Tucked away within the protected Mondragó Natural Park, Es Marques Beach is one of Mallorca’s best-kept secrets—a secluded cove where golden sand meets crystalline waters in an unspoiled Mediterranean setting. Unlike the island’s more crowded tourist hotspots, Es Marques retains a wild, untouched beauty, making it a favorite among nature lovers and those seeking tranquility. With its unique geological features, clear turquoise sea, and surrounding pine forests, this beach offers a perfect escape into Mallorca’s natural splendor.
Horseback riding excursions in Mallorca
The best horseback riding excursions on the island of Mallorca. Horse riding routes with instructor. Horseback riding tours with picnic. Horseback riding excursion with sunset. Equestrian demonstrations of Spanish horses and much more.
Getting to Es Marques Beach
Reaching Es Marques requires a bit of adventure, adding to its secluded charm. The beach is located in the municipality of Santanyí, on Mallorca’s southeastern coast. From Palma, the journey takes about an hour by car. Visitors should take the Ma-19 highway toward Manacor, then follow signs for Santanyí via the Ma-15. Once in Santanyí, the route continues toward the coast, following signs for Mondragó Natural Park. The final approach involves navigating a series of well-marked rural roads leading to the park’s main entrance.
Public transportation is limited, so renting a car is the most convenient option. During peak season, an early start is recommended to avoid congestion, as the area’s popularity has grown among both tourists and locals.
Parking and Access
Parking near Es Marques is regulated to protect the fragile ecosystem of Mondragó Natural Park. A designated parking area is available near S’Amarador, one of the park’s main access points. From here, visitors must walk approximately 15-20 minutes along a scenic trail through fragrant pine woods and coastal shrubland before reaching the beach. The path is well-maintained but uneven in places, so comfortable footwear is advisable.
During the summer months, parking spaces fill up quickly, and a small fee is charged to help maintain the park’s conservation efforts. Alternative options include arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon when crowds thin out. Bicycle racks are also available for those who prefer cycling through the park’s picturesque landscape.
The Beach: A Geological and Natural Wonder
Es Marques is a small but stunning beach framed by dramatic limestone cliffs and rolling sand dunes. Its geology tells the story of Mallorca’s ancient coastal formations—the sand is coarse and golden, mixed with fragments of seashells and eroded rock, while the shallow seabed slopes gently, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The surrounding dunes are part of a protected ecosystem, home to rare plant species like sea lilies and beach morning glory, which thrive in the salty, windswept environment.
The beach itself is relatively short but wide, with soft sand that contrasts beautifully with the deep blue-green hues of the Mediterranean. Rocky outcrops at either end create natural pools where small fish and marine life can be spotted, perfect for snorkeling. Unlike many of Mallorca’s more developed beaches, Es Marques has no sunbed rentals or commercial umbrellas, preserving its wild character. Visitors should bring their own shade and supplies, as services are minimal.
What to Do at Es Marques
The main attraction of Es Marques is its unspoiled natural setting, offering a peaceful retreat for sunbathing, swimming, and relaxation. The calm, shallow waters are safe for children, while the rocky edges of the cove provide excellent snorkeling opportunities. The underwater landscape here is teeming with marine life, including octopuses, sea stars, and colorful fish darting between the rocks.
For those who enjoy hiking, the trails around Mondragó Natural Park provide breathtaking coastal views. A short walk from Es Marques leads to neighboring beaches like S’Amarador, where the scenery shifts from sandy shores to rugged cliffs. Birdwatchers will appreciate the park’s wetlands, home to herons, ospreys, and other migratory birds.
Photographers will find endless inspiration in the play of light on the water, the contrast of white sand against dark rocks, and the vibrant greenery of the surrounding pines. Sunrise and sunset are particularly magical times, when the beach is bathed in golden hues and the crowds have dispersed.
Tourist Services and Amenities
Es Marques is deliberately kept free from excessive development, so visitors should come prepared. There are no restaurants or bars directly on the beach, but a small kiosk near the parking area offers basic snacks and drinks. Public restrooms and showers are available at the main park entrance, a short walk from the shore.
For a more substantial meal, the nearby town of Santanyí has a variety of traditional Mallorcan restaurants serving fresh seafood, tapas, and local specialties like tumbet (a vegetable dish) or sobrassada (a cured sausage). The town’s weekly market is also worth visiting for handmade crafts and regional products.
A Beach for Nature Lovers
What sets Es Marques apart is its pristine condition—a rarity in Mallorca’s increasingly developed coastline. The beach is part of a protected natural park, meaning no new construction is permitted, and visitors are encouraged to respect the environment by taking all trash with them and avoiding damage to the dunes.
This untouched quality makes Es Marques a haven for those seeking solitude and natural beauty. Whether you spend the day swimming in its clear waters, exploring the coastal trails, or simply lying on the sand with a book, the beach offers a serene escape from the busier resorts.
Final Thoughts: A Hidden Paradise
Es Marques Beach is more than just a place to swim—it’s a glimpse into Mallorca’s wilder, quieter side. Its geological features, from the ancient limestone cliffs to the shifting dunes, tell the story of an island shaped by time and tide. The lack of commercialization ensures that visitors experience the beach as nature intended, with only the sound of waves and wind through the pines as accompaniment.
For travelers looking to step off the beaten path and discover one of Mallorca’s most beautiful natural settings, Es Marques is a must-visit. Its combination of stunning scenery, peaceful atmosphere, and ecological significance makes it a true hidden gem, perfect for those who appreciate the untouched beauty of the Mediterranean.
