Beach Guide: Es Carnatge – Rocky Swim by Palma Airport
Dog-Friendly Swim, Loved by Locals
Es Carnatge is a natural rocky shoreline between Can Pastilla and Coll d’en Rabassa, minutes from Palma and well-known to locals with dogs. Expect flat rock platforms, clear water on calm mornings, and a laid-back, residential vibe—not a sand-towel scene. Best for residents, long-stayers, paddleboarders, and anyone asking “where can we swim with the dog near Palma?”
🧭 Location & Getting There
- Drive: 10–15 min from central Palma via Ma-19 (exits for Coll d’en Rabassa / Can Pastilla).
- Parking: Free street parking along the seafront road; arrive early on sunny weekends.
- Public transport: City buses run along the waterfront between Palma and Can Pastilla; short walk from stops.
- Access: Low rock ledges with occasional ladders/steps; choose a calm-water entry spot.
🏖️ Facilities & Beach Comfort
| Item | Es Carnatge Notes |
| Lifeguards | No lifeguard service |
| Sunbeds/Parasols | None – bring your own shade |
| Showers/WC | None on the rocks; facilities back in Can Pastilla/Coll d’en Rabassa |
| Shade | Minimal; early or bring an umbrella |
| Entry/Seabed | Rock platforms, patches of posidonia, clear sand pockets offshore |
| Dog-friendly | Yes (popular local dog swim zone; keep under control and clean up) |
🌊 Things to Do at Es Carnatge
Swim & Snorkel
On calm mornings, visibility can be excellent. Enter from low ledges and follow the rocky fringes for fish spotting. Wear water shoes.
SUP & Easy Paddles
When wind is light, it’s a great SUP launch: hug the coast toward Can Pastilla or Coll d’en Rabassa.
Dog Dips & Walks
Wide, open rocky terraces make it easy to let dogs dip and cool down. Keep them leashed/controlled when others are entering the water.
🍴 Where to Eat & Drink
- Promenade cafés: coffees, breakfasts, simple lunches.
- Takeaway & gelato: grab-and-go options along the waterfront.
- Evening tapas back in Palma: easy 10–15 min return.
🛏️ Where to Stay
| Base | Good For | Why It Works |
| Palma (city) | Culture + beach dips | Short drive/bus; best dining variety |
| Can Pastilla | Walkable seafront | Promenade cafés; quick stroll to ledges |
| Coll d’en Rabassa/Portixol | Local vibe | Flat seafront walks and easy parking |
🗓️ Simple Day Plan from Palma
| Time | Plan |
| Morning | Drive/bus to Es Carnatge; pick a calm entry spot for swims (and dog dips). |
| Midday | Café break on the promenade; re-apply sunscreen, refill water. |
| Afternoon | Short SUP/snorkel if winds stay light; pack up before peak sun. |
| Evening | Sunset paseo back toward Portixol or into Palma for dinner. |
⚠️ Safety & Seasonal Notes
- No lifeguards: Self-reliance essential; avoid in swell or strong wind.
- Heat & paws: Summer rock gets hot—bring fresh water for dogs and consider booties.
- Posidonia: Sea-grass wrack may collect—natural and protected.
- Aircraft noise: You’re near the airport—expect take-off/landing sound.
- Tidy up: Locals love this spot—pack out all waste (dog bags too).
🏺 History, Fun Facts & Did You Know?
“Carnatge” refers to historic tanneries/slaughterhouses once operating here; the shoreline remains largely undeveloped and rocky—one of the few wild feeling water-entry areas so close to Palma’s city centre.
❓ FAQ
Is Es Carnatge always dog-friendly?
Yes—this stretch is widely used by locals with dogs. Keep pets under control, avoid crowding other swimmers, and clean up.
Can kids swim here?
Strong, water-confident kids can enjoy it on calm days, but there’s no sand and no lifeguard. For family sands, see Can Pastilla, Cala Estancia, or Ciudad Jardín.
When is the best time to go?
Early mornings for lighter winds, clearer water and easier parking—especially in July–August.
📡 Check Live Beach Conditions
Platges de Balears – Live Beach Conditions
📚 Related Guides
