South Mallorca: 13 Best Beaches & Top Activities

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In many cases, the entirety of an island can be similar throughout its regions with similar landscapes, cities, and attractions.

However, a large island like Mallorca has many differences dependent on which coast you visit, and any prospective tourist will likely want to know which side will suit them best.

In this guide, we’ve highlighted the side of the island we believe packs the biggest value for travelers – south Mallorca.

Whether you’re looking for the best side of Mallorca for families or the best side of Mallorca for scenic cala beaches, south Mallorca has only the finest to offer its admirers.

Discover the best beaches to visit in south Mallorca along with other must-see places!

Quick List: South Mallorca Best Beaches

• Playa de Cala Serena
• Caló des Borgit
• S’Amarador
• Caló del Moro
• Platja se Santanyí
• Cala Llombards
• Cala Màrmois
• Platja des Marquès
• Cala Mitjana
• Cala Domingos
• Platja de Cala Estreta
• Cala Antena
• Playa de Cala Pi

The Essentials for Visiting South Mallorca

🏖 The southern coast of Mallorca includes a mixture of cala (small inlet) beaches along with larger sandy beaches. There are a ton of options in terms of what kind of beach you’re most interested in experiencing.

🚤 If you’re short on time and want to visit multiple beaches, book a boat tour. They’re not necessarily cheap but if you’re going to splurge on one thing, let it be this. It’s worth it! The most popular place to rent a boat in south Mallorca is in Cala d’Or.

🛩 The cheapest way to get to south Mallorca is by flying from Barcelona to Palma Airport. It only makes sense to take a ferry to Mallorca if you’re traveling with a car or a large pet.

⛰ Try to not spend all of your time at the beach. South Mallorca is home to some really picturesque towns like Santanyí and a ton of hiking trails with panoramic viewpoints.

📸 Top Rated Activity: Mallorca Island Tour By Boat, Tram & Train

Which Side of Mallorca Is Best?

Mallorca is an odd puzzle-like shape but can still be broken down into four overall sides. Each side truly brings a slightly different energy to it and offers a variety in regards to geographical and cultural features.

Essentially, the best side of Mallorca is entirely dependent on what you’re most interested in experiencing.

North Mallorca

The north coast of Mallorca is comprised of mountainous terrain and is immensely ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. It is the best side of Mallorca for cycling or hiking. There are only a handful of realistically accessible beaches on the north side of Mallorca.

East Mallorca

Alcúdia Bay is the largest long stretch of sandy beach and during appropriate weather, is a popular spot for water sports like kite surfing. Although the beach near Can Picafort gets mighty busy, the remainder of east Mallorca is comparatively quieter. Within the rural pockets, you’ll find a number of secluded beaches which are only accessible by hiking.

South Mallorca

There is no major motorway which runs through the south coast which leaves it to feel a bit more relaxed. For charming towns, resort options, a subtle addition of landmarks and arguably the best beaches on the island, south Mallorca offers the most variety to visitors.

West Mallorca

Experiencing Mallorca near Palma is best for those looking to be surrounded by culture, history and the excitement being in a bigger city. It’s also a favoured area for families as there is no shortage of things to do and it’s only 8 km from the airport. On that note, staying on the west coast is great for anyone visiting Mallorca for only a couple of days or the weekend. 

Things to Do in South Mallorca

Visit Cute Coastal Towns

Santanyí

For days you don’t wish to spend at the beach, you’ll find a handful of endearing towns sprinkled throughout south Mallorca. Santanyí is particularly bewitching and one of the most picturesque small towns on the entire island. It is rustic, quaint and holds all of its original Mallorcan charm. Combine this beautiful village with only being 5 km (10 minute drive) from Platja de Santanyí and you have yourself an idyllic place to stay during a Mallorca trip. 

Felanitx

Mostly renowned for winemaking, Felanitx is a lovely rural town enclosed by farm land and nature preserves. It is located at the base of Sant Salvador, a Gothic-style monastery with additional prominent historical attractions, perched on a towering hill.

