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Cala Major / Illetes

Traditional beach resort just to the west of Palma

featured in Towns & Villages Updated

Cala Major (also known as Cala Mayor) and its neighbour Sant Agusti are holiday resort towns on the outskirts 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.

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.

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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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Dining in Illetes

There are still some traditional Spanish cafes in the area serving local fair and the ever popular 'Menu del día' 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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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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Holidays 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.

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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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How to get to Illetes

By car

Car hire is still a viable option in Mallorca, and it takes only around 20 minutes to get to Cala Major from Palma airport and just 10 to 15 minutes to get into the centre of Palma (traffic dependent). It's well connected to the rest of the island thanks to the Ma-1 and M-20 being close by. Alternatively you can book a private transfer to take the stress out of driving yourself.

Public transport

Public buses are frequently travelling through Cala Major that head onto top tourist spots on the southwestern coastline, including neighbouring Illetas, Bendinat, Portals Nous and Puerto Portals. 

For a quicker journey, taxi ranks can be found in Cala Major and aren't too pricey to get into Palma or the neighbouring Portals area.

Transfers for Mallorca

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See our Getting Here Guide

Location

Map of the surrounding area

News

Events

  • Sunset Market, Puerto Portals
  • Copa del Rey, Palma
  • A steinway & sons piano with a violin on the keys
  • Nit de l'Art S'Arraco
  • Los Secretos Port Adriano
  • La Patrona Festival, Pollenca