Located on the south-west coast of Mallorca, 23 km from Palma de Mallorca Airport, Palma Nova
is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches and family-friendly atmosphere. The resort town offers a blend of relaxation and activities, catering to various interests and age groups.
There are many things to do in Palma Nova ranging from water sports and beach lounging to golfing and exploring nearby attractions. The area boasts three Blue Flag beaches, a vibrant promenade with shops and restaurants and easy access to the nightlife of neighbouring Magaluf. Visitors can also take day trips into Palma city or other parts of the island which makes Palma Nova an ideal base for exploring Mallorca.
Best 15 Things to Do in Palma Nova
Enjoy Palma Nova’s Beautiful Beaches
There are three Blue Flag beaches in Palma Nova: Playa Es Carregador, Playa de Palmanova (Na Nadala) and Son Matías. All feature fine white sand and clear, shallow waters. Playa Es Carregador, the smallest at 600m long, is situated near the Club Náutico de Palmanova marina. Playa de Palmanova and Son Matías are larger, spanning 1000m and 1200m respectively. Each beach is well-equipped with amenities including sunbed and parasol rentals. A seaside promenade connects the beaches, lined with various dining, shopping and recreational options including children’s playgrounds.
Stroll Along the Palma Nova-Magaluf Promenade
The scenic promenade connecting Palma Nova to neighbouring Magaluf is perfect for leisurely strolls, jogging, or cycling. Stretching for several kilometres along the coastline, it offers lovely views out to sea and is lined with shops, cafes and restaurants. Visitors can rent bicycles to explore the area, stop at various viewpoints for photo opportunities, or simply enjoy a relaxing walk while taking in the Mediterranean atmosphere. The promenade comes alive in the evenings, with locals and tourists alike enjoying the cooler temperatures and beautiful sunsets.
Visit Golf Fantasia
Located in the heart of Palma Nova, Golf Fantasia is a tropical-themed mini-golf complex which provides entertainment for visitors of all ages. Featuring three 18-hole courses set amidst lush gardens, waterfalls and caves, it offers a fun-filled activity for families, couples and groups of friends. The courses are beautifully illuminated after dark, making it an ideal evening activity as well.
Enjoy Family Fun at Katmandu Park
Although technically located in nearby Magaluf, Katmandu Park is just a short distance from Palma Nova and offers a unique theme park experience. The park’s centrepiece is an upside-down house filled with interactive exhibits and illusions. Visitors can enjoy a range of attractions including 4D rides, a water park and virtual reality experiences.
Take a Boat Trip
Taking a boat trip from Palma Nova’s marina is an excellent way to explore the beautiful Mallorcan coastline. Various operators offer excursions ranging from short glass-bottom boat tours to full-day sailing trips. These excursions often include stops at secluded coves for swimming and snorkelling. Sunset cruises are particularly popular, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean as the sun dips below the horizon, often accompanied by drinks and tapas.
Visit Marineland Mallorca
Located in nearby Costa d’en Blanes, Marineland Mallorca is a marine zoo and water park that makes for a great day out, especially for families with children. The park features entertaining and educational shows with dolphins, sea lions and parrots, as well as an aquarium housing a diverse range of marine life. Visitors can learn about marine conservation whist enjoying the various exhibits and performances.
Experience Palma Nova’s Nightlife
While quieter than neighbouring Magaluf, Palma Nova offers a variety of evening entertainment options to suit different tastes. The resort has a good selection of bars and restaurants, many featuring live music or karaoke. Areas like Son Matias and Avenida de las Palmeras are popular spots for nightlife, with venues ranging from traditional pubs to modern cocktail bars.
Beachfront establishments offer a more relaxed atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a drink whist watching the sunset. Palma Nova’s nightlife scene provides a more laid-back alternative to Magaluf’s bustling clubs, catering to those seeking a pleasant evening out without the intensity of a major party destination.
