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.
From Playa de Palma to Magaluf and the capital city of Palma de Majorca
The good, the bad and the ugly sides of Mallorcas tourist development meet along a 25km stretch of coast. Tacky resorts sit next to exclusive retreats, it seems that everyone wants a slice of Palma Bay. One moment you can be in Portals Nous, with its chic marina crammed with millionaires' yachts, the next in seedy Magaluf, all British pubs and wet T-shirt contests.
Palma Bay stretches from the quiet coves of Cala Blava in the east to the lively resorts of Palmanova and Magaluf in the west, offering a wide variety of coastal experiences. Playa de Palma, one of the island’s longest beaches, is lined with soft golden sand, promenades, cafés and bars, while nearby suburbs such as Ciutat Jardí and Portixol provide a more relaxed, local atmosphere with seaside dining and small cafés.
Further west, Cala Major retains an urban feel but still boasts a charming beach, whilst the upmarket areas of Illetes, Bendinat and Portal Nous offer smaller beaches, secluded coves and elegant marinas. Palmanova is popular with families, whereas Magaluf remains lively, though recent developments aim to give it a more refined edge.
Beyond the main resorts, smaller coves like Cala Vinyes and Portals Vells provide a peaceful retreat amid pine forests and cliffs, with calm waters and morning sunlight ideal for a quiet escape. From headlands such as Cap de Cala Figuera, sweeping views capture the contrast of bustling resorts, tranquil beaches and the island’s natural beauty, making Palma Bay a destination that caters to both activity and relaxation.
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.
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.
The Nit de Foc is one of the biggest parties in Mallorca, but the largest celebrations take place in Palma. Celebrated on the eve of Sant Joan fiesta, it includes street parties, bonfires, fireworks, pop concerts, devils & demons and the infamous 'correfoc' - the fire run, where the 'devils' run through the streets with firecrackers and fireworks - not for the fainthearted!
The Superyacht Cup returns to Palma for another four-day regatta. Luxury sailing yachts of 24m and above from all over the world to take part in exciting races using a specially developed handicap system that ensures yachts of very different design and length can sail against each other competitively.
The Palma de Mallorca Marathon is an officially recognised International long distance event.
Rialto Living is Palma's most famous interior design and concept store. Located right in the heart of the city, it has a small art gallery inside with temporary art exhibitions.
A wonderful 18th-century Baroque building with feature courtyard and decorative touches, Casal Solleric is now home to temporary exhibitions specialising in contemporary art and photography.
The Museu Fundación Juan March houses a small collection of 20th century Spanish art shich belonged to the Mallorcan banker Joan March, once one of the world's richest men.
A royal palace has stood on this site next to Palma's cathedral since the Muslim walis (governors) built their alcazar soon after the Arab conquest.
The painter and sculptor Joan Miro spent most of his life in Barcelona, but both his wife and mother were Mallorcan and he always longed to return to the scene of his childhood holidays to draw inspiraton from what he called "the light of Mallorca".
Es Baluard Museum of Modern & Contemporary Art was opened in 2004 as a cultural institution for research and dissemination of Balearic & Mediterranean art from the 20th and 21st centuries.
Palma Bay offers a wide variety of beaches, from lively stretches to quiet coves. At the eastern end, Cala Blava features small, sheltered beaches framed by rocky headlands and calm waters, perfect for a tranquil start to the bay. Playa de Palma, one of the longest on the island, is a broad, sandy beach with gentle waves, ideal for families and long walks along the promenade.
Closer to the city, Portixol and Ciutat Jardí offer smaller, sandy beaches with a relaxed, local atmosphere, often popular for morning swims or casual sunbathing. Cala Major, just west of Palma, blends an urban feel with a charming beach setting, while Illetes, Bendinat and Portal Nous provide more exclusive, compact beaches with calm, clear waters and scenic surroundings.
Further along, Palmanova is family-friendly, featuring soft sand and shallow waters, while Magaluf is known for its lively beach atmosphere, though quieter spots can still be found nearby. Beyond the main resorts, Cala Vinyes and Portals Vells offer secluded coves, pine-fringed shores and peaceful waters, perfect for those seeking calm away from the busier areas.
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.
Cala Major is located within Palma Bay, around four kilometres to the west to the city 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.
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.
Dining along Palma Bay ranges from casual cafés to more refined seaside options, catering to a mix of tastes and budgets. Around Playa de Palma, you’ll find plenty of lively spots offering local Mallorcan dishes, Spanish classics and international fare, perfect for a relaxed lunch or evening meal after a day on the beach. The promenade makes for a pleasant backdrop, with terraces ideal for people-watching.
Closer to the city, suburbs like Portixol and Ciutat Jardí provide a quieter, more local dining experience, with cafés serving breakfast, tapas and light bites. Further west, in the upmarket areas of Illetes, Bendinat and Portal Nous, restaurants often focus on Mediterranean cuisine and seafood, accompanied by scenic views of marinas and small beaches.
