Cala Major (also known as Cala Mayor) and its neighbour Sant Agusti are holiday resort towns on the outskirts of Palma.
Cala Major / Illetes
Traditional beach resort just to the west of Palma
Back in its heyday, Cala Major was one of the first holiday resorts in Mallorca, these days it is mostly a residential suburb of Palma. But if you want to holiday here there is a sheltered sandy beach, which has blue flag status, and idyllic turquoise shallow waters. The Spanish royal family choose to spend their summers here at ‘Marivent Palace’ their summer residence, where guests have included the UK's King Charles.
The area has a couple of nice hotels, and has undergone some revamp in recent years. The 80's style apartments might not be appealing from the outside but they are being renovated to first class standards and offer impeccable sea views, which means the area is becoming quite a hot spot for property buyers on the island.
Cala Nova marina is the neighbourhood's port which has also received a bit of a facelift. It may be smaller than many of the other ports on the western coastline but appeals to its patrons for its charming fishing port vibe, range of watersports and sailing activities.
From Cala Major, it’s a 10-minute taxi ride into the centre of Palma. The area is also well connected by buses which is a bonus for those keen to sample the city and all it has to offer. Its close proximity to the city means it has become a popular dwelling for international residents, which has led to some good international schools appearing here.
Events in Illetes
Events in Illetes
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La Mostra Calvia Tardor - Calvia Food Show
Enjoy special menus in Calvià from Illetas to Peguera
La Mostra Calvià Tardor is Calvià 's annual autumn food festival, organised by the Fundació Calvià 365 and celebrated across four consecutive weekends each October and November. Around 45 restaurants take part each year, offering specially curated set menus.
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Evolution Mallorca International Film Festival
For innovative, provocative, socially-relevant filmmakers
EMIFF is based in the heart of the Mediterranean, in Mallorca’s buzzing and culturally rich capital city of Palma.Â
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Halloween at Katmandu Park
Celebrate Halloween at the most famous theme park in Mallorca
The Halloween spirit invades Katmandu Park with millions of adventures, new attractions, contests, spooky monsters and much more.
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Pirates Halloween
Family-friendly Halloween entertainment
The Pirates Halloween special is one of Mallorca's most celebrated nights out, taking the island's legendary dinner show and giving it a deliciously wicked twist. It's the perfect blend of spectacle and spookiness for all the family.
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Deia International Music Festival
Classical music concerts at world famous locations in Deia and Valldemossa
In 1978, a group of professional and amateur musicians came together under the name ‘Paramusical Workshop' and began performing concerts in Llucalcari and the Deià church. This marked the humble beginnings of what is today known as the Deià International Music Festival. The quality and quantity of the guest artists have been growing steadily ever since.
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Dragon Winter Series
The Mediterranean Cup of the Dragon Class
 A regatta circuit in which top national and international sailors compete, Puerto Portals has become the port with the largest fleet of Dragons in Spain and a benchmark on the international circuit.
Sights & Attractions in Illetes
Museums and art galleries
One of Mallorca's most important art collections is based in Cala Major. Joan Miro used to reside here and his old house and studio, Fundacio Pilar i Joan Miro, is open to the public, displaying a large exhibition of his work.
History and architecture
Bellver Castle, a Gothic-style castle built in the 14th century for King Jaume III is also nearby. It’s famous for being one of the few circular castles in Europe. It once served as a residence for the Kings of Mallorca, then it was used as a military prison, before its current role as a museum of the city.
Beaches in Illetes
There is a lovely beach and some great beach bars which, in the summer months, drum up a good atmosphere in the early afternoon and into the evenings. Sun loungers and parasols are available to hire. Be sure to arrive early in the peak summer time, because the only downside to this beach is that it’s the best beach close to Palma, so it receives a lot of visitors in the summer.
Beaches in Mallorca
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Cala Major Beach
Idyllic but lively sandy beach featuring stunning turquoise waters
Cala Major is located within Palma Bay, around four kilometres to the west to the city of Palma.
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Illetas Beach
Sheltered bay with an upmarket feel located in the Bay of Palma
Only 9km from the capital of Palma, Illetas is a holiday resort claiming three picture-perfect beaches. Illetas beach is the main beach, and is more sheltered than the huge stretch of sand that makes up the beach in front of Palma's cathedral, making this one of the nicest beaches in the Bay of Palma.
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Ciudad Jardin Beach
Friendly ‘Blue Flag’ beach that's located in the Bay of Palma
The small resort town of Ciudad Jardin lies around five kilometres east of Palma. Its beach, also commonly referred to as ‘Ciutat Jardi’, lies alongside a quiet promenade lined with palm trees, offering a huge variety of different styled bars and restaurants.
