Arenal d’en Castell: A Complete Guide to Menorca’s Horseshoe Bay

Arenal d’en Castell sits on the north-east coast of Menorca. This purpose-built resort wraps around a golden, horseshoe-shaped bay. Families love it here. Couples do too. The water stays calm and shallow all year round, so it feels like a giant natural swimming pool. Pine woodlands and sand dunes back the town, giving it a relaxed, green feel. Below, we’ll walk you through the best things to do, where to stay, and how to reach this pretty corner of Menorca.

What to see and do

First things first, head straight to the beach. The Arenal d’en Castell Beach curves around the bay in a near-perfect horseshoe shape. Soft golden sand meets shallow, blue-flagged water, so it’s ideal for children. A wooden boardwalk runs along the back of the sand, and it’s wheelchair accessible too. Try your hand at windsurfing, pedalos, or water-skiing while you’re there.

Next, golf fans should drive over to Golf Son Parc, an 18-hole course set among pine trees just outside town. It’s Menorca’s only golf course, so it draws players from across the island. Booking a tee time in advance saves you disappointment in peak season. Buy Tickets.

After that, lace up your boots for the Camí de Cavalls. This ancient coastal path starts and finishes right in Arenal d’en Castell. Walk west along the cliffs towards Son Saura North beach for the prettiest stretch. Wildflowers, sea views, and quiet coves line the route, so bring your camera.

Meanwhile, boat trips are a brilliant way to see the coastline from the water. Several operators run short cruises past hidden coves near the resort, and some include gin tastings or snorkelling stops. Because these trips fill up fast in summer, it pays to book ahead. Buy Tickets.

For something quieter, walk ten minutes over the headland to Na Xeringa. This tiny cove has turquoise water and pale, flattened stones instead of sand. It suits photographers and snorkellers far more than families with young children. Fish dart between the rocks at either end of the main bay too, so grab a snorkel and mask before you go.

Finally, keep the kids happy with the resort’s little road train. It rattles from the Aquamarina area, past several hotels, and on to the fishing village of Na Macaret. Tickets cost just a few euros, and the ride offers lovely views along the coast.

Local festivals and traditions

Menorca takes its festivals seriously, and the island’s biggest tradition is the Fiesta de Sant Joan, held every June in Ciutadella. Riders parade black Menorcan horses through packed streets, and the horses rear up on their hind legs above the crowds. It’s thrilling to watch, though also thoroughly chaotic.

Closer to home, smaller towns near Arenal d’en Castell hold their own summer festes throughout July and August. Expect live music, fireworks, and traditional dancing in the main square. Local bars often lay on karaoke nights and live bands during peak season too, giving the resort a lively, sociable feel after dark.

Food plays a big role in island culture as well. Look out for caldereta de langosta, a rich lobster stew that originated in nearby Fornells. Pair it with a glass of Menorcan gin, a spirit the island has produced since British rule in the 18th century. Many local restaurants serve both dishes with pride.

Where to stay

Staying right on the seafront gives you the best of Arenal d’en Castell. Hotels along the beachfront put you steps from the sand, the boardwalk, and most restaurants. This area suits families who want everything within easy walking distance.

Alternatively, book a room on the cliffs above Na Xeringa for postcard-worthy views over the bay. Many apartments and villas here look straight out to sea, though you’ll need a short walk down to the main beach. Couples and photographers tend to prefer this quieter, elevated spot.

If nightlife and dining matter more to you, choose accommodation near the town centre instead. You’ll be close to supermarkets, pharmacies, and the resort’s handful of bars and restaurants. This central area also gives easy access to buses heading further along the coast.

Whichever spot you choose, book early for July and August. Rooms fill up fast once summer arrives, and prices climb along with demand. Book Accommodation.

How to get to Arenal d’en Castell

Most visitors fly into Menorca Airport, which sits close to Mahón. It’s roughly a 30-minute drive from the terminal to Arenal d’en Castell, making it a quick and easy transfer. Direct flights arrive from many UK and European cities, especially during summer. Book flights.

Menorca has no train network, so you won’t need to plan around rail timetables here. Instead, most travellers rely on the airport, buses, or a hire car to get around the island.

Hiring a car gives you the most freedom once you land. Take the Me-1 road from Mahón towards Alaior, then follow signs north to the coast. The drive takes about 30 minutes in light traffic, and having your own car makes it simple to explore nearby beaches and villages. Hire a Car. Already on the island? Get directions.

Prefer public transport? Regular buses connect Arenal d’en Castell with Mahón and other resorts along the north coast. Services run more frequently in summer, though timetables shrink outside peak season, so check times before you travel. Buy Tickets.