Mallorca's coves are legendary—crystal clear water in shades of blue you won't believe.
Beach timing tip: Arrive before 9am or after 5pm for the best experience. Popular coves fill up fast in summer.
Fair warning: Every beach worth visiting in Mallorca is a trek. Expect steep stairs, rocky paths, and serious climbing to reach the best coves. Wear good shoes and be prepared to work for those views—it's worth it.
The most photographed cove in Mallorca—and for good reason. A tiny crescent of sand between dramatic cliffs, with water so turquoise it looks photoshopped. The catch: it's small and fills up early. Arrive by 8am or skip it entirely.
The longest natural beach on the island—white sand, shallow turquoise water, and a Caribbean vibe. Less crowded the further you walk from the main entrance. Has beach bars and umbrellas for rent if you want them.
Fair warning: there's only one road in, and it was so backed up with cars that we eventually turned around and left. But silver lining—there's a little gift shop at the entrance selling local salt, and I ended up buying some to bring home as gifts. The salt from this area is famous for being rich in minerals, thanks to the Mediterranean's extra-salty water. So even if you don't make it to the beach, you can still leave with something special.
A beautiful sandy cove framed by cliffs—more spacious than Caló des Moro but still gorgeous. The water is calm and clear, making it great for snorkeling. Has a small beach bar and some shade under the pine trees.
Our hotel host recommended this one to us, and it didn't disappoint. A small, hidden cove with crystal-clear water tucked between rocky cliffs. It's quieter than the more famous beaches nearby and has that secret-spot feel. The walk down is steep but worth it. (Ok and the walk up was even worse 😩).
A rocky cove at the base of the Tramuntana mountains—no sand, but brilliant blue water and a laid-back beach bar. The kind of place where you spend the afternoon swimming, eating, and watching the sunset over the cliffs.
The drive down is pretty tricky if you are not experienced driving mountains. It feels like a one road lane (it's not) that curves and winds dramatically, so be emotionally prepared!
A stunning pine-fringed beach on the Formentor peninsula. The water is calm and incredibly clear. Less crowded than the southern beaches and has a more exclusive, old-world feel. The drive there is half the experience.
Mountain villages, historic towns, and views worth the winding roads.
A stone village clinging to the mountainside, famous for its Carthusian monastery where Chopin spent a winter. The streets are impossibly charming—potted plants, stone houses, and mountain views around every corner. I came around 9am and it wasn't crowded at all, but by 10am the streets started to fill up quickly.
A tiny village that's drawn artists and writers for generations—Robert Graves lived here for decades. The terracotta rooftops spill down the hillside toward the sea. It's expensive and exclusive, but worth a wander and maybe a sunset drink.
The northernmost point of the island, where dramatic cliffs drop into the sea. We drove there, then parked and took the bus to get to the top—very windy and very high up! The viewpoint at Mirador Es Colomer is worth it. Best at sunrise or sunset when the light turns the cliffs golden. Also, we had the nicest driver, and I still think about him daily, lol.
A storybook town surrounded by orange groves and mountains. Take the historic wooden tram down to Port de Sóller for lunch by the harbor. The main square is perfect for a coffee and people-watching.
I didn't end up going inside, but honestly the area surrounding the cathedral is one of the most beautiful places I've ever seen. The Gothic architecture rising above the waterfront, the palm-lined promenade, the reflection pools—it all comes together in a way that stopped me in my tracks. I was lucky enough to be there at sunset, and the light turning the sandstone golden is something I'll never forget.
A walled medieval town with narrow streets, outdoor cafés, and a Tuesday/Sunday market. Less polished than some of the mountain villages but full of character. Walk the old walls for views over the surrounding countryside.
Day trips and activities that take you beyond the beaches.
One of Europe's most beautiful driving routes. Wind through mountain villages, past olive terraces, and along dramatic cliff roads. Stop in Valldemossa, Deià, and Sóller. Allow a full day and don't rush—the views deserve it.
Spectacular underground caves with one of the largest underground lakes in the world. The tour ends with a classical music concert performed from boats on the lake—surprisingly moving. Touristy but genuinely impressive.
A dramatic gorge that opens onto a rocky beach between towering limestone cliffs. You can hike down through the canyon (challenging, 3-4 hours) or just visit Sa Calobra beach at the bottom. The boat trip from Port de Sóller is the scenic way to get there.
A national park island off the south coast—pristine beaches, crystal water for snorkeling, and no development. Day trips run from Colònia de Sant Jordi. It's the most "untouched Mallorca" experience you can have.
We booked this super last minute but I am SO glad we did! A boat ride along Mallorca's stunning southeast coast to Cala Es Marmols—a secluded beach you can only reach by boat or a long, tiring walk. Along the way, you'll see Cala Llombards and Cala s'Almunia from the water, which is a completely different perspective than visiting by land. The trip includes free time to swim in the crystal-clear waters off Cala Es Marmols.
From beachside chiringuitos to Palma's best tables.
Dining tip: Lunch is the main meal in Spain. Restaurants serve lunch 1-4pm and dinner after 8pm. Many places close between meals.
A legendary seafood restaurant right on the rocky cove in Deià. Fresh fish, simple preparation, feet practically in the water. It's been here forever and the setting is unbeatable. Reservations essential.
A rustic mountain restaurant famous for lamb shoulder slow-roasted in a wood-fired oven. Cash only, no reservations, no menu—you get lamb, bread, olives, and wine. The drive up is an adventure and the food is unforgettable.
Palma's central market—the best place for a casual lunch. Grab a seat at one of the seafood counters and point at what looks good. Fresh oysters, grilled prawns, local cheese and ham. Authentic and affordable.
Set in a beautiful courtyard in Palma's old town—romantic lighting, excellent Mediterranean food, and a sophisticated but relaxed vibe. Great for a special dinner without being stuffy.
A local favorite in an unassuming inland town. Traditional Mallorcan cooking done right—hearty portions, fair prices, and zero tourists. The kind of place where families have Sunday lunch together.
A beautiful café on Palma's main boulevard—high ceilings, marble floors, and a see-and-be-seen crowd. Good coffee, excellent people-watching. The Paseo del Borne location is the original and most atmospheric.
The island's capital is worth a full day—wander the old town, shop, eat, and soak in the atmosphere.
Palma is best explored on foot. Park once and wander—the old town is compact and endlessly charming.
Palma's elegant main boulevard, lined with designer shops and beautiful old buildings. Great for a morning stroll, window shopping, or grabbing a seat at one of the cafés and watching the world go by.
The historic heart of Palma—narrow medieval streets, hidden plazas, and gorgeous architecture at every turn. Get lost on purpose. You'll stumble onto boutiques, tapas bars, and quiet courtyards that feel like discoveries.
The main shopping street in Palma—Spanish brands like Zara and Mango alongside local boutiques. A good mix of high street and unique finds. Connects Paseo del Borne to the rest of downtown.
The main square in the old town—lively, surrounded by cafés, and a natural meeting point. On Saturdays there's a small craft market. A good place to rest, people-watch, or grab a coffee before exploring more.
The trendy neighborhood just west of the old town—packed with restaurants, wine bars, and local hangouts. More relaxed than the tourist center. Great for dinner or evening drinks after a day of sightseeing.