The ever popular resort of Magaluf lies 28km from Palma Airport on the southwest coast of Mallorca. It has long been a favourite destination for holidaymakers of all ages with enough attractions to keep families, singles and retired people coming back year after year. Magaluf is particularly well known for its nightlife during the summer season when it competes with Benidorm and Ibiza as one of the liveliest places to go in the whole Mediterranean region. Its top nightclubs are well known by clubbers throughout Europe and some of the top DJs from the UK turn up here for short stints during these months.
However, there’s plenty more to Magaluf than its nightlife such as its beautiful beach with its fine sand, clear water and diverse watersports. Along the beach there are small kiosk bars set up during the day which play great music and there are some good pubs serving ice cold beers and showing live sport all day long.
You’ll find plenty theme parks around Magaluf to pass your time including Marineland which is just 4km east at Portals Nous and the waterparks of Aqualand and Western Park which are just on the main road heading west out of Magaluf. For a brilliant evening of entertainment for all the family you should go to the Pirates Adventure which is the island’s number one show. For something a little more active you can enjoy a round of golf at one of the nearby courses.
Best Things to Do in Magaluf
Relax on the the Local Beaches
Magaluf Beach, with its 900-metre stretch of golden sand and clear turquoise waters, is one of the primary draws for visitors to the area. The beach offers a range of amenities, including sun loungers, parasols and play areas for children. It is backed by a promenade lined with restaurants, cafes and shops, making it easy to spend plenty lazy days chilling out. More active holidaymakers can try out a number of watersport activities such as jet skiing, parasailing, windsurfing and paddle boarding. There are also some PADI dive centres which rent out equipment and offer snorkelling and scuba diving excursions along the coast.
If you want to spend time at a quieter beach location near Magaluf then look no further than Cala Vinyes which is a beautiful secluded beach located just a short drive away. This picturesque cove is an ideal spot for a relaxing day out, with crystal clear waters, soft white sands and a peaceful atmosphere. The beach is particularly popular among families with young children, as the water is shallow and calm.
Visit Western Water Park
The Western Water Park is one of Mallorca’s largest water parks and provides an excellent option for family entertainment or adults seeking an adrenaline rush. The park features a variety of water slides, pools and attractions suitable for different age groups and thrill levels. Notable rides include the Beast, a high-speed body slide and the Hurricane, a multi-person raft ride. For those preferring a more relaxed experience, the park also offers a lazy river and wave pool.
Visit Marineland
Located in nearby Costa d’en Blanes, Marineland is a marine zoo and aquarium which offers educational and entertaining experiences for visitors interested in marine life. The park features daily shows with dolphins, sea lions and parrots, as well as aquariums housing a variety of marine species. The park also includes a tropical house with reptiles and birds, providing a diverse range of wildlife encounters.
Visit Katmandu Park
A visit to the unique theme park of Katmandu Park is one the best things to do in Magaluf which a traditional amusement park with interactive and immersive experiences. The park’s centrepiece is an upside-down house filled with optical illusions and interactive exhibits. Visitors can enjoy a range of attractions, including a 4D cinema, mini-golf courses and virtual reality experiences. While some aspects of the park may appeal more to younger visitors, there is plenty entertainment to keep adults entertained.
Visit Jungle Parc
For those looking for something more active and thrilling there is the outdoor adventure park of Jungle Parc which is located in Santa Ponsa only 8km from Magaluf. It has 2 adventure courses which take you from tree to tree by means of rope bridges, swings, slides and more. The Pirate course is suitable for children from 4 to 10 and has 25 challenges all based on a Pirate theme. The Explorer course is suitable for all the family and has two different levels for the more or less adventurous.
Attend the Pirates Adventure Show
One show that everyone should go to see no matter what their age is the Pirates Adventure in Magaluf. Since the show began it has attracted over 3.5 million visitors and for the majority it is the highlight of their holiday. The show is set in a theatre which contains a life size galleon. The entertainment tells the story of Captain Morgan and his sailors who sailed the seven seas in search of treasure. One night they come across an evil French pirate who steals their gold and jewels which sets up a pirate adventure story as the two pirates fight it out to rule the high seas. There is also an uncut version for adults only. https://piratesadventure.com/en
Play Mini-Golf at Golf Fantasia
You don’t have to be a golf enthusiast to enjoy a delightful a round of mini-golf at Golf Fantasia, a meticulously maintained complex located in the heart of Palmanova, just a stone’s throw from Magaluf. This popular attraction features three distinct 18-hole courses, each offering its own set of challenges and themes, set within a lush, tropical garden environment. While mini-golf is often associated with family activities, the courses at Golf Fantasia are designed to entertain and challenge players of all ages and skill levels. Each hole presents its own set of obstacles, from tricky angles and slopes to strategically placed hazards, ensuring an engaging experience for even the most seasoned putters.
