Palma, Mallorca Cruising Guide

Top Anchorages - Mallorca

With idyllic anchorages around every corner, it would be simply impossible to list them all, but here are some of the best anchorages to seek out and explore on the island of Mallorca as recommended by the Ancasta Palma Sales Team...

Cala Mitjana near Cala Ratjada - North East Coast

Hard to get to by foot, Cala Mitjana has a small but 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 a spot of lunch or starlit dinner. Come provisioned though, as there aren’t any shops or restaurants to be found in this little piece of paradise. Spend a lazy afternoon bathing in the sun and swimming in and out of the little rock caves, or take a walk up the mountain edge for breathtaking views over the bay. 

Porto Cristo, Portopetro and Portocolom – East Coast

These three pretty little towns on the east coast of Mallorca offer a more cultural stopover. Take anchor or find a marina berth in Porto Cristo, or pick up a mooring buoy off Portopetro or Portocolom. Steeped in history, each of these towns has a story to tell and ancient relics to explore. Take a wander around quaint cobbled streets, visit the markets and soak up the more traditional Spanish atmosphere before indulging on fresh seafood cuisine.

Parc Nacional de l'Arxipelag de Cabrera, South Coast

The Cabrera Archipelago Maritime-Terrestrial National Park is a forested island home to an abundance of exotic wildlife, flora and fauna just off of the South Coast of Mallorca. Access to the island is heavily restricted, but special permits that allow you to sail close to the park and drop anchor in designated areas are available. Diving is a popular pastime here and organised hikes will 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 lovely little town on the South West corner of Mallorca. With magnificent turquoise waters and the Tramuntana mountains towering up above the bay, the setting is quite striking. You’ll also be treated to stunning views of Sa Dragonera Island, an uninhabited National Park which is also worth exploring if you have the time. Popular in the summer months, Sant Elm has two beaches, one with soft golden sand and a smaller, quieter shingle beach. In the town you’ll find lots of seaview restaurants and bars to sample and a lively atmosphere to enjoy day and night. 

Sa Foradada, North West Coast

Sa Foradada on the North West coast of Mallorca can be easily identified by a remarkable 10 metre hole worn away in the cliff face, which can be clearly seen from both the water and ashore. In addition to this extraordinary rock formation, the Sa Foradada cove is a great place to watch the sunset and if you take a hike up the hill you’ll find a wonderful restaurant where you can admire the fantastic 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.