Portixol Beach
Charming shingle and sand beach on the outskirts of Palma
Portixol is found just to the east of Palma's cathedral and is home to a little bay within which a little sand and shingle beach known as D'es Portitxolet Beach resides. The water is generally calm here due to the sheltered nature of the bay.
You will find many locals come here, especially on weekends throughout the year, and certainly show how it's done when it comes to putting on a family beach picnic spread. No sun loungers are available to hire, so bring extra towels or a deck chair for comfort, but there are showers to wash off the salt and sand. Note the beach does get busy in July and August, especially on the weekends, so get down there early if you are planning a trip. Free street parking is available behind the promenade, although you might have to endure a couple of laps of the one-way system to find a space if arriving from late-morning onwards.
Restaurants
Here you will find a choice of fine dining and international favourites through to authentic eateries, most of which have a casual but bustling atmosphere, from lunchtime until late into the night.
Nightlife
If you find yourself looking for somewhere to go after dinner, a Spanish style taverna or a couple of hotel bars can be found within the vicinity of this area. Those looking for a more vibrant party atmosphere, Palma and S'Arenal are both within easy reach (5-10 minutes by taxi) and offer a good selection of late night bars and nightclubs.
Hotels
Portixol is very much a residential area, however there's a good selection of hotels from trendy boutiques through to world-famous names within walking distance of the beach. Palma's city centre is just a few kilometres away where you are spoilt for choice when it comes to hotels, the old-town boutique hotels are a firm favourite for a city-break.
Setting & Location
A former fishing village and one of several suburbs of Palma that have been rejuvenated in recent years, Portixol has undergone a transformation from old, sleepy fishing village to vibrant Palma suburb, whilst maintaining its traditional charm. The old ex-fisherman's cottages that line the coast, have been updated with a modern flair, giving a pleasant backdrop to the beach along with the buzzing restaurants, bars and cafes that line the seafront. Portixol has moved from "up-and-coming" to cool in it's own right and the sea front properties, are now highly sought after.
Water Safety & Clarity
The water is clean and clear, and being relatively sheltered it's calm for swimming. Upon entry into the water, it is relatively shallow but does drop in depth once a few metres in. This doesn't deter families with young children but it is something to be aware of.
Beach Quality
The sandy beach here is relatively small, just 100m long and 20 metres deep and comprises of sand and shingle.
Watersports Nearby
Portixol beach offers no water sport activities, but the sea is calm enough in the bay to go for a little paddle board if you bring your own.
Directions
From Palma city centre, Portixol Beach can be reached by foot within 30 minutes from the cathedral, a 20 minute bus ride from Palma's main bus station or a 5 minute taxi ride.
Hotels nearby
Hotels in Mallorca
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Son Julia Country House Hotel
If you're looking for a perfect hideaway from your usual routine, then this lovely 15th century Mallorcan manor is the place to escape to.
Price: €3,744
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Santa Clara Urban Spa & Hotel
This charming hotel is located in the historical old town, in the very heart of Palma de Mallorca. It is within easy walking distance of attractions such as the 10th century Arab baths and Palma's breathtaking gothic Cathedral.
Price: €2,507
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Son Bunyola Hotel
Son Bunyola Hotel offers an intimate stay, providing the perfect base to explore Mallorca’s vineyards, olive groves, and charming countryside.
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Ca's Xorc Luxury Retreat
Ca's Xorc Luxury Retreat is the place to stay if you're looking for somewhere that's rich in history but with all the modern amneties. Breathtaking views, gourmet cuisine and a relaxing environment, the ideal place for a peaceful stay in a beautiful location.
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Finca Son Jorbo Hotel, Porreres
Run by a German couple and set in a rural location in central Mallorca with views over the local countryside and mountains, Finca Son Jorbo offers style and comfort in a restored 17th century country house. With the convenience of bed and breakfast and the added benefit of fully equipped self-catered apartments, Finca Son Jorbo is the perfect combination.
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S'Hort de Son Caulelles Agroturisme Hotel
Situated within a 20 minute walk to the town centre of Marratxi, it features an outdoor pool and a tour desk, as well as spa facilities.
Restaurants nearby
Restaurants in Palma de Mallorca
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Cappuccino Cafe - San Miguel
Cappuccino has a number of stylish brasseries in Mallorca, some of which are housed in the most beautiful historic buildings. This branch has a beautiful patio with a terrace.
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Beatnik Bar and Restaurant
The ambience of this restaurant is casual and attracts a cosmopolitan crowd. The bar with its VIP area is the meeting point for travellers and locals who can listen to DJs playing. Small dishes are served in the bar and when the weather permits, food and drinks can be enjoyed on the patio.
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Hostal Cuba Bar and Restaurant
Fittingly housed in a beautiful colonial building in the Santa Catalina district of Palma, this is a cafe, bar and club, open all day, every day.
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Marc Fosh Restaurant
Fabulous restaurant that offers an elegant yet stripped down version of Marc Fosh's extraordinary Mediterranean Cuisine.
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Feliz Restaurant
Don't miss out on the cuisine at Hotel Feliz. With a happy hour every evening to start you off, before picking something from their tapas or main menu.
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A Popa Sea Club
Located inside the Nixe Palace Hotel, on the beach of Cala Major, this restaurant serves creative fresh-produce cuisine, specialising in fish and seafood.
Nightlife nearby
Bars & Clubs in Palma de Mallorca
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Beatnik Bar and Restaurant
The ambience of this restaurant is casual and attracts a cosmopolitan crowd. The bar with its VIP area is the meeting point for travellers and locals who can listen to DJs playing. Small dishes are served in the bar and when the weather permits, food and drinks can be enjoyed on the patio.
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Hostal Cuba Bar and Restaurant
Fittingly housed in a beautiful colonial building in the Santa Catalina district of Palma, this is a cafe, bar and club, open all day, every day.
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Ventura Harbor Bar
This great casual hangout for larger groups of friends or family, offers the perfect spot to lounge in the evenings or on the weekends.
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Cafe Atlantico Cocktail Bar
Since 1997 Cafe Atlantico has been a cocktail bar but its history stretches back to the 1950's. It's got plenty of character
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Koa Bar and Restaurant
Situated in La Llonja, opposite the cathedral, this is a bar and restaurant serving traditional Spanish tapas as well as Asian fusion style bites and great barbecue and grills.
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Joan Can Frau Tapas Bar
A small box, with a steel counter in the big market hall, expertly executes its delivery offresh, authentic Mallorcan cuisine and tapas.