Porto Colom
Traditional beach resort on the east coast of Majorca
This fishing village, once the port for Felanitx, was named in honour of Christopher Columbus, who is said - without much evidence - to have been born here. Popular with Mallorcan and Spanish visitors and set inside a deep natural harbour, Portocolom still has the feel of a small fishing port, with boats around the quay and pastel-coloured houses lining the waterfront, each with its own landing-stage.
When staying in Portocolom it is a great idea to hire a car to easily get around some of the other fantastic areas in the east - you could visit the Natural Park of Mondrago or the pretty sandstone village of Santanyi.
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History & Culture in Portocolom
Porto Colom's early history
One of the islandโs oldest natural harbours, its origins date back to Roman and medieval times, when it served as a sheltered port for trade and fishing. Over the centuries, it developed into a bustling fishing village, retaining much of its traditional charm and maritime character. The harbour has long been a hub for local fishermen, and the surrounding town grew around this seafaring economy.
Until the late 19th century Porto Colom was busy supplying wine to France. The Felanitx district is famous for its wines, grown in the Pla & Llevant vineyards. But when phylloxera killed the vines just before the 20th century, Portocolom's role as a port diminished and it has only recently discovered a new life as a peaceful tourist resort.
Up to modern times
The nearby town of Felantix was the birthplace of artist Miquel Barcelรณ who has international fame for creating the installation on the UN Palace of Nations in Geneva in the Chamber of Human rights and Alliance of Civilizations.
Today, Porto Colom blends historical architecture, narrow streets, and a working harbour with modern leisure facilities, reflecting its evolution from a practical port to a scenic coastal destination.
Sights & Attractions in Portocolom
The harbour
Its working harbour is perfect for a stroll, watching fishing boats come and go, or enjoying the cafes and restaurants lining the waterfront.
Out and about
The townโs historic centre features narrow streets, traditional Mallorcan architecture, and small shops selling local crafts.
Outdoor enthusiasts can explore nearby beaches, such as Cala Marรงal or Cala Varques, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
The surrounding countryside provides scenic walking and cycling routes, while boat tours along the coast reveal hidden coves and crystal-clear waters. Itโs a place to soak up maritime life and Mallorcan charm.
Beaches in Portocolom
The most popular beach of Portocolom is Cala Marcal which lies to the south of the marina and village. It's a Blue Flag beach with very soft sands and water that is fairly shallow and which gradually deepens. It stretches 500m along the seafront to the south of the town. The beach is ideal for families as the sand slopes into the sea and so there is plenty of space for children to swim and play.
Other beaches around the area near the harbour are SโArenal Grand and SโArenal Petit which you'll find on the peninsula looking back towards Portocolom. A bit further afield are the beaches of SโAlgar in the north and Cala Sa Nau in the south.
Beaches in Mallorca
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Cala Sa Nau Beach
Escape the crowds on the beaches of Cala d'Or by heading 3 km north to the bay of Cala Sa Nau. This relaxed beach is surrounded by pine trees and is very picturesque.
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Cala d'Or Beach
Spread over a continuous stretch of Mallorcaโs southeast coastline, the beach resort of Cala d'Or is made up of several inlets and a group of beaches that can be found in smaller coves, more commonly known as โcalasโ.
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Cala Varques Beach, East Mallorca
Cala Varques (also known as Cala Barques) is a quiet, untouched beach about 12 km south of Porto Cristo, on the east coast of Majorca. This beach continues to grow in popularity, with more visitors now than ever before. Despite the summer crowds and 15 minutesโ walk to get there, this beach is well worth your visit.
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Cala Barca Beach, South-East Mallorca
Cala Barca is a small but pretty bay on the edge of Mondrago Park in the south east of Mallorca. It's 35 metres long by 25 metres deep and has golden sand.
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Calo d'es Burgit Beach, South-East Mallorca
Calo d'es Burgit is a small bay on the south east coast of Mallorca, just around the corner from Cala Mondrago and within the protected Mondrago Natural Park.
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Cala Mondrago Beach, South-East Mallorca
Considered one of Mallorca's most beautiful areas with its sand dunes, pine forests, beautiful coastline and rocky coves, Cala Mondrago, (often referred to as โCalรณ de nโAlisโ) has formed part of Mondrago National Park since 1992, greatly benefitting from the disallowing of any further development.
Dining in Portocolom
Porto Colom offers a relaxed and welcoming dining scene with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
Seafront restaurants serve freshly caught fish, seafood, and traditional Mallorcan dishes, while more casual cafรฉs and tapas bars provide light meals and snacks with a view of the harbour.
