Català
Español
Deutsch
Français
Italiano
Paddle Surf in Alcudia: spots, routes, and secrets for paddling in Mallorca's best waters
There is something almost magical about paddling standing up on the sea
Imagine this: it's eight in the morning in the Bay of Alcudia. The sun has just peeked out from behind the mountains of Artà, tinting the water a pale pink that seems unreal. There is no wind. The sea is a perfect mirror reflecting the sky. And there you are, standing on a paddle surf board, gliding in silence over waters so crystalline that you can see every stone on the bottom, every fish passing beneath your feet. That is paddle surf in Alcudia. Or rather, that is paddle surf in Alcudia when you do it right: choosing the right time, the right place, and letting yourself be carried away by one of the most special experiences you can live in Mallorca. Stand up paddle (SUP) has revolutionized the way we connect with the sea. You don't need waves like in traditional surfing. You don't need a motor like on jet skis. You only need a board, a paddle, and a desire to explore. It is accessible to almost anyone, from six-year-old children to seventy-year-old grandparents. And yet, it can take you to places you would otherwise never discover. In Mallorca, paddle surf has gone from being a rarity to becoming one of the most popular water activities. And there is a reason: few areas of the Mediterranean offer the conditions you find here. Calm waters, perfect temperature for most of the year, hidden coves that you can only reach by paddling, and a coastline that seems designed to be explored board by board. But not all spots are the same. Not all hours of the day are good. And not all times of the year work the same. That's why we created this guide: so that your SUP experience in Alcudia is exactly as you imagine it. Or better. It doesn't matter if you've never stepped on a board or if you've been paddling half the world for years. In the next few lines, you're going to discover why northern Mallorca is a top destination for paddle surf, which are the best spots for all levels, what equipment you need, and how you can combine SUP with a boat experience that multiplies the possibilities. Get ready to paddle.
Why Alcudia is a paddle surf paradise in the Mediterranean
There are many places in the world where you can paddle surf. There are few where you can do it in such perfect conditions as in the Bay of Alcudia. And it’s no coincidence: the geography of this area in northern Mallorca seems specifically designed for this sport.
The Bay of Alcudia is the largest bay in Mallorca, an arc of nearly 30 kilometers stretching from Cap des Pinar to Colònia de Sant Pere. This configuration creates an area naturally protected from the prevailing winds, especially the Tramuntana that can blow strongly in other parts of the island.
But there is something else that makes this area special for paddle surf, something that goes beyond technical conditions. It’s the feeling of paddling over a natural aquarium. The waters of the Bay of Alcudia have a clarity that seems unreal, especially early in the morning before the wind moves the surface. You see fish swimming several meters below you. You distinguish the dark patches of posidonia alternating with patches of white sand. On good days, visibility can exceed 30 meters.
That transparency turns every stroke into something more than exercise. It is meditation in motion. It is exploration. It is connecting with the Mediterranean in a way you can't experience from a beach sunbed.
The conditions that make Alcudia an exceptional SUP destination
Northern Mallorca brings together a combination of factors that you will hardly find anywhere else in the Mediterranean. Each of these elements contributes to creating the perfect stage for paddle surf.
1Calm waters protected from the wind
The orientation of the bay towards the east means that north and west winds arrive very attenuated. The Serra de Tramuntana acts as a natural barrier, protecting the coast from the strongest gusts. This translates into days with the sea practically flat, ideal for paddling whether you are a beginner or looking for long touring sessions.
Even on days with moderate wind, there are always more sheltered areas of the bay where conditions are manageable. It’s a matter of knowing the spots and knowing how to read the weather report.
2Sandy bottoms and posidonia meadows
Unlike other areas of Mallorca with rocky or gravel bottoms, the Bay of Alcudia has extensive areas of fine sand and posidonia meadows. This combination has several advantages for SUP: impossible turquoise waters, spectacular bottoms to observe while paddling, and no risk if you fall off the board.
The posidonia, besides being an indicator of the marine ecosystem's health, creates those color contrasts between deep blue (posidonia) and bright turquoise (sand) that make these waters so photogenic. Paddling over a posidonia meadow on a sunny day is like flying over an underwater forest.
3Perfect temperature and total accessibility
From May to October, the water temperature ranges between 20 and 26 degrees. Warm enough not to need a wetsuit, but refreshing when the heat kicks in. This six-month window greatly expands the SUP season compared to Northern European destinations.
In addition, the Bay of Alcudia has dozens of water access points. From the urban beaches of Port d'Alcudia to the most hidden coves, there is always a place nearby to put your board in the water without complications.
