Plan your visit to the best beaches in Mallorca
Mallorca is one of the Mediterranean’s favorite destinations. Here you will find some of the best beaches in Palma de Mallorca, combining crystal clear waters, fine sand, and an atmosphere that captivates everyone who visits the island.
With more than 200 coves and beaches scattered throughout the island, the Balearic capital offers a coastal diversity that is very difficult to beat. It is a perfect area for those seeking tranquility as well as for lovers of nightlife or water sports.
At Lock Here Now, we help you discover the best beaches in Palma de Mallorca.
The Southwest Coast
The southwestern part of Mallorca has some of the most beautiful beaches in Palma and is perfect for those looking for an exclusive atmosphere without giving up the natural charm of the island.
You´ll discover beaches with crystal clear waters surrounded by pine trees, high-end beach bars, and beach clubs with spectacular views of the Mediterranean. All this makes the southwest of the island a must-see destination if you visit Mallorca.
Beaches in the south of the island that you can’t miss
Here is a selection of the most recommended beaches in Palma de Mallorca for enjoying the sun, sea, and essence of the island. All of them are very close to the city center.
- Cala Major Palma: 5 km away from Palmacombines urban convenience and natural beauty. It is the perfect retreat for both residents and tourists. It stands out for its family atmosphere during the day and its nightlife at sunset.
- llletas Mallorca: an exclusive, quiet, and sophisticated beach. It consists of three coves (Illetas – Cala Comtessa, Platja d’Illetes, and Cala de Bendinat) connected by different coastal paths with stunning panoramic views.
- Portixol Palma: a small urban beach perfect for families with young children. With calm waters, fine sand, and a promenade lined with restaurants serving fresh fish.
- Es Trenc Mallorca: One of the most beautiful beaches in Palma. With 2 kilometers of fine white sand and turquoise waters. A natural gem in the heart of the Mediterranean.
The Levante: Traditional and Authentic
This area still retains that traditional Mallorcan atmosphere. You can find quiet beaches, coves with crystal clear blue waters, fishing villages, nature, and incredible surroundings. Many of the best coves in Mallorca Palma are located in this area.
Marine ecosystems and conservation
Palma de Mallorca bays are marine ecosystems of great ecological value. Their main feature is Posidonia oceanica, an underwater plant that acts as a marine lung, oxygenating the water and providing shelter for species of fish, mollusks, and crustaceans. This is where the clarity and purity of Mallorca’s crystal-clear waters come from.
If we want to keep Palma de Mallorca’s best beaches in perfect condition, it is important that we are responsible with the island’s environment and avoid certain things: anchoring boats, catching marine species, or using non-biodegradable sunscreen. Environmental awareness among visitors and locals is key to keeping these natural paradises in perfect condition.
Hidden beaches in Mallorca
- Cala Blava: A small rocky bay ideal for the more adventurous. It offers an intimate and wild experience. Perfect for those who value privacy and direct contact with nature..
- Cala Vella: One of the most authentic beaches in the area (Mallorcan fishing coves). With sheltered waters and a small marina. If you are looking for peace and quiet, this is the place for you if you want to experience the local way of life visiting the island.
Beaches near Palma
One of the advantages of staying in the center of the Balearic capital is that many of Palma de Mallorca’s best beaches are less than 30 minutes from the historic center.
You can start by visiting some of its monuments and then enjoy the crystal clear waters of its beaches in the afternoon. If you plan to be out all day without returning to your accommodation, you can leave your belongings in our lockers in the center of Mallorca.
| Beach | Type | Best for | Services | Distance from Palma |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cala Major | Urban | Families, tourists | High | 5 km |
| Illetas | Exclusive | Couples, relaxation | High | 10 km |
| Portixol | Urban | Families with children | Medium | 3 km |
| Es Trenc | Natural | Nature, photography | Medium | 45 km |
| Cala Blava | Rocky | Adventurers | Low | 20 km |
| Cala Vella | Fishing | Peace & quiet | Low | 25 km |
Plan your tour on the best beaches
Whether you are looking for hidden coves or beaches with full amenities, you will find ideal options nearby.
Public transports connections
Public transport connections and access routes are very well signposted, allowing you to organize convenient trips from the center of Palma without having to take the car. However, if you need more flexibility to visit the coves, renting a car is the best option. But bear in mind that during the summer months, the car parks at the most popular beaches fill up early.
What to Bring and What to Avoid
As in any other beach area, here are some essentials you can’t forget: high factor biodegradable sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat, plenty of water and snacks, snorkelling equipment, water shoes… Respect the environment by avoiding non-biodegradable products, plastic items, cigarette butts, loud music or games that disturb other people… among other things.
Seasons and Climate in the Balearic Islands
The summer months are perfect for visiting the island and the best beaches in Palma de Mallorca. However, this is also the busiest time for tourism, and it can sometimes be difficult to find parking at some beaches or to eat without a reservation.
In the mid-season, the island has a more pleasant temperature and is less crowded with tourists. May or September can be ideal months if you are thinking of avoiding the crowds. In the low season, although it is not the bathing season for most people, there are many restaurants that remain open.
Best tips visiting Mallorca
Which is the closest beach to the centre of Palma?
The closest beach to Palma’s historic centre is Portixol, about 3 kilometres from the old town. It can be reached on foot in about 30-40 minutes, by bicycle or by city bus. It is a very accessible beach for everyone. Another option is Cala Majo, just 5 kilometres away, which is also very well connected by public transport.
Where can you find quiet beaches without tourists?
If you want to avoid crowds, we recommend Cala Blava and Cala Vella. Also, the areas further away from Es Trenc (15-20 minutes’ walk from the main car parks). If you get up early or visit these beaches at the end of the day, you won’t have any problems.
Which beaches are best for children?
The best beaches for kids in Mallorca are Cala Estancia and Portixol , ideal for families with children because they are shallow, quiet and safe for children to play in. Playa de Palma is also very family-friendly, with lifeguards on duty and lots of activities for the whole family to enjoy.
Is it possible to go to the beach by public transport from Palma?
The EMT Palma bus network connects the island’s main beaches. There are different bus routes depending on where you want to go. Bus tickets are very cheap, although there are also different travel passes available, which you can find out about at the station itself.
Below is a map highlighting the best spots so you can enjoy the finest beaches on the island of Mallorca.
After visiting the best beaches in Mallorca, you may want to try the island’s excellent cuisine. To help you do so, we have prepared a guide to the most famous dishes of Mallorca. Another city renowned for its excellent cuisine is Bilbao, especially its famous pintxos.
