Mallorca has nearly 80 beaches. The best are around Badia de Palma and to the north and northeast of the island. These are great for swimming and sunbathing and are very popular during the peak season.
Some of the island’s best beaches have been incorporated into larger resorts and include restaurants, fun parks, watersports and beachside bars. It is still possible to find more secluded beaches and coves, however, though these tend to have fewer facilities and may be difficult to reach.
Whether you plan to visit for a weekend, or spend a week in Mallorca, you really should venture to see some of the best beaches on the island.
Here are our top picks for where to go.
1. Es Calo del Moro Mallorca
Es Calo del Moro Mallorca is the iconic beach you’ve probably seen in millions of Instagram photos. This beach (the main feature photo of this article) is really special, and easily one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. It’s slightly off the beaten track with crystal clear ocean, and will be the highlight of any trip to Mallorca. Be sure to wake up and depart early to beat the crowds.
2. Palma Nova
One of the best beaches on the Badia de Palma. Nearby buildings are hidden among dense greenery; the Serra de Tramuntana hills can be seen in the distance. It is one of the best beaches in Mallorca for families and a great place to stay.
3. Portals Nous
This beach, typical of the Balearic Islands, is on a long narrow cove. The thrills and spills of Marineland are nearby.
4. Magaluf
Magaluf’s beach has long been popular with visitors attracting millions of tourists every year. The beach and ocean here is really pretty whilst the town is one of the oldest resorts in Mallorca – is full of restaurants, bars and clubs. The nightlife and summers here are wild. Another attraction is the nearby Aqualand Magaluf.
5. Cala Portals Vells
An untouched small beach. The bay attracts those who seek peace, but at peak times it can be crowded even here.
6. El Mago
This small beach on the bay is favoured by nudists. This is one of three nudist beaches in this part of the bay.
7. Cala Major
This small bay is lined with houses and hotels. The golden beach is hardly secluded but it is one of the nicest in this area.
8. Ca’n Pastilla
A miniature train runs from here to S’Arenal. The local beach is similar to Platja de Palma, with umbrellas and deckchairs for hire. It also has a playground for children.
9. Palma
Inhabitants of the Balearic Islands’ capital make the most of C’an Pere Antoni beach, or other beaches along the Badia de Palma.
10. Platja de Palma
At the height of the holiday season this 5-km (3-mile) long beach becomes exceptionally crowded. Behind the row of cafés and bars next to the beach are hotels, apartments and clubs.
11. S’Arenal
S’Arenal lies at the eastern end of Platja de Palma, and is the most popular resort along this part of the coast. Its main attraction, apart from the beach, is Aqualand El Arenal Fun Park with its pools and rides.