Our trip around Mallorca with Volotea has led us to discover Sierra de Tramuntana, the places and flavours of our capital. So now that the summer is here, how about discovering its beaches?
Well, here’s the problem: There are more than 250 beaches on the island. Choosing between them is an impossible feat. Are you looking for secluded coves? Fine sandy beaches? Or a little adventure to beaches where the whole family can enjoy a quick dip? Whatever you’re looking for, you will find it on the island.
As a restless father of two little ones, I want to show you 10 beaches where children and adults alike will have a great time.
Ready? Set? GO!
PLAYA D’EN REPIC
Looking for a sandy beach in the heart of the Sierra de Tramuntana mountain range? There is one in Puerto de Sóller. Once you get there, you’ll discover that this place offers infinite possibilities; you can explore the whole port, parks, restaurants and if you enjoy hiking, go on a short trek to enjoy with the whole family.
If you’d rather be relaxing on some soft sand, you can see the tram that takes you to Sóller pass by and of course, if you have a sweet tooth, when you reach the town, you must go for an ice cream at Sa fábrica de Gelats.
PLAYA DE SANTA PONSA
Around twenty kilometres from Palma, is Santa Ponsa, where you will find a perfect beach for the whole family to enjoy. If you don’t enjoy laying in the sun, there are some pine forest, but I suggest you get there early. You will also find a park almost within walking distance of the beach, as well as showers and shops where you can buy food and drink. And if you are looking for a restaurant where you can forget about the kids for a while (yes, there really is such a place), I recommend the Balcón de María.
PLAYA D’ ES PORT and PLAYA ES DOLÇ
If you prefer the south of the island, in Colonia de Sant Jordi, near the port, you will find two beaches. The nearest is Es Port, and you can get to Es Dolç on a pleasant little walk. There are shops, bars and restaurants, where you can enjoy some excellent fish. If you want to go on an excursion, the nearby island of Cabrera is a great option.
CALA DOMINGOS GRAN (ES DOMINGOS GRANS)
The northeast of Mallorca is an area with loads of beaches that are popular amongst families. The next stop I recommend is in the Manacor coastal area. It is a fine sandy beach, surrounded by all the services you would expect to enjoy on a family day out. You can also take a walk along the coast to reach the beach’s “little sister” Cala Domingos Petits. I must confess that one of the things I liked the most was arriving and parking the car just a minute’s walk from the beach. You can’t put a price on that!
PLAYA DE SA COMA
Up the east coast, we arrive at Playa de Sa Coma. This is another of those fine sandy beaches with crystal-clear waters, perfect for the little ones. Not far from there you will find Sa Punta de n’Amer castle; a mini excursion that I recommend you go on, right on the coast.
PLAYA DE CANYAMEL
Not far from the town of Artá, you will arrive at another idyllic beach with a pine forest, where tourists and locals alike go to enjoy a perfect summer day. On that same beach, there is an area that we call “es Riuet”, where there are ducks ready to be fed. This is a place with easy parking, excellent hotels and restaurants and, while you are enjoying the beach and its surroundings, don’t miss out on a trip to the famous Artá caves.
CALA MESQUIDA and CALA AGULLA
In the village of Capdepera you will find these two spectacular stretches of sand, where, among other things, there is one of the largest sand dunes in the Balearic Islands and the Son Jaumell watch tower, with views that will take your breath away. And if you’re a fan of a good leisurely walk, you will find a path, which is just a few kilometres long and easy for kids to manage, taking you to the other great stretch of sand that you can find in this wonderful spot. What can I say about this bay? You have to see it to believe it! Its dunes, its clear water… everything about it makes it unique. Can you tell it’s one of my favourites?
PLAYA DE ALCUDIA
We’re now in the north of Mallorca, in the town of Alcudia and one of the most popular beaches both for tourists and locals. It is ideal for having a great time with the family because of its shallow waters, fine sand and excellent restaurants on the beachfront. Let me recommend one to you: Mirablau restaurant (Carretera d’Artà, 13, 07410 Port d’Alcúdia, Illes Balears). If you are wondering why I chose this one, it’s because it’s practically on the beach, so the kids can come and go safely, but that’s only one reason. It also has excellent food and the service is great.
PLAYA DE MURO
This one is very close to Alcudia beach. If you stroll along this endless beach, you will see the famous piers stretching out into the sea and pine forests perfect for picnics so you can eat without interrupting the kids’ playtime.
I have to say this is another one of my favourite places. Before I forget, if you like ice creams, don’t miss Helados Garrido (Carrer del Moll, 27, 07400 Alcúdia, Illes Balears).
PLAYA DE ALBERCUTX
The last stop takes us to Port de Pollensa and more specifically to a beach very close to the port. Its name comes from the fort built to protect the town from pirate attacks. Rather than a beach, it’s a succession of separate expanses of sand and a path through pine and tamarind trees that invites you to discover this idyllic place and enjoy some wonderful views.
History, food, breath-taking landscapes, picture-perfect villages and as you have read, beaches. Mallorca is all of this and so much more. Don’t think twice: see it for yourself!
