Palma Nova
Holiday beach resort in the south-west of Mallorca
There are still people who can remember when Palma Nova was just a village. Then, along came the tourist boom and the 'new Palma' was established as one of the first purpose-built tourist destinations on the island.
Today, Palma Nova enjoys a prime location on the western side of Palma Bay. It’s often seen as a more laid-back alternative to its lively neighbour Magaluf, and a more accessible option than the upscale Portals Nous. British holidaymakers have long favoured Palma Nova for its wide sandy beaches, family-friendly attractions, and value-for-money accommodation. The short 10-minute walk over the headland to Magaluf means you can enjoy the buzz of its nightlife while retreating to quieter surroundings.
In recent years, Palma Nova has undergone a noticeable transformation. Significant investment in its hotels and restaurant scene has elevated its appeal, attracting a broader and more refined clientele. With a steady year-round buzz, thanks in part to its resident expat community, Palma Nova is reclaiming its charm while stepping confidently into a new era.
History & Culture in Palmanova
Palma Nova was one of the first tourist resorts to be built in Mallorca. Dating back to 1935, officials decided to transform the fishing village into a purpose-built resort to attract visitors. However, the Spanish Civil War put this on hold until the country returned to normality in the 1950s, when building resumed.
Beaches in Palmanova
Palma Nova is home to three beautiful stretches of beach, all connected by a lively promenade that runs the length of the resort.
Right at the heart of Palma Nova lies Palma Nova Beach, a spacious 1km long blue flag beach with a depth of around 60m. This central beach is perfect for water sports enthusiasts looking to dive into activities like jet skiing, paddleboarding, and more.
At the eastern end of the resort, you’ll find Es Carregador, another blue flag beach known for its fine white sand and crystal-clear waters. Adjacent to a small harbour, this beach is particularly popular with families thanks to its children’s play area located on the promenade just behind the sand, making it a safe and fun spot for kids.
On the western side, the largest of the three is Son Maties (Matias), also proudly flying the blue flag. This stretch boasts a vibrant and upmarket atmosphere with a great selection of cool bars and restaurants, offering a perfect spot to relax with a drink and soak up the atmosphere.
Beaches in Mallorca
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Palma Nova Beach
Attracting thousands of tourists annually and especially popular with Brits and package holiday makers, Palmanova is a purpose built resort next to Magaluf in south west Majorca. Palma Nova actually hosts three separate ‘Blue Flag’ beach areas, Playa de Palmanova, Playa Son Matias and Playa Es Carregador.
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Portals Nous (Oratori) Beach
Playa Oratori is the popular local beach for Portals Nous and Puerto Portals.
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Cala Falco Beach
Cala Falco is a very pretty and small beach, surrounded by rocky outlets and pine. It is most famous for the trendy beach bar and restaurant that sits in the middle, attracting some of Mallorca's most affluent clientele. situated in the south west of Mallorca. The sea is clear and shallow, and the beach is narrow but deep,
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Illetas Beach
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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Santa Ponsa Beach, South-West Mallorca
The beach at Santa Ponsa is a lovely golden sandy beach in the heart of the resort, backed by shady pine trees for when you need some respite from the heat.
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Cala Portals Vells Beach, South-West Mallorca
Follow a rugged track through pine wood forest to find this beautiful cove on the western tip of Palma Bay. No public transport will bring you here, so you’ll need to taxi through Calvia’s residential streets, or drive from Magaluf or Palma Nova before walking the last stretch to the bay. Ultimately, the best way to arrive here is on the water by boat, with a decent depth and sandy seabed both perfect for anchoring.
Dining in Palmanova
Palma Nova’s dining scene offers a diverse mix of options, ranging from casual pizza and pasta joints to charming seafood chiringuito-style eateries and more refined dining experiences. Whether you’re craving simple, familiar flavours or looking to indulge in fresh Mediterranean seafood and stylish international cuisine, there’s something here to satisfy every appetite.
Restaurants in Palmanova
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Es Fum Restaurant
This restaurant is situated within the St Regis Mardavall Mallorca resort and is run by Michelin starred chef Miguel Navarro.
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Mar Sea Club
Mar Sea Club coexists in perfect harmony with the surroundings and the aesthetics of the five star resort.
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The Olive Tree Restaurant, Palma Nova
With a large wooden terrace surrounding a 350 year old olive tree just 20 minutes from Palma, this waterfront haven offers a wide variety of locally sourced produce, including organic homegrown fruit and vegetables.
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Siso Beach Mallorca Restaurant
An avant-garde space on Son Matias beach in Palma Nova where the sea, the sun, and gastronomy come together to offer you a unique experience for your senses.
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Il Chiringo Beach Bar and Restaurant
This popular little beach bar and restaurant serves snacks and drinks all day in the resort of Palma Nova.
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Calvia Beach House Restaurant
“Savour by the sea” whilst overlooking the idyllic golden sand and turquoise waters of SonMatias Beach in Palma Nova.
