Menorca: Taxi-Boat from Es Grau to Colom Island

A Closer Look at the Taxi-Boat to Colom Island in Menorca

This particular boat experience in Menorca offers a simple yet charming way to see the island’s stunning coastlines and unwind on pristine beaches. It’s a short trip—about 30 minutes each way—but packed with enough beauty and tranquility to make it memorable. The boat departs from Es Grau, a quiet fishing village known for its natural charm, making it an ideal starting point for those seeking a peaceful escape. The highlight is definitely the chance to spend around four hours on one of the two lovely beaches on Colom Island—Playa Els Tamarells or Playa Arenal den Moro—whether for sunbathing, swimming, or just soaking up the peaceful surroundings.

What I particularly like about this experience is how straightforward and relaxed it feels. First, you get a quick, scenic boat ride that’s not just about transportation but also about enjoying the views of Menorca’s rugged coast. Second, the flexibility to choose between two beaches gives you a touch of personalized adventure—deciding whether you prefer the more sheltered Playa Els Tamarells or the more open Playa Arenal den Moro. The fact that you can spend a solid four hours on the island’s beaches is a rare treat, especially compared to short, one-hour boat tours. However, a potential consideration is that the trip might seem a bit pricey for a 10-minute boat ride if you’re not keen on relaxing at the beaches. Plus, there are no included amenities like snorkeling gear or umbrellas, so bringing your own might be advisable.

This tour offers a peaceful, scenic, and flexible day out that’s especially suitable for those who enjoy beaches, gentle boat rides, and a touch of island life without the hassle of complicated logistics or crowded groups. It’s a straightforward way to add a splash of seaside leisure to your Menorca itinerary.

Key points / Takeaways

• Short, scenic boat ride: The 30-minute trip from Es Grau is a relaxed way to see Menorca’s coastline.
• Two beaches to choose from: Playa Els Tamarells offers shelter, while Playa Arenal den Moro provides more open space.
• Four hours of free time: Plenty of opportunity to swim, sunbathe, or just unwind on the sand.
• Knowledgeable skipper: Guides are helpful, though not necessarily multilingual, which could be a consideration for non-Spanish speakers.
• Flexible return: The boat picks you up at the arranged time, making it easy to plan your day.
• Cost: At $28 per person, it’s an affordable way to enjoy a relaxing beach day, though some reviews mention the ride feels a bit short for the price.

Exploring the Experience in Detail

The Itinerary: What to Expect on Your Day

The adventure begins at the Es Grau pier, where your skipper—likely someone from “Mar en calma”—awaits to take you on this brief yet charming trip. Arriving about 20 minutes early is a good idea, so you’re not hurried and can enjoy the calm waters and views. After a quick safety briefing, your boat ride kicks off, offering a gentle cruise outside the bay, revealing glimpses of Menorca’s rugged coastlines and coves. The ride itself is straightforward, but it’s the scenery and the promise of a quiet escape that make it special.

Once you arrive on Colom Island, you’re free to select your preferred beach—each with its own character. Playa Els Tamarells, with its sheltered setting, is ideal for those seeking calm waters and shaded areas, while Playa Arenal den Moro, more exposed, might suit those looking to soak up the sun with a view. The guides typically show travelers around the beaches, pointing out interesting features, which adds a nice touch of local insight.

The Beaches: Relax and Rejuvenate

Imagine white sands under your feet, crystal-clear waters inviting you for a swim, and the serene quiet that only a small island can offer. The reviews highlight how swimming in the waters around Colom Island is “amazing,” with some travelers noting the tranquility and beauty of the beaches. It’s a genuine chance to disconnect from crowds and enjoy authentic island scenery. Keep in mind, the beaches are natural and undeveloped, so it’s wise to bring your own snacks, water, and perhaps a shade umbrella, since none are provided.

