Playa de Palma holidays

Good to Know about Playa de Palma

How to Reach Playa de Palma

• Flight Time: Direct flights from the UK to Palma de Mallorca usually last around 2 to 2.5 hours.

• Transfer Time: Transferring from Palma de Mallorca Airport to Playa de Palma takes roughly 15 to 20 minutes, making it one of the quickest resort transfers on the island.

• Transport Options: Taxis are readily available and typically charge about £17-£22 for this short journey. Public buses also serve the route frequently, offering a more cost-effective option.

Best Time to Visit Playa de Palma

• Spring (March-May): Enjoy mild temperatures and fewer crowds. Perfect for visitors looking to explore the area comfortably.

• Summer (June-August): Peak season, with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 30°C, ideal for beach lovers and sun-seekers.

• Autumn (September-November): Similar to spring, with mild weather and reduced tourist numbers, making it a great time for a quieter holiday.

• Winter (December-February): Cooler, with average temperatures around 10°C to 15°C. Some facilities may be closed, but the resort is peaceful.

Practical Information

• Spoken Languages: Spanish and Catalan are the primary languages, but English is widely spoken due to the international tourist presence.

• Local Habits and Customs: Dining out is generally later than in the UK, with dinner times often starting from 8 PM.

• Tips: Tipping is customary, usually around 10% in restaurants.

• Security: Playa de Palma is generally safe, though it's wise to keep an eye on personal belongings, especially in crowded areas.

• Health: No specific vaccinations are required for UK travellers.

• Currency: Euro (€)

• Getting Around: The area is well served by buses and taxis. Many tourists also rent bikes to explore the long promenade.

• Electricity: The standard voltage is 230 V with European two-pin plugs.

Cheap Holidays in Playa de Palma

• Most Affordable Areas: Look for accommodations in C'an Pastilla and Sometimes, which tend to be less expensive than the central areas of Playa de Palma.

Best Areas to Stay in Playa de Palma

• For Romantic Holidays: The quieter parts of the beach, towards El Arenal, offer a more secluded atmosphere.

• For Family Holidays: Central Playa de Palma, near the aquarium and with easy access to the beach and cafes, is very convenient.

• For Party Holidays: The area closer to El Arenal is popular with younger crowds looking for nightlife and entertainment.

All Inclusive Holidays in Playa de Palma

Playa de Palma offers a range of all-inclusive options that cater to all tastes, providing a hassle-free holiday experience where meals, drinks, and often entertainment are included. For those seeking an extensive all-inclusive package across Majorca, explore all-inclusive holidays to Majorca.

Nearby Popular Holiday Locations

Discover nearby popular destinations, each offering unique holiday experiences:

• Palma: Just a short drive away, the vibrant capital city of Palma offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and modern conveniences. From the stunning Palma Cathedral to the bustling shopping streets and waterfront restaurants, Palma is perfect for a day trip or even a night out. Discover the diverse experiences with holidays to Palma.

• Palma Nova: Known for its lovely beaches and family-friendly atmosphere. Explore more by discovering Palma Nova holidays.

• Cala d'Or: Offers beautiful coves and a relaxed holiday vibe. See what's available by exploring holidays to Cala d'Or.

• Magaluf: Famous for its vibrant nightlife and lively beach scene. Check out what's on offer for Magaluf holidays.

• El Arenal: Known for its long sandy beach and active nightlife. Consider options for El Arenal holidays.

• Santanyi: Appreciated for its traditional charm and quieter setting. Find out more by discovering Santanyi holidays.

This guide provides essential information for anyone planning a holiday to Playa de Palma, ensuring you can make the most of your stay in this dynamic resort area.

The Best Beaches in Playa de Palma

Beaches with Sunbeds and Facilities

• Playa de Palma: This long, sandy beach stretches over 6 km and is well-equipped with sunbeds, umbrellas, and numerous beach bars (chiringuitos), making it perfect for a day of sunbathing and relaxation.

• Cala Major: Located a short drive from Playa de Palma, this beach offers excellent facilities including loungers, parasols, and a vibrant atmosphere.

• El Arenal: Known for its lively scene, this beach has extensive facilities and is popular with a younger crowd, offering a variety of beachside amenities and entertainment options.

Hidden Gems

• Cala Blava: Situated towards the south of Playa de Palma, this small, quiet cove offers clear waters and a more secluded setting, perfect for those looking to escape the busier main beaches.

• Cala Pi: A bit further from Playa de Palma, this beautiful cove is surrounded by cliffs and offers a picturesque and peaceful beach experience.

• Portals Vells: Known for its beautiful scenery and smaller, less crowded coves, it’s a hidden gem worth exploring for a tranquil day by the sea.

Beaches for Water Sports

• Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP): The calm waters of Playa de Palma make it ideal for paddleboarding, especially in the mornings when the sea is most tranquil.

