Best Beaches In and Around Palma
If you’re staying in Palma and don’t want to travel far for a perfect beach day, you’re in luck! The city and its surroundings offer stunning beaches with golden sand, crystal-clear waters, and easy access from the city center. Whether you’re looking for a luxury beach club, family-friendly shores, or water sports adventures, there’s a spot for you just 15–30 minutes away.
1. Cala Major – Best Beach Near Palma for Sunseekers
What to Expect:
✔ Soft golden sand and clear water, perfect for swimming.
✔ Lively atmosphere with beach bars, restaurants, and nearby hotels.
✔ A mix of locals, tourists, and young travelers looking for fun in the sun.
🏖️ Facilities: Sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, and beachside cafes.
👨👩👧👦 Best For: Casual beachgoers, young travelers, and locals.
🕶️ Vibe: Lively and fun, but can get crowded in summer.
🚌 How to Get There: Take bus 4 from Palma city center (Plaza España).
🚗 By Car: A 10-minute drive west of Palma, with limited parking nearby.
2. Illetas Beach – The Luxury Choice
What to Expect:
✔ Crystal-clear turquoise water with soft white sand.
✔ Luxury beach clubs like Purobeach Illetas and Balneario Illetas.
✔ Popular with couples, luxury travelers, and young professionals.
🏖️ Facilities: Sunbeds, umbrellas, beach bars, upscale restaurants, showers.
👨👩👧👦 Best For: Relaxation, fine dining, and a more exclusive vibe.
🕶️ Vibe: Chic and stylish, ideal for those wanting a high-end beach day.
🚌 How to Get There: Take bus 104 or 107 from Palma city center.
🚗 By Car: A 15-minute drive west of Palma. Paid parking is available nearby.
3. Ciudad Jardín – The Local Favorite
What to Expect:
✔ A long, wide sandy beach with a laid-back atmosphere.
✔ Popular with locals, families, and joggers.
✔ Plenty of beachfront cafes, tapas bars, and seafood restaurants.
🏖️ Facilities: Sunbeds, umbrellas, beachside restaurants, and showers.
👨👩👧👦 Best For: Families, locals, and those wanting a quieter beach.
🕶️ Vibe: Relaxed and authentic, with fewer tourists than other beaches.
🚌 How to Get There: Take bus 35 from Palma city center.
🚗 By Car: Just a 10-minute drive east of Palma, with plenty of parking available.
4. Can Pastilla – Best for Families & Water Sports
What to Expect:
✔ Shallow, calm waters, ideal for kids and families.
✔ Great for windsurfing, paddleboarding, and jet skiing.
✔ A mix of families, solo travelers, and sports enthusiasts.
🏖️ Facilities: Water sports rentals, sunbeds, umbrellas, cafes, and restaurants.
👨👩👧👦 Best For: Families with kids, water sports lovers, and casual sunbathers.
🕶️ Vibe: Active and fun, but not overly crowded.
🚌 How to Get There: Take bus 23 or 25 from Palma city center.
🚗 By Car: A 15-minute drive east of Palma, with plenty of parking.
5. Playa de Palma – The Lively Resort Beach
What to Expect:
✔ 6 km of golden sand, perfect for sunbathing and long walks.
✔ Beachfront promenade with bars, clubs, and restaurants.
✔ A mix of tourists, partygoers, and families.
🏖️ Facilities: Sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, and plenty of bars & shops.
👨👩👧👦 Best For: Party seekers, young travelers, and social beachgoers.
🕶️ Vibe: Lively and energetic, with a fun, resort-like feel.
🚌 How to Get There: Take bus 15, 23, or 25 from Palma.
🚗 By Car: A 15-minute drive east of Palma, with paid parking available.
6. Cala Estancia – The Hidden Gem
What to Expect:
✔ Small, calm bay with crystal-clear water.
✔ Less touristy than Playa de Palma but still close to Palma.
✔ Great for swimming, paddleboarding, and relaxing.
🏖️ Facilities: Sunbeds, umbrellas, nearby bars, and restaurants.
👨👩👧👦 Best For: Couples, families, and those looking for a quieter alternative.
🕶️ Vibe: Peaceful, with a charming local feel.
🚌 How to Get There: Take bus 35 from Palma.
🚗 By Car: A 12-minute drive east of Palma. Street parking available.
Which Beach Near Palma is Best for You? 🌊🏖️
Choosing the right beach depends on what you’re looking for—whether it’s a relaxing sunbathing spot, a lively party beach, or a secluded escape. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
| Beach | Best For | Distance from Palma | Bus Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cala Major | Sunbathing & swimming | 10 min | Bus 4 |
| Illetas | Luxury & beach clubs | 15 min | Bus 104, 107 |
| Ciudad Jardín | Local vibes & jogging | 10 min | Bus 35 |
| Can Pastilla | Families & water sports | 15 min | Bus 23, 25 |
| Playa de Palma | Party & nightlife | 15 min | Bus 15, 23, 25 |
| Cala Estancia | Quiet & hidden gem | 12 min | Bus 35 |
🌞 Final Tips for the Perfect Beach Day
✔ Arrive early – Popular beaches get crowded, especially in peak season.
✔ Stay sun-safe – Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water.
✔ Cash is king – Many beach bars & sunbed rentals don’t accept cards.
✔ Check bus schedules – Evening services may be limited.
🔗 Want to explore beyond Palma? Discover the Best Beaches in Mallorca and find hidden coves, turquoise waters, and breathtaking coastal escapes across the island! 🌊☀️
