The East Coast of Mallorca: 9 Places you Must Visit
Mallorca’s east coast is my go-to when staying on the island. It offers the perfect balance of laid-back beach resorts, scenic beauty and vibrant local culture. Whether you’re planning a family holiday, a romantic retreat, or a relaxed getaway with friends, this guide will help you discover the best spots along Mallorca’s east coast. Think sandy beaches, hidden coves and cool local markets… there’s plenty to keep you entertained!
Alcudia
Alcudia has it all. With miles of white sandy beach, a charming old town and plenty of history to explore. The shallow waters of Playa d'Alcúdia make it perfect for families with little ones, while the medieval old town and Roman ruins offer a taste of Mallorca’s rich past.
Things to Do:
Alcudia Beach: The stunning Playa d’Alcudia is one of Mallorca’s best beaches for families, with calm, shallow waters and plenty of amenities. The beach stretches nearly 3.5km, so it doesn’t often feel crowded, even during peak season.
Old Town Alcudia: Explore the famous, ancient walls that offer beautiful views over the city and surrounding landscape.
Alcudia Market: Check out one of Mallorca’s largest local markets, held weekly on Tuesdays and Sundays. The market sells a variety of products including food, clothing, craft and souvenirs.
Boat Trips: Head out on a boat tour to explore the nearby coast or visit the stunning Formentor Peninsula.
Tip: Visit in spring or autumn for a more relaxed vibe, and if you’re exploring the old town, head out early to soak up the charm before it gets busy.
Church of Sant Jaume, Alcudia
Streets of Alcudia
View From the Ancient Walls in Alcudia
Alcudia Beach
Cala Bona
If you’re after a slower pace with that charming fishing village feel, Cala Bona is the perfect spot. It’s peaceful, scenic, and has just enough going on without feeling too busy. This family-friendly spot has a beautiful promenade, which leads directly into the neighbouring town of Cala Millor.
Things to Do:
Cala Bona Beach: A mix of sandy and rocky areas which are great for snorkelling.
Harbour: Enjoy fresh seafood at the harbour, where fishing boats bring in their catch daily.
Boat Trips: Hop on a boat from Cala Bona to explore nearby resorts like Cala Millor and Porto Cristo or escape to a secluded cove for a swim in crystal-clear waters.
Shopping: There’s a small selection of local boutiques and souvenir shops along the promenade.
Tip: Cala Bona is a perfect place to stay if you prefer quieter, more chilled evenings but still want easy access to nearby attractions in Cala Millor.
If you are considering visiting Cala Bona, Protur Alicia is one of my favourite hotels in the area. Check out my review here to find out why.
View From Protur Alicia Hotel of the Promenade
Cala Bona Beach
Cala Millor
Cala Millor is one of the most popular beach resorts on the east coast. With its golden sands stretching for 2km, a lively seafront, and endless activities, this resort has everything you need for a fun-filled holiday. Cala Millor has many great bars, restaurants and shops.
Things to Do:
Cala Millor Beach: A beautiful, 2km stretch of golden sand and clear waters, ideal for swimming and water sports.
Punta de N’Amer: This nature reserve at the end of the beach offers beautiful walks and a hilltop castle. The peninsula connects Cala Millor to neighbouring town, Sa Coma.
Cycling and Walking Paths: The seafront promenade is perfect for a morning stroll or bike ride.
Boat Trips: Take a glass-bottom boat tour to explore the underwater world along the coast.
Tip: Cala Millor is popular with families thanks to its huge beach and loads of activities. If you prefer a quieter experience, visit in May or September when the crowds thin out, but the weather is still perfect!
Cala Millor
Boat Trip at Cala Millor
Sa Coma
If you’re looking for a modern, family-friendly resort with a relaxed vibe, Sa Coma is a great pick. It’s quieter than Cala Millor but still has plenty to offer, from a fantastic beach to nearby nature walks.
Things to Do:
Sa Coma Beach: A wide, sandy beach with plenty of facilities and water sports options.
Visit Castell de la Punta de N’Amer: Explore the nearby nature reserve with great views from the castle.
Shopping: Pick up local souvenirs or browse the shops for beachside essentials.
View of Sa Coma Beach
Palm Trees Lined Up On The Promenade
Porto Cristo
Porto Cristo is a charming fishing village known for its natural harbour and the famous Caves of Drach. It’s less commercial than other resorts, offering a more relaxed atmosphere. It has a small, beautiful beach and a weekly local market.
Things to Do:
Caves of Drach: A must-see attraction with impressive stalactites, underground lakes, and a classical music concert inside.
Caves of Hams: Another set of caves nearby, equally stunning but quieter than the Caves of Drach.
Porto Cristo Beach: A small but scenic sandy beach, ideal for a peaceful swim.