The complex’s standout feature is its immersive landscaping. As you navigate through the courses, you’ll be transported to a tropical paradise complete with cascading waterfalls, mysterious caves and vibrant flora. The meticulously crafted scenery includes exotic plants, charming bridges, and even a replica of an ancient temple, creating a visually stunning backdrop for your game.
Golf Fantasia is open late into the evening, with the courses beautifully illuminated after sunset. This makes it a perfect activity for those looking to escape the midday heat or for a fun, low-key evening out. The facility also includes a welcoming clubhouse with a bar and terrace, ideal for refreshments and relaxation between rounds.
Visit Portals Nous Marina
Portals Nous is a picturesque coastal town located just a short distance from Magaluf. This exclusive resort is known for its luxury yachts, high-end shops and upscale restaurants. Visitors can stroll along the marina, enjoy a drink at one of the many beach clubs, or indulge in some retail therapy at the designer boutiques.
Discover Magaluf’s Varied Nightlife
The diversity of Magaluf nightlife is such that there is something for everyone. For the 18-30 crowd there are hundreds of bars and some of Europe’s best clubs and discos. For maturer visitors and families there are more laid back bar venues, many with excellent entertainment and a good selection of places to eat. Most of the nightlife is centred on the bars and clubs which are located along what is known as ‘the strip’.
Away from the raucous party scene, the Magaluf’s nightlife offerings have diversified in recent years to cater to a broader range of preferences. Visitors can find everything from traditional Spanish tapas bars and live music venues to upscale cocktail lounges and beachfront clubs. For those seeking a more sophisticated evening out, establishments like Nikki Beach and Mood Beach Club offer a premium experience with quality cuisine and entertainment.
Go Clubbing at Magaluf’s Best Nightclubs
Magaluf is known for its vibrant nightlife, featuring some of Mallorca’s largest and most popular clubs. The main party area, called the Strip, is located along Punta Ballena. Clubs typically operate from 23:00 to 6:00 between April and October. Clubbers should get the Magaluf Club Pass (MCP) which grants access to most clubs except for BCM Planet Dance.
Some of the best nightclubs in Magaluf include the following:
BCM Planet Dance is Mallorca’s largest nightclub, accommodating up to 7,000 people across three floors. The iconic venue features top DJs, impressive light shows and foam parties.
Tokio Joe’s is a smaller urban club on the Strip, focusing on R&B and hip hop music. It’s popular among club reps and has a VIP area.
Car Wash is known for its themed nights, including foam and UV paint parties, with music from the 70s, 80s and 90s. It’s particularly popular with Hen and Stag parties.
Bananas, operating since the 80s, boasts one of the largest dance floors on the Strip. It features electro and house music, with performances by TV celebrities and dancers.
Boomerang, located in the middle of the Strip, plays a mix of chart hits, hip hop, R&B and house music. It often hosts celebrity guests and famous DJs in its VIP area.
Best Day Trips from Magaluf
Explore the City of Palma de Mallorca
The capital city of Palma de Mallorca is located just 15 km from Magaluf, is easily accessible by public transport, taxi, or a 20-minute drive. This vibrant city offers a wealth of cultural and historical attractions, blending medieval charm with modern sophistication. At its heart stands the impressive Gothic cathedral La Seu, a masterpiece begun in 1229 and featuring a stunning rose window and a canopy by Antoni Gaudí. Adjacent is the Royal Palace of La Almudaina, once a Moorish alcázar and now a Spanish Royal residence. For a glimpse into Palma’s Moorish past, visit the well-preserved 10th-century Arab Baths.
The city’s old town, with its narrow winding streets and charming plazas, is a treasure trove of boutique shops, art galleries and traditional restaurants. Don’t miss the chance to sample local delicacies like ensaïmada pastries or sobrassada sausage. For art enthusiasts, the Es Baluard Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art and the Miró Mallorca Foundation offer impressive collections.