Family-friendly resorts such as Palmanova have casual dining with menus suited to all ages, while areas near Magaluf offer a livelier atmosphere with a mix of casual eateries and spots catering to evening entertainment. For a more tranquil experience, the smaller coves of Cala Vinyes and Portals Vells feature quieter, often rustic venues highlighting fresh local produce.
Cappuccino Café - Palau March is an elegant café and restaurant in the heart of Palma, offering a refined spot to relax while exploring the city centre. Housed in a beautiful historic building, the venue combines classic charm with modern style, providing a welcoming space both indoors and on its terrace.
La Despensa del Barón, located in the historic centre of Palma de Mallorca, offers a true taste of the island’s gastronomy. Situated within the charming Posada Terra Santa, this Mediterranean restaurant goes beyond simple dining, inviting guests to connect with the local history, traditions, and ingredients sourced just a few kilometres away.
Maria 5 Urban Restaurant in Palma brings the signature spirit of Maria 5 Beach to the heart of the city. Located in Plaza Cort, just opposite the Ayuntamiento, this urban venue blends contemporary design with warm, traditional touches inside, while the lively terrace offers a vibrant city atmosphere.
Nestled in a historic enclave just a few metres from Palma Cathedral and the sea, DINS Santi Taura is a culinary jewel in Mallorca’s old town. Located in the vibrant Sa Calatrava neighbourhood, where centuries of history meet contemporary life, this Michelin-starred restaurant (holder of two Repsol Suns) offers a unique perspective on Mallorcan gastronomy.
La Vermutería De Can Cera offers a refined taste of Mallorca in the heart of Palma’s old town. Nestled within the courtyard of the elegant Can Cera boutique hotel, the restaurant blends Mediterranean flavours with a stylish, art-filled setting.
Housed in a striking colonial-style building at the edge of Palma’s trendy Santa Catalina district, this is a long-standing local favourite that blends good food, great views and a vibrant social scene. Having made its mark in recent years as one of the more sophisticated venues within the hip city district, its Sky Bar is undoubtedly a great choice in which to start your night. Just a few blocks from the island’s best-known food market, the kitchen makes the most of fresh, seasonal produce, creating a menu of healthy, flavourful dishes served from breakfast through to late dinner.
Nightlife along Palma Bay ranges from relaxed evenings to lively entertainment.
Playa de Palma has casual bars and terraces ideal for unwinding after a day on the beach, while Portixol and Ciutat Jardí offer a quieter, local atmosphere with cosy cafés. Palmanova leans towards family-friendly evening options, with relaxed dining and casual drinks, whereas Magaluf is known for its energetic nightlife, featuring bustling bars and music venues, though it has become slightly more refined in recent years. For a calmer night, the quieter coves of Cala Vinyes and Portals Vells offer peaceful sunset views and gentle seaside strolls.
Beatnik Bar and Restaurant, located in the heart of Palma at Purohotel, offers a globally inspired dining experience with a playful, adventurous edge. The menu blends bright Mediterranean flavours with exotic spices from Asia and Latin America, creating a fusion that is both fresh and exciting.
Housed in a striking colonial-style building at the edge of Palma’s trendy Santa Catalina district, this is a long-standing local favourite that blends good food, great views and a vibrant social scene. Having made its mark in recent years as one of the more sophisticated venues within the hip city district, its Sky Bar is undoubtedly a great choice in which to start your night. Just a few blocks from the island’s best-known food market, the kitchen makes the most of fresh, seasonal produce, creating a menu of healthy, flavourful dishes served from breakfast through to late dinner.
De Tokio a Lima Bar in Palma offers a relaxed rooftop experience with a focus on exceptional cocktails. Located above the iconic Paseo del Borne, the bar combines city views with a menu of drinks designed to impress. Each cocktail is carefully prepared using quality spirits, fresh ingredients, and inventive combinations that highlight flavour and balance.
Bar Michel, tucked just behind Palma’s Paseo Marítimo, is a welcoming spot for locals and visitors alike, particularly those supporting the LGBTQ+ community. This charming bar and restaurant has built a reputation for its relaxed, casual atmosphere, making it perfect for a leisurely afternoon or evening of drinks and tapas.
Nestled in the heart of Palma’s bustling Santa Catalina market, Joan Can Frau is a cosy, no-frills tapas bar perfect for a quick bite or an informal lunch. Since 1966, the second-generation Frau family has been serving authentic Mallorcan flavours, making this small steel-counter stall a must-visit for locals and visitors alike.
Lennox The Pub Bar in Palma de Mallorca is a modern and welcoming spot in the historic heart of the city. Located in La Lonja, it’s just a short walk from iconic landmarks such as Cathedral La Seu, L’Almudaina Royal Palace, and Palma Harbour, making it the perfect stop during a day of sightseeing.
Palma Bay offers a mix of activities for all interests. You've got long sandy beaches, promenades, scenic walks along the coast or marina-side sightseeing.
Family-friendly resorts like Palmanova provide gentle waves and space for children, whereas more lively stretches near Magaluf include beach games, watersports and opportunities to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. For quieter escapes, the coves at Cala Vinyes and Portals Vells offer peaceful swimming, snorkeling and sunbathing in scenic surroundings.
