Playa de Son Parc (Arenal de Son Saura)

Introduction

From the moment we set foot in Menorca, the island envelops us with its natural charm and peaceful atmosphere. And if there is one spot that perfectly embodies that essence, it is Playa de Son Parc, located in the municipality of Es Mercadal. Often referred to as 'Arenal de Son Parc' or even 'Arenal de Son Saura' in a broader, less specific sense—though it's crucial not to confuse it with the famous beach of the same name near Ciutadella—this cove is a true treasure of northern Menorca that has completely won us over. It is a destination that invites us to disconnect, to enjoy the sun and the sea in a privileged setting, ideal for those seeking a beach experience without surprises and with all the comforts.

Our first impression upon arriving at Playa de Son Parc was that of a family paradise, with its incredibly fine sand and shallow waters that invite the little ones to play without worries. The cove is sheltered by dunes and a pine forest that give it a natural and wild appearance, despite being integrated into the Son Parc urbanization. This contrast is precisely part of its magic: the convenience of services at hand, combined with the beauty of an almost pristine Mediterranean landscape. It is one of those Balearic beaches that makes us feel we have found the perfect place to recharge and create unforgettable memories.

For us, Playa de Son Parc (Arenal de Son Saura) in Es Mercadal is much more than just a destination; it is an experience. It is the promise of sunny days, refreshing dips in turquoise waters, and sunsets that paint the sky with vibrant colors. We are faced with one of those Es Mercadal beaches that, without being as grand as others, has a special magnetism that makes us want to return again and again. If you are looking for a corner in Menorca where tranquility and natural beauty go hand in hand with comfort, you have come to the right place.

How to get to Playa de Son Parc (Arenal de Son Saura)

Getting to Playa de Son Parc is relatively straightforward, making it a very accessible destination for all visitors to Menorca. The beach is located on the north coast of the island, within the Son Parc urbanization, belonging to the municipality of Es Mercadal. We always recommend renting a car to explore Menorca at your own pace, and for this beach, it is the most comfortable option.

From Mahón:

If you are coming from the capital, Mahón, the drive will take approximately 25-30 minutes. You should take the main road ME-1 towards Ciutadella and, before reaching Es Mercadal, take the turnoff to the north on the ME-7 towards Fornells. Then, follow the signs to Son Parc (ME-15). The signage is quite clear, so you won't have any trouble finding it. It's a pleasant journey that will allow you to start appreciating the island's rural landscapes.

From Ciutadella:

If your starting point is Ciutadella, in the west of the island, the journey will be a bit longer, around 35-40 minutes. From Ciutadella, take the ME-1 towards Mahón. After passing Es Mercadal, you will need to take the turnoff onto the ME-7 towards Fornells and then the ME-15 towards Son Parc. Both routes are picturesque and offer a good view of the Menorcan geography.

Public transport and parking:

During the summer months, there are bus lines connecting Son Parc with Es Mercadal and Mahón, which can be an alternative if you prefer not to drive. However, schedules may be limited. Once in Son Parc, you will find a fairly large free parking area near the beach, which is a great advantage, especially in high season. From the parking lot, it's a short walk to the sand, well signposted and adapted. We find it very practical to have this facility, as it avoids the stress of looking for a place to park the car.

The sand and the water

What captivates us most about Playa de Son Parc is, without a doubt, the quality of its sand and the purity of its waters. The sand is a golden white color, extraordinarily fine and soft to the touch, making it perfect for walking barefoot and for children to play building sandcastles. It's a delight to feel it under our feet as we look for the perfect spot to lay out our towel. The beach is flanked by a dune system that adds a touch of natural and wild charm, protecting it from the wind and giving it a very authentic look, something we highly value in Balearic beaches.

As for the water, it is simply spectacular. We are met with a sea of turquoise and crystal-clear hues, so transparent that we can see fish swimming at our feet. Son Parc bay is well protected, which means its waters are usually very calm, with little to no waves. This makes it an ideal place for families with young children, as the depth increases very gradually, allowing the little ones to bathe safely. We always appreciate the calm of these waters, perfect for a relaxing swim or for getting started in water sports like paddle surfing or snorkeling.

The type of seabed predominant in the bathing area is sand, with no rocks to bother you when entering or leaving the sea, which is a plus for everyone's comfort. The feeling of purity and the pleasant temperature of the water invite you to spend hours enjoying the Mediterranean. For us, the combination of fine sand and gentle waters is what makes Playa de Son Parc (Arenal de Son Saura) a refuge of peace and natural beauty, a place where time seems to stand still and worries dissipate with the sea breeze. It is, without a doubt, one of the jewels of the Es Mercadal beaches.

Services and facilities

Playa de Son Parc is one of those pl