If there’s one thing Mallorca does exceptionally well, it’s beaches. Whether you’re after rugged coves tucked away between rocky cliffs or long stretches of soft golden sand, this island has something for every kind of beach lover. Thanks to its sun-soaked climate, turquoise waters and beautiful variety of coastline, it’s easy to see why Mallorca is a top choice for travellers seeking sea, sun and total relaxation.
While amazing beaches can be found all around the island, the south-west coast is particularly popular—and one charming resort town stands out among the rest: Santa Ponsa. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and scenic surroundings, it’s the perfect base for discovering some of the island’s most stunning beaches.
Tucked into Mallorca’s sunny south-west corner, Santa Ponsa is one of the island’s most beloved beach towns. With sweeping views of the nearby Tramuntana Mountains and easy access to the coastline, it’s no wonder that beachgoers flock here year after year.
If you’re planning a beach holiday and have your sights set on this part of the island, you’re in for a treat. Santa Ponsa isn’t just home to its own beautiful sandy stretch—it’s also surrounded by a handful of other incredible beaches that are perfect for lazy days in the sun, watersports adventures, or exploring peaceful little coves.
In this guide, I’ve rounded up five of the best beaches near Santa Ponsa, each offering its own unique charm. Whether you’re all about the buzz of a busy seafront or on the hunt for a more tranquil escape, there’s a beach here for you. And honestly, once you’ve seen one, you’ll probably want to tick them all off your list!
If you’re staying in Santa Ponsa, chances are this is the first beach you’ll check out—and for good reason. Playa Santa Ponsa is the town’s main beach, and it’s got everything you could possibly want for a classic day by the sea. It stretches wide in a graceful curve, with soft white sand underfoot and the dazzling turquoise waters of the Mediterranean lapping at the shore.
I love how the views here combine the best of both worlds: the gentle rise of Mallorca’s hills in the distance, and the buzz of the town right behind you. The promenade runs alongside the beach and is dotted with cafes, restaurants, and shops—perfect for grabbing a cold drink, a bite to eat, or even just a beach toy you forgot to pack.
What really makes Playa Santa Ponsa stand out is how family-friendly it is. The water is shallow and calm, great for paddling or a relaxed swim, and it’s ideal for kids and less confident swimmers. Even on busier days in the summer, there’s usually plenty of space to find your own little spot on the sand.
There’s convenient parking nearby (for a small fee), plus toilets, showers, and changing areas. Honestly, if you’re looking for a beach day with minimal hassle and maximum enjoyment, Playa Santa Ponsa ticks every box.
Now this one’s a real hidden gem. Playa de Mago is a small, tucked-away beach about a 16-minute drive from Santa Ponsa, close to the village of Portals Vells. You won’t stumble across this beach by accident—it's off the beaten path, which is exactly what makes it so special.
What I love about Playa de Mago is the sense of peace you get the moment you arrive. It’s only about 20 metres long and surrounded by tree-covered hills, giving it a private, untouched feel. The soft white sand and shallow waters make it perfect for a quiet swim or lounging in the sun without the usual crowds.
Getting here is easiest by car—just follow signs for Portals Vells, and then look out for Playa del Mago. Parking is free along the roads, but I’d definitely recommend arriving early during summer, as space is limited both on the beach and nearby.
There are basic facilities like public toilets and showers, but no shops or restaurants nearby—so pack snacks and supplies if you’re planning to stay a while. For anyone after a secluded slice of paradise near Santa Ponsa, this beach is an absolute must-visit.
If you enjoy a bit of adventure before hitting the beach, Playa des Castellot is a brilliant choice. It’s just a 9-minute drive north of Santa Ponsa, or around a 50-minute scenic walk if you’re up for a bit of exercise and some lovely views of southwest Mallorca along the way.
This beach is definitely on the smaller side—about 45 metres long—but that’s part of its charm. It’s nestled between rocky outcrops and fringed with greenery, which gives it a remote, tranquil feel. The water here is incredibly clear and shallow close to the shore, making it perfect for a cooling dip after the walk.
Just a heads-up: the beach itself is pebbly, so it’s best to bring something comfy to lie on. And while there aren’t any facilities directly on the beach, Santa Ponsa’s town square—with shops, toilets and places to eat—is only about 100 metres away. If you come prepared, it’s easy to settle in and enjoy a peaceful few hours disconnected from everything else.
There’s street parking nearby too, so it’s accessible even if you're driving. For a quiet, lesser-known spot that still feels like a proper beach day, Castellot is a great little escape.
Locals call it “the little beach”, and I think that nickname says it all. Just a short 3-minute drive—or a leisurely 20-minute stroll—from the heart of Santa Ponsa, Pellicer Beach is perfect for a quick and easy seaside escape.
It’s small and tucked away just north of town, close to the marina, which gives it a really nice balance. You’re close enough to all the conveniences of Santa Ponsa, but still far enough to feel like you’ve found a peaceful hideaway. The fine golden sand and shallow turquoise water make it a great spot for families or couples wanting to relax without venturing too far.
There aren’t any facilities directly on the beach, so you’ll want to bring snacks and drinks. But again, town is close enough that you can head back in easily if you need something. There’s also a little playground nearby, which is a great bonus if you’ve got kids in tow.
If you’re short on time or just fancy somewhere nearby to unwind for a few hours, Pellicer is a lovely little choice.
Last but not least, Cala Fornells is pure Balearic bliss. Tucked away on the outskirts of Peguera (only a short drive from Santa Ponsa), this beach has a bit of everything: golden sand, calm shallow waters, and stunning surroundings that make you feel like you’ve stumbled into a postcard.
What makes Cala Fornells really stand out for me is the snorkelling. The water is beautifully clear, and the rocky seabed and nearby caves make it an underwater playground for anyone curious about marine life. Just be mindful—some rocky patches lie just beneath the surface, but you can spot them easily.
It’s also worth knowing that while there are holiday homes and restaurants nearby, there are no public toilets or showers, so plan accordingly. But that’s a small trade-off for a place this picturesque. Whether you're exploring the water or just soaking up the views from the sand, Cala Fornells is one of those spots that makes you fall in love with Mallorca all over again.
If you want to experience the sandy shorelines that Mallorca is best known for during your trip to the island, this article has undoubtedly established that the beaches near Santa Ponsa are some of the best to place at the top of your list.
From quiet, secluded coves making for an intimate retreat by the sea, to popular stretches of shoreline that are ideal to laze all day beneath the Mediterranean sunshine, we hope our blog has given you enough inspiration to help choose the best beaches near Santa Ponsa to visit during your next holiday in Mallorca.
Unsure of where to stay in Mallorca for the duration of your holiday? Here at Vida Villas, we have a fantastic selection of properties in and surrounding Santa Ponsa for you to choose from.
You can contact a member of our team who will be happy to help plan your next holiday to Mallorca.