Things to do in Palmanova
Many activities in Palma Nova are centred around the beach, watersports and boat trips. However, there are plenty of other activities to keep the whole family entertained in and around the area such as golf, theme parks, waterparks and more.
Shopping
There are plenty of stores found within the resort alongside the typical holiday souvenir shops, beach shops selling inflatables, towels and sun cream, newsagents and more. There are also a couple of large supermarkets in Son Caliu - just short a short taxi-ride away and well worth it for self-catered holiday makers. Being a short distance from Palma, it’s easy to grab a bus or taxi into the city to indulge in some high street or designer shopping.
Things To Do in Palmanova
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Fantasia Golf, Palma Nova
Located just behind the beach in the heart of Palma Nova this is the perfect activity for families, groups and friends. Choose from 3 different tropical courses or play all 54 holes and enjoy a refreshment or range of snacks from the bar.
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PETER Diving School
Keen on the idea of diving, but not so keen on wearing an air tank on your back? Well, maybe it's time to have a chat with PETER?
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Katmandu Park
In the heart of Magaluf, you'll find the House of Katmandu, an interactive theme park like no other. Inside, you'll find games, illusions, robotics, a laser shooting game, two mini golf courses and a 4D cinema ride.
Nightlife in Palmanova
The nightlife vibe in Palma Nova is more late-night bars than clubbing, and those looking for more can venture over the headland to Magaluf to shake their moves in one of the many nightclubs along the strip.
Bars & Clubs in Palmanova
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Barbuda Beach Bar & Grill, Palma Nova
Overlooking the beautiful beach of Palmanova, Barbuda Beach Bar & Grill offers fresh Mediterranean food cooked on their open BBQ and the finest cocktails created by experienced mixologists.
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Carwash Nightclub
Guaranteed fun at this club one of the larger places in Magaluf. Plenty of theme nights, including foam parties, school disco, paint glow parties and many more.
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Il Chiringo Beach Bar and Restaurant
This popular little beach bar and restaurant serves snacks and drinks all day in the resort of Palma Nova.
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Tito's Nightclub
Titos Calvia Beach was born in 2021 is already playing host to some of the biggest parties on the island.
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BCM Planet Dance Nightclub
One of the biggest names in Mallorca's club scene, this nightclub in Magaluf hosts some of the best-known names in the dance music world.
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Key West Beach Bar Calvia, Palma Nova
Enjoy regular live music from well-known DJs on the island with stunning views over Palma Nova Bay.
Hotels in Palmanova
Palma Nova is smartening up and there is a now a good choice of refurbished hotels to choose from. Some are upmarket and adult-only whilst others welcome families with kids’ clubs, paddling pools and entertainment for children.
Hotels in Palmanova
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St Regis Mardavall Mallorca Resort Hotel
Set against the stunning Tramuntana mountains and the dazzling Mediterranean Sea, this elegant resort is an exquisite pièce de résistance embracing luxurious resort living and their signature butler service.
Price: €8,700
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Son Boronat Hotel
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.
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Son Malero Finca Hotel
Located just one kilometre from the historical village of Calvià, in the valley formed by the mountain range of Tramuntana and Na Burguesa, this hotel is situated in a magnificent rural surrounding.
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Zhero Boutique Hotel
Enjoy the chilled out yet sophisticated atmosphere at Hotel Zhero, just 10 minutes drive from Palma and less than 1 km from a choice of 2 sandy beaches. Chic and contemporary without costing a fortune, Hotel Zhero offers everything you could want for a relaxing holiday.
Price: €1,386
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Grand Hotel Portals Nous
This stunning hotel is located right in front of the sea offering panoramic views of the Mediterranean and some unique rooms that will make your stay unforgettable.
Price: €3,744
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Portals Hills Boutique Hotel
This is a luxury boutique hotel promises personalised services that will exceed your wildest expectations.
Price: €5,210
How to get to Palmanova
By car
By car, it takes around 30 minutes to get to Palma Nova from the airport and just 10 to 15 minutes to get into the centre of Palma (traffic dependent). Or take the worry out of getting from the airport and book a transfer.
It is well connected to the rest of the island thanks to the Ma-1 being close by.
Public transport
Public buses are frequently driving through Palma Nova (or the roundabout just above the port). For a quicker journey, taxi ranks can be found in Palma Nova.
Transfers for Mallorca
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Luxury Chauffeur Services & Airport Transfers
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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Janer Bus Airport Transfers
The established company have been offering a reliable, reasonably priced, private transfer service in Mallorca since 1993.
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Shuttle Spain Transfers
With offices in Alcudia and the airport, Majorca Airport Transfers has a large fleet of taxis, minibuses and coaches to suit all group sizes.
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Mallorca Taxi Car
This taxi company offers 24-hour service from the airport to your accommodation all around Mallorca.
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Mallorca Private Airport Transfers
Great quality service at rates that are irresistible. This company exclusively transfer you around Mallorca without having to pay an excessive price.
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Easy Majorca Taxi
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.