Portocolom

As one of the more frequented resorts towns in south Mallorca, Portocolom still holds onto its authentic character of being a humble fishing village. The coves are lined with historical boat houses with white washed facades and colourful doors, making it one of the more picture perfect seafront towns. Portocolom also offers a healthy selection of hiking trails along the sea’s cliffside.

Cala d’Or

The essence of Cala d’Or can be summarised as a largely developed area in south Mallorca. From countless restaurants, holiday complexes and various beaches with direct access, it’s the perfect summer destination bundled into one package. If you’re not staying in Cala d’Or, it’s the best place to head to for boat tours, dining and visiting as many gorgeous beaches within the same town.

See the Hilltop Landmarks

As most people rightfully focus on Mallorca’s beaches, hiking is one of the most underrated activities on the island. South Mallorca has an abundance of fantastic trails and paths, perfect for trekking or even mountain biking.

The Sanctuary of Sant Salvador is a major hill peak in south Mallorca and consists of a church and grand religious landmarks. For anyone who hikes (or drives) to the top, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the distant land and sea.

The top of Creude Sant Salvador is particularly delicious at sunset. An alternative to a similar landmark is the monastery of Santuario de Monti-Sion which is situated just 10 km north of Campos town.

Visit the Coastal Cliffs

Dramatic views and unforgettable sceneries are best experienced on the seaside cliffs of south Mallorca. Deep turquoise waters, national park reserves, fierce rock formations and quintessential light houses complete the wondrous setting that can only be found on the southern peninsula of the island.

Two places to witness remarkable views are Far de la Colònia de Sant Jordi and Far des Cap de ses Salines, which is the southernmost tip of Mallorca.

Rent a Boat

If you visit Mallorca in the peak of summer, there’s almost no getting around crowded beaches. This is unquestionably true but only if you visit them by land. One of the key tips to enjoying Mallorca beaches in peace is to charter a boat (or jet ski!).

By visiting some of the heavenly beaches by sea, you’ll be able to escape fellow tourists, to some degree. Touring south Mallorca by boat is especially extraordinary as there are so many petite coves and magical bays to discover.

Although renting a boat can get pricey, it’s one of those experiences that’s simply worth every penny.

Book a Salt Tour

A tour of the Salines des Trenc is among the most underrated things to do in Mallorca. What most visitors won’t know about visiting south Mallorca is that it’s also the saltiest part of the island.

Near the village of Ses Salines, you can visit and tour the actual salt flats which focuses on salt production. Whether you’re genuinely interested in how salt is extracted or not, it’s still one of the most unique experiences to have while visiting Mallorca. A product from the salt shop is also a genuine souvenir to bring back home from Mallorca. 

Map of South Mallorca’s Beautiful Beaches

13 Best Beaches in the South of Mallorca

1. Playa de Cala Serena

Quick Info: The beach is an easy walk if you are staying in Cala d’Or. If you’re arriving by car, it’s best to park in a public spot here and walk down Av. Calo Petit until you reach the beach head. A small drinks and snacks bar sits under the shaded areas of the beach.

Beach Popularity: 3/5. Comparatively, it’s a lesser known beach in Cala d’Or and it’s even possible to enjoy it without a crowd if you arrive early enough.

Where to Stay Near Playa de Cala Serena: Robinson Cala Serena – Book with Booking.com

2. Caló des Borgit

Quick Info: With a car, you can actually reach this beach pretty closely before hiking down the short path. Where there are no visible “no parking” signs, you can park near here. Otherwise, there is a large paid parking lot up the road which is designated for any of the beaches nearby. 

Beach Popularity: 3/5. Most people will head to Cala Mondragó or S’Amarador next door.

