Cala Bona holidays

How to reach Cala Bona

• Flight time: There are no direct flights to Cala Bona. Most visitors arrive at Palma de Mallorca Airport, which receives daily flights from London and other major UK airports; flights to Palma take approximately 2 hours 30 minutes.

• Transfer time: One way to reach Cala Bona from Palma de Mallorca Airport is by taxi, which will get you there in about an hour. Shuttle buses also run from the airport but will take a little longer, depending on stops.

• Price: If you opt for a taxi, expect to pay between €85 and €100, depending on traffic, while a shuttle bus transfer varies from €15 to €20 per person one-way. For more freedom during your stay, consider renting a car from the airport.

Weather and best time to visit Cala Bona

Cala Bona boasts a Mediterranean climate meaning weatherwise there’s no bad time to visit. Deciding on exactly when to travel will come down to your personal preferences and how much you want to spend.

• April to June temperatures are comfortable (18°C to 24°C), with plenty of sunshine and very little rain. There are fewer tourists around, making this an ideal time to visit for those who intend to take part in energetic outdoor activities but still like time on the beach.

• July and August bring long hot sunny days, with temperatures reaching 31°C. If your main focus is the beach and water sports, this is the time for you. With many events taking place, there is a lively fun atmosphere but it can get crowded and accommodation prices are higher.

• September to November offers slightly cooler temperatures, ranging from 27°C in September dropping to 20°C in November, and the tourist rush begins to ease. The sea remains warm enough for swimming until around mid-October. This is a lovely time for sightseeing without the summer rush.

• December to March remains mild compared to the UK, with temperatures hovering between 10°C and 15°C. Expect occasional rain, but it’s usually nothing too disruptive. Cala Bona is wonderfully peaceful at this time and you can pick up accommodation bargains, though some attractions may have reduced hours. Many hotels are closed from November until May.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Catalan and Spanish are the official languages, but it’s easy for tourists to communicate as English is widely understood.

• Local habits and customs: The Spanish custom of siesta is still common, so don’t be surprised if shops shut between 2 pm and 5 pm. Evening mealtimes tend to be later than in the UK, after 9 pm.

• Currency: Spain uses the Euro. ATMs are easy to find if you need to withdraw cash and most businesses accept credit cards.

• Getting around: The island’s bus service is reliable and inexpensive, with a single fare costing around €1.80 for short trips. Taxis are plentiful, and many visitors choose to hire a car to explore further afield.

• Electricity and plug types: The standard voltage used in Mallorca is 220 volts, with European-style two-pin plugs. UK travellers will need an adaptor.

• Time zone: Spain observes Central European Time, which is 1 hour ahead of GMT.

Best things to do in Cala Bona

The pretty fishing village of Cala Bona has preserved much of its authenticity and charm. The resort is fairly small, and the stunning Blue Flag beach is the main attraction, but there’s no shortage of things to keep visitors engaged right on the doorstep.

The best districts

• The harbour: Cala Bona’s harbour is the beating heart of this little town, teeming with seafood joints, bars and fishing boats. As the sun goes down over the sea, it becomes the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll.

• Cala Millor: The livelier Cala Millor almost merges with Cala Bona. For those seeking a more upbeat atmosphere, the busy promenade here is filled with shops, cafés and a vibrant nightlife scene. See our deals on holidays to Cala Millor and make the most of your time in Majorca. If you decide to stay in Cala Bona, it is a short 10-minute walk to Cala Millor.

Parks and gardens

• Nature park of Punta de n’Amer: A headland nestled between Cala Millor and Sa Coma, this nature park offers an escape from the usual tourist spots. Beautiful trails teeming with flora and fauna invite you to reconnect with nature.

Day trips in the area

• Cap de Formentor: Head north to Cap de Formentor and you’ll be rewarded with one of the island’s most renowned vantage points. The drive is an adventure in itself, with steep rocks that plunge into the sea, but the views are what will stay with you.

• Sant Salvador Monastery: It’s a 45-minute drive to this hilltop monastery near Felanitx. You can either drive to the top or, for an exhilarating experience, walk. From there, you’ll see the entire island spread out before you.

• Caves of Drach: The famed Caves of Drach are in Porto Cristo,14km south of Cala Bona. The spectacular underground lake within these caverns is adorned with stalactites and stalagmites, creating a surreal otherworldly atmosphere. A guided tour includes a magical concert performed on boats gliding across the lake.

Activities for families in Cala Bona

Cala Bona holidays offer safe beaches and attractions that are perfect for children, making it an excellent choice for families seeking a relaxing getaway.

• Beaches and playgrounds: Most of the beaches around Cala Bona are safe spaces for children, and have playgrounds right on the sand. You’ll also find beach clubs that provide sunloungers and parasols, with shallow waters that are ideal for children.

• Other activities: In neighbouring Cala Millor, there are mini-golf courses and go-kart tracks perfect for family fun. It’s an exciting way to spend the afternoon, especially for the kids.

• Aquariums: Although it’s about an hour’s drive away, it’s well worth taking children to the Palma Aquarium. Kids will be fascinated by the variety of marine life, including sharks, rays and vibrant coral displays.

