Palma Nova and Magaluf, Palma de Mallorca

About Palma Nova and Magaluf

Both resorts lie in the municipality of Calvià in south-west Mallorca, between the Serra de Tramuntana and the Serra de Na Burguesa. Calvià is the Balearics' second most populous area after Palma and the place with the most tourists in the archipelago.

Palma Nova, New Palma, was one of the island's first resorts built specifically for holidaymakers, with a string of sandy coves, a promenade and many family hotels. Right next door is Magaluf, with a long beach, bars and clubs, known across Europe above all for its nightlife.

Things to see and do

• Palma Nova's beaches — a string of sandy coves.
• Magaluf beach — a long strip facing small offshore islets.
• The promenade — walks between the two resorts.
• Water parks — several large parks nearby.
• Boat trips — cruises along the coast.
• Santa Ponsa — a quiet bay a few kilometres away.

Palma Nova's beaches

Palma Nova's beaches are a chain of small coves of fine pale sand separated by rocky headlands. The water is usually calm and shelves gently, with palms, cafés and sunbed hire along the shore. Families stroll the promenade in the morning and evening, while daytime life centres on the water.

The most popular are the central beach and nearby Son Maties. From here the promenade leads to Magaluf in about 20–30 minutes on foot. Palma Nova suits those who want a beach holiday close to Palma without the noise of its neighbour.

Magaluf and Santa Ponsa

Magaluf stretches along a long sandy beach facing small islets in the bay. By day people swim and try water sports, and by night the main strip fills with bars and clubs. It's known above all for nightlife and is popular with young people from across Europe.

A few kilometres west lies Santa Ponsa, a quiet, deep bay with a sandy beach, a marina and pine-covered hills around it. It's a good choice for a calm family holiday, with walking trails to viewpoints above the sea.

When to go and what to eat

The swimming season runs from June to October, warmest in July and August, while spring and autumn are calmer and cheaper. Try Mallorcan dishes such as tumbet, a bake of vegetables and potato, soft sobrassada sausage spread on bread and the spiral ensaïmada pastry.

Tips for your trip

Palma Nova makes a handy base, close to Palma and an easy drive to the Tramuntana and other beaches. Many people stay a week and take day trips around the island.

In summer the beaches fill up from midday, so claim your spot in the morning. Bring sunscreen, a hat and water. Beachfront restaurants cost more; side streets have cafés with good-value set menus.

Children enjoy the nearby water parks and glass-bottomed boat trips. Palma Nova's gentle shallows suit toddlers.

Places in Palma: compare and choose

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How to do it right

• With kids, choose Palma Nova.
• For parties, Magaluf.
• Claim beach spots early.
• Beaches are free.

Questions