Day Trips from Palma Nova
Take a Day Trip to Palma de Mallorca
The island’s capital, Palma de Mallorca, is just a 20-minute drive or bus ride from Palma Nova, making it an ideal day trip destination. Visitors can explore the stunning Gothic cathedral, La Seu, wander through the historic old town with its narrow winding streets, or indulge in shopping at boutique stores and local markets. The city is also home to several museums and galleries, including the Es Baluard Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art. With its rich history, beautiful architecture and vibrant culture, Palma offers a perfect escape from the beach resort atmosphere of Palma Nova.
Visit Caves of Drach
The Caves of Drach, located near Porto Cristo, about an hour’s drive from Palma Nova, are a spectacular natural wonder and one of Mallorca’s most popular attractions. These limestone caves, formed millions of years ago, stretch for about 1.2 km and reach depths of up to 25 metres. The caves feature Lake Martel, one of the largest underground lakes in the world, spanning 170 metres in length and up to 12 metres in depth.
Visitors are treated to a breathtaking display of stalactites and stalagmites, some over 1000 years old, adorning the cave walls and ceilings. One of the highlights of a visit to the Caves of Drach is the classical music concert held on illuminated boats, creating a magical atmosphere that echoes through the caverns.
Explore Serra de Tramuntana
The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Serra de Tramuntana is easily accessible from Palma Nova, offering stunning scenery and charming villages. Visitors can take a scenic drive through the mountains, stopping at picturesque towns like Valldemossa, famous for its connection to composer Frédéric Chopin, or the artists’ village of Deià. The area is also popular for hiking, with trails suitable for various fitness levels. Whether you’re interested in nature, history, or simply enjoying spectacular views, a trip to Serra de Tramuntana provides a glimpse into Mallorca’s diverse landscapes and cultural heritage.
Outdoor Activities Near Palma Nova
Try Water Sports and Activities
Palma Nova’s beaches are a hub for water sports enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities to suit all preferences and skill levels. Visitors can enjoy jet skiing, parasailing, paddleboarding and kayaking, with equipment rentals and lessons readily available along the beachfront. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, banana boat rides and flyboarding experiences are popular options. Scuba diving enthusiasts can explore the underwater world with local dive centres offering excursions to nearby reefs and caves, while snorkelling gear is easily rented for those preferring to stay closer to the surface.
Cycle the Coastal Routes
Mallorca is renowned as a cyclist’s paradise, offering diverse routes from leisurely coastal rides to challenging mountain climbs. A scenic route from Palma Nova to Port d’Andratx stretches approximately 30 km one-way, offering beautiful coastal views and passing through picturesque villages. For those seeking a more challenging ride, the Calvia Loop, about 40 km round trip, takes cyclists through traditional Mallorcan villages on an inland route with some hills.
Numerous shops in Palma Nova offer bike rentals, ranging from basic city bikes to high-end road bikes. Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer ideal temperatures and fewer tourists, making these seasons perfect for cycling.
Play Golf
Palma Nova’s proximity to several excellent Mallorcan golf courses makes it a paradise for golf enthusiasts. The area offers courses suitable for all skill levels, set against stunning Mediterranean backdrops. The T Golf & Country Club Calvia is a notable 18-hole course set in beautiful Mediterranean landscape. It offers panoramic views of the Bay of Palma and features a clubhouse with a restaurant and pro shop. Golf Santa Ponsa is another excellent option, boasting three courses. Santa Ponsa I, the championship course, has hosted European Tour events and offers excellent practice facilities.
Real Golf de Bendinat presents a challenging 18-hole course surrounded by pine and olive trees, with spectacular views of the Bay of Palma and Bendinat Castle. When planning a golfing trip to Mallorca, it’s wise to book tee times in advance, especially during peak season. Many courses offer club rentals if you don’t want to bring your own and it’s worth checking if your hotel offers packages or discounts for local golf courses. Consider twilight rates for more affordable green fees.
