We traveled around Mallorca by car to see its beauties and experience the different vibes in various parts of the island. A week, of course, isn’t enough, but the cities we visited each felt different. That’s because Mallorca is a universal island, suitable for all types of travelers and holidaymakers. The key to a great trip is to choose your accommodation place wisely and in advance.
Tourists of all ages flock to this Mediterranean island. Each for their own reason—relaxing on beaches, night parties, cycling routes, hiking in the off-season, and even for the long GR221 hiking trail.
If you are planning a beach holiday—you need to decide on a resort, of which Mallorca has quite a few. It all depends on whether you will be vacationing with children, or you are interested in active nightlife. Or do you want to combine beautiful beaches and active sports—there are ideal beaches and towns for every type of vacation—Cala d’Or, Alcúdia, Port de Pollença, Port de Sóller, and others.
Or if you are planning hiking—certainly, the best bases for exploring the Tramuntana mountains are the mountain towns of Sóller, Deià, or Valldemossa, from where it is convenient to go on daily treks.
This guide will introduce you to the most convenient and beautiful places and accommodation options on Mallorca, depending on your way of vacationing.
I recommend reading: Mallorca Road Trip Itinerary – What to See in a Week by Car
Port de Pollença (northern part of Mallorca)
I’ll start with the town that I liked the most on Mallorca—Port de Pollença. Why did I like it? It perfectly combines all types of holidays: beach, including family with children, as well as active—many interesting locations for exploration are nearby. Plus, there is a very nice atmosphere for a pleasant, peaceful (without crowds and noisy parties) vacation.
Port de Pollença (Puerto Pollença) is an attractive seaside town in the north of Mallorca in Pollença Bay. Located between the Tramuntana mountains and the Formentor peninsula, this peaceful town is ideal for a family holiday and offers visitors excellent conditions for relaxation, walks, and enjoying the sea.
Pros:
- Beaches: the bay with the “Pine Walk” beach—the promenade among pine trees, shallow sea, great for relaxation.
- Who the resort town is suitable for: couples, nature lovers and those who want a quiet holiday, those who want to combine the beach and the mountains.
- Good base for exploring northern Mallorca: nature, scenery, tranquility.
Cons:
- The beaches are not wide, as for example in neighboring Alcúdia.
- No nightlife (young people wanting this may get bored, they should choose another place for a holiday).
Beaches
The highlight of the beaches in Pollença—there is a beautiful promenade along them and pines growing that give shade and create a wonderful atmosphere. Reminded me very much of the beaches of the Makarska Riviera in Croatia that I just love!
- Platja del Port de Pollença — the main beach of the resort: golden sand, gentle entrance to the water, length more than ~1.4 km, convenient infrastructure—there are paid sunbeds, a free area where you can relax on a towel, lifeguards work.
- Playa de Llenaire (Platja Llenaire la Diablera)—an extended beach with fine sand and a gentle entrance to the water, also in the Port de Pollença area, well suited for family holidays.
- Albercutx / Can Cullerassa—slightly less touristy parts of the bay, with beautiful scenery and fewer people. We relaxed here—it was a great part of the Pollença beaches.
Autumn Winds and Bay Protection
- Bay of Port de Pollença has a shape that is somewhat protected from the direct open sea. However, from the east–southeast direction, winds can arise as the bay is open in that direction.
- In autumn, when the weather changes, breezes may come from the north or east—these winds are more noticeable on open sections of the bay. In the resort itself and on the main beach the situation is comfortable for vacation, but for water sports it’s best to check the weather forecast.
- The nearby mountains (part of the Serra de Tramuntana mountain system) create a certain barrier around the bay, but do not provide full protection from the wind—especially on open sections of the cape or beaches that adjoin the more “open” sea.
What to do while vacationing in Port de Pollença
Port de Pollença is a wonderful place to stay because it provides easy access to both sandy beaches and rocky mountains. It is also located at the start/end of Ma-10—the mountain road that runs through the Serra de Tramuntana.
