A stylish resort on the northern tip of the island of Mallorca, Puerto Pollensa is a stunning location blessed with white beaches, gorgeous landscapes, and a friendly atmosphere. You could call it a hidden gem, except it’s trendy among holidaymakers and those looking for a laidback break.
It’s a breath of fresh air compared to the other busy resorts of the island, such as Palma Nova and Magaluf, offering a more luxurious experience rich in Spanish history and culture spanning hundreds of years.
Puerto Pollensa is also great for family-oriented holidays, avoiding the loud and brash bars that are popular among the other resorts. Even celebrities have been attracted here, including Agatha Christie, whose presence inspired the short story “Problem at Pollensa Bay.”
In this short guide to Puerto Pollensa, Spain, we’ll discuss how to properly plan a holiday to the resort, including what you should expect and what to include in your itinerary.
What to do in Puerto Pollensa
1. The Pine Walk
One of the best activities in Puerto Pollensa is taking a stroll down the Pine Walk. Whether it’s morning, noon, or nighttime, you’ll see locals and visitors walking down the stunning promenade along the coast.
On the way, you’ll find shops, restaurants, bars, supermarkets, and playgrounds for the kids. It is beautiful in the evening when the temperature is cooler, and the bay lights reflect in the calm waters.
If you decide to walk during the day and feel the heat, you can go for a dip in the sea. The trees also provide natural shade if you want to escape the sun.
2. Beaches and water activities
Since Puerto Pollensa is on the coast, it’s not without its fair share of fine sand beaches. Playa Puerto Pollensa, its most famous beach, is over a kilometer long and lapped by shallow waters, perfect for families.
Like most resorts, you can rent sun loungers and umbrellas in the high season, and there is access to facilities like toilets, lifeguards, and a medic. While the beach can be bustling during July and August, it never feels noisy or overcrowded. Plenty of other places to park for the day if you continue along the Pine Walk.
At the more extensive beaches, you’re able to partake in watersports. You can rent windsurfing equipment, pedalos, small catamarans, and water bikes depending on your preferences. The area has windsurfing and kitesurfing schools should you wish to book a lesson.
Additionally, you can do some incredible boat tours around Puerto Pollensa and Alcudia Bay, including dolphin spotting, cave excursions, snorkeling, and a trip in a glass-bottom boat.
3. Hiking and cycling
The surrounding area of Puerto Pollensa is trendy for hiking, offering a wealth of routes along the coastline that take you up to the highest lookouts. One popular hike is the journey from Puerto Pollensa to Cala San Vicente, a simple yet rewarding route that sees you end up in a well-catered resort for a bite to eat and a swim.
UNESCO-protected for its incredible landscape, the Formentor region is located North East of the Traumunta Mountains. The peninsula is a favorite cycling route, especially from Puerto Pollensa to Cap de Formentor. The 35km ride is no easy feat and includes lots of climbing, but it combines near-perfect tarmac with impressive views and a breathtaking lighthouse.
4. Visit the old town of Pollensa
Pollensa is ideally situated for day trips, providing shopping, dining, and exploring opportunities. You should visit on a Sunday when the port comes alive for the weekly market. You’ll find fresh produce and handmade goods. You’ll need a few hours to see the whole market and stop for lunch.
One of Mallorca’s most popular festivals, La Patrona, takes place in Pollensa on August 2nd every year. The fiesta lasts the whole week, but a mock battle occurs on this day between the Christians and the Moorish pirates. Afterward, there is a firework display. You must go if you’re fortunate enough to be here during this time.
Also, if you have the time – and energy – try climbing the Calvari steps to the church at the top of the hillside. There are 365 steps in total, so brace yourself and stay hydrated.
How to get to Puerto Pollensa
Getting to Puerto Pollensa is relatively easy. Since the resort town is popular among tourists, most major airline companies fly directly into Palma de Mallorca. Once you arrive at the airport, you’ll need to organize transport to your accommodation. Puerto Pollensa is approximately 50 minutes away on the opposite side of the island.
You can hire a car at the airport if you expect to travel around the island during your stay or you can prebook a transfer from Palma airport that will take you directly to Puerto Pollensa. Fortunately, there are plenty of amenities and places to dine within walking distance in Puerto Pollensa, so extensive travel is unnecessary.
Where to stay in Puerto Pollensa
When organizing your accommodation in Puerto Pollensa, it’s essential to consider what attractions and amenities matter most to you and your family. The region sets itself apart from the other resorts because it has many historic hotels. Some top places to stay include the MarSenses, the Hotel Miramar, and the Illa D’Or.
Many hotels on the Pine Walk have seafront views and pools across the promenade from the walkway, offering visitors genuinely remarkable views. As well as boutique hotels, you’ll also find a selection of private apartments and villas that dominate the holiday market, so you’re sure to find something that aligns with your preferences.
Alternatively, you can stay in the Gotmar or Llenaire regions, slightly outside the town center but much quieter. A mix of villas, apartments, and hotels provides a more residential feel while close to the beach and other amenities.
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