Beaches in Palma de Mallorca – Where to Swim, Sunbathe & Relax
A Beach Day Without Leaving Palma
If you’re staying in Palma and don’t want to travel far for a perfect beach day, you’re in luck. The city and its surroundings offer golden sand, turquoise waters, and easy access by bus, car, or even bike. From luxury beach clubs in Illetas to family-friendly stretches like Can Pastilla, every traveler finds a shoreline to match their style.
Here are the best beaches in Palma de Mallorca – all within 10–20 minutes from the city centre.
📊 Quick Comparison – Beaches in Palma
| Beach | Best For | Vibe | Distance from Palma | Bus Routes |
| Cala Major | Sunbathing & swimming | Lively, young | 10 min | 4 |
| Illetas | Luxury & beach clubs | Chic & stylish | 15 min | 104, 107 |
| Ciudad Jardín | Locals & jogging | Relaxed, authentic | 10 min | 35 |
| Can Pastilla | Families & water sports | Active, fun | 15 min | 23, 25 |
| Playa de Palma | Party & nightlife | Energetic, social | 15 min | 15, 23, 25 |
| Cala Estancia | Peace & couples | Quiet, hidden | 12 min | 35 |
Cala Major – Best Beach Near Palma for Sunseekers
What to Expect:
✔ Soft golden sand and clear water, perfect for swimming.
✔ Lively atmosphere with beach bars, restaurants, and nearby hotels.
✔ A mix of locals, tourists, and young travelers looking for fun in the sun.
🏖️ Facilities: Sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, and beachside cafes.
👨👩👧👦 Best For: Casual beachgoers, young travelers, and locals.
🕶️ Vibe: Lively and fun, but can get crowded in summer.
🚌 How to Get There: Take bus 4 from Palma city center (Plaza España).
🚗 By Car: A 10-minute drive west of Palma, with limited parking nearby.
Illetas Beach – The Luxury Choice
What to Expect:
✔ Crystal-clear turquoise water with soft white sand.
✔ Luxury beach clubs like Purobeach Illetas and Balneario Illetas.
✔ Popular with couples, luxury travelers, and young professionals.
🏖️ Facilities: Sunbeds, umbrellas, beach bars, upscale restaurants, showers.
👨👩👧👦 Best For: Relaxation, fine dining, and a more exclusive vibe.
🕶️ Vibe: Chic and stylish, ideal for those wanting a high-end beach day.
🚌 How to Get There: Take bus 104 or 107 from Palma city center.
🚗 By Car: A 15-minute drive west of Palma. Paid parking is available nearby.
Ciudad Jardín – The Local Favorite
What to Expect:
✔ A long, wide sandy beach with a laid-back atmosphere.
✔ Popular with locals, families, and joggers.
✔ Plenty of beachfront cafes, tapas bars, and seafood restaurants.
🏖️ Facilities: Sunbeds, umbrellas, beachside restaurants, and showers.
👨👩👧👦 Best For: Families, locals, and those wanting a quieter beach.
🕶️ Vibe: Relaxed and authentic, with fewer tourists than other beaches.
🚌 How to Get There: Take bus 35 from Palma city center.
🚗 By Car: Just a 10-minute drive east of Palma, with plenty of parking available.
Can Pastilla – Best for Families & Water Sports
What to Expect:
✔ Shallow, calm waters, ideal for kids and families.
✔ Great for windsurfing, paddleboarding, and jet skiing.
✔ A mix of families, solo travelers, and sports enthusiasts.
🏖️ Facilities: Water sports rentals, sunbeds, umbrellas, cafes, and restaurants.
👨👩👧👦 Best For: Families with kids, water sports lovers, and casual sunbathers.
🕶️ Vibe: Active and fun, but not overly crowded.
🚌 How to Get There: Take bus 23 or 25 from Palma city center.
🚗 By Car: A 15-minute drive east of Palma, with plenty of parking.
Which beach is closest to Palma city centre?
Cala Major is the quickest option, just 10 minutes by car or bus.
What’s the best family beach near Palma?
Can Pastilla and Ciudad Jardín both offer shallow water, services, and easy access.
Where can I find luxury beach clubs near Palma?
Illetas Beach is the go-to for stylish beach clubs like Purobeach Illetas.
Playa de Palma – The Lively Resort Beach
What to Expect:
✔ 6 km of golden sand, perfect for sunbathing and long walks.
✔ Beachfront promenade with bars, clubs, and restaurants.
✔ A mix of tourists, partygoers, and families.
🏖️ Facilities: Sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, and plenty of bars & shops.
👨👩👧👦 Best For: Party seekers, young travelers, and social beachgoers.
🕶️ Vibe: Lively and energetic, with a fun, resort-like feel.
🚌 How to Get There: Take bus 15, 23, or 25 from Palma.
🚗 By Car: A 15-minute drive east of Palma, with paid parking available.
Cala Estancia – The Hidden Gem
What to Expect:
✔ Small, calm bay with crystal-clear water.
✔ Less touristy than Playa de Palma but still close to Palma.
✔ Great for swimming, paddleboarding, and relaxing.
🏖️ Facilities: Sunbeds, umbrellas, nearby bars, and restaurants.
👨👩👧👦 Best For: Couples, families, and those looking for a quieter alternative.
🕶️ Vibe: Peaceful, with a charming local feel.
🚌 How to Get There: Take bus 35 from Palma.
🚗 By Car: A 12-minute drive east of Palma. Street parking available.
Which Beach Near Palma is Best for You?
Choosing the right beach depends on what you’re looking for – whether it’s a relaxing sunbathing spot, a lively party beach, or a secluded escape. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
| Beach | Best For | Distance from Palma | Bus Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cala Major | Sunbathing & swimming | 10 min | Bus 4 |
| Illetas | Luxury & beach clubs | 15 min | Bus 104, 107 |
| Ciudad Jardín | Local vibes & jogging | 10 min | Bus 35 |
| Can Pastilla | Families & water sports | 15 min | Bus 23, 25 |
| Playa de Palma | Party & nightlife | 15 min | Bus 15, 23, 25 |
| Cala Estancia | Quiet & hidden gem | 12 min | Bus 35 |
🌞 Final Tips for the Perfect Beach Day
- ✔ Arrive early – Arrive before 11am to secure the best spot.
- ✔ Stay sun-safe – Bring water, sunscreen, and stay in the shade.
- ✔ Cash is king – Bring cash for sunbeds and beach bars.
- ✔ Check bus schedules – Evening services may be limited.
🔗 Want to explore beyond Palma? Discover the Best Beaches in Mallorca and find hidden coves, turquoise waters, and breathtaking coastal escapes across the island! 🌊☀️
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