Location: In the small resort of Cala Vadella and a 10-minute drive from the pretty village of San José.
Facilities: Sunbeds, parasols, restaurants, bars, shops, fashion boutiques, supermarkets, foot showers (turned off to save water), lifeguards, toilets and access for the disabled (also into the water with the help of the lifeguards with an amphibious wheelchair)
Activities: Pedalos, kayaks, Stand Up Paddle (SUP), boat rental, boat trips, dive school (see nearby activities online)
Size: 275 metres long, 30-70 metres wide
Getting there: Reached by bus during the summer season from the nearby village San José (find timetables here) or by car via a winding, well-signposted road from San José and other beach resorts in the area.
There is a paid car park directly behind the beach, or if you are coming into the resort from the north, there is plenty of free parking available in the designated car parks on your left as you drive down into the cove.
From the hilltop car park, it's around a 10-minute walk down, although longer when coming back uphill, especially in the heat of the hot summer months.
The beach
As you descend into the picturesque bay of Cala Vadella, you will take in breathtaking views of the sea and the pretty beach, surrounded by pine-clad hills that are also perfect for exploring.
The bay is home to the small resort of Cala Vadella, which is popular with families and couples who enjoy the peaceful ambience. The beach is ideal if you want to enjoy a quiet day without music spilling out of beach clubs, but still have all the conveniences of a resort nearby.
The wide beach of fine sand slopes gently into shallow waters close to the shore, making it great for fun and games with the children. Sunbeds are also available to hire along the beach, although there still remains space to lay your towel.
The crystal clear water is perfect for swimming and snorkelling. Since the bay, protected by high cliffs, stretches far inland, the sea is usually pleasantly calm. The sheltered bay is also a popular anchoring spot for private yachts and motor boats, which often moor up to watch the sunset and provide a picturesque view.
Spotlight tip
Combine a day in Cala Vadella with a visit to the charming white village of San José. In summer, there is an ecological food and craft market each Saturday.
Video
Beach bars and restaurants
There is a good selection of cafés and restaurants. Most are located directly on the beachfront, all with lovely views of the colourful beach life and further out onto the beautiful bay.
The restaurants cater for all budgets and tastes; you can have a snack with your toes in the sand or enjoy a romantic sunset dinner with exclusive Mediterranean or international cuisine.
At night, the bars can become more lively as the sunset sparkles across the bay.
Nearby accommodation
Hotels and apartments in Cala Vadella are mostly smaller complexes and moderately priced, although there are also some more exclusive options in the area.
A wonderful alternative is renting your own private holiday villa in the surrounding area: have a look at the beautiful villas available close to the resort.
