Santa Ponsa
Holiday beach resort in the south west of Mallorca
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.
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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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 Fornells Beach
Cala Fornells’ overhanging pine trees offer ample areas of natural shade and retreat away from the Balearic sun, not to mention adding to the overall charm of the Mallorcan cove.
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Camp de Mar Beach, South-West Mallorca
Tucked away in a sheltered bay on the southwest coast and protected from the island’s gusty winds, surrounded by the wonderful aroma of the neighbouring pine trees, Camp de Mar is a modestly sized purpose-built resort.
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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.
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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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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.
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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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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Multihull Cup Regatta, El Toro
Held over a long weekend in Port Adriano, the Multihull Cup is comprised of three races: two approximately 30Nm on Friday, with a longer ‘record run’ race on Saturday.
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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.
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Oyster Palma Regatta
This year promises to be an unforgettable edition, featuring superb sailing conditions, friendly competition, and the debut of a cruising class for newcomers or those looking for a more relaxed experience on the water.
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Bonnie Tyler Concert
Bonnie Tyler celebrates at Port Adriano Music Festival her fifty years of musical career.
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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Adriana Restaurant
Adriana is a gourmet restaurant is based within a luxury hotel and offers diners, alongside its exceptional cuisine, breathtaking sea views.
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La Terraza Restaurant
Specialising in Lobster Paella, La Terraza offers tasty tapas, meats and mallorquin fish, or if you prefer their own “Lobster Soup”.
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Mestis Restaurant
Boutique dining inspired by the cuisine of Baja, California.
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Coast by East Restaurant and bar
Here you can enjoy both Asian and typical regional dishes, as well as grilled specialities from the Robata grill and exciting sushi creations.
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Brasa Madre Restaurant
A niche steakhouse in a historic setting where grilled meats and Mediterranean cuisine combine .
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Trattoria Vino del Mar Restaurant
Located in the swanky marina of Port Adriano, this restaurant offers a wide range of gourmet Italian dishes, as well as a whole menu for coeliacs.
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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Marine Reserve Snorkelling Boat Trip
Snorkelling trip to the Malgrats Marine Reserve where you will be able to see a wide variety of marine wildlife.
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Kayak Hire
Paddle around the south western coast of Mallorca on our kayaks, exploring at your own pace and enjoying the stunning scenery this beautiful coastline has to offer.
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Stand Up Paddle Board Hire
Discover the southwestern coast of Mallorca on a stand-up-paddle board at your own pace, and enjoy the stunning scenery while practising an outdoor sport.
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Cycling
Ride through hidden backroads, coastal routes and mountain trails as you discover the beauty of Mallorca by bike, all year round.
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Guided Kayak Tour
Paddle along the coast and between islands on our kayaks to visit the most interesting places of this beautiful area of Mallorca, such as a cave and a natural pool where you can snorkel or swim in crystal clear waters!
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Discover Scuba Diving Experience
Your first underwater experience. For those who just want to try diving where fun and safety are guaranteed!
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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Port Adriano Bar
This bar is perfect spot to enjoy a drink in a casual atmosphere with fantastic sea views overlooking Port Adriano.
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Uppereast Nightclub
Located right in front of the sea in the glitzy Philippe Starck-designed marina of Port Adriano, this nightclub offers a stunningly decorated interior and state of the art music system.
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Eolo Bar
A friendly, informal, and relaxed spot to enjoy by the water’s edge.
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Crew Bar
A meeting point for crew and port workers, it boasts a friendly and relaxed ambience with a great terrace where you can enjoy an amazing sunset.
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El Chiringuito Beach Bar, Costa de la Calma
El Chiringuito is a beach bar located on a rocky platform in the small resort of Costa de la Calma. It's position faces west so it gets great sunsets!
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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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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Pure Salt Port Adriano Hotel, El Toro
As of 2016 this stunning adults only hotel became part of the brand Pure Salt Luxury Hotels. Created by the Amengual family, a celebrated name in Mallorcan hospitality, the hotel focuses on personalised luxury, fantastic services in an unbeatable location.
Price: €5,660
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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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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: €10,386
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Petit Cala Fornells Luxury Hotel, Peguera
This sea-front hotel has 24 suites, all with a sea view. The sea, beaches and pinewoods create a peaceful, relaxing and comfortable atmosphere where you're sure to be able to unwind.
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OD Port Portals Hotel
Moorish casbah luxury meets contemporary sleekness with unrivaled sea views of Spain's Balearic coast.
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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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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Majorca Taxis Company Transfers
Multilingual company offering transfers from the airport to your destination.
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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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Balearic Airport Transfers
This transfer company offers cheap and reliable Airport Transfers to all destinations in Mallorca with official vehicles and professional drivers.
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Conde Transfers
This taxi & transfer company operates out of Palma, covering the whole of Mallorca Island.