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Portals Nous (Oratori) Beach
Popular 'Blue Flag' beach famous for its chiringuito-style beach bar
Playa Oratori is the popular local beach for Portals Nous and Puerto Portals.
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Palma City Beach (Can Pere Antoni)
Golden sandy beach, the closest beach to Palma
The closest beach to Palma is at Ca'n Pere Antoni. This stretch of golden sandy beach starts just beyond the cathedral. A promenade and cycle path runs along its length but behind these lies the main road that takes you to Palma airport.
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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.
Dining in Illetes
There are still some traditional Spanish cafes in the area serving local fair and the ever popular 'Menu del dÃa' at inexpensive prices, but more and more contemporary cafes and restaurants are popping up and adding a different dimension to this area.
There are traditional long-standing restaurants in the area that are no-frills kind of places, with fantastic food all the same. For more of a five-star dining experience you should head to nearby Palma.
Restaurants in Illetes
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Arrels by Marga Coll
Market-to-table Balearic cuisine from sunrise to sunset
Arrels by Marga Coll Restaurant in Mallorca offers a dining experience rooted in Balearic tradition, with a clear philosophy of taking ingredients straight from the market to the table. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are all given equal importance, each reflecting the restaurant’s commitment to local produce, careful preparation and respect for the island’s culinary heritage.
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Purobeach Illetas Beach Club
Seafront Mediterranean bliss with dining, wellness, and unforgettable sunsets
Purobeach Illetas Beach Club offers a quintessential Mediterranean escape in the heart of Mallorca’s Illetas resort. Opened in May 2017, this stylish beach club combines natural beauty, elegant design, and the signature Puro spirit to create an unforgettable seafront experience. With direct access to the crystal-clear waters, sun-soaked terraces, and panoramic views of the Bay of Palma, every moment here celebrates the very best of the island.
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Maricel Restaurant
Mallorcan flavours and unforgettable sea views in an elegant coastal setting
Maricel Restaurant is set in a privileged seafront location at the Hospes Maricel Hotel, offering direct views over the Mediterranean and a calm, refined atmosphere. The restaurant focuses on traditional Mallorcan cuisine, using fresh, high-quality ingredients sourced locally whenever possible. The menu includes classic rice dishes, seasonal tapas and carefully prepared Mediterranean plates, with vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options also available.
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Collins Restaurant
Modern Mediterranean dining with style and personalised service in Portals Nous
Collins Restaurant in Portals Nous offers an unforgettable dining experience in the heart of southwest Mallorca. Set within the stylish Portals Hills complex, this lively and chic venue combines modern Mediterranean cuisine with impeccable service, creating a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere.
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Il Paradiso Restaurant
Italian and Mediterranean cuisine with breathtaking views over the Bay of Palma
Perched above the Bay of Palma, Il Paradiso is one of Mallorca’s most beautifully located restaurants, combining Italian and Mediterranean cuisine with stunning sea views. Founded by experienced restaurateurs who moved from Sweden in 2008, the team brought with them culinary influences from their time in the south of France, creating a menu that blends tradition with Mediterranean freshness.
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Merchants Portals
Fine dining by the sea with fresh seafood, premium meats, and stunning Portals Nous views
Perched on the beachfront of Portals Nous, Merchants Portals offers a dining experience that pairs exceptional cuisine with breathtaking sea views. Part of the acclaimed Merchants brand, this restaurant continues the legacy of culinary excellence established in Palma, bringing it to the shores of Mallorca’s most stylish marina.
Nightlife in Illetes
Bars & Clubs in Illetes
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Purobeach Illetas Beach Club
Seafront Mediterranean bliss with dining, wellness, and unforgettable sunsets
Purobeach Illetas Beach Club offers a quintessential Mediterranean escape in the heart of Mallorca’s Illetas resort. Opened in May 2017, this stylish beach club combines natural beauty, elegant design, and the signature Puro spirit to create an unforgettable seafront experience. With direct access to the crystal-clear waters, sun-soaked terraces, and panoramic views of the Bay of Palma, every moment here celebrates the very best of the island.
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La Cabana Poolbar & Lounge
Stylish poolside bar and lounge at Portals Hills with cocktails, Mediterranean dining, and sunset views
La Cabana Poolbar & Lounge at Portals Hills is a dreamy and unforgettable destination for drinks, dining, and relaxation in Mallorca. Situated in front of the infinity swimming pool and framed by impressive large windows, the bar offers stunning views that perfectly complement its stylish setting.
