Camp de Mar is a small resort town located on the south-west of Mallorca which offers a tranquil escape from the bustling hotspots of the island. Known for its scenic coastline, calm waters and relatively quiet atmosphere, Camp de Mar attracts visitors looking for a more subdued holiday experience. This article highlights the best things to do in Camp de Mar, focusing on activities and attractions that showcase the town’s natural beauty, leisure offerings and local charm.
Getting to Camp de Mar: Camp de Mar lies about 38km south-west of Palma’s Son Sant Joan airport. The journey typically takes around 30 minutes by car, though this can vary depending on traffic conditions. Visitors can reach Camp de Mar by taxi, pre-booked airport transfer, or rental car. If driving, head west towards Palma, take the city ring road (Circunvalación de Palma), then get on the Carretera de Palma – Palmanova (Ma-1).
Getting Around: If you haven’t hired a car, you can make use of the local bus services. These connect many of the nearby resorts and offer frequent services into the city of Palma de Mallorca.
Where to Stay:Camp de Mar offers a selection of high-quality accommodations including the beachfront Grupotel Playa Camp de Mar and the H10 Blue Mar boutique hotel.
Theseproperties, along with a few others in the area, help maintain Camp de Mar’s reputation as a more exclusive and peaceful destination compared to some of Mallorca’s busier resorts.
Things to Do in Camp de Mar in Mallorca
Relax on Camp de Mar Beach
The primary attraction of Camp de Mar is its beach, a relatively small yet well-maintained stretch of sand bordered by clear turquoise waters. The beach is sheltered by rocky cliffs and pine trees, creating a peaceful environment ideal for sunbathing, swimming, or simply unwinding. The calm, shallow sea makes it particularly suitable for families with young children.
A distinctive feature of Camp de Mar Beach is the small island connected to the shore by a wooden bridge. On this island, visitors will find the Restaurante La Illeta, offering panoramic sea views. The eastern side of the beach is protected by the vertical walls of a rocky cove, providing excellent opportunities for snorkelling. To the west, rocks surround the sea, offering fabulous views across the turquoise waters towards the luxurious villas overlooking the bay.
Play a Round at Golf de Andratx
For golf enthusiasts, the nearby Golf de Andratx is one of the most scenic and challenging courses on the island. Located just a short distance from the beach, this 18-hole championship golf course is set amidst rolling hills and stunning Mediterranean landscape. The course is known for its technical difficulty, with numerous water hazards and bunkers that challenge even experienced players.
The club also offers facilities such as a driving range, putting greens and a well-regarded clubhouse restaurant, making it a great way to spend a leisurely day. Even non-golfers can appreciate the tranquil atmosphere and breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
Explore the Surrounding Coastal Walks
One of the best things to do in Camp de Mar is to explore the many coastal paths that wind along the rugged coastline. These walks offer opportunities to discover secluded coves, hidden beaches and dramatic cliffside views. The routes are well-marked and vary in difficulty, making them suitable for all levels of fitness.
One popular trail is the walk from Camp de Mar to the nearby resort of Peguera. This trail takes around an hour and passes through wooded areas and along coastal cliffs, offering sea views at every turn. Another scenic route is the hike to Cala Fornells, a small bay with crystal-clear waters perfect for a swim after a morning of walking.
For more local trails, ask your hotel receptionist for recommendations. They can point out walks on the outskirts of the resort, including a path to an ancient lookout tower built to provide advance warning of approaching pirates – an interesting historical element to your explorations.
Visit the Island of Sa Dragonera
For those looking to explore beyond Camp de Mar, a visit to Sa Dragonera is highly recommended. This uninhabited island lies just off the coast of Mallorca and is now a protected nature reserve. Boats to Sa Dragonera depart from the nearby port of Sant Elm, a 12km drive from Camp de Mar and the journey itself offers stunning views of the coastline. In summer, boat trips to Sa Dragonera are also available from Camp de Mar, departing from the wooden bridge that connects to the beach.
Once on the island, visitors can explore several walking trails, ranging from easy paths to more challenging routes leading to the island’s lighthouse. Along the way, walkers will encounter a variety of wildlife, including lizards, birds and other native species. The island’s rugged landscape and sweeping views make it a must-visit for nature lovers.
Discover Local Cuisine at Camp de Mar’s Restaurants
Dining in Camp de Mar offers an opportunity to savour Mallorcan and Mediterranean cuisine in a relaxed, beachfront setting. While the town is small, there are several excellent restaurants catering to both locals and tourists. Fresh seafood is a highlight, with many restaurants offering dishes made from the catch of the day.
