Lying on Mallorca’s lesser known east coast, some 70km from Palma airport, is the family orientated resort of Calas de Mallorca. If you’ve previously visited Mallorca and enjoyed stays in some of its flagship resorts such as Magaluf, Puerto Pollensa or Cala Millor be warned that Calas de Mallorca bears little, if any, resemblence to them. Whilst you will find things to do in Calas de Mallorca, they are few and far between when compared with the island’s premier resorts.
Calas de Mallorca is a is a purpose-built tourist resort tucked away on the island’s east coast. It’s a nice enough place for a relaxed family holiday but won’t have enough to offer many people planning their visit. Whilst there are a few bars around the resort’s ‘Centro Comercial’ you’ll find that most evening entertainment revolves around what your hotel has on offer so be sure to research this before confirming a booking. Anyone who wants nightlife to play a big part in their holiday ought to look elsewhere.
Getting There: To get there just head east out of the airport heading for Llucmayor on the Ma-19. Beyond the town of Campos look for signs to Felanitx and the PM-401 to Cales de Mallorca. the map below shows the route from the airport to the resort. It’s quite straightforward as far as Felanitx but keep your eyes peeled for the roadsigns in that last stretch. Renting a car at Palma Airport provides you with transfers and the freedom to explore the whole of Mallorca’s east coast.
Where to Stay: The limited amount of accommodation in town seems somewhat rundown which is consistent with the resort as a whole. The go to hotel is the Alua Calas de Mallorca Resort which is probably the best place available for family holidays as part of a package deal.
Getting Around: Whilst there are daily buses to Palma, Porto Cristo and Manacor you’d really be missing out if you didn’t hire a car as there are some lovely coves along this stretch of coastline and traditional Mallorquin villages waiting to be explored. This is so much harder if you have to rely on public transport. Here are a few suggested things to do:
Things to Do in Calas de Mallorca
Calas de Mallorca Beaches
One of the main attractions of Calas de Mallorca is its beautiful coastline, dotted with sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters.
Two of the most popular beaches in the area are Cala Domingos and Cala Antena. Cala Domingos, which is actually divided into two beaches – Domingos Grans and Domingos Petits – is ideal for those looking for a relaxing day by the sea. The golden sands and shallow waters make it a family-friendly destination. It’s also a great spot for swimming and snorkelling, as the waters are generally calm.
Cala Antena is smaller but equally inviting, offering a quieter alternative to Cala Domingos. The rocky cliffs surrounding the beach give it a more secluded atmosphere. Both beaches have sunbeds and umbrellas available for rent, and there are beach bars nearby for refreshments. A coastal train and cliff path connect the beaches.
Take a Boat Trip along the Coast
Another excellent way to experience the beauty of Calas de Mallorca is by taking a boat trip along the eastern coast of the island. Several operators offer excursions that take you along the rocky cliffs, hidden coves, and picturesque beaches that define this part of the island. Many of these trips include stops for swimming and snorkelling in secluded bays, allowing you to see the marine life and clear waters up close.
Some boat trips also visit the smaller, less accessible beaches that can only be reached by sea, giving visitors a chance to escape the crowds. Whether you choose a half-day or full-day tour, a boat trip is an enjoyable way to experience Mallorca’s coastline and is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Calas de Mallorca.
Walk or Cycle the Coastal Paths
For nature lovers and those looking to explore the island on foot or by bike, the coastal paths around Calas de Mallorca provide an excellent opportunity to experience the region’s natural beauty. The paths range from easy, flat routes to more challenging hikes that take you through rocky terrain and offer stunning views of the Mediterranean.
The walk between Cala Domingos and Cala Antena is particularly scenic, passing through pine forests and along cliff tops. Cycling is also a popular activity, with several companies offering bike rentals for those wanting to explore further afield. Whether walking or cycling, the coastal paths are one of the best things to do in Calas de Mallorca for those who enjoy outdoor activities and want to take in the island’s breathtaking scenery.
Visit the Local Markets
For those who enjoy immersing themselves in local culture, a visit to the local markets is highly recommended. The nearby town of Manacor, famous for its pearl industry, hosts one of the largest markets on the island. Every Monday, the town centre comes alive with stalls selling everything from fresh produce and traditional Mallorcan pastries to leather goods and artisan crafts.
Another traditional market takes place in Felanitx every Sunday and is considered to be one of Mallorca’s best local markets. While there, take a trip up to San Salvador Monastery. Perched atop a hill, it offers panoramic views of the island’s southeast coast.
Take Day Trips From Calas de Mallorca
Caves of Drach in Porto Cristo
Just a short drive from Calas de Mallorca, the Caves of Drach (Cuevas del Drach) are one of the most famous natural attractions on the island. These limestone caves stretch over 1,200 metres and include an underground lake, Lago Martel, one of the largest subterranean lakes in the world. Guided tours take visitors through the impressive cave formations, with highlights including stalactites, stalagmites, and underground chambers that have been naturally sculpted over thousands of years.
At the end of the tour, visitors are treated to a live classical music concert performed on a boat floating on Lago Martel. The acoustics within the caves create a unique atmosphere for the performance, making it a truly memorable experience. Visiting the Caves of Drach is a must for anyone interested in natural wonders and it ranks high on the list of best things to do in Mallorca.
Cuevas dels Hams
In addition to the Caves of Drach, the Cuevas dels Hams (Caves of Fish Hooks) are another must-visit site near Calas de Mallorca. These caves, named after the hook-shaped formations that line their walls, are slightly smaller but equally fascinating. Visitors are taken on a guided tour through several chambers, including the Round Cave, a botanical garden with tropical plants and bird species.
The visit culminates in a light show set to classical music in the underground lake area, which offers a different yet captivating experience from the Caves of Drach. For those interested in the island’s geological formations, the Cuevas dels Hams are a natural wonder worth exploring and one of the best things to do in Calas de Mallorca.
Artà and Capdepera
These two historic towns in the northeast are worth exploring. Artà boasts a hilltop fortress with stunning views, while Capdepera is home to one of the best-preserved medieval castles on the island.
Palma de Mallorca
Although it’s a bit of a journey (about 70 km), the island’s capital is worth a visit. Explore the stunning Gothic cathedral, the Arab Baths, and the charming old town with its narrow streets and boutique shops.
Mondragó Natural Park
For nature lovers, this coastal park offers beautiful hiking trails and some of the island’s most pristine beaches, including Cala Mondragó and S’Amarador.
Calas de Mallorca: Stay or Go?
Anyone who has read my articles will know that I’m a great fan of Mallorca having lived there for four years when I first moved to Spain. As such it’s very rare that I’ll make negative comments about this beautiful island. Unfortunately, in the case of Calas de Mallorca I have to make an exception. The place looked worn out when I first saw it in the late 1980s.
Today little has changed with the resort feeling as though it’s on its last legs only attracting tourists based on cheap all inclusive deals. Maybe it has some value as a base from which to explore the many attractions of the island’s east coast and its interior but with so little in the way of amenities for tourists I see no real reason to go there when there are so many more attractive options nearby.
