Cala d’Or Travel Guide
Where crystal-clear coves, marina vibes and sun-soaked relaxation await on Mallorca’s stunning east coast.
About Cala d’Or
Known for its stunning collection of small, sheltered coves with turquoise waters, Cala d’Or is perfect for beach lovers who want to explore intimate, picturesque swim spots. The town itself is vibrant yet laid-back, with whitewashed, Ibiza-inspired architecture and a stylish marina lined with upscale restaurants and bars. Cala d'Or also offers activities like boat trips along the coast, water sports, and easy access to the Mondragó Natural Park, a haven for nature lovers. With its blend of relaxing beach life, chic dining, and natural beauty, Cala d’Or is ideal for a tranquil, sun-soaked getaway.
Read on to discover the best beaches, bars and restaurants in Cala d’Or. For accommodations, see our favourite places to stay in Cala d’Or.
The best beaches near Cala d’Or
The beach scene in and around Cala d'Or and Mallorca’s east coast is a paradise for those seeking crystal-clear waters and hidden coves. The area is famous for its small, secluded beaches, many of which are nestled between rocky cliffs. In Cala d’Or itself, you’ll find gems like Cala Gran and Cala Esmeralda, offering soft sands and calm, shallow waters, ideal for families and relaxed sunbathing.
Further along the coast, Cala Llombards is a true hidden gem. Its dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters make it one of the most beautiful and photogenic beaches on the island. This small, sandy cove offers a peaceful retreat, perfect for those who want a more secluded experience away from the busier beaches.
Cala Romantica, also on the east coast, is another stunning spot. Larger than some of the other coves, it offers a wide, sweeping beach with fine white sand and gentle waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The relaxed atmosphere and scenic beauty here are ideal for those looking to escape the more tourist-heavy areas.
Other similar beaches along the coast include Cala Mondragó, with its natural park setting, and Cala S'Almunia, a quiet cove great for snorkeling and cliff-jumping. Together, these beaches highlight the natural, unspoiled beauty of Mallorca’s east coast, offering a mix of tranquil coves and stunning scenery.
The best beach clubs near Cala d’Or
While Cala d'Or doesn't have the big, glamorous beach clubs you might find in other parts of Mallorca, there are still some great beachfront bars and more relaxed alternatives where you can enjoy.
For those willing to venture a little further, Purobeach Illetas (about 45 minutes from Cala d’Or) is one of Mallorca’s iconic beach clubs, offering luxury beach beds, a pool, and gourmet dining right on the water.
Located in Portixol, about 50 minutes from Cala d’Or, Assaona offers a sophisticated beach club experience with a mix of Mediterranean cuisine, beachfront seating, and stylish vibes. It’s the perfect spot for a more upscale day by the sea, with sunbeds, delicious food, and cocktails, all while enjoying direct beach access and stunning views of Palma Bay.
Although Cala d'Or may not have big-name beach clubs, its relaxed beachfront bars and stunning scenery offer a wonderful alternative for a laid-back holiday vibe.
Discover the best hotels in Cala d’Or
Cala d’Or’s hotel scene offers a range of stylish and relaxing options, blending modern comforts with the charm of the Mediterranean. For a luxurious adults-only retreat, Inturotel Cala Esmeralda stands out with its sleek design, beachfront location, and tranquil pool areas, perfect for couples seeking relaxation. Another gem is the Meliá Cala d'Or Boutique Hotel, offering a more intimate experience with elegant rooms, lush gardens, and a peaceful setting close to the marina. Whether you’re looking for a chic boutique stay or a contemporary resort, Cala d’Or has the perfect mix for a memorable holiday.
Where to eat and drink in Cala d’Or
Cala d’Or’s bar and restaurant scene is a vibrant mix of relaxed beachfront dining and chic, modern spots, perfect for enjoying Mediterranean cuisine and fresh seafood. Noir Mallorca offers a stylish, contemporary vibe with creative cocktails and a menu that blends international flavors, making it a must-visit for those seeking a trendy dining experience. For something more laid-back, Yaya’s serves up delicious Mediterranean dishes with a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a casual meal by the sea or a more refined culinary experience, Cala d’Or has a range of fantastic options to satisfy every taste.
Things to do in Cala d’Or
Explore the coves
Cala d'Or is famous for its beautiful coves like Cala Gran, Cala Esmeralda, and Cala Ferrera. Spend your days swimming, snorkelling, or simply relaxing on these pristine beaches with turquoise waters.
Boat tours & sailing
Discover the stunning coastline by taking a boat tour or renting a private boat to explore hidden coves, secluded beaches, and the nearby Mondragó Natural Park. Here's our favourite boat rental companies.
Kayaking & paddleboarding
Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the calm waters along the coast, perfect for an active and scenic way to enjoy the Mediterranean Sea.
Health and wellness in Cala d’Or
Inturotel Cala Esmeralda Spa offers a modern spa with a variety of wellness treatments, including massages, facials, and a thermal circuit with a sauna, steam room, and heated indoor pool.
Meliá Cala d'Or Boutique Hotel Spa offers a full wellness center, including a sauna, Turkish bath, jacuzzi, and an array of beauty and body treatments.
For more advanced gym facilities, you may need to venture into Palma for more variety. See the best gyms in Mallorca.
How to get to Cala d’Or & the best time to visit
To get to Cala d’Or, renting a car is one of the best options, as it gives you flexibility to explore the area and nearby attractions. From Palma de Mallorca Airport, it’s about a 50-60 minute drive via the Ma-19 highway. The roads are well-maintained, and having a car makes it easier to visit hidden coves, explore the scenic coast, and enjoy nearby spots like Mondragó Natural Park or Cala Llombards.
We recommend offUgo (affiliate link with 10% discount for our readers).
The best time to visit is May to early June or September to October, when the weather is pleasantly warm, and the crowds are thinner compared to the peak summer months. During these times, you can enjoy the beaches and outdoor activities without the intense heat or overcrowding of July and August, making it an ideal period for a more relaxed and comfortable stay.
