Mallorca in August: Notes from Here

The simplest trick for an August in Mallorca is timing. The best hours by the water are early morning from 7:30–10:30 and in the evening from around 18:00 until sunset. Then the water is clear, the beaches are calmer and the sun hits the skin more gently. For families I recommend Cala Mondragó: shallow water, a few pines for shade and small kiosks that often serve freshly grilled fish. If you want white sand and a bit of wildness, go to Es Trenc, preferably by bike or very early by car; parking is limited. If you plan to snorkel, bring a mask and a thin wetsuit, because even on hot days the water feels refreshing — Cala Almunia and Cala Deià have surprisingly clear water and more fish than expected. At midday: stay in the shade, drink plenty of water, eat light (gazpacho, salad) and take a break. From 16:00–17:00 the heat is often more bearable; a walk on the promenade or a coffee under plane trees then feels almost recharging. Tip: reapply sunscreen every two hours and don't forget a hat — the most common holiday mishap is a sunburned neck, not a sunburned shoulder.

The simplest trick for an August in Mallorca is timing. The best hours by the water are early morning from 7:30–10:30 and in the evening from around 18:00 until sunset. Then the water is clear, the beaches are calmer and the sun hits the skin more gently. For families I recommend Cala Mondragó: shallow water, a few pines for shade and small kiosks that often serve freshly grilled fish. If you want white sand and a bit of wildness, go to Es Trenc, preferably by bike or very early by car; parking is limited. If you plan to snorkel, bring a mask and a thin wetsuit, because even on hot days the water feels refreshing — Cala Almunia and Cala Deià have surprisingly clear water and more fish than expected. At midday: stay in the shade, drink plenty of water, eat light (gazpacho, salad) and take a break. From 16:00–17:00 the heat is often more bearable; a walk on the promenade or a coffee under plane trees then feels almost recharging. Tip: reapply sunscreen every two hours and don't forget a hat — the most common holiday mishap is a sunburned neck, not a sunburned shoulder.

August is festival month in Mallorca. Many villages celebrate their local patron saints with pilgrimages, historical reenactments and above all: food. Pollença has its typical 'Moors and Christians' reenactment, and the atmosphere there is rougher and full of drums; a great experience if you like a bit of drama. Small communities like Consell or Maria de la Salut hold gastronomic fairs where olive oil, sobrasada and homemade baked goods are in the spotlight. My recommendation: check dates in advance (flyers are often posted at the café opposite the town hall or ask the hotel reception), arrive early, bring a refillable water bottle and wear comfortable shoes. In the evenings the festival squares are cooler and conversations flow more easily. For the traditional night walk from Palma to Lluc (Lluc a peu) you need stamina and a headlamp — it's less a tourist spectacle, more a local heartfelt event. Important: respect rituals and photo rules; some processions are religious and solemn, not just photo opportunities.

If you travel with children, plan a varied program: beach in the morning, a midday break, and activities in the afternoon. Palma Aquarium is nearby and straightforward — sharks, colourful reef fish and a large outdoor area, ideal for children up to about 12. Katmandu Park in Magaluf is a good option for rainy days or extreme heat: indoor attractions, a bit over the top, but kids love it. Watersports centres in Alcúdia and Puerto de Pollença offer SUP boards and pedal boats, which are especially popular with 8–12-year-olds. Half-day boat rentals are among my favourites: you go to a small cove, swim, snorkel and have a picnic on deck — the feeling of freedom is great, but remember sun protection even on the water. A pragmatic tip for families: book tickets for popular attractions in advance and arrive early; secure shaded spots on the beach (or bring a sunshade), and always carry a small first-aid kit. Often it’s the simple days with ice cream in the afternoon and a slow evening meal that children and parents remember most.