The best paddle surf spots for beginners
If you are starting out in the world of paddle surf or simply looking for a relaxed session without complications, these are the areas we recommend. They all share characteristics that make them ideal for first steps: shallow waters, sandy bottoms, wind protection, and nearby services.
1Playa de Muro: the perfect spot to start
Playa de Muro is considered one of the best beaches in Mallorca for practicing SUP for the first time. Its waters are very shallow for the first 50-100 meters, allowing you to stand up and regain your balance without a problem if you fall. The fine sand bottom is free of rocks or obstacles, and there are multiple equipment rental points along the beach.
Recommended route: Depart from the Es Braç area and paddle parallel to the coast northwards, towards Port d'Alcudia. It's 3-4 kilometers one way, but you can turn back whenever you want. This route keeps you always close to the shore.
2Alcudia Beach and port area
The beach stretching from Port d'Alcudia southwards offers very similar conditions to Playa de Muro. The added advantage is the proximity to restaurants, shops, and port services. You can combine a morning paddle surf session with breakfast on one of the promenade's terraces.
This area is especially good for families: calm waters, lifeguards in season, and the possibility of alternating SUP with other beach activities.
3Can Picafort: tranquility and great vibes
At the southern end of the bay, Can Picafort offers another excellent option for beginners. The beach is more compact than Muro or Alcudia, but conditions are equally good. The advantage of Can Picafort is that it is usually less crowded, especially outside of August.
From here you can paddle north (towards Playa de Muro) or south (towards Son Serra de Marina). Both directions offer beautiful landscapes and crystal clear waters.
Intermediate level spots: when you're looking for more
Once you've mastered the basics of paddle surf and feel comfortable paddling longer distances, it’s time to explore spots that offer a bit more adventure. These areas have deeper waters, more spectacular landscapes, and the possibility of short crossings.
1Cap des Pinar Coast and Alcanada Island
When you already master the basics and look for something more exciting, the coast going from Port d'Alcudia to Alcanada Island offers a completely different experience. Here the coast becomes rockier, small coves appear, and the landscape is transformed.
The classic Alcanada Lighthouse route: Depart from Sant Pere Beach (near the golf course) and paddle towards the lighthouse island. It's barely a 400-meter crossing, but crossing that stretch of open sea on paddle surf has a bit of adventure to it. Once on the island, you can circle it completely enjoying the views of the lighthouse.
Level required: Intermediate. You need to know how to paddle with crosswinds and have confidence in waters where you can't touch the bottom.
Important note: The crossing to the island is short but can get complicated if the wind changes. Always check the weather forecast before crossing.
2Bonaire Coast and Ses Caletes
The Bonaire area, between Port d'Alcudia and the residential estate, hides several small coves perfect for exploring on SUP. Ses Caletes are a succession of rocky inlets with crystal clear waters and few people.
From Bonaire, you can paddle south along the coast, discovering small caves and rock formations. It’s an ideal area for those looking to combine paddling with stops for swimming and snorkeling.
Recommended distance: 4-6 kilometers round trip, with multiple stops.
Advanced spots: wild Mallorca by paddle stroke
If you are looking for the wildest Mallorca and are willing to really paddle, these areas are adventure territory. They require experience, good physical fitness, and absolute respect for weather conditions.
1Colònia de Sant Pere towards Cala Torta
The coast stretching from Colònia de Sant Pere southwards, towards Cala Torta and Cala Mitjana, is pure adventure territory. There are no beach bars, no lifeguards, and almost no human presence here. Just you, your board, and kilometers of virgin coast protected by the Parc Natural de la Península de Llevant.
Epic route – The trilogy of virgin coves: Depart from the Colònia beach and paddle south. Your first goal is Cala Mata (2 km), continue to Cala Torta (another 2 km), and if you feel strong, finish at Cala Mitjana, one of the most spectacular coves in northern Mallorca.
Total distance: 12-15 kilometers round trip.
Level required: Advanced. It involves paddling in open sea and managing potential wind changes.
2Betlem Coast and S'Estanyol
On the other side of Colònia, the coast towards Betlem offers another option for experienced paddlers. This area is rockier and less traveled even than the coast towards Artà. The small coves of S'Estanyol are true hidden gems.
The route has the advantage of being more protected from the Levante wind, so it can be an alternative when conditions don't allow paddling south.
3Security tips for advanced routes
These areas do not have nearby rescue services. If the wind changes or you get injured, you are on your own. Only venture here if you have real experience in paddle surf.
Mandatory equipment: Leash (safety strap), life jacket, plenty of water (minimum 2 liters), sun protection, phone in a waterproof bag with a full battery.