Where to Stay Near Caló des Borgit: Hotel Playa Mondrago – Book with Booking.com

3. S’Amarador

Quick Info: There are two entry points to this beach. One is official and the safer bet but also paid. The other access point is free, flies under the radar and only OK if there are no signs prohibiting it. The main parking lot is located here and costs around €5 for the entire day. It is a short five minute walk to the beach from the lot. On the other side of the river, you can attempt to park near here if it’s permissible. Umbrellas and sun chairs are available for rent.

Beach Popularity: 4/5. Since it is a long stretch of sandy beach, people assume there will be plenty of room but it still gets crowded regardless. You may find private spots near the ends of the beach and if you arrive by 9-10am.

Where to Stay Near S’Amarador: Agroturisme Na Martina – Book with Booking.com

4. Caló del Moro

How to Get To Calo Des Moro: Unless you are staying at an Airbnb in the neighbourhood above this beach, you have to expect at least a 10-15 minute walk to reach it. You can access the trail either here or here. The official parking lot is useful but sometimes, it is closed off or completely full. In those cases, you’ll need to find parking along the neighbourhood streets without “no parking” signs posted. A police car actually patrols the streets and will ticket you so it’s not a suggestive rule. 

Beach Popularity: 5/5. The beach is very small and if there is a high tide, the sandy area is non existent. It’s advised to arrive here by 9am to secure a spot to lay out your towel.

Where to Stay Near Caló del Moro: Villa Paula – Book with Booking.com

5. Platja de Santanyí

Quick Info: Driving to this beach is uncomplicated as there is a dedicated parking lot here in addition to many street parking opportunities. Along the cove, there are perfect spots to dive from if you’re interested in cliff jumping. Just above the beach, you’ll find countless restaurants and bars, all with lovely views of the inlet from their patios.

Beach Popularity: 4/5. Frequently visited by families with children as the beach is suitably flat with a shallow entrance.

Where to Stay Near Platja de Santanyí: Hotel Apartamentos Cala Santanyi – Book with Booking.com

6. Cala Llombards

Quick Info: Although there is a free car park directly on the beach, it can fill up entirely by late morning. The beach features a small restaurant serving seafood, perfect for a midday refresher so you can remain at the beach without giving up your spot. The sandy area of the beach may be narrow but it stretches far back so if absolutely necessary, you can find a more private place to set up your towel.

Beach Popularity: 5/5. Cala Llombards is most known for its quintessential fishing homes situated on the edge of the cove. Due to this, it’s undoubtedly a popular “Instaspot” which draws a ton of people in just for the perfect shot. Arrive early and enjoy the beach for a couple of hours before too many people get there.

Where to Stay Near Cala Llombards: Casa Folara – Book with Booking.com

7. Cala Màrmols

Quick Info: You must hike to this beach or arrive by boat. The sure hiking path to reach this beach begins at the lighthouse (Far del Cap Salines), which is about 2 hours away on foot. Prepare to hike along the cliff which can be slightly rocky and doesn’t include any signs or directions. You’ll need to follow your location on a map to see where the trails lead so you don’t get lost. It’s not recommended to visit Cala Màrmols with young children as the last descend to the beach is very steep.

Beach Popularity: LOW (not crowded). Since this is a wild and secluded beach, you’ll only encounter other fellow adventurers that are willing to do the trek. Which isn’t too many people!

Where to Stay Near Cala Màrmols: Hotel Ca’n Bonico – Book with Booking.com

8. Platja des Marquès

Quick Info: This wholesome beach is located right next to a hotel but it’s open to the public. It is not serviced and particularly satisfying for a casual late evening swim. Along Av. Primavera, you’ll find plenty of street parking which is free.

Beach Popularity: LOW (not crowded). You won’t be the only one there but it’s still one of the most quiet beaches in south Mallorca. Most visitors will flock to Platja Estanys right next door or the nearby Platja des Trenc.