Family-friendly attractions include the Palma Aquarium, home to over 700 species of marine life, including sharks, rays and sea turtles, as well as Europe’s deepest shark tank. The city’s ‘hop-on, hop-off’ bus service provides a convenient way to see these top attractions.
Take a Vintage Wooden Train from Palma de Mallorca to Sóller
For a truly unforgettable day trip from Magaluf, embark on a journey aboard the famous Tren de Sóller, a vintage wooden train that has been operating since 1912. This narrow-gauge railway adventure begins at the Palma de Mallorca Train Station, next to the Plaza de España and winds its way through the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range.
The 27.3-kilometer journey takes about an hour, passing through 13 tunnels and crossing several bridges, offering breathtaking views of the Mallorcan countryside. You’ll travel through fragrant orange and lemon groves, ancient olive trees and picturesque villages. A highlight of the trip is the ‘Cinc-Ponts’ viaduct, a feat of engineering with its five arches and the Bunyola stop, where you can admire panoramic valley views.
Upon arriving in Sóller, take time to explore this charming town then hop aboard the historic electric tram that connects Sóller to Port de Sóller. This 5-kilometer journey, operating since 1913, takes you through orange groves to the picturesque harbourwhere you can can relax on the beach, enjoy fresh seafood at one of the waterfront restaurants, or visit the the Capgros Lighthouse which overlooks the bay.
Visit Valldemossa and Deia
A highly recommended day trip from Magaluf is to the picturesque villages of Valldemossa and Deià. Located in the Serra de Tramuntana mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage site, these charming towns are easily accessible by car or organized tour, about 45 minutes to an hour’s drive from Magaluf. Start your day in Valldemossa, famous for its 14th-century Carthusian monastery, Real Cartuja de Valldemossa, where composer Frédéric Chopin and writer George Sand spent the winter of 1838-1839. Wander through its cobblestone streets lined with cafes, artisan shops and don’t miss the opportunity to try the local specialty, coca de patata (potato cake).
Then make your way to Deià, a beautiful hillside village that has long been a haven for artists and writers, including poet Robert Graves who lived here for many years. Here, you can explore its art galleries, visit the Robert Graves House and Museum, or enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the town’s excellent restaurants. Time permitting you can also take a 30-minute hike down to Cala Deià, a small pebbly beach with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming or snorkelling. The cove is also home to Ca’s Patró March, a seafood restaurant famously featured in the TV series “The Night Manager.”
Visit the Cuevas del Drach
The Cuevas del Drach are a spectacular natural wonder located near Porto Cristo on the eastern coast of Mallorca, approximately an hour’s drive from Magaluf. These stunning caves, discovered in the 19th century, form an underground wonderland spanning over 2.4 km, featuring an array of dramatic stalactites and stalagmites. The highlight is Lake Martel, one of the world’s largest underground lakes at 117 metres long and 30 metres wide.
Visitors can take a 1-hour guided tour through illuminated caverns, culminating in a mesmerizing classical music concert performed by four musicians on a boat gliding across the lake. The tour also includes a brief boat ride for guests, allowing them to experience the cave’s unique acoustics and otherworldly atmosphere. With a constant temperature of 21°C (70°F) year-round, the caves offer a cool respite from Mallorca’s summer heat.
Outdoor Activities From Magaluf
Hike in the Serra de Tramuntana
For nature enthusiasts and hikers, the nearby Serra de Tramuntana mountain range offers some of the best outdoor experiences in Mallorca. This UNESCO World Heritage site features diverse landscapes, including rugged peaks, lush valleys and picturesque villages. While the full range extends beyond a day trip from Magaluf, there are several accessible hiking routes suitable for different fitness levels. Popular trails include the route from Valldemossa to Deià and the coastal path from Banyalbufar to Port des Canonge. Hiking in the Serra de Tramuntana provides an opportunity to experience Mallorca’s natural beauty and escape the bustle of the resort areas.
Take a Boat Tour
Exploring the coastline of Mallorca by boat is one of the best things to do in Magaluf for those interested in experiencing the island’s natural beauty from a different perspective. Various boat tours are available, ranging from short trips around the bay to full-day excursions that include stops at secluded coves and opportunities for swimming and snorkelling. Some tours offer glass-bottom boats, allowing passengers to observe the marine life without getting wet. Sunset cruises are particularly popular, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean as the sun dips below the horizon.