- 6 km from Port de Pollença is the old town of Pollença. This historic town has lovely shops and workshops. You can grab a coffee, get lost among houses with wooden shutters, and buy handmade soap.
- Don’t forget to see the old Roman bridge that is still in use
- Visit Cala Bóquer—a scenic bay at the end of the Bóquer Valley. You can reach this secluded cove directly from the town by following the Cami-Boqer hiking trail. The walk is 5.6 km there and back and takes about 2 hours. Wear sturdy sneakers; flip-flops will be uncomfortable and dangerous.
- Formentor Peninsula—a narrow mountain peninsula known for its incredible viewpoints and hidden coves. The Ma-2210 road connects Port de Pollença with Cap de Formentor. However, during the high season, there are seasonal traffic restrictions—you need to get there by bus. Plan your trip as early as possible so you can get a seat on the bus (no standing passengers).
- Visit viewpoints: Mirador Es Colomer (Google Maps) and Mirador del Racó d’en Tomàs (Google Maps).
- Visit Cala Formentor beach (Google Maps)—a wonderful quiet sandy beach located near the parking, where you can leave your car before visiting the Formentor lighthouse. The beach has a cafe, sunbeds, and beautiful pine trees that protect from the scorching sun.
Restaurants and cafes I recommend in Port de Pollença:
- El Posito—a small establishment with very tasty seafood.
- Cellar La Parra—traditional Mallorcan cuisine, very delicious paella, locals come here to eat.
- Holibikes Tours & Coffee—specialty coffee and delicious breakfasts, real croissants.
Where to stay in Port de Pollença
- Apartamentos Massol —great apartments near the Pollença beach with a terrace, their own kitchen, and a separate bedroom. Accommodation with children is possible, the beach is five minutes on foot, from the upper floors there is a view of the bay, beach and Port de Pollença marina. There is a private pool on site, and lots of parking near the apartments.
- Atico Londres Derecha—Excellent location, opposite the best part of Port de Pollença beach, the view is simply stunning. Having an elevator in the building is very convenient, as is being located above a small supermarket.
- Catalina 3b—Apartment with incredible views of the Pollença beaches and bay. Quiet area, but very close to restaurants and shops. Plenty of parking near the apartment. Ideal for a large family or several couples—there are three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a huge living room and kitchen. And, of course, a balcony. Easy self check-in.
Alcúdia and Port d’Alcúdia (northern part of Mallorca)
Alcúdia (and Port d’Alcúdia)—one of the most popular resorts in northern Mallorca, which successfully combines a historic town within medieval walls and the modern coastal area of Port d’Alcúdia. This is home to one of the longest beaches on the island—Playa de Alcúdia, with fine white sand, clear water, and a gentle entrance to the sea, making it ideal for families with children.
The resort infrastructure is very developed: there are numerous restaurants, bars, a large marina, shopping streets, bicycle rentals, as well as picturesque hiking trails. Alcúdia is primarily a resort for family travelers and those looking for a comfortable beach holiday with good service and convenient logistics, although there are also luxurious all-inclusive complexes for carefree relaxation near Playa de Muro beach.
Pros:
- Beaches: long beach in Port d’Alcúdia—soft white sand, calm sea; good for long walks.
- Type of tourists: families with children, people who want to combine the beach and leisure, ideal for a comfortable holiday.
- Combination of historical town + modern resort: old town of Alcúdia with medieval walls, Roman ruins, a large bay for sea trips.
Cons:
- If you’re looking for absolute “wildness” or seclusion—there is more of a resort atmosphere here than in remote coves.
- A quieter and more refined rest is in nearby Port de Pollença. Alcúdia is noisier in comparison.
Alcúdia Beaches
- Playa de Alcúdia—a long, flat sandy beach (up to ~7 km) with shallow water, ideal for families. There are sunbeds and umbrellas, but also plenty of free space for those who want to rest without them. Volleyball courts on the sand.
