Unveiling Palma’s Coastal Gems: Six Beach Getaways You Must Explore

4 min readJul 6, 2023

Embarking on a Coastal Expedition in Palma

Are you charting a sun-soaked vacation to Palma and wondering about the top places to soak up the sun? Look no further! We’ve crafted the ultimate guide to the most enchanting beach destinations in and around Palma. Whether you’re on the hunt for easy accessibility, hidden gems, perfect swimming conditions, or the most lively beach clubs, we’ve got you covered.

Navigating Palma’s Seaside Marvels

Over the years, we’ve explored every nook and cranny of Palma’s coastline. Some of these concealed gems are just a casual walk from the city centre, while others are a quick 5–10 minute drive or taxi ride away.

One of our prime suggestions is Cala Comtesa. This scenic cove, just ten minutes from Palma, provides both sandy and concrete areas for sunbathing. It features excellent swimming conditions and offers access to the high-end luxury of Puro Beach club, as well as simpler sunbed rentals. Plus, parking is a cinch!

But Palma’s charm extends beyond Cala Comtesa. Let’s delve into some other remarkable options.

Cala Comtesa: Your Personal Haven of Bliss

Tucked on the southern coast of Mallorca, Cala Comtesa is a beloved spot among locals and tourists alike. We recommend arriving early in the morning during the peak months of June-August. Early risers can rent a sunbed for a mere 15 euros.

The beach provides ample space for everyone. You can spread your towel on the sand, or opt for the large concrete area near the car park. Diving into the turquoise waters of the Balearic Sea is an experience you’ll cherish.

Cala Comtesa is also a popular spot for sunbathing and snorkelling. A small café nearby serves lunch and drinks. Although the adjacent car park can get busy, there’s additional free parking up the hill.

Cala Illetas: The Ideal Companion

Adjacent to Cala Comtesa is Cala Illetas, a slightly larger beach with more room on the sand. Here, you have access to two beach clubs: Puro Beach and Balneario. Balneario offers a more affordable and straightforward experience compared to the luxurious Puro Beach. Remember to reserve sunbeds in advance during peak summer months.

The sand and water at Illetas are near perfection. Investing in a taxi ride or a sunbed here is well worth it to maximize your beach day in Palma.

La Calita, Portal Nous: A Tranquil Retreat

Just around the bend from Cala Comtesa is La Calita, Portal Nous. This tranquil cove is a sight to behold, with a narrow strip of water flanked by the headland on either side. Space on the sand and sunbeds are limited, so arrive early to secure your spot. Parking is also limited, but you’re sure to find a spot within a 5–10 minute walk.

A charming restaurant on the beach offers sit-down meals or takeaway snacks and drinks. The swimming conditions here are top-tier, with rock formations and calm, crystal clear water.

Platja de Cala Mayor: Convenience at Its Finest

Cala Mayor, while not the most picturesque, is a convenient beach near Palma. It offers a sandy beach and calm swimming conditions, but it can feel a bit too developed due to the commercial activity and traffic.

It’s closer to Palma but a bit too far to walk from the old town. A swift 5-minute taxi ride will get you there. However, unless you’re staying nearby, we’d suggest making the extra effort to visit one of the other beaches mentioned above. Cala Mayor offers a plethora of food and drink options along the beach.

Portixol: The Rising Star

Heading east from Palma, you’ll discover Portixol, an emerging locale that has been gaining traction over the years with new establishments popping up along the beach.

Portixol’s key advantage is its proximity to Palma. A leisurely 15–20 minute walk along the ocean from the cathedral will lead you to one of our favourite beach clubs, Assaona.

However, the water quality here isn’t as impressive as the other locations. The clarity and turquoise hue are lacking, and there’s unfortunately some litter floating on the surface. So, it might not be the best choice if you’re after crystal-clear waters for swimming.

Playa Ciudad Jardín: Room and Ease

A brief drive further east will bring you to Ciudad Jardin. While it may not be the most visually appealing beach compared to our top picks, it does offer more space if you’re looking for a less crowded spot.

It’s a bit far to walk from Palma, but a quick 5-minute taxi ride along the ocean heading east past Portixol will get you there.

Final Thoughts: Designing Your Perfect Beach Day in Palma

No matter which beach you choose, you can’t go wrong if your aim is to dive into the ocean and cool down from Palma’s hot summer temperatures. However, if you’re planning to spend a whole day at the beach and are seeking the perfect blend of swimming conditions, nice facilities, and a feeling of being a bit “out of the city”, then Cala Comtesa is your best bet.

Remember, Palma is just the starting point. The island is home to hundreds of beaches waiting to be explored. So, why not start with these six and then venture out to discover more of what this beautiful island has to offer? Happy beach hopping!