Unveiling Palma's Hidden Gems: Six Beaches You Can't Miss

Over time, we've discovered every nook and cranny of Palma's coastline. Some of these gems are within walking distance from the city centre, while others are a quick 5-10 minute drive or taxi ride away. One of our top recommendations is Cala Comtesa. This picturesque cove, just ten minutes from Palma, offers both sandy and concrete areas for sunbathing. It boasts excellent swimming conditions and provides access to the high-end luxury of Puro Beach club, as well as simpler sunbed rentals. Plus, parking is a breeze! But the beauty of Palma doesn't stop at Cala Comtesa. Let's dive into some other fantastic options. https://www.purobeach.com/

Cala Comtesa, located on the southern coast of Mallorca, is a favourite among locals and tourists alike. We suggest getting there early in the morning during the peak months of June-August. Early birds can rent a sunbed for just 15 euros. The beach offers ample space for everyone. You can lay your towel on the sand, or choose the large concrete area near the car park. Diving into the turquoise waters of the Balearic Sea is an experience you won't forget. Cala Comtesa is also a popular spot for sunbathing and snorkelling. A small café nearby serves lunch and drinks. Although the adjacent car park can get busy, there's additional free parking up the hill.

Adjacent to Cala Comtesa is Cala Illetas, a slightly larger beach with more room on the sand. Here, you have access to two beach clubs: Puro Beach and Balneario. Balneario offers a more affordable and straightforward experience compared to the luxurious Puro Beach. Remember to book sunbeds in advance during peak summer months. The sand and water at Illetas are near perfection. Investing in a taxi ride or a sunbed here is well worth it to make the most of your beach day in Palma. https://balnearioilletas.com/

Just around the corner from Cala Comtesa is La Calita, Portal Nous. This serene cove is a sight to behold, with a narrow strip of water flanked by the headland on either side. Space on the sand and sunbeds are limited, so arrive early to secure your spot. Parking is also limited, but you're sure to find a spot within a 5–10 minute walk. A quaint restaurant on the beach offers sit-down meals or takeaway snacks and drinks. The swimming conditions here are top-notch, with rock formations and calm, crystal clear water.

Cala Mayor, while not the most picturesque, is a convenient beach near Palma. It offers a sandy beach and calm swimming conditions, but it can feel a bit too developed due to the commercial activity and traffic. It's closer to Palma but a bit too far to walk from the old town. A quick 5-minute taxi ride will get you there. However, unless you're staying nearby, we'd recommend making the extra effort to visit one of the other beaches mentioned above. Cala Mayor offers a plethora of food and drink options along the beach.

A short drive further east will bring you to Ciudad Jardin. While it may not be the most aesthetically pleasing beach compared to our top picks, it does offer more space if you're looking for a less crowded spot. It's a bit far to walk from Palma, but a quick 5-minute taxi ride along the ocean heading east past Portixol will get you there.

Regardless of which beach you choose, you can't go wrong if your goal is to dive into the ocean and cool down from Palma's hot summer temperatures. However, if you're planning to spend a whole day at the beach and are looking for the perfect combination of swimming conditions, nice facilities, and a feeling of being a bit "out of the city", then Cala Comtesa is your best bet. Remember, Palma is just the beginning. The island is home to hundreds of beaches waiting to be explored. So, why not start with these six and then venture out to discover more of what this beautiful island has to offer? Happy beach hopping!