- Playa de Muro—the adjacent beach zone, a bit wider, with white sand and clear water. The same infrastructure as Alcúdia Beach.
- Platja des Coll Baix—a small cove-beach with a natural landscape, located on the Alcúdia cape outside the town, it is more cozy but less infrastructured. To get here you need a car.
What to see and do
- Walk through the old town of Alcúdia. The fortress-town of Alcúdia is just 20 minutes’ drive away. Alcúdia is an old town behind fortress walls. Small, cozy, with narrow streets and markets.
- Lively Playa de Alcúdia beach + the Port d’Alcúdia marina: cafes, shops, promenade for seafront walks.
- Cycling or hiking routes along the coast or to natural areas. For those who love hiking—the best place is Alcúdia peninsula, which separates the Bays of Pollença and Alcúdia. We recommend walking along this route Talaia d’Alcúdia and Platja des Coll Baix. Talaia d’Alcúdia is the highest point of the peninsula, and Platja des Coll Baix is a wonderful secluded beach.
- Boat or kayak excursions—the coast of the bay has many options for water trips. Contact rental and excursion companies in Alcúdia.
- Evening walks on the promenade, sunsets, seaside restaurants.
Where to stay in Alcúdia
- Zafiro Palace Alcudia —a real family hotel in Alcúdia, conveniently located close to the sea. A beautiful sandy beach with a shallow entrance is just a few minutes’ walk away, perfect for children and wading. The old town of Alcúdia is 10 minutes’ walk from the hotel, with Sunday and Tuesday markets. The hotel offers many services and amenities for family holidays. Numerous pools both indoors and outdoors, a heated outdoor pool is perfect for chilly days. Entertainment for all ages, children’s animators. The territory is very green, well-kept, gardens even inside the buildings.
- Iberostar Waves Ciudad Blanca—an “all inclusive” hotel with good and friendly staff. Huge variety of food. Many programs for children and adults, the beach is very close and clean. There is bike rental with child seats. There is a wonderful little pool with slides for children up to about 6-7 years old. Also a reasonably sized pool with a nice shallow entrance for toddlers. Lots of activities for different ages and an excellent staff that organizes everything.
- Bonavida Apartments—Exclusive 18-apartment complex in a private area with its own pool. All apartments have balconies. There is a bedroom, separate bathroom, separate living room/kitchen. The apartments have air conditioning. Close to the beach and port area.
Cala d’Or (southern part of Mallorca)
Cala d’Or is a stylish resort on the southeast of the island of Mallorca, in the municipality of Santanyí, stretching along several picturesque coves with white sand and turquoise water. The resort’s architecture is done in the Ibiza style: low buildings, whitewashed facades, and surrounding pines that create the feeling of a “cozy villa” on the coast.
The resort infrastructure is developed: there is a marina with yachts, cafes and restaurants on the promenade, shops, terrace cafes, and boat rental platforms. Cala d’Or mainly attracts families and couples who are looking for a comfortable and rather elegant beach vacation, with good service and not too much of a crowd. However, it is worth noting: although there are places for evening entertainment, the resort is not among those that throw “wild parties.”
Pros
- Exceptionally beautiful nature: coves with white sand, turquoise water, pines right by the beaches.
- Sufficient level of service, but without a crowded resort atmosphere, more coziness.
- Good opportunities for different types of recreation: beach, nature, easy walks, yacht marina.
- Infrastructure and convenience—a wide choice of hotels, restaurants, equipped beaches.
Cons
- The coves are by nature smaller and can fill up quickly and will be more crowded than on large beaches, especially at peak season.
- If you are looking for parties until dawn or very active nightlife—this is not at the forefront here. Although in the center you can catch parties with live music that end at 11 pm.
Cala d’Or Beaches
In the town and around Cala d’Or there are several wonderful cove beaches.
- Cala Gran—the largest cove of all: a long sandy area, sunbeds, above the cove are several cafes. Located two minutes from the town center.