Where to Stay Near Platja des Marquès: Villa Piccola by Cassai – Book with Booking.com

9. Cala Mitjana

Quick Info: It’s a small adventure to reach Cala Mitjana as the route to reach it is partially private property. Still, you won’t be breaking any laws to get here as long as you stay on the public yet hidden path. The only option for parking is here, which is meant for Cala Sa Nau. Instead of heading towards Cala Sa Nau, you’ll head south until you eventually see a sign for Cala Mitjana. The light hike should take you 20-30 minutes. Chartering a boat with a captain will also get here easily by sea, with someone who knows where they’re going. 

Beach Popularity: LOW (not crowded). Typically, any beaches which require a 30 minute hike down a mostly unmarked path will be much quieter. The harder to reach, the better the beach!

Where to Stay Near Cala Mitjana: MarSenses Ferrera Blanca Hotel – Book with Booking.com

10. Cala Domingos

Quick Info: There are technically two Cala Domingos beaches in the same area, one here and one located by the Globales America hotel. Both are equally beautiful and uncomplicated to access. To reach Platja de Cala Domingos, you can park along Carrer Arago and head down the stairs here. The two beaches are accessible from one to the other by a short hiking trail along the cliff. Cala Domingos has an excellent cliff jumping spot here, which includes stairs and a ladder for easy access.

Beach Popularity: HIGH (frequented). Platja de Cala Domingos is quieter but not by too much. Cala Domingos tends to be more busy as there are larger hotels within close proximity.

Where to Stay Near Cala Domingos

Iberostar Cala Domingos – Book with Booking.com

Holiday Home – Book with Vrbo

11. Platja de Cala Estreta

Quick Info: Getting to Platja de Cala Estreta requires a 30-40 minute hike. From Cala sa Nau’s parking lot, you will cross over the beach and go up a small hill to begin the hike to the secluded Platja de Cala Estreta. The starting point is here with a path which follows the cliff’s edge. You’ll go past the natural pool and end at the beach head here. It’s important to note that the beach area is rocky and only includes a small section of sandy beach. For young children, it’s not the most adequate option.

Beach Popularity: LOW (not crowded). You will likely only run into one other group during your hike or at the destination, plus a couple of boats who stop further out in the cove.

Where to Stay Near Cala Sa Nau

Monsuau Cala D’Or Hotel 4 Sup – Book with Booking.com

Holiday Home – Book with Vrbo

12. Cala Antena

Quick Info: Overshadowed by the neighbouring Cala Domingos beaches, Cala Antena is much more relaxed and even more accessible as you can drive and park directly on the beach. There is a small shack selling drinks and ice cream and is an overall excellent beach option for families.

Beach Popularity: LOW (not crowded). It may have a prime and convenient location, but the beach tends to be covered in dry seaweed which can deter the masses. If this doesn’t bother you, you’ll be able to experience a gorgeous beach without a large crowd.

Where to Stay Near Cala Antena

AluaSun Cala Antena – Book with Booking.com

Holiday Home Book with Vrbo

13. Playa de Cala Pi

Quick Info: There are a handful of parking spots throughout the neighborhood above the beach. However, if you’re not careful about markings and parking signs, you’ll receive a ticket or worse, get towed. Upon arriving at the beach, make sure you catch the breathtaking view of the cove from above which is arguably the best part about Playa de Cala Pi. Do not forget to bring your snorkelling gear and own umbrella setup.

Beach Popularity: HIGH (very busy). Traditional Mallorcan boat houses sit on one side of the inlet. Naturally, this makes for one of the most picture perfect locations in south Mallorca and therefore, not a secret. It is critical to arrive early or simply enjoy the mesmerising scene from the hiking trail above.

Where to Stay Near Playa de Cala Pi

Aparthotel Ona Cala Pi Club – Book with Booking.com

Casa Minina Holiday Home – Book with Vrbo

Is Mallorca and Majorca the Same Place?

Let’s first clear up any confusion about the island’s name. Yes, Mallorca and Majorca are the same thing. Mallorca and Majorca both refer to the same place, a Balearic Island in the Mediterranean off the coast of Spain.

