There’s no shortage of beaches in Mallorca, but if you’re heading for Palma Nova on the southwest coast you can look forward to some of the island’s most inviting stretches of sand. Whether you’re after lively beach days filled with activities, or peaceful coves where the only soundtrack is the sea, there’s a spot here to suit every style of traveller.
This guide takes you from the main, family-friendly bays to smaller, quieter corners perfect for unwinding – all within easy reach of Palma Nova’s centre.
- Enjoy the Variety of Palma Nova
- Playa de Palma Nova
- Son Maties
- Es Carregado
- Nearby Hidden Coves
- Tips for Enjoying Palma Nova’s Beaches
- Beyond the Sand
- A Beach Destination for Every Traveller
- Where to Stay
- How to Get There
Enjoy the Variety of Palma Nova
One of Palma Nova’s biggest draws is its variety. You can start your holiday with action-packed days on Playa de Palma Nova, enjoying water sports and people-watching from the promenade, then shift to tranquil mornings at Es Carregador or a nearby cove when you’re in the mood for something quieter.
If you’re travelling with a group that has mixed interests, it’s easy to tailor each day to suit. Those looking for activity and social atmosphere can base themselves at the livelier beaches, while anyone craving downtime can slip away to one of the more peaceful spots.
For Action: Playa de Palma Nova
If there’s one beach that defines the town, it’s the main Playa de Palma Nova. This broad arc of pale sand sweeps for almost a kilometre, offering plenty of space for everyone, even in peak season.
The waters here are calm, clear, and shallow for a long way out, making it a favourite for swimmers and paddlers. The beach is backed by a promenade lined with shops and cafés, so everything you need for a full day by the sea is right on hand.
Playa de Palma Nova is also a hub for water sports. Whether you fancy trying paddleboarding, hiring a kayak, or heading out on a banana boat ride, there’s no shortage of ways to mix up your beach day with a dash of adventure.
For Socialability: Son Maties
On the western side of town, Son Maties offers a long, wide family-friendly beach with a relaxed vibe. The sand here is soft and the water is clear, but the extra width means there’s a little more breathing room even in busier months.
Son Maties is a great choice if you like your beach time to be social. Families set up camp for the day, groups of friends gather for games on the sand, and there’s usually a lively buzz along the waterfront.
It’s also a prime spot for watching the sunset. As the day winds down, the sky often turns shades of pink and gold, and the light glistens on the sea – a perfect way to round off an afternoon.
For Peace & Quiet: Es Carregador
Between the bustle of the main beach and the liveliness of Son Maties lies Es Carregador, a smaller, more sheltered stretch of sand that often feels calmer than its neighbours.
It’s fringed with a few trees offering natural shade, and its compact size gives it a cosier, more secluded atmosphere. The water here is exceptionally clear, making it an excellent choice for snorkelling close to shore.
Es Carregador is also popular with locals, particularly in the mornings, when you might see early risers enjoying a swim before the day gets going.
Nearby Hidden Coves
While Palma Nova’s main beaches are right in town, a short stroll or drive can lead you to smaller, less-visited coves that feel a world away from the main resort atmosphere.
Just along the coast you’ll find rocky inlets with tiny sand pockets where you can spread out a towel and listen to the gentle lapping of the water. These spots are perfect if you want a peaceful reading session, a quiet swim, or simply some time to soak in the natural beauty of Mallorca without the background hum of activity.
Because these coves are smaller and more rugged, there are usually fewer facilities, so come prepared with your own refreshments and shade. The reward is space, serenity, and some of the clearest water you’ll find in the area.
Tips for Enjoying Palma Nova’s Beaches
Arrive Early in Summer
In peak season, the most popular beaches can fill up quickly. Getting there in the morning means you’ll have your pick of the best spots, plus you can enjoy the cooler hours before midday.
Stay Sun-Safe
Mallorca’s sunshine is part of its appeal, but it’s strong, especially in summer. Bring shade, reapply sunscreen regularly, and take breaks during the hottest part of the day.
Bring Snorkel Gear
While the water in Palma Nova’s bays is calm, you’ll find more sea life near the rocky edges and smaller coves. A mask and snorkel can add a whole new dimension to your beach time.
Mix and Match Your Days
Even if you fall in love with one particular beach, it’s worth exploring them all. Each has its own personality, and discovering your favourite is part of the fun.
Beyond the Sand
Spending time on Palma Nova’s beaches doesn’t just mean lying in the sun. The promenades behind the main beaches make for scenic walks at any time of day. In the morning, the light is soft and the air cooler; in the evening, the sunsets can be spectacular.