• Kitesurfing and Windsurfing: The breezy conditions in the afternoons provide perfect opportunities for windsurfing and kitesurfing, with several rental shops along the beach offering gear and lessons.

• Jet Skiing: Available for hire at several points along Playa de Palma, jet skiing is a popular activity for thrill-seekers looking to explore the coast at speed.

Nearest Beaches

• Palma Nova: Just a 20-minute drive away, Palma Nova offers three main beaches, each known for their fine sand and clear waters, making it a family-friendly destination.

• Magaluf: Nearby Magaluf is famous for its wide beach and vibrant atmosphere, appealing particularly to those looking for a lively beach experience with plenty of water sports on offer.

These beaches around Playa de Palma cater to a wide range of preferences, whether you’re seeking the convenience of fully serviced sands, the tranquility of secluded spots, or the excitement of water sports activities.

Local Dishes in Playa de Palma

Some Typical Dishes

• Tumbet: A beloved Mallorcan vegetable dish featuring layers of fried potatoes, aubergines, and red bell peppers covered in a rich tomato sauce. Often served as a side dish but can also be enjoyed on its own.

• Paella: While not unique to the island, the seaside location means seafood paella is a must-try here, made with fresh local seafood.

• Sobrassada: A soft, spicy sausage from the Balearic Islands, made from ground pork, paprika, salt, and other spices. It’s often spread on bread or used in cooking to add depth of flavour.

Street Food

• Ensaimada: This sweet, fluffy pastry is a Mallorcan classic, perfect for breakfast or a snack, commonly dusted with powdered sugar.

• Coca Mallorquina: Similar to a pizza, this savoury pastry is topped with various combinations like cooked peppers, onions, and sometimes fish or meat.

Typical Drinks

• Horchata de Almendra: Made from almonds, this refreshing and sweet drink is a delightful alternative to the more commonly known horchata made from tiger nuts.

• Hierbas Mallorquinas: An herbal liqueur served chilled as a digestif, made from various local herbs. It comes in sweet, dry, and mixed varieties and is a favourite among locals and visitors alike.

Food Markets

• Mercado de Pere Garau: Located a short bus ride from Playa de Palma, this market offers a genuine local shopping experience with fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and spices. It's a fantastic place to sample local flavours and pick up ingredients for a picnic.

• Mercado de Santa Catalina: Situated in Palma, this vibrant market combines traditional stalls with trendy eateries, where you can enjoy everything from freshly prepared tapas to sushi.

Exploring the food and drink of Playa de Palma provides a delicious insight into Mallorcan culture, with opportunities to taste the island’s traditional cuisine and modern culinary twists. Whether you’re indulging in a hearty dish of tumbet, snacking on an ensaimada, or sipping a glass of Hierbas Mallorquinas, the flavours of Mallorca are sure to delight.

Things to Do in Playa de Palma

Explore the Scenic Beauty and Vibrant Districts

• Viewpoints and Panoramas: Enjoy stunning views of the Mediterranean from the long beachfront promenade, perfect for sunrise or sunset strolls.

• Best Districts: Discover Can Pastilla for a more relaxed vibe with plenty of cafes and shops, or head to El Arenal for vibrant nightlife and beach activities.

• Parks and Gardens: Visit Palma Aquarium's lush outdoor garden, which showcases native Mediterranean species and offers a quiet escape from the beach's hustle.

Activities for Families in Playa de Palma

• Swimming Pools: Many hotels in Playa de Palma feature kid-friendly pools, complete with slides and shallow areas.

• Playgrounds: You’ll find several well-equipped playgrounds along the beach promenade, perfect for children to enjoy.

• Aquarium & Zoos: Palma Aquarium is a must-visit, offering educational tours and marine exhibits that fascinate both kids and adults.

Free Things to Do in Playa de Palma

• Free Events/Museums: Check out local cultural festivals during the summer, many of which are free and family-friendly.

• Explore by Public Transport: Use the efficient public bus service to explore the wider area of Palma de Mallorca at a low cost.

• Free Guided Tours: Some local tour operators offer free walking tours of the historical sites around Playa de Palma and Palma city.

Wellness in Playa de Palma

• Spas & Thermal Baths: Indulge in a day of pampering at one of the many spas offering massages, thermal baths, and wellness treatments.

• Traditional Body Care: Experience treatments using local products like almond and olive oils, known for their nourishing properties.

Nature & Outdoor Activities

• Hiking: Venture out to nearby trails such as the path leading to Cap Blanc, offering breathtaking sea views.

• Outdoor Activities: Engage in a variety of watersports available along the beach, including windsurfing, kitesurfing, and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP).

Day Trips from Playa de Palma

• Towns Close to Playa de Palma: Explore top things to do in Palma with its stunning cathedral and bustling market or take a short drive to picturesque villages like Valldemossa and Deià for a taste of traditional Mallorca.

This comprehensive guide to activities in Playa de Palma ensures that visitors of all ages can enjoy a memorable and engaging holiday, filled with both relaxation and adventure.