- Cala Esmeralda—small, but incredibly photogenic, with bright turquoise water and pines right by the water.
- Caló d’es Pou—a quieter, less crowded cove, ideal for relaxing away from the main city beaches. There are sunbeds, toilet-shower, and a cafe by the beach.
- Cala Ferrera—the farthest from the center, it’s much quieter to relax here than near Cala Gran. Likewise—beautiful cliffs around, covered in pines and white sand, there are sunbeds and umbrellas for an extra fee.
What to see and do
- Plan a small boat or kayak excursion along the coastline, visit small coves that are not always easily accessible from land.
- Walk along the marina and promenade—a great opportunity to enjoy views of the yachts and the horizon.
- Head to Parc Natural de Mondragó—a natural park nearby, with two wonderful beaches, trails among pine forests, and stunning views.
- Visit the architectural landmark—the Es Fortí fortress tower, located on one of the capes above the cove.
- 40 minutes from Cala d’Or is the Dragon Cave (Cueva Drach)—popular but truly impressive. They even hold concerts by boat inside (Google Maps).
- If you have a car, I recommend going to the remote Es Trenc beach—it is also called the “Caribbean of Mallorca.” Very beautiful—white sand and turquoise water.
- If you don’t mind long walks along the seashore, I recommend one of my favorite beaches—El Caragol, there were almost no people, a wonderful quiet bay, dazzling white sand, and the maximum remoteness from civilization. First, you need to get to the Far del Cap Salines lighthouse and then walk 1.5 km by the sea.
Where to stay in Cala d’Or
- White suites—Great location and within walking distance of all restaurants and nearby beaches. The suite is very nice and has everything you need. It’s wonderful to relax on the terrace and enjoy the atmosphere. From the apartments you can walk right to the center of Cala d’Or or the beach. Very fair price!
- Gran Sol Family 4—The complex is located close to the beach and has its own pool. Rooms have kitchens, comfortable beds, and balconies for relaxing. There is a small children’s playground on the territory.
- Grupotel Rocador – Adults Only—Wonderful adults-only hotel with a great location next to the beach. Very tasty and varied food in the restaurant, for any taste; I am a bit picky about dishes. Perfect location, all amenities, direct beach access, private territory, great lounges, friendly staff. Rooms are very clean.
Santa Ponsa (southwest Mallorca)
Santa Ponsa is a resort on the southwest of the island, located about 20 km from Palma. We stayed here for a few days immediately after arriving in Mallorca. We were attracted by the fact that there is a large sandy beach in the bay and good prices for aparthotels. Here you can find both a family holiday and a resort with a bar atmosphere, aimed at German and British family tourists.
Santa Ponsa has a well-developed infrastructure: numerous hotels and apartments, bars and restaurants along the promenade, large supermarkets and car rentals. The resort attracts various categories of tourists: families looking for a comfortable beach holiday, couples, as well as groups of young people who want to combine daytime relaxation with active nightlife.
Pros
- Convenient beach with a gentle entrance—suitable for children and casual relaxation.
- Good infrastructure: shops, restaurants, water sports.
- Possibility of choice—you can relax quietly or dive into the evening atmosphere.
- Nearby are interesting natural and historical sites for short excursions.
Cons
- In peak months (July–August)—the beach is crowded, the promenade is busy.
- Part of the evening atmosphere may be noisy and aimed at youth parties—not always suitable for those seeking peace.
- If you want a truly quiet resort, Santa Ponsa may be less “wild” and more resort-commercial than some small coves on the island.
Santa Ponsa Beaches
- Main beach of Santa Ponsa—a wide strip of sand with a gently sloping entrance to the sea, making it convenient for families with children. The beach promenade offers cafes and sunbed rentals, but in the peak season it can be quite busy.
- Small Caló d’en Pellicer cove, cozier and less crowded.
What to see and do in Santa Ponsa
- Walk along the marina and promenade—a great opportunity to enjoy the sunset and the spectacle of yachts.
