Cala d’Or, Mallorca – Complete Travel Guide from Palma
Cala d’Or (“Golden Bay”) is a whitewashed Ibicenco-style resort town on Mallorca’s southeast coast. Known for its string of sandy coves, stylish marina, and laid-back but lively holiday vibe, it’s a favorite getaway for families, couples, and sailors.
From Palma, Cala d’Or makes for a fantastic weekend escape or longer stay, with plenty of beaches, day trips, and nature walks within easy reach.
Cala d’Or at a Glance 🌴
| Feature | Details |
| 📍 Location | Southeast coast, 65 km from Palma |
| 🚗 Travel Time | ~1 hr 10 min by car |
| ⭐ Best For | Families, couples, sailing holidays |
| 🏖️ Main Beaches | Cala Gran, Cala Esmeralda, Cala Ferrera |
| 🎶 Local Highlight | Annual Cala d’Or International Jazz Festival |
| ⚓ Marina | One of the largest in southeast Mallorca, 500+ berths |
How to Get to Cala d’Or from Palma 🚗
- By Car – The fastest option is to rent a car and drive via the Ma-19 towards Santanyí, then follow signs for Cala d’Or. The journey takes around 1 hr 10 min. 👉 Check our Mallorca car rental guide for tips.
- By Bus – From Palma’s Estació Intermodal, Line 501 connects to Santanyí, with onward buses to Cala d’Or. Expect around 2 hours+ in total.
- By Taxi – Direct taxis cost around €80–100 each way, good for groups.
🔹 Pro Tip: If you plan to explore nearby gems like Mondragó Natural Park or Santanyí, a rental car gives the most flexibility.
Things to Do in Cala d’Or
Relax on the Beaches 🏖️
Instead of one big stretch, Cala d’Or has seven small coves tucked into pine forests and rocky inlets.
- Cala Gran – the largest and most central, with loungers and family facilities.
- Cala Esmeralda – named for its emerald-green waters.
- Cala Ferrera & Cala Serena – smaller coves, quieter, great for snorkeling.
👉 Want more hidden gems? See our full Hidden Beaches of Mallorca guide.
Explore the Marina ⚓
One of the southeast’s biggest marinas, Cala d’Or’s harbor is perfect for evening strolls and yacht-spotting. Lined with restaurants, cocktail bars, and boutiques, it’s the stylish side of town.
Visit Mondragó Natural Park 🌿
Just 10 minutes away by car, Mondragó Natural Park is a must. Coastal trails link pine forests with white-sand beaches like S’Amarador, one of Mallorca’s most pristine.
Day Trip to Santanyí 🏛️
Only 15 minutes inland, Santanyí offers a golden-stone old town, a famous weekly market, and excellent restaurants.
Where to Eat in Cala d’Or 🍴
| Restaurant | Style | Why Go |
| Port Petit | Fine dining | Marina views + elegant cuisine |
| Restaurante Diferent | Fusion | Creative dishes in chic décor |
| Ca’n Trompe | Mallorcan | Traditional flavors in central Cala d’Or |
For local flavors nearby, check out restaurants in Santanyí.
Where to Stay in Cala d’Or 🏨
- Inturotel Cala Esmeralda – Adults-only, modern, beachfront.
- Melia Cala d’Or – 5-star boutique with gardens and spa.
- Ferrera Blanca Aparthotel – Family-friendly, pools + kids’ club.
Brief History & Fun Facts 📜
- Cala d’Or was designed in the 1930s by Ibizan architects, giving it the distinct whitewashed cube-style still seen today.
- 🎶 Every summer, the Cala d’Or International Jazz Festival draws performers from across Europe.
- ⚓ The marina hosts over 500 boats, one of the largest on Mallorca’s southeast coast.
- 🌟 In the 1980s, Cala d’Or became a jet-set favorite, welcoming celebrities and sailors seeking Mediterranean vibes.
FAQs about Cala d’Or ❓
How far is Cala d’Or from Palma?
About 65 km — just over an hour’s drive by car.
Is Cala d’Or good for families?
Yes — its small coves and calm waters make it very family-friendly.
What’s the best time to visit?
May–June and September–October for warm weather and fewer crowds.
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