Play Golf at Santa Ponsa Golf Club
For a proper round of golf you can book a tee time at the nearby Santa Ponsa Golf Club which is a popular destination among golf enthusiasts. This championship course has played host to the European Tour on no less than seven occasions.
Music Festivals in Magaluf
Magaluf has long had a reputation for drunken excess amongst its party-goers but the Mallorcan resort is working hard to change that image. Its aim is to attract a more diverse, higher-spending crowd that parties responsibly. The main way they are trying to get this new demographic to the island is through its music. Significant investment has gone into the resort’s infrastructure and the tourism authorities are continuously looking to bring high-profile music acts to the island. Ultimately, the aim is to rebrand Magaluf as a destination with great entertainment without the reputation for excess.
Mallorca Live Festival
A prime example of Magaluf’s renovation is the Mallorca Live Festival which attracted around 70,000 music lovers this summer. The festival takes place at the Old Aquapark of Calvià in mid-June with five stages available for performers. The lineup typically includes big international stars, Spanish acts and local bands. Previous headliners have included The Chemical Brothers, Black Eyed Peas, Quevedo and Vetusta Morla.
Es Jardí Festival
Another summer music festival in Mallorca is the Es Jardí Festival which is also staged at the old Aquapark venue. It promises a top-notch musical experience in which has previously attracted major Spanish artists such as David Bisbal, Vanesa Martin and Monica Naranjo. It runs for eight weeks from mid-June to early-August 6 with weekend performances only.
FAQs About Holidays in Magaluf
What’s the Best Way to Get to Magaluf?
Tourists arriving at Palma Airport can transfer to Magaluf in several ways:
Bus: The most economical option is the public bus. Line A11 runs from the airport to Magaluf, with a journey time of about 40 minutes. Buses depart regularly during peak season.
Taxi: Taxis are readily available outside the airport terminal. The journey to Magaluf takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. While more expensive than the bus, taxis offer convenience and door-to-door service.
Private transfer: Pre-booked private transfers can be arranged with various companies. These offer a personalised service and can be cost-effective for groups.
Car rental: For those planning to explore Mallorca, renting a car at the airport is an option. The drive to Magaluf is straightforward and takes about 20-25 minutes.
Hotel shuttle: Some hotels in Magaluf offer shuttle services from the airport, which can be booked in advance.
Should You Rent a Car in Magaluf?
Whilst there’s plenty to keep you amused for a fortnight in and around Magaluf, you’ll be richly rewarded if you decide to rent a car and head out to explore beyond the resort. Just to the west are some fabulous beaches such as Portals Vells. Further afield you can drive to the quaint beachside hamlet of Sant Elm on the island’s south-west tip overlooking the island of Dragonera for a paella lunch at one of the beachside cafés. Or drive up to Soller along the rugged south-west coast to discover the real beauty of this magnificent island.
Is Magaluf Only for Young People?
Magaluf, traditionally known for its vibrant nightlife and popularity among young partygoers, has been actively diversifying its appeal in recent years. While maintaining its reputation for lively entertainment, the resort now offers a range of family-friendly attractions, including water parks and beaches, as well as accommodations and areas catering to mature travellers seeking a more relaxed experience. The surrounding region, with cultural sites in Palma and natural beauty in the Tramuntana mountains, further broadens its appeal to a wider age range.
Local authorities have implemented measures to reshape Magaluf’s image, aiming to reduce excessive partying and attract a more diverse tourist base. This evolution is particularly noticeable during off-peak seasons when the demographic shifts towards more mature visitors. With varied accommodation options and a growing emphasis on experiences beyond the main strip, Magaluf is evolving to welcome tourists of all ages, while still preserving elements of its energetic atmosphere.
Can You Recommend Any Hotels in Magaluf?
Sol Barbados Hotel: Located on the beach, away from downtown Magaluf, this hotel is a firm favourite with families and older visitors. It is one of Magaluf’s few first class hotels which has excellent swimming pools and its notable amenities include a popular restaurant and entertainment programme.
Hotel Sol Magalluf Park: Good choice of hotel which attracts families and revellers alike. Ideal location with easy access to the beach and all facilities. Superb swimming pool, great entertainment and good quality and range of meals to satisfy every taste.
Hotel Sol Trinidad: Highly recommended hotel which attracts rave reviews from clients. Well located, first class facilities, excellent meals and a great team of holiday reps who will do all they can to ensure you enjoy your stay in Magaluf.