Beyond the beaches, the bay is ideal for cycling, hiking in nearby pine forests and exploring the headlands, which provide panoramic views of the coastline and Palma city. Whether you seek relaxation, activity or a mix of both, Palma Bay has something to suit every visitor.
Set sail on a private boat trip in Palma Bay, with full-day and half-day options available.
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the coast of Mallorca or Ibiza to any destination of your choosing.
Conveniently located opposite the marina, next to the auditorium, this shop offers a fantastic selection of Vespa and Piaggio scooters, as well as motorbikes like Moto Guzzi, Ducati and Harley Davidson. Whether you're cruising along the coast or winding through the mountains, renting a scooter or motorbike is the best way to experience Mallorca at your own pace.
Enjoy a fantastic day at sea exploring secluded coves and beaches aboard a traditional Balearic yacht, “El Gordito”.
Discover Mallorca from the sea aboard a modern luxury motor yacht, designed for comfort, privacy and effortless style. This fully private experience, operated by a professional skipper, is perfect for couples, families or small groups looking to enjoy the island at their own pace. Departing from Palma’s marina, you will cruise along Mallorca’s spectacular coastline, exploring crystal-clear waters, secluded coves and peaceful anchorages chosen according to the day’s conditions and your preferences.
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the coast of Mallorca or Ibiza to any destination of your choosing.
Raoul W is a sleek and stylish 22.98m Sunseeker 75, offering a superb blend of modern luxury, performance and comfort for unforgettable Mediterranean charters. Built in 2015, this chic motor yacht is based in Mallorca and is perfectly suited to exploring the Balearics in true Sunseeker style. With elegant interiors, generous exterior spaces and an experienced crew on board, Raoul W is an exceptional choice for both family holidays and trips with friends.
Linda is a luxurious 2017 Bali 4.3 sailing catamaran by Catana that offers a very spacious sailing yacht with all modern facilities, perfect for a relaxing charter holiday.
A Beneteau Oceanis 361 sailing yacht with three cabins and one bathroom. She is a small easy to handle yacht perfect for up to 8 people to enjoy a week out on the water.
DOLCE VITA is a spacious new 46ft Dufour Grand Large. She's a relaxing way to take in the beautiful scenery around Mallorca. Available for weekly charters from La Lonja marina in Palma.
The Grand Large 410 is designed to simultaneously seduce the skipper and the crew.
A Beneteau Oceanis 50 sailing yacht with five cabins and three bathrooms. She sails well in light winds and handles more breeze with ease. Great for larger groups of up to 10 guests.
Enjoy an exhilarating day trekking and scrambling through gorges, waterfalls and jumping into giant rock pools.
An exhilarating rock and water activity suitable for families and adrenaline-junkies, a great way to explore the coastline of Mallorca.
Lessons delivered at your villa pool by qualified, insured and highly experienced instructors.
Whiz around the local coastline with friends and family
Staying in short-term rental accommodation along Palma Bay is a wonderful way to experience the area. There are numerous holiday apartments and villas. Portixol and Ciutat Jardí offer smaller, quieter rental options in local neighbourhoods. In the west, Illetes, Bendinat, Portal Nous and the smaller coves of Cala Vinyes and Portals Vells feature low-key villas and apartments, ideal for those seeking tranquillity, flexibility and the chance to enjoy the coast at their own pace.
This stunning duplex apartment is fully equipped and provides spacious accommodation for two.
This fully equipped and comfortable apartment is ideal for two guests.
This spectacular loft apartment is fully equipped and provides delightful accommodation for two.
This fully equipped 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.
This fully equipped and unique apartment is set on three levels, providing a quirky and fun accommodation for two.
Palma Bay has a wide selection of hotels to suit different tastes.
Around Playa de Palma, large beachside hotels offer convenience, easy access to the promenade and family-friendly facilities.
Cala Major and the upmarket areas of Illetes, Bendinat and Portal Nous feature more stylish and refined hotels, often with scenic sea or marina views. Resorts such as Palmanova also provide comfortable hotel options for families, while areas near Magaluf cater to visitors seeking lively surroundings and entertainment.
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.
S'Alquería Blanca is located in the municipality of Bunyola, a great spot on the Northern coast. Six bedrooms, three of which are suites all perfectly styled in traditional Mallorcan furniture. Each room has its own terrace from which guests can enjoy a magnificent view of the islands, which stretches down to the bay of Palma.
One of Mallorca's best boutique hotels; Grand Hotel Son Net is a stylishly restored 17th century mansion offering the essence of Mallorcan classicism combined with luxury and grandeur.
Car hire is a viable option in Mallorca and Palma Bay is a 5 minute drive from Palma airport. Or take the worry out of getting from the airport and book a transfer.
There is a direct bus from the airport. Check for times.
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.
Car hire is a viable option in Mallorca and Palma is a 5 to 10 minute drive from Palma airport. Or take the worry out of getting from the airport and book a transfer.
Depending on which part of the bay you are heading to will depend on what local buses can take you there.
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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