Sometimes, an international destination becomes so popular with an English speaking demographic that an entirely separate name is created for it. This is exactly what happened with Mallorca, or often known as Majorca. Mallorca is the correct way to spell it in Spanish and the term Majorca is usually only used by tourists.

How to Get To Mallorca

Flying to Mallorca

It’s not often when an island airport is in the top three busiest airports for an entire country. Palma de Mallorca Airport impressively serves over 20 million passengers and holiday seekers per year.

Needless to say, it’s a major transportation hub and operates flights from all across Europe. Popular budget airlines such as Ryanair, Vueling and easyJet make it even more affordable and accessible for anyone to visit the island.

Although you will easily find direct flights to Mallorca from any major European city, one of the most frequent connections is between Barcelona and Palma. Between the various airlines, there is a flight leaving Barcelona to Mallorca every hour.

It’s as common as catching a bus! If you’re planning a trip to Spain, an itinerary which includes visiting Barcelona and the Balearic Island is easy to accomplish with the less than one hour flight. As efficient as this route is, it’s equally as affordable with tickets as low as €25 for one-way.

Taking a Ferry to Mallorca

You’ll likely only choose to take a ferry from mainland Spain to Palma if you are travelling with a car or large pet. In our case, we were travelling with both so taking a ferry to Mallorca was the only option.

If you are a foot passenger, it’s not very sensible to take the ferry as it’s a much longer journey and more expensive. 

There are three main ferry companies which provide routes between mainland Spain and Mallorca island: GNV, Trasmed and Balearia. It is possible to take a ferry to Mallorca from cities on the eastern coast of Spain such as Valencia, Dénia and of course Barcelona.

It’s important to note that the island of Mallorca also has two major ports, one in Palma and one in Alcúdia which is on the east side of the island. Additionally, ferry crossings among the Balearic Islands are a convenient way to get to Ibiza and Menorca.

The most popular ferry crossing from Barcelona to Palma takes around 7 hours and will typically operate overnight. As a foot passenger, expect to pay between €30-€50 for one-way. If you’re travelling with a car, a one-way ticket can cost around €100 and up.

What to Pack for Visiting South Mallorca

• Wet Wipes – If a shower isn’t available, quickly wipe off the saltwater to prevent feeling too sticky.
• Reusable Water Bottle – Long days at the beach without enough water can quickly ruin a trip.
• Sandproof Blanket – Lay out comfortably without bringing the entire beach back to your hotel with you.
• Sun Hat – Stay functionally safe from the sun and effortlessly accessorised at the same time.
• Sunscreen – Water resistant sunscreen is a must as you’ll be getting in and out of the sea frequently.
• Swimsuit Cover – Quickly throw on a breathable dress for the times you don’t want to walk around a town centre in just your bikini.
• Walking Sandals – For reaching many of south Mallorca’s beaches, a little walking is required. Stay prepared with comfortable shoes!
• The Ultimate Beach Bag – Dump everything in one bag instead of carrying around hundreds of small ones. For your kids, try this mesh beach toy bag!
• Waterproof Phone Case – Nowadays, cell phones can capture as much underwater magic as action cameras but for a lot less $.

More Spain Travel Posts:

• Southern Spain Road Trip From Barcelona
• How to Take the Ferry to Tangier From Tarifa
• One Day in Barcelona Itinerary
• Best Free Things to Do in Barcelona
• How to Get From Rome to Barcelona By Ferry

South Mallorca Trip Resources

☔️ TRAVEL INSURANCE: EKTA or VisitorsCoverage

✈️ FLIGHTS: Skyscanner, CheapOair or Kiwi.com

🚙 CAR RENTALS: Discover Cars or Rentalcars.com

🚊 TRAINS & BUSES: Busbud, Trainline or Omio

🛳 FERRIES: Direct Ferries

🛌 ACCOMMODATION: Booking.com, Agoda or Trivago

☎️ ESIM / CELL PHONE DATA: Airalo

📸 TOURS & ACTIVITIES: GetYourGuide or Viator