• Boat trips: From Cala Bona harbour, you can hop on a glass-bottom boat tour. It’s a fun way to spot fish through the boat’s floor, and even take a swim during stops at secluded coves.

• Bike rides: Rent a bike and pedal the cycle paths around Cala Bona, which are suitable for families to enjoy a safe and scenic ride together. You can even hire a tandem or attach a trailer for younger children.

Free things to do in Cala Bona

Enjoying Cala Bona doesn’t have to cost a fortune. There are plenty of free activities to fill your time, from leisurely walks to local events.

• Free events: Throughout the summer, Cala Bona hosts various cultural events, including local music performances and open-air markets. Check with the local tourist office to find out what’s on during your stay.

• Beach days: With so many irresistible sandy beaches along this stretch of coast, it’s possible to spend all your days sunbathing, swimming and enjoying a picnic by the sea without spending anything.

• Local markets: Visit weekly markets in nearby towns such as Son Servera. You don’t need to spend a cent to soak up the vibrant atmosphere, smell the local produce and enjoy the buzz of a traditional Mallorcan market.

• Explore on foot: Wander along the coastal path that connects Cala Bona with neighbouring Cala Millor. It’s a picturesque walk that takes you past beaches, cafés and scenic spots perfect for photo opportunities.

Nature and outdoor activities in Cala Bona

• Hiking: In the nearby Llevant Natural Park you can hike through diverse landscapes, from rolling hills to sandy beaches.

• Water sports: Cala Bona has plenty of beginner-friendly water sports available. Try your hand at paddleboarding, kayaking and windsurfing. Local centres offer diving courses and equipment rentals, or for a less intensive experience, go snorkelling in the shallow coves.

• Horse riding: Stables in the area provide opportunities for both beginners and more experienced horse riders to join a guided trek along the coast or through the countryside.

Beaches in Cala Bona

Cala Bona’s beaches offer a peaceful and picturesque setting, perfect for soaking up the Mediterranean sunshine. With their golden sands, clear waters, and charming atmosphere, these beaches are ideal for families, couples, and anyone looking for a serene seaside escape.

• Cala Bona Beach: This small, family-friendly beach is known for its calm, shallow waters, making it perfect for children and less confident swimmers. The promenade lined with cafes and restaurants adds to the relaxing atmosphere.

• Cala Millor Beach: Just a short walk from Cala Bona, Cala Millor offers a livelier beach experience with a longer stretch of sand and plenty of amenities, including water sports and beach bars. It’s a great spot for both relaxation and adventure.

• Sa Marjal Beach: A more secluded option, Sa Marjal is a hidden gem for those seeking tranquillity. Its soft sands and turquoise waters provide a peaceful escape away from the crowds.

• Costa dels Pins: A short drive away, this beach combines natural beauty with a laid-back vibe. The clear waters are perfect for snorkelling, while the surrounding pine trees provide shade and a refreshing backdrop.

Cala Bona’s beaches are perfect for every type of holidaymaker, whether you’re seeking family fun, a romantic retreat, or simply a quiet spot to unwind. With their calm waters and stunning surroundings, they promise an unforgettable seaside experience during your Cala Bona holiday.

Local dishes in Cala Bona

One of the best parts of holidays to Cala Bona is the opportunity to savour the delicious, fresh flavours of Mallorca, from traditional dishes to refreshing local drinks.

Some typical dishes

• Tumbet: A Mallorcan vegetable medley of aubergines, peppers, tomatoes and potatoes, cooked slowly with olive oil.

• Pa Amb Oli: A simple yet flavourful dish consisting of fresh bread topped with tomatoes, garlic, olive oil and often a slice of local cheese or cured ham.

Tapas dishes

• Pimientos de Padrón: Small green peppers fried in olive oil and sprinkled with sea salt. Most are mild, but occasionally you’ll get a hot one.

• Sobrasada: Spreadable cured sausage that is normally served on toasted bread, with a slightly sweet, smoky flavour.

Meat dishes

• Frito Mallorquín: A hearty dish full of flavour made with diced pork or lamb, cooked with potatoes, peppers, onions and aromatic herbs.

• Lechona Asada: Roast suckling pig, slow-cooked to tender perfection, crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Caldereta de Langosta: A rich lobster stew cooked with tomatoes, onions and herbs – a treat for anyone who loves seafood.

• Grilled Sardines: Freshly caught sardines, simply grilled and served with a squeeze of lemon, are served all along the coast.

Sweets and desserts

• Ensaimada: Soft, spiral-shaped pastry dusted with powdered sugar, often filled with cream, chocolate, or even pumpkin.

• Gató de Almendra: A traditional Mallorcan almond cake – light, moist and full of nutty flavour – normally served with a scoop of almond ice cream.

Local drinks

• Hierbas Mallorquinas: A slightly sweet herbal liqueur made with local herbs, traditionally served as a digestif.

• Sangria: A classic drink made with local wine, fresh fruits and a splash of brandy. Perfect for sipping on a warm evening.