Arenal de sa Canova (Sa Canova) – Protected Natural Beach with Ecological Richness
Location & Beach Profile
Location: 13 kilometres from Can Picafort, between Punta de sa Barraca (Artà) and Torrent de na Borges (Santa Margalida).
Type of Beach: Natural sand (with some rocks and shells)
Length: 1,500 metres
Average Width: 40 metres
Occupancy: Low
Typical Visitors: Locals
Access: Pedestrians
Facilities: None
Protected Landscape & Ecological Interest
Sa Canova, also known as Arenal de sa Canova, is a long, virgin beach that forms part of the Àrea Natural d'Especial Interès, a designation awarded in 1991 by the Balearic Islands Parliament to protect its outstanding archaeological remains, diverse flora, fauna, and wetland ecosystem. The nearby Torrent de na Borges estuary supports one of the richest populations of birds and animals in the Balearic archipelago.
Natural Composition & Scenery
The beach features fine-grained sand mixed with shells, interspersed with occasional rocks. The very gentle slope leads into shallow waters, while the rear dune system is stabilised by pine forests, scrubland, thistles, rosemary, and marine iris. Scattered abandoned houses and small drainage channels are the only interruptions to this otherwise pristine natural landscape.
Boating & Anchoring
Due to its shallow depth and low coastline, navigators are advised to stay well offshore to avoid running aground. The nearest port facilities are at Club Nàutic Serra Nova, approximately 1.6 nautical miles away.
Access & Popularity
Access to Sa Canova is somewhat challenging by car. Drivers must carefully follow signage along a forest road, which leads to a free parking area. From there, the beach is reached by a 5-minute walk. Due to its remote setting and protected status, Arenal de sa Canova remains lightly visited, offering a peaceful, natural escape where nudism is permitted.
The information and pictures provided within this Beach Guide is courtesy of PlatgesdeBalears.com