Cala Esmeralda, Mediterranean beach in Santanyí, Spain
Cala Esmeralda is a small cove with pale sand and natural rock outcrops along its edges. The water transitions from shallow near shore to deeper areas further out, and the shoreline curves gently between low cliffs.
The area developed as a fishing settlement for generations before tourism began reshaping the coast. This shift transformed it from a working fishing spot into a beach destination.
The cove draws local swimmers and families who treat it as a regular gathering spot rather than a tourist destination. You will notice residents mixing with visitors, creating a lived-in quality throughout the day.
The beach has showers, waste bins, and regular cleaning to keep the area tidy. A parking area is available nearby, though it can fill quickly during peak summer months.
The water here stays unusually clear because limestone formations around the cove act as natural filters. This clarity makes snorkeling and swimming particularly rewarding for visitors.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.