Palma, Mallorca Cruising Guide

Top Anchorages - Mallorca

Here are some of the best anchorages to explore on the island of Mallorca, as recommended by the Ancasta Mallorca Sales Team.

Cala Mitjana near Cala Ratjada - North East Coast

Cala Mitjana has a pretty shingle beach, which can be completely deserted at times. With impressive rock formations and crystal-clear waters, it offers idyllic surroundings and ultimate seclusion for lunch or starlit dinner. There aren't any shops or restaurants in this little piece of paradise, so stock up on food and drink and spend a lazy afternoon bathing in the sun and swimming, or walk up the hill for breathtaking views over the bay.

Porto Cristo, Portopetro and Portocolom – East Coast

These three charming towns on the east coast of Mallorca provide a wonderful cultural experience. You can take anchor or find a marina berth in Porto Cristo, or pick up a mooring buoy off Portopetro or Portocolom. Rich in history, each town has its own unique story and ancient relics to discover. Stroll through picturesque cobbled streets, visit local markets and soak up the traditional Spanish atmosphere before enjoying fresh seafood dishes.

Parc Nacional de l'Arxipelag de Cabrera, South Coast

The Cabrera Archipelago Maritime-Terrestrial National Park is a forested island home to abundant exotic wildlife, flora and fauna just off the South Coast of Mallorca. Access to the island is heavily restricted, and anchoring is not allowed, but special permits can be obtained online that enable you to sail close to the island and pick up a mooring buoy. Diving is popular here, and organised hikes show you the best that the island has to offer.

Cala de sa Nostra Dona, South West Coast

Cala de sa Nostra Dona, also known as Cala Bella Dona, is a tiny little cove situated on the South West coast of Mallorca. Originally declared a nudist beach back in 1986, the cove is very quiet and a locals’ secret hideaway. The sandy beach is small, but clean and inviting and the crystal clear waters are perfect for snorkeling. Come well prepared as there are no facilities at all here, but this keeps the crowds away so you can enjoy this beautiful little nook in ultimate peace and quiet.

Sant Elm West, Coast 

Sant Elm is a beautiful little town on the Southwest corner of Mallorca. The setting is striking, with magnificent turquoise waters and the Tramuntana mountains towering above the bay. You'll also discover stunning views of Sa Dragonera Island, an uninhabited national park – worth exploring if you have the time. Popular in the summer, Sant Elm has two beaches – one with soft golden sand, and a smaller shingle beach. In the town, you'll find seaview restaurants with a lively atmosphere.

Sa Foradada, North West Coast

Sa Foradada on the North West coast of Mallorca features a remarkable 10-metre hole worn away in the cliff face, which can be seen from both the water and ashore. In addition to this extraordinary rock formation, this cove is a great place to watch the sunset. If you hike up the hill, you'll find an excellent restaurant where you can admire the views whilst enjoying delicious homemade Spanish paella.

Sa Calobra, North West Coast

Sa Calobra is a stunning little cove on the North West coast. Cut into the steep mountainous coastline at the end of the Torrent de Pareis, this deep anchorage is one of Mallorca’s most stunning natural landscapes so well worth a visit. The waters are unbelievably clear making it a great spot for swimming and snorkelling and a pretty pebble beach emerges from a narrow opening in the rock face. Although popular with tourists during the day, head here on a calm evening and you’ll have this marvelous bay to yourself for the night.

Cala Varques, East Coast

Head to Cala Varques on the east coast for complete seclusion and relaxation. This picturesque cove boasts a 90-metre white sand beach lapped by inky blue water, with a backdrop of low-lying rocky cliffs and vegetation. Rural in every sense, there aren't any facilities on shore, so come well stocked with your favourite food and drink to enjoy some time away from the hustle and bustle.

Caló des Màrmols, South East Coast

Caló des Màrmols is a serene and quiet cove located near the southern tip of the island. It features a small beach made up of sand and pebbles, surrounded by barren cliffs. Access to the cove is limited by land and there are no facilities, which makes it a peaceful spot to enjoy a day at anchor. The crystal-clear water is ideal for snorkeling, or you can simply relax and take in the beautiful scenery.