For an exquisite dining experience, book a table at the Flor de Sal Restaurant. This excellent establishment offers a lovely fusion of Mediterranean dishes and creative tapas on a beautiful terrace with superb sea views.
In addition to seafood, traditional Mallorcan dishes such as sobrassada (a cured sausage) and tumbet (a vegetable stew) are often featured on menus. Visitors can also enjoy a range of international cuisine, from Italian to Asian-inspired dishes.
Take a Boat Trip Along the Coast
Another of the best things to do in Camp de Mar is to take a boat trip along Mallorca’s southwest coast. Various operators offer boat tours departing from nearby ports and these trips provide a unique perspective of the island’s coastline. Popular tours include trips to hidden coves, snorkelling excursions and visits to nearby islands like Sa Dragonera.
Boat trips often include stops for swimming in the clear waters or simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings. For those interested in marine life, some tours offer the chance to see dolphins or other wildlife that inhabits the waters around Mallorca. A sunset cruise is another memorable way to experience the coast, with the fading light creating a picturesque backdrop.
Day Trip to Andratx Town and Port d’Andratx
While Camp de Mar is an ideal spot for a beach holiday, it is also conveniently located near the historic town of Andratx and the picturesque Port d’Andratx.
Andratx, just a short drive inland, offers a taste of traditional Mallorcan culture. The town is known for its narrow streets, charming squares and historic buildings, including the Church of Santa Maria, which dates back to the 13th century. Andratx also has a typical Mallorcan weekly market where visitors can purchase local products such as fresh produce, handmade crafts and souvenirs.
Port d’Andratx, widely regarded as one of the most beautiful harbours in Mallorca, is just 3km north of Camp de Mar. The port is a hub for luxury yachts and offers a more cosmopolitan feel compared to the quieter Camp de Mar. Visitors can stroll along the waterfront, enjoy a coffee at one of the many cafés, or browse the boutiques that line the harbour. The port is also known for its excellent seafood restaurants, many of which overlook the marina and provide a perfect setting for a leisurely meal.
Experience Water Sports and Outdoor Activities
Although Camp de Mar is a more tranquil destination, there are still options for water sports and outdoor activities, albeit limited. The calm waters around the beach make it an ideal spot for paddleboarding and kayaking, both of which can be rented locally. Snorkelling is another popular activity, with several spots offering clear water and vibrant marine life. For a leisurely tour of the bay, pedalo rides are available.
For those who prefer activities on land, cycling is a popular way to explore the surrounding area. The terrain around Camp de Mar offers a mix of flat roads and challenging hills, making it suitable for both casual cyclists and more serious riders. Bikes can be rented in nearby towns and there are several routes that take cyclists through scenic parts of the island.
Enjoy the Peace and Serenity of Camp de Mar
One of the best things to do in Camp de Mar is to simply enjoy the peace and tranquility that the area offers. Unlike some of the busier resorts on the island, Camp de Mar maintains a slower pace of life. The resort has managed to retain a feeling of exclusivity, with only a handful of hotels occupied largely by independent British and German travellers.
Visitors can spend their days lounging on the beach, enjoying a leisurely lunch by the sea, or taking in the stunning views from one of the coastal paths. A pedestrianized walkway allows for pleasant strolls along the seafront.
The resort’s relaxed atmosphere makes it an ideal place for those seeking a break from more crowded tourist areas and it is particularly appealing to families and couples looking for a quiet escape. With its blend of natural beauty and laid-back charm, Camp de Mar offers a quintessential Mallorcan experience.
Nightlife and Evening Entertainment
Camp de Mar’s nightlife is fairly consistent with what you’d expect from a laid-back family destination. You won’t find the Magaluf nightclub scene; instead, you’ll find a few nice bars and restaurants, along with the amenities provided by individual hotels. This low-key evening scene perfectly complements the resort’s tranquil daytime atmosphere.
Whilst Camp de Mar may be a small resort, it offers a range of activities that cater to both active travelers and those seeking relaxation. From its beautiful beach and golf course to nearby historical towns and natural reserves, there is no shortage of things to do. Whether visiting for a weekend or a longer stay, Camp de Mar provides a perfect balance of leisure, culture and natural beauty, making it one of the best destinations in Mallorca for a peaceful holiday.