Boat Trips: Take a boat trip along the coast to explore hidden coves and crystal-clear waters. Some tours include swim stops in quiet bays too.
Porto Cristo Marina: A beautiful place for a stroll or to grab a drink and something to eat.
Porto Cristo Marina
Inside the Caves of Drach, Porto Cristo
Cala Ratjada
Cala Ratjada is a lively resort at the far northeast of the island, offering a great mix of nightlife, beaches, and cultural experiences. It’s popular with both families and younger travellers.
Things to Do:
Son Moll Beach: Cala Ratjada’s main beach is a 1km stretch of golden sand and crystal-clear water.
Cala Agulla Beach: A large, beautiful beach surrounded by pine forests, this ‘Blue Flag’ status beach is perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Capdepera Castle: Just a short drive away, this medieval castle offers stunning views over the coast.
Nightlife: Cala Ratjada has a buzzing nightlife scene, with bars and clubs open late into the night.
Fishing Port: The harbour is a beautiful place for a walk and is a great spot for a fresh seafood dinner.
Tip: Cala Ratjada is buzzing in summer, making it perfect if you love a lively vibe. But if you prefer a more laid-back experience (while still enjoying great weather), May and September are ideal times to visit.
Cala Ratjada Harbour
Son Servera
If you want to step away from the bustling beach resorts and experience a slice of traditional Mallorca, Son Servera is well worth a visit. This small, inland town just a short ride from Cala Bona, is a great spot to wander, soak up local culture, and enjoy an authentic Mallorca market experience.
Things to Do:
Weekly Market: Held every Friday, this is a great place to pick up local produce, crafts, and souvenirs.
Església Nova: Visit this striking, unfinished church designed by a student of Gaudí.
Cycling and Hiking: There are plenty of scenic routes in the surrounding countryside.
Streets of Son Servera
Son Servera Market
Cala D’Or
Cala D’Or is where relaxed coastal charm meets upscale elegance. With its chic marina, stunning turquoise coves, and stylish dining scene, it’s the perfect spot for a beach escape with a touch of luxury.
Things to Do:
Cala Gran Beach: The largest and most popular cove in Cala D’Or, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and soaking up those stunning turquoise waters. Arrive early in peak season to grab the best spot!
Marina: Cala D’Or’s marina is a must-visit, lined with luxury yachts, stylish waterfront restaurants, and lively bars. Whether you're indulging in a sunset cocktail or simply strolling along the docks, it’s the perfect place to unwind.
Boat Trips: Jump on a boat to explore the nearby bays or visit Mondragó Natural Park, a dream for nature lovers.
Shopping: Cala D’Or’s pedestrianised town centre is home to chic boutiques, perfect for picking up stylish resort wear or unique souvenirs.
Beach at Cala D’Or
Cala D’Or Marina
Portocolom
Portocolom is the perfect escape if you’re wanting a peaceful retreat away from the crowds. This traditional fishing village has one of Mallorca’s largest natural harbours, a relaxed atmosphere and a sense of authenticity that’s harder to find in the busier resorts.
Things to Do:
Cala Marçal: A tranquil beach offering calm, shallow waters ideal for families.
Sa Cova Foradada: A beautiful viewpoint overlooking the sea and lighthouse.
Water Activities: Try kayaking or paddleboarding in the sheltered waters of the bay.
Marina Port de Portocolom: The marina is a beautiful place to unwind, with waterfront cafés and seafood restaurants serving fresh local dishes.
Tip: When visiting Sa Cova Foradada, the drop to the framed viewpoint is very steep and not easy to access. Don’t go alone and wear sensible shoes! I made the mistake of wearing sandals and regretted it.
Portocolom Harbour
Sa Cova Foradada, Portocolom
Getting Around: The Best Ways to Explore Mallorca’s East Coast
Local Buses: The east coast is well-served by local buses and is a budget friendly way of travelling between resorts. Mallorca’s buses charge more for cash fares, so tap on and off with your bank card to save a few euros.
Car Hire: The best way to explore at your own pace. Renting a car gives you the freedom to discover hidden coves, scenic mountain roads, and charming inland villages that buses don’t reach. I recommend using Discover Cars to search for the best deals.
Best Time to Visit: May, June, and September offer the perfect balance of warm weather and fewer crowds. July and August are peak season which is great for buzzing summer energy but expect busy beaches and higher prices.
Why Mallorca’s East Coast Should Be on Your List
Mallorca’s east coast has something for everyone, whether you’re seeking peaceful fishing villages, vibrant beach resorts, or breathtaking natural beauty. From lazy days on golden sands to exploring medieval castles and hidden coves, every moment here feels like a real-life postcard!
If you love a mix of adventure, relaxation, and stunning coastal scenery, this region is an absolute must-visit.
