Guide to Sant Elm: Mallorca’s western seaside village
From the heart of Palma to the soul of Mallorca. We love Sant Elm for its end-of-the-road calm: a small crescent of sand, low-key cafés, and uninterrupted views across the channel to Sa Dragonera.
Distance from Palma: roughly 50–55 minutes (≈47 km) via Ma-1 to Andratx, then the local road to Sant Elm.
🧭 Orientation & quick facts
| What | Details |
| Region | Municipality of Andratx (Southwest) |
| From Palma (car) | ~50–55 min / ~47 km via Ma-1 → Andratx → Sant Elm |
| Public transport | Andratx connection + local bus to Sant Elm (seasonal frequencies vary) |
| Best for | Calm swimming, easy coastal walks, Sa Dragonera boat shuttles |
| Nearby | Andratx, Port d’Andratx, Camp de Mar, Peguera |
| When to go | April–October for village buzz; shoulder seasons for quiet |
🏖️ Why we rate it
Sant Elm feels intimate and authentic. Two compact beaches bracket a car-free paseo, the sea is typically clear, and that Dragonera skyline turns every sunset into an event. It’s the laid-back counterpoint to a couple of packed days in Palma.
🚤 Top things to do
- Hop the Sa Dragonera boat shuttle for light hiking and lighthouse views (Sa Dragonera Natural Park).
- Slow beach hours on Platja de Sant Elm and smaller Sa Petita.
- Walk the coastal path to Cala en Basset for Dragonera views.
- Sunset tapas along the promenade, or dinner in Port d’Andratx.
🍽️ Where to eat (shortlist)
| Style | What to order | Setting | When |
| Seafront rice & grill | Paella, grilled local fish | On the promenade | Lunch with sea breeze |
| Casual tapas | Padrones, croquettes, local cheese | One street back | Budget-friendly evenings |
| Sweet pause | Gelato, coffee | Kiosk / café benches | Sunset stop |
| Marina night in Port d’Andratx | Catch of the day, desserts | Waterfront tables | Dress-up dinner |
Good to know
- Kitchens often reopen around 19:30–20:00; book ahead on summer weekends.
- Many places take cards, but we carry a little cash for small spots.
🛏️ Where to stay
| Base | Vibe | Why choose this | Notes |
| Sant Elm village | Small-scale, sleepy | Wake to sea views, car-light days | Limited rooms—book early for summer. |
| Port d’Andratx | Upscale marina | Boutique picks + dining variety | Easy taxi back after dinner. |
| Camp de Mar | Resort + spa | Family-friendly hotels and a calm bay | Handy for Golf Andratx. |
| Peguera | Larger resort | Broad hotel inventory, good value | Combine with a Sant Elm day trip. |
Booking nudges
- Sea-facing rooms go first; shoulder season = best value.
- Ask hotels about on-site parking or nearby public lots.
🚗 Getting there from Palma
- Drive: Ma-1 to Andratx, then follow signs to Sant Elm (a.k.a. Sant Elmo/San Telm). Allow extra time in July–August.
- Bus: Connect in Andratx then onward to Sant Elm (check current timetables on the day).
- Parking tip: Street spaces go early on summer weekends; shoulder seasons are easier.
🧪 Compare with Palma
Palma brings museums, markets and nightlife; Sant Elm trades that for sea air and simplicity. We like a 2+1 split: two nights in Palma, one in Sant Elm.
🗺️ Map
❓ FAQ (quick answers)
Is it good for families?
Yes; sheltered beaches and compact streets make days easy.
Do I need a car?
Not strictly, but a car helps for coves and late dinners in Port d’Andratx.
Can I hike from the village?
Yes — the Cala en Basset path starts near town.
Boat to Dragonera?
Seasonal shuttles run in fair weather; buy tickets at the pier.
📚 Relevant reads
