PalmaVela Regatta
A week of racing around Palma Bay. Headquarters is at the Real Club Nautico de Palma. There is a varied programme of events to accompany the racing.
Traditional beach resort just to the west of Palma
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.
A week of racing around Palma Bay. Headquarters is at the Real Club Nautico de Palma. There is a varied programme of events to accompany the racing.
Colonia Sant Jordi hosts a week of entertainments for all the family. From sporting events to live music, drinks and dinner, to plenty of fun for children.
Pollença Wine Fair is a great opportunity to sample Mallorca's wine. Dozens of vineyards across the Balearic Islands exhibit their wines on this weekend long wine extravaganza.
The boat show is usally held in Palma in the spring, promising and delivering vibrant displays of fancy yachts and all things nautical. Set in Palma's harbour at La Llonja, this spectacular setting in front of the cathedral only adds the the glitz and glamour of this prestigious show.
Puerto Portals will host one of the most emblematic competitions in the nautical world.
Entries will be limited and are expected to be in high demand, we therefore encourage you to secure your place early.
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.
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.
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.
Cala Major is located within Palma Bay, around four kilometres to the west to the city 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.
Playa Oratori is the popular local beach for Portals Nous and Puerto Portals.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Nanai Beach Restaurant in Mallorca: a seaside escape where exceptional food meets stunning views. Located on one of the island’s most exclusive beaches, Nanai Beach offers a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere for enjoying fresh, locally inspired cuisine. The restaurant serves a variety of elaborate seafood dishes alongside tapas created for sharing, blending the flavours of Mallorca with culinary influences from around the world.
Chameli’s Restaurant in Portals Nous, Mallorca, has been a local favourite for over fifteen years, earning a reputation for traditional Market Cuisine with a modern touch. The menu celebrates the finest seasonal ingredients, offering fresh fish, premium meats, wood-fired pizzas, and grilled specialities. Their authentic paellas are a particular highlight, prepared using time-honoured techniques to create rich, memorable flavours. Each month, the chefs introduce new and inventive dishes, ensuring there’s always something fresh to try.
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.
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.
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.
Perched on a rocky headland at the end of Portals Nous beach, Tabgha is one of Mallorca’s most beloved beach bars, popular with both locals and regular visitors. Accessible via steps from the town or along the shore, it offers a relaxed, sun-soaked retreat with stunning sea views and a gentle coastal breeze.
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.
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.
Whiz around the local coastline with friends and family
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.
Whiz around the local coastline with friends and family
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.
This fully equipped and unique apartment is set on three levels, providing a quirky and fun accommodation for two.
This spectacular loft apartment is fully equipped and provides delightful accommodation for two.
This stunning duplex apartment is fully equipped and provides spacious accommodation for two.
This fully equipped apartment is ideal for two guests.
This fully equipped and comfortable apartment is ideal for two guests.
This fully equipped and spacious apartment is set on three levels, providing an original and fun accommodation for two.
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.
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.
This beautiful hotel building is part of the marine façade of La Calatrava, in the city centre and close to the Cathedral.
The Sant Jaume Boutique Hotel stands in the heart of the old quarter of Palma, nestled between two important historic buildings: the Church of Sant Jaume and Santa Magdalena Convent.
At the Hotel Palau Sa Font vibrant colours, modern artwork and designer furniture welcome guests to a hotel with charm and personality that offers a warm and familiar kind of service. The hotel has a real connection with its local neighbourhood from the local shop to the farmer supplying the organic olive oil.
An idyllic and peaceful hotel, where you can enjoy a gastronomic experience in the beautiful patio surrounded by the more than 200 years old walls of the rural finca.
Hotel Tres lies at the crossroads of elegance and comfort; effortlessly blending old and new, modern comforts complement the remnants of a 16th century palace. Rustic Mallorcan style and contemporary design combine to form a space built for comfort.
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.
There are no direct buses to and from the airport.
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.
The established company have been offering a reliable, reasonably priced, private transfer service in Mallorca since 1993.
This taxi company offers 24-hour service from the airport to your accommodation all around Mallorca.
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.
The only British taxi driver in Mallorca, offering airport transfers to destinations throughout the island.
This transfer company offers cheap and reliable Airport Transfers to all destinations in Mallorca with official vehicles and professional drivers.
Set on an 8,300 m² flat, sun-drenched plot, this fully renovated finca blends authentic Mallorcan charm with modern comfort - complete with two beautifully appointed guesthouses, a saltwater pool, solar power, and breathtaking views of the Tramuntana mountains. Located just outside the historic village of Binissalem, in the heart of Mallorca’s celebrated wine country, this is a rare opportunity to purchase a tranquil rural home that’s move-in ready and built to a high standard.
Located in the tranquil urbanisation of Crestatx in Sa Pobla, this property is perfect for those seeking a natural and well-connected environment. With a functional design, the home is spread over two floors, offering comfortable and practical living spaces for families or friends to enjoy.
Golf Marina is a beautiful, warm and welcoming property situated near the golf of Pollensa.
Charming townhouse with vacation rental license for sale.
Detached, two-storey property with swimming pool and holiday rental license for sale, in a quiet area of Pollença.
Find out all about what is happening in Mallorca and how to make the most of your time here. The latest news, reviews of fun activities, fabulous beaches, current events and the trendiest restaurants, as well as interviews with leading locals, insider's guides and our top choices for things to do, see, and experience on the island.
See allLatest News & ReviewsThe island hosts all sorts of events, including agricultural fairs in the spring and autumn, live music and DJs in the summer, religious fiestas and international sporting events. Some of the most popular are the Mallorca 312 cycling race in April, the Copa del Rey sailing regatta in July and the Moors vs Christians mock battle in September.
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