Cala Major – Beach Life Meets Culture
Cala Major is one of Palma de Mallorca’s best coastal neighborhoods, offering a sandy beach, stunning sea views, and a cultural scene. Located just a few kilometers west of Palma’s city center, Cala Major has long been a favorite spot for locals, expats, and holidaymakers looking for a blend of relaxation and convenience.
Why Visit or Live in Cala Major?
✔ Beachfront Lifestyle – Direct access to one of Palma’s best sandy beaches 🏝️
✔ Great Location – Just 10 minutes from Palma city center 🚏
✔ Cultural Hub – Home to Pilar & Joan Miró Foundation, a must-visit for art lovers 🎨
✔ Good Dining & Nightlife – A mix of seafront restaurants, bars, and cafés 🍽️
✔ Perfect for Families & Expats – International schools nearby & a relaxed vibe 🏡
How to Get to Cala Major 🚗
Cala Major is well-connected to Palma and other parts of the island.
🚶 On Foot – A pleasant walk along the coast from the Paseo Marítimo (45 minutes from central Palma).
🚌 By Bus – Bus Lines 4, 46, 47 connect Cala Major to Palma’s center.
🚗 By Car – A 10-minute drive from central Palma via Ma-1. Parking is limited in summer.
🚕 By Taxi – Expect to pay €10–€15 from Palma’s center.
✈️ From the Airport – A 20-minute taxi ride (€25–€30) or take Bus A11.
📍 Get Directions to Cala Major
The History of Cala Major
Cala Major has been a coastal getaway for Palma’s residents since the early 20th century. Originally a quiet fishing village, it became a popular summer retreat for Spanish nobility and artists.
🏰 Royal Ties – The Spanish Royal Family’s Marivent Palace, located in Cala Major, serves as their summer residence.
🎨 Artistic Legacy – Famed surrealist Joan Miró lived and worked here, leaving behind a cultural footprint that remains today.
🏖️ Tourism Boom – From the 1950s onwards, Cala Major saw a surge in hotels, apartments, and expat communities, evolving into a lively year-round neighborhood.
Living in Cala Major – Real Estate & Population 🏡
Cala Major offers a mix of old and new properties, from modern seafront apartments to traditional Mallorcan villas.
✔ Property Market – Growing demand due to its prime beachfront location.
✔ Average Prices – €4,500–€7,500 per m² (higher for sea-view apartments).
✔ Popular With – Expats, retirees, young professionals, and digital nomads.
✔ Population – Around 3,500 permanent residents, with seasonal increases in summer.
🏡 Housing Options:
- Modern Apartments – Sea-view apartments with balconies & pools (€350,000–€1.5M).
- Townhouses & Villas – Rare but available; prices above €1.5M.
- Long-Term Rentals – €1,200–€3,000/month, depending on location & amenities.
🔗 Find Out More About Buying or Renting in Mallorca
Exploring Cala Major 🌍
🏖️ Beach & Outdoor Spaces
The highlight of Cala Major is Playa de Cala Major, a soft-sand beach with calm waters, making it ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and paddleboarding.
| Beach | Best For | Facilities |
|---|---|---|
| Cala Major Beach | Families, sunbathers, swimmers | Sunbeds, lifeguards, beachfront restaurants |
| Illetas Beach (10 min away) | Luxury beach clubs, clear waters | Beach bars, loungers, cocktail service |
| Playa de Palma (15 min away) | Water sports, nightlife | Surfing, jet skiing, lively bars |
🌊 Water Activities
✔ Stand-up Paddleboarding (SUP)
✔ Kayaking & Snorkeling
✔ Jet Ski Rentals & Boat Trips
📍 Get Directions to Cala Major Beach
🎨 Culture & Museums
Pilar & Joan Miró Foundation – One of Mallorca’s most important art centers, showcasing Joan Miró’s studio, sculptures, and paintings.
🏛️ What to See
✔ Miró’s Atelier – His actual studio left untouched since his passing.
✔ Modern Art Exhibitions – Rotating displays from contemporary artists.
✔ Beautiful Garden & Views – Overlooking the Mediterranean.
🎟️ Entry Fee: €9
⏰ Opening Hours: 10:00–18:00 (Closed Mondays)
📍 Get Directions to Joan Miró Foundation
Dining & Nightlife in Cala Major 🍽️
Cala Major is home to a variety of restaurants, cafés, and beach clubs, offering everything from seafood and tapas to fine dining experiences.
🍽️ Dining Highlights
✔ Seafront Restaurants – Enjoy fresh seafood with sea views.
✔ Tapas & Local Cuisine – Classic Spanish & Mallorcan dishes.
✔ International Eateries – Options for Italian, Asian, and Mediterranean food.
🍸 Nightlife
✔ Relaxed Beach Bars – Perfect for sunset cocktails.
✔ Lively Bars & Lounges – A mix of locals and international crowds.
✔ Close to Palma’s Clubs – Just 10 minutes from Paseo Marítimo’s party scene.
Services & Facilities in Cala Major 🏥🎓
🏥 Healthcare & Hospitals
✔ Public Hospital – Son Espases Hospital (15 min drive) – Mallorca’s top public hospital.
✔ Private Clinics – Several English-speaking private doctors & specialists nearby.
✔ Pharmacies – Open daily with 24-hour options in Palma.
🔗 Read More: Healthcare in Mallorca
🏫 Schools & Education
Cala Major is a family-friendly area, with access to some of Mallorca’s best international schools.
🏫 Nearby International Schools:
✔ Bellver International College (British Curriculum) – 5 min drive.
✔ Agora Portals International School (Bilingual) – 10 min drive.
✔ Baleares International College (British) – 15 min drive.
🔗 Find Out More About Schools in Mallorca
Final Thoughts – Is Cala Major Right for You? 🤔
Cala Major offers a relaxed beachside lifestyle with easy access to Palma’s city center. Whether you’re a beach lover, art enthusiast, retiree, or young professional, this neighborhood blends coastal charm with urban convenience.
✔ Great for beach lovers & water sports enthusiasts 🌊
✔ Ideal for families & expats looking for a quieter coastal area 🏡
✔ Close to Palma, with excellent transport connections 🚗
✔ Rich in culture, history, and vibrant local life 🎭
Would you like to visit or live in Cala Major? Drop your thoughts in the comments! 👇✨
🔗 Read More About Palma’s Neighborhoods:
- Santa Catalina – Trendy & Social Hub
- Old Town (Casco Antiguo) – Historic & Elegant
- Portixol & Molinar – Seaside Living