International flavours also appear alongside local classics, making it easy to enjoy anything from hearty paellas to lighter Mediterranean bites.
Whether youโre after a leisurely lunch overlooking the water or a romantic dinner at sunset, the village combines scenic charm with a warm, authentic culinary atmosphere.
Restaurants in Portocolom
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HPC Restaurant
Located right in front of the sea in Portocolom, this trendy restaurant serves Mediterranean cuisine with international and exotic touches. Situated inside Hostal Porto Colom Hotel.
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Sa Llotja Restaurant
As you'd expect being so close to the sea, this restaurant's menu is packed full of seafood, including octopus, red tuna and squid.
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Colon Restaurant
Located in the marina of Porto Colom, this restaurant serves a menu of gourmet international cuisine with heavy French and Italian influences.
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MAONA (NOMI) Restaurant
Enjoy spectacular views, exquisite cocktails, and contemporary dishes with inspiration from around the globe.
Events in Portocolom
Portocolom hosts itโs local fruit and vegetable market along with souvenirs and other produce every Tuesday and Saturday throughout the year. The larger town of Felanitx hosts markets every Sunday.
Each year, Portocolom celebrates the Fira Gastronomica Dโes Pop over the last weekend of June. Restaurants across the town take part and offer their finest gastronomic delights which include โpopโ meaning octopus in Catalan.
Portocolom is home to the TriStar Mallorca triathlon. It generally attracts over 600 participants and takes place in April over two distances.
The Rockinโ Matxin Festival has been hosted in Portocolom for the past couple of years. Held at the end of June, it features local Mallorcan rock bands taking to the stage.
Events in Mallorca
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Algaid'Art Fair
The streets fo the small town of Algaida turn into a giant open-air art gallery for one night in September.
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American Car Show Port Adriano
The vibrant American Car Festival is set to take over the central square of Port Adriano.ย
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Deia International Music Festival
In 1978, a group of professional and amateur musicians came together under the name โParamusical Workshop' and began performing concerts in Llucalcari and the Deiร church. This marked the humble beginnings of what is today known as the Deiร International Music Festival. The quality and quantity of the guest artists have been growing steadily ever since.
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Doggie Race at Port Adriano, El Toro
Port Adriano opens its doors to the Doggie Race a unique and family event where everybody will enjoy and where the pets will be the real protagonists.
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Festa des Vermar (Wine Fair), Binissalem
La Festa des Vermar is the annual grape harvest festival that includes parades, celebrations, grape-crushing competitions and a wine tasting contest. Don't miss the grape battle!
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Nit de l'Art
Palma hosts its Nit de l'Art every year in the middle of September. The museums and galleries of Palma open their doors to visitors for free during this evening.
Things to do in Portocolom
Historical sites
Porto Colomโs main historical attraction is the Naveta. This is a prehistoric burial site where there is evidence of life dating back as far as 2000 BC.
Other sights in the area include the Sanctuary of Sant Salvador and Santueri Castle. Slightly further afield are some spectacular cave systems - to the north, you might want to try the Coves des Hams or the Cuevas del Drach, both in Porto Cristo.
Take to the water
Scubadiving is a highly popular activity in Portocolom, along with kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkelling and cave exploration. Because the coastline is home to so many beautiful but isolated coves and beaches, consider taking a boat trip to explore Mallorca from the sea. The clear sea is great for snorkelling too.
Or enjoy the wine
If you like wine, why not visit some vineyards of the area? The Pla y Llevant region is on your doorstep and there are several vineyards open to the public for tastings and tours.
Things To Do in Portocolom
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Sunset Private Boat Trip
Onboard Caribia - the Bavaria 49 sailing yacht - this excursion will take you along the southeastern coast of Mallorca at sunset. Enjoy a romantic trip for 2, or invite all your friends - there's space for up to 10!
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Eastern Coast of Mallorca Boat Trip
This excursion onboard Caribia - the Bavaria 49 sailing yacht - will take you along the Eastern coast of Mallorca where you will discover its numerous stunning coves with their turquoise waters.
Nightlife in Portocolom
There are a few late night bars in Portocolom, where you can relax and enjoy cocktails and a good drink menu.
Bars & Clubs in Portocolom
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HPC Restaurant
Located right in front of the sea in Portocolom, this trendy restaurant serves Mediterranean cuisine with international and exotic touches. Situated inside Hostal Porto Colom Hotel.
Holidays Rentals in Portocolom
Staying in short-term rental accommodation in Porto Colom is a wonderful way to enjoy your trip in your own time and space. Often set in traditional buildings with mountain or sea views, apartments are ideal if you want a simple, comfortable base whilst exploring the area. With the freedom to cook, relax and come and go as you please, itโs a great option for anyone who enjoys a slower pace surrounded by natural beauty.
Holiday Rentals in Portocolom
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Mar Gran Villa, Cala d'Or
This pretty villa is situated in a great position on the Cala Esmeralda that enjoys beautiful sea views. Cala Esmeralda is a beautiful sandy cove located in the resort of Cala D'Or on the South eastern coast of Mallorca. The villa is only a 10 minute stroll from two lovely beaches and the town centre is also no more than a 12 minute walk away. The heart of this little town is the pedestrian area with its boutiques, open air bars, restaurants and cafes. His famous marina is dotted with luxury vessels and large yachts.
Price: โฌ2,065
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Forti 57 Villa
The large villa Forti 57 enjoys a privileged seafront position with astonishing sea views where you can often see the yachts on their way to the Cala D'or marina.
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Acebuche Villa
This beautiful villa is located close to two pretty sandy beaches; Cala Esmeralda is 250m and Cala Gran 500m. It is a 10/15 minutes walk (700m.) to Cala D'Or centre. This bustling resort which is in the heart of a pedestrian area, offers a wide variety of restaurants, cafeterias, bars with live music, shops and boutiques. Its exclusive marina with superb restaurants where enjoy a nice meal looking at the yachts moored at the pier is a 5 minutes drive. Here you can also practice water sports or enjoy and excursion with a sailing boat or the glass bottom boat and visit the beautiful south coast of Majorca with its lovely sandy coves, charming fishing ports or even the natural Park of Mondrago.
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Can Alou Villa
Can Alou ist located on the crest of a hillside in this verdant valley amidst a setting of total tranquility - no cars, no planes, there is only the sound of migrating birds and sheep bells in the surrounding almond groves.
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El Jardin Villa
Villa El Jardin is a truly traditional Mallorcan farmhouse, accessed via an attractive archway and surrounded by extensive gardens with flowers, shrubs and orange trees. Located just 5 minutes drive away from the unspoilt beach of Cala San Vicente and sheltered by the high Tramuntana mountains, this villa is a perfect retreat to enjoy all the peace and atmosphere that Mallorca can offer. ย
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Delfin Villa
Large villa perfect for a group of friends or two families. The villa is located in a quiet street close to Cala Esmeralda sandy beach. Cala Gran sandy beach and Cala DโOr centre with shops, restaurants and leisure activities are a short walk away.
Price: โฌ2,786
Hotels in Portocolom
Porto Colom offers a range of hotels that cater to different tastes, from small, family-run properties to larger seaside stays. Many are set close to the harbour or tucked slightly inland, offering peaceful surroundings with easy access to the beach. Expect comfortable rooms, often with balconies or terraces overlooking the sea or village streets. Some feature swimming pools, gardens, and on-site dining, while others focus on a more intimate, boutique experience.
The overall vibe is relaxed and welcoming, making it ideal for those seeking a tranquil stay in a picturesque fishing village with easy access to coastal activities.
Hotels in Portocolom
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Ca'n Bessol Finca Hotel
This country estate is situated in the south-east of the island, very close to marvellous unspoilt beaches. The farmhouse was built during the 18th century by the ancestors of the family.
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Sa Tanca des Garbello B&B
Located inย the South East of the island,ย between the small town of Calonge and Cala Dor. Furnished with attention to detail, the estate is located in a unique and quiet location, among the pristine countryside.
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Ca's Pages des Pujol Hotel
This huge house from the 13th century with its private chapel is situated on the hillside, offering marvellous views over the sea.ย It retains all its character as its original state has not been altered.
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Sa Pletassa Rural Hotel
This hotel is situated in the countryside, in a relaxing, calm environment, yet only a few minutes away from the closest beach (Cala Marรงal โ Porto Colom).
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Melia Cala d'Or Luxury Hotel
Decorated in a traditional Mallorcan style, with smart new furniture this hotel offers a choice of family rooms, suites and junior suites all with airconditioning and heating.ย
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Robinson Club Cala Sirena Hotel
For sporty types who are keen to keep moving whilst away, this family-friendly resort offers a whole host of sports, including golf and cycling as well as excursions.ย
How to get to Portocolom
By car
Car hire is a viable option in Mallorca and Porto Colom is a 50 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 from the airport.
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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MajorCabDriver Taxis
The only British taxi driver in Mallorca, offering airport transfers to destinations throughout the island.
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Taxi PMI
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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Conde Transfers
This taxi & transfer company operates out of Palma, covering the whole of Mallorca Island.
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Mallorca Taxi Car
This taxi company offers 24-hour service from the airport to your accommodation all around Mallorca.