cliffside carpeted in trees, while the other’s overlooked by whitewashed hotels and holiday rentals.