Santa Ponsa: The Paradise of Mallorca

6 min readJun 10, 2023

Unmasking Santa Ponsa

Picture this: a serene beach resort, nestled in the heart of Mallorca, offering the perfect setting for a family getaway. This is Santa Ponsa, also known as Santa Ponça. But don’t be fooled by its seemingly ordinary facade. This hidden gem is a treasure trove of natural beauty, historical significance, and some of the most luxurious properties in Mallorca. The town centre is a picturesque blend of mountainous landscapes and lush woods, while the outskirts boast world-class golf resorts and lavish homes for the elite owners of the renowned Port Adriano superyachts.

Santa Ponsa, located in the southwest of Mallorca, is home to two sandy beaches: the expansive 560-metre Playa de Santa Ponsa, and the quaint cove of Caló d’en Pallisser, affectionately known as Playa Pequeña. With every facility you could need for a classic sun-soaked family holiday, Santa Ponsa offers so much more than meets the eye.

Related: Free activities in Palma

Accommodation in Santa Ponsa: From Luxury Hotels to Villas

Santa Ponsa is dotted with contemporary 4-star hotels, many of which enjoy prime locations along the beachfront of Playa de Santa Ponsa. If you’re seeking a 5-star luxury experience complete with a spa and seafront views, you’re in the right place. For those who prefer a tranquil, rural setting, Santa Ponsa offers the perfect retreat.

And if you’re on the hunt for a luxury holiday villa to rent in Mallorca this summer, your search ends here! We’ve curated a selection of the most exclusive villas available for your vacation this year. Choose your preferred location on Mallorca and select the villa that resonates with you the most.

A Culinary Journey in Santa Ponsa

Santa Ponsa boasts a vibrant international atmosphere, with a diverse mix of British, German, Spanish, Italian, and Asian bars and restaurants. Whether you’re grabbing a quick snack at a beach bar or seeking a gourmet experience, Santa Ponsa has something for everyone. For a taste of haute cuisine, we recommend a visit to Der Österreicher Restaurant in Nova Santa Ponsa or 7Fuegos, which overlooks the Club Náutico.

Must-See Attractions in Santa Ponsa

The star attraction of Santa Ponsa is undoubtedly Playa de Santa Ponsa, the heart around which the town beats. This beach is a family favourite, thanks to its shallow waters, sandy shores, and lifeguard protection. Adventure seekers can indulge in a variety of watersports, while children can enjoy purpose-built play areas.

For yacht enthusiasts, the Club Náutico de Santa Ponsa is a must-visit. Nestled in a deep natural inlet, this picturesque yacht club offers over 500 berths and is a delightful spot to grab a bite. Golfers will be drawn to Nova Santa Ponsa, home to three golf courses (Santa Ponsa I, II, and III).

The prestigious Mallorca Country Club, located in the heart of Calvia, is a distinguished social and sports club, offering a health and wellness center, a first-class restaurant, and exclusive events. It’s the only facility in Mallorca that boasts all three playing surfaces (grass, clay, and hard court).

Santa Ponsa Tennis Club is the perfect place to learn or practice tennis while unwinding on holiday. And if you’re in the mood for a touch of luxury, Port Adriano, one of Mallorca’s few ports for super-yachts, is less than a 10-minute drive away.

Santa Ponsa: A Playground for All

Santa Ponsa is a haven for those who love to bask on the beach or dine at one of the many bars and restaurants. Its proximity to the motorway and the Tramuntana mountain range makes it an ideal base for hikers and bikers. Adventure seekers can head to the popular Jungle Parc outdoor adventure park. Nature lovers can feed the wild parakeets in the small wood by the big beach or watch the ducks meandering around the town. For history buffs, the Sa Morisca nature park is a must-visit. Santa Ponsa also serves as an excellent base for island excursions, including a boat trip to the nature resort of Dragonera Island.

Nova Santa Ponsa is home to three world-class golf resorts, featuring purpose-built homes with stunning views of the green and surrounding mountains. You can delve deeper into Santa Ponsa Golf with our comprehensive guide. The area hosts many high-profile tournaments, with golf course I being public.

Celebrations and Events in Santa Ponsa

Santa Ponsa comes alive during the annual fiesta of Rei En Jaume, the town’s main festival. This vibrant celebration includes two parades, a mock beach battle, a medieval market, and a plethora of live entertainment throughout September. The large beach serves as the gathering point, while pedestrian streets come alive with markets, live music, and pop-up bars. Another highlight is the Nit de Foc on the eve of Sant Joan, a celebration marked by traditional music and dancing that lasts until the early hours. The NGO ‘The Lions’ also hosts an annual charity event in the autumn.

Journey to Santa Ponsa

Santa Ponsa is a breezy 30-minute taxi ride from the airport. Public transport is also an option, taking approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes. This requires a bus into Palma and another to Santa Ponsa.

The Rich History and Culture of Santa Ponsa

Santa Ponsa holds a special place in Mallorcan history. Sa Caleta, the inlet now housing Santa Ponsa Marina, is where King Jaume I landed on September 10th, 1229, marking the beginning of the re-conquest of the island from the Moors. This event is commemorated annually with the thrilling fiesta Rei En Jaume. The town also boasts several archaeological sites dating back to the Moorish and Roman occupations.

Santa Ponsa is a melting pot of international residents, with much of its architecture purpose-built for tourism. The town offers a range of amenities for the more upscale outlying areas, which feature some of the island’s most luxurious properties.

Life in Santa Ponsa

Santa Ponsa exudes an international vibe, with a diverse community. It offers extensive residential property areas and useful local amenities such as banks, schools, and supermarkets. The area is particularly popular among retired expats, families, and golf and boat enthusiasts. Despite being quiet during the low season, Santa Ponsa is attractive for year-round living due to its amenities and easy access to Palma and Calvia village.

Exploring Areas Close to Santa Ponsa

Thanks to easy motorway access, everything from the bustling Palma Nova and Magaluf to the tranquil Andratx is within easy reach. The neighbouring towns of Costa de la Calma and Son Ferrer are primarily residential, while the nearby Port Adriano is a haven for designer shopping and super-yachts.

In conclusion, Santa Ponsa is a hidden paradise that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and modern amenities. Whether you’re a beach lover, a history buff, afoodie, or an adventure seeker, Santa Ponsa has something for everyone. So, why wait? Pack your bags and get ready to explore this hidden gem in the heart of Mallorca.