Beach Guide: Sa Coma & S’Illot (East Coast Neighbours)
East-Coast Twins for Easy Beach Days – Sa Coma & S’Illot
On Mallorca’s east coast between Cala Millor and Porto Cristo, Sa Coma and S’Illot sit side by side but feel distinct. Sa Coma is the broad, sandy crowd-pleaser with a long promenade and shallow entry — great for families and relaxed swims. S’Illot is rockier and more intimate, with clear water over reefs ideal for snorkeling and SUP. From Palma Cathedral, it’s roughly 65–70 minutes by car (≈70 km) via the Ma-15, making this duo an effortless beach day from the capital.
🌊 Beach Overview
| Detail | Sa Coma | S’Illot |
| Look & vibe | Wide, pale sand; lively promenade | Smaller coves & rock shelves; local feel |
| Water & entry | Gentle slope, sandy bottom | Mix of sand/rock; clearer over reefy pockets |
| Best for | Families, long swims, amenities | Snorkeling, SUP, quieter corners |
| Services | Seasonal lifeguard, rentals, cafés | Scattered chiringuitos, ramps near boathouses |
| Wind & shade | Breezy afternoons; bring shade | Sheltered nooks by rocks on calm days |
🎯 Things to Do
🏊 Long, Easy Swims
Use the buoyed swim zones at Sa Coma for lap-like shoreline swims before the afternoon breeze kicks in.
🤿 Snorkel the Reefs of S’Illot
The rocky shoulders and reef near the little islet deliver the clearest water and fish life. Enter from sandy patches and keep clear of boat ramps.
🏄 SUP at First Light
Launch early from Sa Coma’s sandy arc for glassy conditions. Hug the coast towards S’Illot to peek into tiny coves.
🚶 Promenade Strolls & Sunset Tapas
Link Sa Coma and S’Illot along the seafront, stopping for ice cream or sundowners as the light softens.
🪨 Cove-Hopping Day
Pair a morning swim here with an afternoon explore in Porto Cristo or caves time at Caves of Drach; return for a late dip when the crowds thin.
🍴 Where to Eat & Drink
- Sa Coma’s promenade lines up casual cafés for beach lunches and family-friendly dinners.
- S’Illot has smaller, more local spots a street back from the water — good for seafood plates and simple tapas.
- For variety after the beach, head to Porto Cristo (10–12 min).
🛏 Where to Stay
| Stay Type | Why Choose It | Best Base |
| Beachfront hotels & apartments | Walk-to-sand convenience, family rooms | Sa Coma |
| Quieter, local-feel stays | Near rocky coves, mellow evenings | S’Illot |
| Countryside fincas | Pool days + beach outings | Inland around Manacor |
| Harbour-town hotels | Dinner variety, evening strolls | Porto Cristo |
🚗 Getting There from Palma
| From Palma | Time | Notes |
| Drive (Ma-15 → Sa Coma/S’Illot) | ~65–70 min | Signposted turns near Manacor/Porto Cristo. Parking fills by late morning in July–August. |
| Bus | ~2–2.5 hr | Services to Porto Cristo, then local bus/taxi to Sa Coma or S’Illot. |
| Taxi from Palma | ~€85–95 one-way | Handy for groups; pre-arrange the return in high season. |
Nearby: Cala Millor, Porto Cristo, Caves of Drach
🦺 Safety & Practicalities
Lifeguard cover is seasonal and most reliable at Sa Coma. Afternoon sea breezes can add chop; plan swims and SUP for mornings. Watch for jellyfish after onshore winds and check conditions before you set up. Rock shelves at S’Illot are sharp — water shoes help. Promenade ramps aid pram access; shade is limited on the open sand, so bring coverage in midsummer.
🗺️ Map
❓ FAQ – Sa Coma & S’Illot
Which beach is best for kids?
Sa Coma’s wide sandy entry and space on the shore make it the easier pick for families.
Is snorkeling good here?
Yes — S’Illot’s rocky edges and reefy pockets offer the clearest water and fish life.
Can I rent sunbeds or a pedalò?
In season at Sa Coma (limited, first-come). S’Illot is more low-key.
How busy does it get?
High in July–August 11:00–16:00. Aim for early mornings or return after 16:00 for calmer hours.
Is there shade on the beach?
Very little natural shade; bring an umbrella or canopy, especially for Sa Coma.
🔎 Live Beach Conditions
For water quality, jellyfish alerts, accessibility and safety flags, use the official Platges de Balears app/tool before you go. See our Platges de Balears Guide.
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