With its approachable, warm waters, reliable winds and mellow surf Menorca offers a great place to wind, kite, boogie, paddle, or board surf...

Surfing in Menorca: Riding the Island’s Gentle Swells

Menorca’s calm Balearic waters may not make it a world-renowned surfing destination like those on the Atlantic coast of northern Spain and Portugal, but the island still offers unique opportunities to enjoy the sea on a board. With gentle Mediterranean swells, shifting winds, and varied coastal geography, Menorca caters to a diverse range of watersports enthusiasts, from stand-up paddleboarders to kite surfers and wing foilers. Whether you’re gliding over crystal-clear coves or riding a wind-driven wave, the island offers a rewarding connection with the sea.

Surfing in the Balearics: A Different Kind of Ride

Traditional wave surfing is not a major draw in Menorca, given its location in the Mediterranean, which lacks the consistent, powerful swells of the Atlantic. However, when the Tramuntana wind from the north kicks up, it generates moderate waves that can be ridden by longboarders and beginner surfers. 

Stand-Up Paddleboarding: Exploring Menorca’s Coastline

For those who prefer a more tranquil experience, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is one of the best ways to explore Menorca’s stunning coastline. The island’s calm southern coves, such as Cala Macarella and Cala Mitjana, provide ideal conditions for paddling through turquoise waters, discovering hidden caves, and soaking in the untouched beauty of Menorca’s marine landscape. SUP is also a great option at sunrise or sunset, when the sea is glassy and the scenery even more breathtaking.

Boogie Boarding: Fun for All Ages

Boogie boarding is a great way to enjoy the waves in Menorca, where small but consistent waves offer just enough power for an exhilarating ride. Son Bou and Arenal d’en Castell are good spots for bodyboarding when conditions allow, and it’s a favorite activity among families and young beachgoers.

Windsurfing: Harnessing Menorca’s Breezes

Menorca’s consistent winds make it a prime destination for windsurfing, especially in areas like Fornells Bay, where steady breezes and flat waters create perfect conditions for both beginners and experienced windsurfers. The bay offers rental centers and windsurfing schools, making it an excellent place to learn the sport or improve your skills. On stronger wind days, the north coast beaches provide more challenging conditions for advanced riders.

Kite Surfing & Wing Foil Surfing: Riding the Wind

With its expansive beaches and frequent winds, Menorca is a fantastic destination for kite surfing and the growing sport of wing foil surfing. Son Bou, Punta Prima, and Cala Tirant are popular spots for kite surfers when the south winds pick up. Wing foiling, which involves riding a hydrofoil board while holding a handheld wing, is also gaining popularity, providing a thrilling sensation of flying over the water with minimal resistance.

Sailing: Embracing Menorca’s Nautical Spirit

For those looking to experience Menorca’s waters in a different way, sailing offers a traditional and exhilarating alternative to board sports. The island’s maritime heritage runs deep, and Mahon’s natural harbor—one of the largest in the world—serves as a hub for sailing excursions. Whether chartering a yacht, renting a catamaran, or joining a sailing tour, Menorca’s coastline is best appreciated from the deck of a boat, where one can truly embrace the spirit of the Mediterranean.

A Watersports Haven in the Mediterranean

While Menorca may not be a major surfing destination, its varied conditions and coastal geography make it a paradise for windsurfers, kite surfers, stand-up paddleboarders, and sailors alike. Whether you’re catching the occasional north-coast swell, gliding over calm waters, or harnessing the power of the wind, the island offers a wide range of ways to connect with the sea—proving that surfing in Menorca is all about embracing the elements and enjoying the Mediterranean at its best.

Surf and Sail Menorca

With almost 45 years of experience, Surf and Sail Menorca are pioneers in renting and teaching windsurfing courses for all levels, adults and children. Located at the foot of the Son Xoriguer beach, a quiet cove without currents or waves, their location provides a good spot to take the first steps in learning to windsurf. A little further from the coast, more advanced surfers can enjoy freeriding. Surf and Sail Menorca also offers wing foil, kayak, catamaran, king sup, and paddle equipment, courses and excursions.