- Visit the archaeological park Puig de sa Morisca Archaeological Park—a few minutes from the resort, it offers peaceful walks among olive trees and ancient monuments.
- Evening entertainment: numerous bars, live music performances, themed venues—especially popular among young people and British-Irish tourists.
- There are direct buses to Palma—you can plan an interesting cultural program in the capital of Mallorca.
- We had a car—nearby are the mountain towns of Valldemossa and Deià, which I recommend visiting for a day trip.
Where to stay in Santa Ponsa
- Aparthotel Holiday Center—family holiday complex, mostly British families with children stay here. There are several pools, a restaurant, a bar with karaoke in the evening (for fans). Prices are quite reasonable compared to the level of service. We chose an apartment with a separate bedroom, balcony, and kitchen to cook breakfast and dinner for ourselves. The complex is located a 5-minute walk from the beach (if you are more interested in the sea water—it’s very beautiful there, rather than lying by the pool all day).
- FLOR los Almendros Hotel—Comfortable, clean, modern hotel with friendly staff who help create an incredibly convenient atmosphere. Wonderful room, convenient parking, tasty breakfast.
- INNER Niza Paguera—the hotel is located near the beach. Next to good restaurants, shops, and bars on the main street. Clean, well-equipped apartment and private bathroom. Very convenient.
Sa Coma (eastern part of Mallorca)
Sa Coma is a modern resort on the eastern coast of the island, developed since the 1980s, and is ideal for relaxing with family and for peaceful beach relaxation. The resort’s beach is a long arc of white sand with transparent, shallow turquoise water—creating a feeling of calmness and safety. Along the beach stretches a promenade, cafes, and shops, making Sa Coma a convenient base for holidays with children or for a quiet couple.
Sa Coma resort is mainly intended for family tourists and those looking for a quiet beach holiday, not noisy parties. At the same time, the level of service and entertainment is sufficient for an active day—but without the intensive “night-partying,” characteristic of other resorts.
Beaches
- The resort beach—Platja de Sa Coma—is distinguished by a wide strip of soft white sand and a very gentle entrance to the sea, making it exceptionally comfortable for families with children. Behind the beach stretches a shady pedestrian promenade among palms and pines, creating comfort for walks and evening relaxation.
- Platja de s’Illot—the neighboring beach, smaller in size, but with equally nice sand and sea entrance.
- Also nearby is Cala Millor beach—it is better to get there by car, or by bus.
What to see and do
- Walk along the Sa Coma promenade—pleasant, with cafes, bars by the beach, ideal for evening moments.
- Visit the Punta de n’Amer peninsula—a natural area with a historic tower that offers wonderful views of the coastline.
- Water activities: kayaks, windsurfing, scooters, rental of sunbeds and umbrellas—the beach is well equipped.
- For more excursions: there is a direction to the Cuevas del Drach cave nearby, as well as cycle paths between Sa Coma and Cala Millor.
- Splash World waterpark—great fun on slides for children and adults.
Where to stay in Sa Coma
- Sa Maniga 6G—Nice and well-equipped apartment, great location, very helpful and friendly host. View from the balcony to the Sa Coma beach.
- Hipotels Cala Millor Park—The hotel operates on a meal plan—breakfasts + dinners. The hotel location is just perfect. Beach is great, no stones, 3-4 minutes on foot. The hotel staff is very polite, friendly. Perfect cleanliness. In the restaurant, a large selection of dishes. Great for holidays with children—there are adult and children’s pools.
- Iberostar Waves Cala Millor – Adults Only—all-inclusive hotel, very conveniently located—there is direct access to the beach. You can order half board if you plan to travel to interesting corners of the island during the day. Very nice large selection and deliciously prepared “buffet” for breakfast and dinner. There is a private small parking area where you can leave the car.