Safety protocol: Always let someone know your planned route and estimated return time. Check the weather forecast from several sources. If in doubt, do not go out.
Wind and tides: how to read the conditions
This is the most important variable and the one beginners underestimate the most. Paddle surfing against the wind is exhausting, frustrating, and potentially dangerous. Learning to read weather conditions is as important as mastering paddling technique.
1Wind scale for paddle surf
Less than 8 knots: Ideal conditions. Sea practically flat. Perfect for any level.
8-12 knots: Acceptable for experienced paddlers. Can be uncomfortable for beginners. Choose protected spots.
12-15 knots: Only for experts and in very protected areas. Paddling becomes technical and demanding.
More than 15 knots: Not recommended for anyone in open sea. Even experts should think twice.
Useful trick: If you go out paddling, always start by paddling against the wind. That way, when you are tired, the wind will help you get back. Doing it the other way around is a recipe for trouble.
2The best times of the day
Early morning (7:00-10:00): The magic moment. The thermal wind hasn't picked up yet, the sea is like glass, and the sunrise light is spectacular. If you can only paddle once, let it be at this time.
Midday (11:00-16:00): The most complicated hours in summer. The thermal wind (embat) usually blows from the south-southwest, sometimes with intensity. It's not impossible to paddle, but it requires more experience.
Sunset (18:00-20:00): When the sun goes down, the wind usually drops. Another excellent window for quiet sessions, with golden light as a bonus.
Equipment: what you need for SUP in Mallorca
The board: For beginners, large inflatable boards (10'6" or more, at least 32 inches wide) are the most stable. For long routes, look for longer touring-style boards. For coves and SUP yoga, wide and stable boards.
The paddle: It should reach approximately the height of your wrist with your arm stretched upwards. Aluminum paddles are cheaper, carbon fiber ones are lighter and more efficient.
The leash: The strap that attaches the board to your ankle. Essential, non-negotiable. If you fall with wind, the board can drift away faster than you can swim.
Complementary equipment: Water-resistant sun protection (the sun's reflection on the sea is brutal), sunglasses with a strap, hat or visor, enough water (minimum 1 liter), waterproof bag for mobile and keys, water shoes if you are going to explore rocky areas.
Rental in Alcudia: In high season you will find rental points all over Playa de Muro and Playa de Alcudia. Approximate prices: €15-20 per hour, €40-60 per full day. If you plan several sessions, weekly rental is much cheaper.
The perfect combination: boat + paddle surf with Coral Boats
There is something we have discovered after years of operating boat tours in the Bay of Alcudia: paddle surf and boat trips complement each other like few things in the world.
Think about it: the main problem with paddle surf is that you are limited by your physical endurance. You can paddle 5 kilometers, maybe 10 if you are fit. But the most spectacular coves, those that appear in Instagram photos and look like they're from another planet, are often further than you can reach by paddling.
That’s where the boat comes in. Imagine arriving by boat at a hidden cove, anchoring in turquoise waters, and then indeed, taking out the board and exploring every corner of that cove at your own pace, entering caves, skirting cliffs, reaching where the boat cannot go.
On all our boat excursions, whether it’s the morning tour or the sunset tour, we carry paddle surf boards on board available to all our clients at no additional cost. You don't need to bring anything, you don't need to rent separately, you don't need to be an expert.
When we reach the coves where we anchor, we simply put the boards in the water and anyone who wants can use them. If you've never tried SUP, our crew will be happy to teach you the basics. In five minutes, you'll be standing up paddling on your own.
This combination allows you to access coves you couldn't reach otherwise, paddle in completely virgin waters, and try paddle surf without commitment. All included in the price of the excursion.
The sea is waiting for you: now it’s your turn
Paddle surf in Alcudia is not just a sport. It is a way of discovering Mallorca that few tourists experience. It is seeing the coast from a unique perspective, gliding in silence over waters so clear it feels like you're floating in air. It is finding that hidden cove, that sea cave, that corner that only exists for those who dare to seek it.
It doesn't matter your level. It doesn't matter if you come with your own board or if you've never paddled in your life. Northern Mallorca has spots for everyone, from sandy beaches perfect for beginners to wild coasts that challenge the most experienced.
And if you want to live the full experience, combining navigation, snorkeling, and paddle surf in the best coves of the bay, we wait for you at Port d'Alcudia. Our SUP boards are ready, our crew is happy to teach you, and the most beautiful waters in the Mediterranean are waiting for you to discover them.
See you on the water. With a board or without it, but always in the best Mediterranean there is.
