Beach Guide: Cala Antena
Orientation & Why Go
Cala Antena is the northern, pocket-sized cove of Cales de Mallorca—a narrow inlet with sheer rock walls, clear water and a small sandy pocket at the head of the cove. It’s the quieter, more dramatic sibling to Cala Domingos, ideal if you prefer ladder-and-steps entries, cliff-backed shade in the morning and snorkelling along rocky edges. Families do come, but note the stairs and occasional swell.
🧭 Location & Getting There (from Palma)
- From Palma (Cathedral area): ~65–80 min
- Route: Ma-15 east → Manacor → follow signs for Cales de Mallorca → local signs to Cala Antena
- Parking: Street/lot parking around the resort; in Jul–Aug arrive before 10:00
- Public transport: Seasonal buses run from Manacor / Porto Cristo to Cales de Mallorca; short walk to the cove
- Access: Footpath and flights of steps down to the sand; not ideal for strollers
🗺️ Map Pin (Start Here)
🏖️ Facilities & Beach Comfort
| Item | Details |
| Lifeguards | Seasonal / variable (less consistent than Cala Domingos) |
| Loungers & Parasols | Limited/seasonal; many bring beach mats |
| Showers / WC | Resort-side facilities nearby rather than on-beach |
| Shade | Morning shade from high cliffs; exposed after late morning |
| Access | Steps from the rim path; wear grippy sandals |
| Seabed | Sand at the head; rocky shelves along both walls |
🌊 What to Do at Cala Antena
Swim & Snorkel
Hug either rock wall for the clearest water and fish life; visibility is often excellent on calm mornings. Avoid cave mouths when there’s swell and never swim under overhangs.
Sunbathing
Small sandy pocket fits early birds; when it fills, use the flat rock ledges above the tide line with mats. Midday is the sunniest window.
Short Walks & Viewpoints
Follow the coastal promenade south toward Cala Domingos for easy viewpoints, or north for quieter cliff perches. Golden hour from the rim path is gorgeous.
Nearby Cafés & Beach Bits
Promenade cafés in Cales de Mallorca sit 5–10 minutes’ walk away for coffee, snacks and ice cream. Pick up extra water before you descend the steps.
🍴 Where to Eat & Drink
- Promenade cafés (Cales de Mallorca): breakfasts, bocadillos, salads, kids’ menus
- Casual pizzerias & grills: family-friendly, continuous service in summer
- Beach kiosks (in season): cold drinks, ice creams, simple snacks near the resort paths
🛏️ Where to Stay
| Area/Base | Good For | Why it Works |
| Cales de Mallorca (resort) | Families, easy logistics | Walk to Cala Antena and Cala Domingos |
| Porto Cristo | Quieter nights, cave day trips | Short drive; pair with Caves of Drach |
| Cala d’Or | Lively evenings, multiple calas | 25–35 min away; many cove options |
📅 Suggested Day Plan
| Time | Plan |
| Morning | Arrive by 09:30; descend steps; swim/snorkel along the south wall while it’s calm. |
| Lunch | Promenade café in Cales de Mallorca; refill water and sunscreen. |
| Afternoon | Stroll the coastal path to Cala Domingos; second swim there; gelato stop. |
| Evening | Sunset viewpoints back at Cala Antena’s rim before driving home. |
⚠️ Safety & Seasonal Notes
- Swell & surge: Waves can reflect between the walls. If you see chop in the cove, keep to the sand zone and skip the wall swims.
- Rockfall caution: Do not sit directly under overhangs or loose cliff sections.
- No jumping: Water depth varies with sand movement; entries via the shore or ladders only.
- Heat: Steps + exposure—carry extra water; aim for early starts in July–August.
🧭 History & Fun Facts
Cala Antena’s classic V-shaped inlet is a textbook east-coast limestone cove: a narrow marine channel opening to a small beach, backed by old resort paths. Its high walls create morning shade and a natural amphitheatre of sound on lively sea days.
❓ FAQ
Is Cala Antena good for small children?
It can be, on calm days—but note the steps, small sand area and occasional swell. For prams and more space, try Cala Domingos.
Can I bring a beach umbrella and cooler?
Yes. There’s little fixed shade on the sand after late morning; bring a light umbrella and plenty of water.
Where’s the best snorkelling?
Along the south (right-hand) wall looking seaward, early in the day before wind chop. Keep clear of cave mouths and avoid rough-sea days.
📡 Check Live Beach Conditions
Platges de Balears – Live Beach Conditions
📚 Related Guides