Sóller and Port de Sóller
Sóller is a town and municipality in the Tramuntana mountains in the northwest of Mallorca. Along with Fornalutx and Biniaraix, Sóller is located in a fertile valley surrounded by mountains and is famous for its citrus groves.
This is the best base for hiking on Mallorca. From Sóller you have convenient options for hiking from Barranc de Biniaraix to the summit of Cornador Gran, the circular trail of Puig de Tossals Verds and from Cúber to Puig de l’Ofre.
In addition to a fantastic location, Sóller is a wonderful and lively city with plenty of cafes, gelato shops, restaurants, bars, and shops. The atmospheric main square Plaça de la Constitució, next to the Church of Sant Bartomeu, is the heart of the city.
Thanks to the Sóller tunnel, this mountain location can be easily reached in 35 minutes’ drive from Palma. However, you can also reach Sóller by the Ma-10 road. The town is located between Deià and the Cúber reservoir.
Sóller is situated 3 km inland from the seaside village of Port de Sóller (Puerto de Sóller). The advantage of staying in Port de Sóller, of course, is the sea: access to the beach, hotels by the sea, and sea views. It has a sheltered harbor, a long crescent-shaped beach, and plenty of seafront restaurants and hotels.
Where to stay in Sóller and Port de Sóller
- Hotel Esplendido—Wonderful location right in Port de Sóller, overlooking the port. There are spa services for guests, the rooms are large and spacious. Incredible hotel with a rooftop pool and stunning views.
- Aimia Hotel—Good location near the promenade and Port de Sóller beach, friendly staff, tasty food, lovely pool area, pool of good size.
- Alcázar Hotel Sóller—Great hotel location in the center of Sóller. Rooms are impeccably furnished and clean, and the staff is friendly and very welcoming. Facilities are clean, there is a pool on the property, and daily breakfast is a “buffet.”
Deià and Valldemossa
Valldemossa is a picturesque town in the central Tramuntana mountains in western Mallorca. Located in a fertile valley, surrounded by terraced fields and olive groves, it attracts with its old-world charm and medieval cityscape, as well as the surrounding nature.
The town center is made up of stone buildings accented with green shutters and narrow cobbled streets lined with potted plants. Almost every house is decorated with colorful tiles depicting the life of Santa Catalina Thomàs (Catherine of Palma), a canonized saint who was born in Valldemossa in 1533.
Deià is a picturesque mountain village tucked away in the Serra de Tramuntana mountains, between Valldemossa and Sóller. Travelers love the peace, privacy, and unspoiled nature of this village. Deià attracts famous artists, musicians, writers, and celebrities seeking silence and tranquility far from prying eyes and paparazzi.
Thanks to access to the sea, many wonderful restaurants, and hiking trails, Deià is a wonderful place to stay in Mallorca. I recommend walking the coastal path from Cala Deià to Es Canyaret. After the walk you can enjoy lunch at Ca’n Lluc—a rustic seafood restaurant perched above the rocky cove in Cala Deià. From Deià you can also walk to Valldemossa or Sóller and return to the village by bus.
Where to stay in Deià and Valldemossa
- Ca’s Papà—Very easy hotel check-in, beautiful views of Valldemossa, close to the town center and very nice rooms and breakfasts.
- Sa Vall Valldemossa—The hotel is located not far from the center of Valldemossa: clean room, friendly staff, great breakfasts with incredible views, nice grounds.
- Hotel y Apartamentos DES PUIG—Great view and proximity to the town center. Convenient free on-site parking at the hotel. This hotel is a real gem in the very heart of Deià.
Useful articles and links:
- Mallorca beaches – where to find the most beautiful bays and beaches with blue water
- Guide to Andalusia – must-sees in southern Spain
- Malaga – guide to the capital of Costa del Sol
- TOP 5 places for a beach holiday on the Costa del Sol, Spain
- Palma de Mallorca – what to do in one or two days
Car rental – Rentalcars.com
Travel medical insurance – online on the portal HotlineFinance
Hotel and apartment booking – Booking.com