Festivals and Events in Palma Nova
Palma Nova and its surrounding areas host vibrant events throughout the year, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in local culture and traditions.
Festes del Rei en Jaume
The Festes del Rei en Jaume take place in early September and are celebrated in nearby Santa Ponsa. The festival commemorates King James I’s landing in 1229, marking the beginning of the island’s reconquest from the Moors. This vibrant festival combines cultural, traditional, and entertainment events, featuring a parade of Mallorcan giants, a “nit de foc” (night of fire), and a reenactment of the battle between Moors and Christians. The diverse program offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience local history and traditions while enjoying festive activities that appeal to both residents and tourists.
San Juan Festival
The San Juan Festival, celebrated on June 23rd, marks the summer solstice and is one of the most magical nights of the year in Mallorca. Large bonfires are lit on beaches and in town squares, whist impressive fireworks displays light up the night sky. All-night beach parties with music and dancing are common and many people participate in the tradition of jumping over small fires or wading into the sea at midnight for good luck.
Other Local Festivals
Other notable events include the Mallorca Live Festival in May, a major music event featuring international and local artists held in nearby Calvià. In September, art enthusiasts can enjoy Nit de l’Art, Palma’s night of art, where galleries and museums stay open late. The festive season brings Christmas and New Year celebrations, with markets, nativity scenes and special events throughout December and January. Visitors planning to attend these festivals should check local event calendars for specific dates, as they can vary from year to year.
FAQs About Holidays in Palma Nova
What’s the Best Way to Get to Palma Nova?
Palma Nova is easily accessible from Palma Airport:
Bus: The most economical option is the public bus. Line A11 runs from the airport to Palma Nova, with a journey time of about 30 minutes.
Taxi: Taxis are readily available outside the airport terminal. The journey to Palma Nova takes around 20-25 minutes, depending on traffic.
Private transfer: Pre-booked private transfers offer a personalized service and can be cost-effective for groups.
Car rental: For those planning to explore Mallorca, renting a car at the airport is a convenient option. The drive to Palma Nova is straightforward and takes about 20 minutes.
Which is Better, Palma Nova or Magaluf?
Being on the doorstep of neighbouring Magaluf there is no real advantage or disadvantage to being in one resort rather the other. Palma Nova is a little more relaxed than Magaluf and doesn’t offer the same amount of nightlife but such is the proximity of the two that they’re practically one resort these days. There’s a good selection of theme parks serving both resorts and you’ll find some lovely beaches just west of Magaluf such as Portals Vells should you wish to escape the resort for a day.
Is Palma Nova Suitable for Families?
Yes, Palma Nova is an excellent choice for family holidays. Its sheltered beaches, family-friendly attractions like Golf Fantasia and nearby Katmandu Park and a range of accommodation catering to families make it a popular choice for those travelling with children.
When is the Best Time to Visit Palma Nova?
The peak season in Palma Nova runs from June to August, offering hot weather and a lively atmosphere. However, the months of May, September and October can be ideal for those seeking warm weather with fewer crowds. Winter months are quieter but still offer mild temperatures, perfect for those looking to escape colder climates.
Can You Recommend Any Hotels in Palma Nova?
Globales Mimosa: Located 400 metres from Palma Nova beach, the Globales Mimosa hotel offers comfortable rooms with balconies. Amenities include an outdoor pool, tennis court, restaurant, bar and entertainment for all ages.
Zafiro Palmanova: A family-friendly aparthotel with excellent facilities including multiple pools and a splash park for children.
Son Caliu Hotel Spa Oasis: This 4-star property features spacious rooms with balconies and offers direct access to a beautiful cove. Amenities include a spa with thermal pool, outdoor pool, tennis court and fitness centre.
Globales Palmanova Palace: Located in a quiet area just 300 metres from Palma Nova beach, this hotel offers spacious rooms with balcony, a large outdoor pool, bars, a restaurant and and an animation team.