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Balneario Illetas restaurant and beach club
Mediterranean dining and beachside luxury with stunning Illetas views
Balneario Illetas Restaurant and Beach Club, located on the stunning Illetas beach just a ten-minute drive from Palma, offers a complete Mediterranean dining and leisure experience. Set against the backdrop of crystal-clear waters and a rocky cove, the restaurant transforms the finest local produce into dishes full of flavour, simplicity and quality. Each plate is carefully prepared to surprise and delight, making it a must-visit for discerning food lovers.
Things to do in Illetes
There is a relaxed ambience to this area. If you find yourself needing to do something other than lounging around on the beach or by the swimming pool, then there are a few things you can do.
Shopping
The main street in Cala Major has a real mish-mash of shops, from touristy places selling the usual inflatables, souvenirs and beach accessories to tasteful interior design and décor stores. For everyday essentials, there are a couple of supermarkets. High street brands can be found in Porto Pi Shopping Centre, which is within walking distance and is also connected by different bus lines.
When we think of things to do, we think of activities which mostly take place in Cala Nova port. There are boat trips, yacht chargers and scuba diving activities plus stand up paddle and the like.
Things To Do in Illetes
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Jet Ski Hire & Tours
30min & 1hr guided jet ski tours or jet ski hire in 20 minute blocks
Whiz around the local coastline with friends and family
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Real Bendinat Golf Course
18-hole golf course just to the west of Palma, Mallorca
The Bendinat Royal Golf Course is magnificently situated 7 kilometres west of Palma, in an extensive wooded valley and in the heart of the Bendinat Housing Estate.
Watersports in Illetes
Watersports in Illetes
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Jet Ski Hire & Tours
30min & 1hr guided jet ski tours or jet ski hire in 20 minute blocks
Whiz around the local coastline with friends and family
Holiday Rentals in Illetes
Staying in short-term accommodation here gives you the freedom to enjoy the area at your own pace, stay in and cook or eat out, plus the extra space allows you to relax and be flexible.
Holiday Rentals in Illetes
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Palma Suites Residence - Triplex Suite Apartment
1 bedroom Apartment in Mallorca. Sleeps 2
This fully equipped and unique apartment is set on three levels, providing a quirky and fun accommodation for two.
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Palma Suites Residence - Penthouse Suite Apartment
1 bedroom Apartment in Mallorca. Sleeps 2
This spectacular loft apartment is fully equipped and provides delightful accommodation for two.
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Palma Suites Residence - Penthouse Supreme Suite Apartment
1 bedroom Apartment in Mallorca. Sleeps 2
This stunning duplex apartment is fully equipped and provides spacious accommodation for two.
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Palma Suites Residence - Junior Suite Apartment
1 bedroom Apartment in Mallorca. Sleeps 2
This fully equipped apartment is ideal for two guests.
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Palma Suites Residence - Standard Suite Apartment
1 bedroom Apartment in Mallorca. Sleeps 2
This fully equipped and comfortable apartment is ideal for two guests.
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Palma Suites Residence - Triplex Deluxe Suite Apartment
1 bedroom Apartment in Mallorca. Sleeps 2
This fully equipped and spacious apartment is set on three levels, providing an original and fun accommodation for two.
Hotels in Illetes
The big five-star luxury hotels can be found dotted along the coastline in Cala Major. At the other end of the spectrum, there are quite a few budget-friendly hotels available, still very much in existence from the area's prime time in the 1980s and 1990s.
At the five-star end of the price range you will find up-to-date rooms, swimming pool, spas, fantastic restaurants and live music. Plus don't forget the spectacular sea views at sunset.
At the slightly more modest price, you'll find modern, budget-friendly, beachfront hotels which features sleek, minimalist rooms with all the amenities one might want from a holiday seaside retreat. Plus al fresco fine dining restaurants, sundecks with poolside bars, and a day spa should you want one.
Hotels in Illetes
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Santa Clara Urban Spa & Hotel
Stylish urban retreat offering prime location, contemporary design, and stunning rooftop terrace views
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.
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Son Boronat Hotel
Historic finca stay with peaceful grounds and mountain views in Mallorca
Set in the countryside of Calvià , Son Boronat is a historic finca hotel dating back to 1645. Around a twenty-minute drive from Palma and ten minutes from Santa Ponsa, it offers a quiet setting while still being within easy reach of the coast.
