El Arenal: The Hidden Gem of Mallorca’s South Coast

5 min readJun 11, 2023

Discovering El Arenal

Tucked away on Mallorca’s sun-drenched southern coast, El Arenal, affectionately known as ‘Arenal’ or ‘S’Arenal’ in the local tongue, is a vibrant village that lies on the eastern fringe of the sprawling six-kilometer ‘Playa de Palma’. Just a stone’s throw away from Son Sant Joan airport (7 kilometers to be precise) and a mere 15 kilometers east of the bustling city of Palma, El Arenal is the perfect base for an unforgettable holiday.

Journeying Through Arenal’s Past and Culture

El Arenal’s roots stretch back to the late 19th century when sandstone workers from the inland city of Llucmajor first settled here. The hospitality scene began to bloom in 1914 with the establishment of the ‘Hotel Terminus’, and a quaint fishing dock served the burgeoning town. The 1950s marked a period of rapid growth, with El Arenal seamlessly blending with neighboring coastal villages. This growth spurt prompted the Mallorcan authorities to implement continuous development plans to enhance Arenal’s appeal.

Today, El Arenal is a magnet for tourists seeking a holiday that combines sun-soaked beaches, lively bars, and pulsating nightclubs. It’s particularly popular among young German international visitors aged 18–30. While it may not have the notoriety of Magaluf, Arenal is known for its vibrant and energetic atmosphere. It’s the perfect destination if you’re after a place that buzzes with activity day and night. However, those seeking a tranquil retreat might want to explore other options.

Retail Adventures in Arenal

Arenal is a shopper’s delight, with a wide array of shopping options lining its promenade, from souvenir shops and mini-marts to clothing stores. But if you’re in the mood for a shopping spree, a quick taxi ride will whisk you away to Palma, a city that’s a paradise for shopaholics. The renowned FAN Shopping Centre is also within easy reach, boasting a variety of high-street stores, a cinema, and a large Carrefour hypermarket.

Every Thursday, a local open-air market springs to life, offering a diverse range of products from bags and clothes to flowers, fruits, and vegetables.

Must-See Attractions in Arenal

Arenal seamlessly connects to neighboring areas via a long, continuous beach-front promenade, a favorite spot for dog-walkers, bikers, skateboarders, rollerbladers, and more. It’s an ideal path to explore the coastline or engage in some people-watching.

Arenal’s beach is a picturesque stretch of white sand dotted with palm trees. It’s safe for swimming, though families with young children might find it crowded during peak season. The promenade of El Arenal is a hub for all kinds of beach activities and sports.

Nightlife and beach sports are the main attractions, but there’s more to explore. A series of 15 open-air huts, known as ‘Balnearios’, serve drinks and snacks and are often used as landmarks, with number 6 being a crowd favorite. Nearby attractions include Aqualand, the largest water park, and the famous Palma Aquarium, home to Europe’s deepest shark tank and a host of activities to keep everyone entertained.

Things to Do in Arenal

With a short 10–15 minute transfer from the airport, you’ll find a 24/7 hub of activities during peak season. If you’ve had your fill of bars, nightclubs, and water sports, there are plenty of day-trip options to other parts of Mallorca. A quick trip to Palmacity offers a wealth of sights and experiences.

For a change of scenery, day-trips to the serene, untouched beaches of southeast Mallorca offer a different island experience. If you’re into walking or cycling, the upscale town of Portixol is within easy reach, though it’s also bustling during the summer months.

Arenal’s Food Scene

If your holiday plan is to kick back and sample the myriad of cafes and restaurants, Arenal won’t disappoint — grabbing a bite here is a breeze!

For the food connoisseurs seeking a more refined gastronomic experience, a short cab ride will lead you to a plethora of superb restaurants within a 10-kilometer radius, both in rural and urban Mallorca. Notably, the uber-chic beach club of Puro Beach at Cala Estancia is worth a visit.

The 5-star Iberostar Playa de Palma houses the trendy Marea restaurant, offering a delectable à la carte menu and a choice of two tasting menus. Marea is also known for serving what’s been dubbed as ‘the world’s best meats’.

Where to Stay in Arenal

Arenal boasts a wide range of hotels to fit all budgets. Many hotels in the area offer all-inclusive and half-board options, and most provide an airport shuttle. For a more boutique experience, nearby Palma has a host of unique hotels.

Events and Festivities in Arenal

Arenal businesses host a variety of fun events for visitors during the summer months. The main fiestas take place in July, celebrated over a week with a Correfoc to kick off the festivities, an amusement park, and a firework display to conclude the celebrations. A photography contest and a range of indoor and outdoor activities for kids and adults are also part of the fun. Major events in nearby Palma are easily accessible.

Related: Free activities in Palma

Living the Arenal Life

Arenal is home to an international community of residents who live there year-round, drawn by its convenient location. Its proximity to Palma and the airport, coupled with relatively affordable property prices, makes it a popular choice for frequent travelers. The area is well-equipped with local facilities and amenities. However, the popularity of the area can be a downside during the bustling summer months, and winters are usually very quiet.

Exploring Areas Around Arenal

The quieter coastal towns of Can Pastilla, Sometimes, and Puigderros are within easy reach. A bit further away, you’ll find the popular southeast Mallorcan villages of Cala Pi and Sa Ràpita. For a more authentic rural Mallorcan experience, head to the sizable town of Llucmajor or explore the stunning countryside around Mallorca’s second wine region based around Felanitx. A trip to the city of Palma is worthwhile, and you can stroll along the promenade as far as the upscale fishing area of Portixol to the west.