From these walkways, you can also easily connect to coastal paths that lead to other parts of Mallorca’s shoreline, giving you a taste of the island’s varied coastal scenery.
A Beach Destination for Every Traveller
Palma Nova’s coastline proves that you don’t need to choose between convenience and character. The main beaches are clean, accessible, and full of life, while smaller corners offer pockets of calm when you want them.
Whether your idea of the perfect day involves water sports and a lively atmosphere, or a quiet cove with little more than the sound of the waves, Palma Nova delivers. With three main beaches and a handful of hidden gems nearby, you could easily spend your whole holiday beach-hopping without ever feeling like you’ve seen it all.
Where to Stay
Playa Ca’s Saboners: Guests rave about the ample breakfast and great poolside entertainment put on by the staff at this hotel. Located just 200 metres away from the beach, each apartment is equipped for self-catering, so you can choose to prepare your own meals or dine in the hotel’s high quality restaurant. With a children’s playground and table tennis facilities, this property embodies relaxation.
Sol Lunamar Palmanova Apartamentos: Something for the adults only, these apartments provide a fantastic base at the centre of the Palma Nova resort. Enjoy the outdoor swimming pool and access to activities including golf, water sports and cycling. The peace and tranquillity are notable without any compromise on centrality: a back gate entrance delivers you directly into the heart of the resort’s bars and restaurants, while the front looks out at the beach, a mere 50 metres away.
Reverence Mare Hotel: Again, this property is adults-only. Boasting no fewer than six pools and a beachfront location, the well-appointed rooms include a balcony, bathroom with rain shower and sea views. Upgrade to the privilege rooms and you can enjoy exclusive access to the rooftop pool with its spectacular vista. The spa features an indoor pool, whirlpool tub, hydrotherapy, massage cabins and a Turkish bath. Expect to be thoroughly spoiled here!
How to Get There
The Balearic islands are a perennial favourite for Brits, so there are multiple carriers serving the island’s airport, Palma de Mallorca (PMI). The major airlines, including Jet2, British Airways, and easyJet operate several daily direct flights from multiple UK airports. With a flight time of around 2.5 hours and a pre-booked Palma de Mallorca airport transfer, you can get from home to Palma Nova in just a few hours.
UK to PMI flight time: 2 hours, 25 mins approx.
PMI to Palma Nova Distance: 26 kilometres
Shuttle Direct airport transfer: 35 minutes approx.
Types of Transfer
When you book your flight to the island, we recommend that you also choose and reserve the transfer from PMI to Palma Nova. Shuttle Direct offers a range of options you can pre-book.
Shuttle Bus: Our dedicated Palma transfer bus service runs like clockwork from outside the Arrivals terminal. With regular departure times, conveniently located stops, and clean, modern vehicles, getting to and from your final destination is a breeze.
Taxi: We operate airport taxis from Palma Mallorca to Palma Nova so that you can avoid competing with your fellow passengers in the queues outside the terminal. With a fixed price and a prompt, reliable pickup, your holiday starts without surprises or delays.
Private Transfer: PMI to Palma Nova is a journey that can be made in style with one of Shuttle Direct’s luxury, private vehicles. You’ll be met in the terminal by one of our helpful and friendly drivers who will escort you to your car and deliver you to the door of your accommodation.
Minibus Transfer: Travelling in a larger group or with additional luggage? We have you covered. A minibus transfer from Palma Mallorca is great value for money and keeps your party all together for the trip.
Choosing the Right Transfer
There’s no doubt that it’s great to have options, but we know that sometimes it can be hard to choose which one is best for you. When it comes to airport transfers, all our services are punctual and professional. Your choice of transport depends entirely on budget considerations and the degree of customisation you want or need.
Cost: Our most budget friendly Palma Nova transfer is the shuttle bus. We’ve made sure the timetable is regular and the route serves stops that are convenient for most of the resort’s accommodation options.
Convenience: When you want to pay a little more for the convenience of a vehicle that will be ready to leave when you are and will deliver you to the doorstep of your hotel, you should choose from our private transfer options: a Shuttle Direct airport taxi, a private car, or the minibus.
About Shuttle Direct
Shuttle Direct is a trusted airport transfer service offering reliable, value-for-money travel across Europe and beyond. With options from private taxis to shared shuttle buses, we connect travellers with professional drivers for a smooth, stress-free journey. Pre-book online and enjoy punctual, comfortable transfers tailored to your schedule and destination.