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Nixe Palace Luxury Hotel
Seafront five-star hotel in Palma with spa, fine dining and direct beach access
Set on the seafront in Palma, Nixe Palace Luxury Hotel is a five-star property combining beach access with close proximity to the city centre. Its location offers direct views over the Mediterranean, creating a relaxed setting while still being within easy reach of Palma’s main attractions.
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Tres Hotel
Beautiful hotel with exquisite rooms in Palma de Mallorca's old town
With remnants of a 16th century palace, this luxury boutique hotel is a perfect mixture of rustic Mallorcan style and contemporary design, providing the ideal retreat for your holiday.
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Calatrava Boutique Hotel
Brilliant service, fantastic views and close to the cathedral
This beautiful hotel building is part of the marine façade of La Calatrava, in the city centre and close to the Cathedral.
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Palacio Ca Sa Galesa Hotel
Historic boutique hotel in Palma’s old town with elegant design and sea views
Set in a restored 16th-century palace in the heart of Palma’s old town, Palacio Ca Sa Galesa is a boutique hotel that combines historic character with modern comfort. Overlooking the bay, its central location places you within easy reach of the city’s main sights, while offering a quieter, more refined place to stay.
How to get to Illetes
By car
Car hire is a viable option in Mallorca and Cala Major is a 15 minute drive from Palma airport. Or take the worry out of getting from the airport and book a transfer.
Public transport
There are no direct buses to and from the airport.
Transfers for Mallorca
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Luxury Chauffeur Services
Exclusive luxury travel across Mallorca in a Rolls Royce
Experience luxury and convenience with this company. Arrive at your yacht charter, sunset tour or boat trip in unparalleled style in a Rolls Royce Ghost.
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Private Airport Transfers
Private taxis, minibuses & coaches for Ferry & Airport Transfers in Mallorca
The established company have been offering a reliable, reasonably priced, private transfer service in Mallorca since 1993.
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Private Taxi Transfers
Taxis in Palma de Mallorca
Taxi PMI is the Association of Taxi Drivers of Palma de Mallorca, who provide visitors with an efficient and reliable airport transfer service, whilst also eliminating the need to stand in a queue and wait for the next available taxi.
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Private Airport Transfers
24 hours a day 365 days a year, covering the whole Island
This taxi & transfer company operates out of Palma, covering the whole of Mallorca Island.
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Private Airport Transfers
Taxis and minibuses to cater for up to 55 passengers
A group of taxi drivers with many years of experience in the sector of airport transfers in Mallorca. You can book online in advance or call to book last-minute.
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Private Taxi Transfers
Airport transfers to destinations throughout Mallorca
The only British taxi driver in Mallorca, offering airport transfers to destinations throughout the island.
Property For Sale in Illetes
Property for Sale in Illetes
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Apartment for Sale | 8367
2 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 55m² apartment in Port de Pollença
This stunning penthouse in Puerto Pollensa is the perfect holiday rental option for up to four people. Situated on the first line of the sea, it's conveniently located near excellent restaurants, bars, and basic amenities.
Apartment for Sale | 8367
€745,000 -
Apartment for Sale | 8514
3 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 125m² apartment in Port de Pollença
Bright, fully renovated apartment located on the third floor of a building with lift, within a quiet community of only six neighbours, right in the centre of Puerto Pollensa. The beach, main square and the famous Pine Walk are all within easy walking distance.
Apartment for Sale | 8514
€450,000 -
Apartment for Sale | 8515
2 bedroom 2 bathroom, 87m² apartment in Pollenca
This apartment for sale in Pinaret is a rare opportunity. It features two bedrooms and two bathrooms, plus two balconies. The standout feature is the private rooftop terrace, offering plenty of space to relax and enjoy the sun. A valid rental license makes this property particularly appealing, as licensed apartments rarely come onto the market.
Apartment for Sale | 8515
€550,000 -
Apartment for Sale | 8523
3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 63m², Apartment in DE POLLENÇA
Bright apartment located in the peaceful residential area of Siller, in Puerto Pollensa, with pleasant open views towards the mountains and the natural surroundings.
Apartment for Sale | 8523
€367,000 -
Apartment for Sale | 8527
3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 80m², Apartment in DE POLLENÇA
Enjoy an exceptional seafront lifestyle with this three-bedroom apartment for sale in Puerto Pollensa, occupying a privileged frontline position with beautiful open views across the bay.
Apartment for Sale | 8527
€599,000


































