Time at the Beach: How You Might Spend It

Four hours might seem brief but in reality, it’s enough to relax, read, swim, or do a bit of people-watching. Many travelers appreciate the ease of this setup—no pressure to rush back, just plenty of time to indulge in the simple pleasures of sun and sea. Some reviews mention the guides showing them around and even mentioning local spots or giving tips, which enhances the experience. On the flip side, a traveler noted that the ride felt a bit expensive for what was essentially a quick boat trip, but most agree the peaceful beaches and scenery justify the price.

The Return Trip: Easy and Predictable

When your four hours are up, the same friendly skipper picks you up at the designated time, bringing you back to Es Grau. The return journey offers more of the same tranquil views, making the whole outing feel like a well-paced, low-stress day. It’s ideal for travelers who want to enjoy a scenic, relaxed experience without the hassle of large boat tours or lengthy transfers.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who crave a peaceful beach day combined with a scenic boat ride. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate natural beauty over commercialized resorts, and who don’t mind a simple, no-frills trip that emphasizes the scenery and tranquility. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or even solo, and want to escape the more crowded tourist hotspots, this is a solid choice.

It’s also a good option for travelers who enjoy flexibility—since you can pick your beach and spend as much time as you like. Keep in mind, it’s not ideal if you have mobility issues or are looking for amenities like snorkeling equipment or guided tours in multiple languages. And, of course, packing your own snacks and sun protection will make the beach hours more comfortable.

Price and Logistics: Is It Worth It?

At $28 per person, the tour offers a good value for the chance to relax on a remote beach and enjoy a scenic boat ride. The short travel time keeps costs reasonable, but some guests have remarked that the ride feels a bit brief for the price. On the other hand, the convenience—no need to worry about transportation or complicated bookings—is a real plus. You simply show up, hop on the boat, enjoy your time, and return, making it a hassle-free choice.

Arranged as a flexible activity, you can check availability for different start times, and the cancellation policy is generous—full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance. Keep in mind, there’s no included food or drink, so bringing your own supplies is recommended.

Unique Aspects Highlighted by Reviews

From actual travelers’ comments, a few tips emerge: the guides are helpful and informative, though not all speak English fluently—so if language is important, double-check. One traveler noted that the boat was “fine,” but the ride was short, which is something to consider if you’re expecting a longer cruise. Conversely, another mentioned that the boat driver was prompt and showed them around the beaches, giving a nice preview of the island before they chose which one to stay at.

The beaches themselves are praised highly for their beauty and swimming quality. A traveler named Sarah appreciated the “speedy service” and the ability to see both beaches before selecting which one to drop off at—this flexibility adds real value.

Final Thoughts

This Menorca boat trip is an excellent way to enjoy a slow-paced day on the island’s quieter side. The short boat ride outside Es Grau is enjoyable and offers great photo opportunities, while the four hours on the beach provide genuine relaxation and swimming opportunities. It’s a straightforward, affordable option for those interested in natural beauty, beach time, and scenic views.

If you’re the type of traveler who appreciates simple pleasures—sun, sea, and a peaceful boat ride—this experience delivers. Just remember to bring your own shade and snacks, and maybe brush up on some basic Spanish or Catalan phrases if you want to chat with your skipper.

FAQ

How long is the boat ride from Es Grau to Colom Island?
The boat trip itself lasts about 30 minutes each way, offering a quick and scenic crossing.

What beaches can I choose on Colom Island?
You can select between Playa Els Tamarells, known for its sheltered and calm environment, and Playa Arenal den Moro, which is more open and sunny.

How much free time do I get on the island?
You’ll have approximately four hours to swim, sunbathe, or explore the beaches at your leisure.

Is the tour suitable for non-Spanish speakers?
Guides speak English, Spanish, and Catalan, but some reviews mention that guides may not speak English fluently. It’s best to ask beforehand if language is a concern.

Do I need to bring anything for the beach?
Since food, drinks, and umbrellas are not included, it’s advisable to bring water, snacks, sun protection, and possibly a shade umbrella.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your plans.

Is this experience good for families?
Yes, especially for those with children comfortable with boat rides and beach time. Keep in mind, it’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments.