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Santa Ponsa

Holiday beach resort in the south west of Mallorca

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Santa Ponsa, also known as Santa Ponça, is a holiday resort situated in a beautiful sheltered cove in the south-west of Mallorca. Despite being a favourite among British visitors for over 40 years, it’s remarkably avoided too many of the high-rise developments seen in some of Mallorca’s neighbouring coastal resorts. Santa Ponsa bay sits against a gorgeous mountain backdrop, dotted with well-designed villas and apartment buildings that blend in nicely with the scenery.

Its large blue flag beach is the main attraction here, a wide, long stretch of silky soft white sand lined by a lively promenade. Santa Ponsa is a family-friendly resort but welcomes a whole host of age groups due to being well equipped with restaurants, bars, shops and all sorts of activities for holidaymakers. Thanks to a steady expat community, the area has a year-round vibe, unlike many other resorts on the island, some restaurants and bars here stay open all year.

There are several yacht charter companies in the area, offering both sailing and motor yachts in a range of sizes. Charters are available for anything from a half-day outing to extended trips lasting weeks or even months. For the best options, be sure to explore Club Nautico Santa Ponsa and nearby Port Adriano.

History & Culture in Santa Ponsa

Santa Ponsa's early history

It may look like just another beach resort but it's name actually comes from a Roman villa called Sancta Pontia. It was here that Jaume I landed in 1229 to begin his conquest of Mallorca. Sa Caleta, the cove where he landed, is now home to Santa Ponsa Marina and has been marked with a large stone cross since 1929 in memory of this historical event. 

The festival Rei en Jaume takes place annually at the end of August, beginning of September to commemorate this landing. 

The tourist boom

Tourism hit Santa Ponsa in the early 1960s, as the area fully embraced package holidays, and now very little remains of the original village.

See our History Guide

Beaches in Santa Ponsa

Santa Ponsa Beach is more than 500 metres wide, relatively deep and boasts ‘Blue Flag’ status. 

There’s also another small beach within the cove called Caló d’en Pallisser if you fancy a change of scenery or want to hang out with the locals who tend to prefer this beach as it is usually less crowded.

Beaches in Mallorca

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Events in Santa Ponsa

Historical festivals

The main event in Santa Ponsa is the Festes del Rei en Jaume, a celebration in reference to the aforementioned King Jaume I conquest in 1229. It is held at the beginning of September and the star attraction is the mock battle between the 'Moors' and the 'Christians', generally held on Saturday.

Events in Santa Ponsa

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Dining in Santa Ponsa

There’s a good mix of international restaurants distributed around the resort of Santa Ponsa offering spectacular views of the bay and the freshest seafood - quite a few claim to serve the best paella in town. 

For a special occasion head to one of the spots in Santa Ponsa Marina for creative Mediterranean cuisine in a sophisticated setting with spectacular sea views. 

If meat is more your thing, there are a few steakhouses, there are also lots of Italian eateries here known for their authentic Italian pizzas, fresh ingredients, and warm, welcoming atmosphere just steps from the beach. 

Restaurants in Santa Ponsa

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Things to do in Santa Ponsa

Whilst the most popular past time for holidaymakers here is laying on the beach and a quick dip in the sea, there are other things you can do here.

Shopping

There are plenty of convenience stores found within the resort alongside the typical holiday resort souvenir and beach shops selling local ceramics, inflatables, towels and sun cream. There is a small market held in Santa Ponsa on Saturday mornings on Avenida Riu Sill but the closest big market is held just down the road in Andratx every Wednesday. It’s well worth the visit. If you don’t have your own car you can get a bus or a taxi there.

Theme parks and waterparks

If you want to keep the kids of all ages entertained and the beach isn't enough for them, seek out the theme parks and waterparks in the area and towards the neighbouring resort of Magaluf.

The marina and port

When we think of things to do, we think of activities which mostly take place around the beach or the port and marina. There are boat trips, trips over to the nature reserve island of Sa Dragonera, yacht charters, and a whole lot of watersports including scuba diving. It’s also easy to find family-friendly activities like pedaloes, kayaking, SUP paddle boarding. Thrill seekers will be pleased to know jet skiing is available in Santa Ponsa and Port Adriano.

Things To Do in Santa Ponsa

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Nightlife in Santa Ponsa

Santa Ponsa offers a mix of pubs and bars with live music, perfect for an evening out. As the sun sets, the main strip comes to life with lights and energy. This is the busiest part of town after dark, where many of the late-night spots can be found.

Bars & Clubs in Santa Ponsa

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Holidays Rentals in Santa Ponsa

Families and large groups will find some lovely short-term rental accommodation here with plenty of space for a more private holiday. These are located in the areas surrounding Santa Ponsa, especially towards Port d'Andratx and Costa d'en Blanes.

Hotels in Santa Ponsa

There is a wide range of hotels on offer in Santa Ponsa. Many holidaymakers come here on a package holiday. However, here you can choose from self-catering right the way through to all-inclusive with spas, pools and incredible views over the bay.

Hotels in Santa Ponsa

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How to get to Santa Ponsa

By car

Car hire is a viable option in Mallorca and Santa Ponsa is just over 30 minutes from the airport and around a 20-minute drive from Palma. Alternatively you can take the hassle out of driving yourself and take a taxi or book a private transfer.

By public transport

Santa Ponsa is very easy to get to from Palma, if you're coming from the airport you'll need to travel into Palma first. It wouldn't be our first choice of transportation.

Transfers for Mallorca

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See our Getting Here Guide

Location

Map of the surrounding area

News

Events

  • Festes de la Mare de Déu d'Agost 2025
  • Illes Balears Classics Sailing Regatta, Palma
  • Pollença Music Festival 2020
  • Bonnie Tyler Concert Port Adriano
  • La Mare de Déu d’Agost Sencelles
  • Festes de la Mare de Deu d'Agost, Sineu