Illetes & Portals Nous

Illetes (also Illetas) is Mallorca's most exclusive beach resort — located just 8 kilometers west of Palma and yet a different world. The small peninsula between two bays offers some of the most beautiful beaches near the city: turquoise, shallow water, white sand, plus a view of the Bay of Palma and the cathedral in the distance.

The Platja d'Illetes is the main beach: about 200 meters of fine sand, gently sloping, ideal for children. Next to it is the Platja de Ses Caletes, a bit rockier, but with even clearer water for snorkeling. Both beaches have been repeatedly awarded as Spain's best beaches.

Here is also the highest concentration of beach clubs on Mallorca. The Balneario Illetas offers sunbeds from about 25 € (weekends up to 35 €), plus cocktails, sushi, and DJ sets in the afternoon. The Virtual Club and the Illetas Beach Club are similarly positioned. Luxury has its price — but once you've lounged on a Bali bed with an Aperol Spritz (12 €) and watched the sunset over the Bay of Palma, you'll understand why people pay.

Portals Nous, right next to Illetes, is even more exclusive. The Puerto Portals is Mallorca's most glamorous marina — this is where the superyachts dock (regularly 50–80 meters in summer), and the restaurants and boutiques along the marina cater to a wealthy clientele. Flaniterra, Ritzi, and Cappuccino Grand Café are the places to see and be seen.

The beach of Portals Nous (Platja de Portals Nous) lies below the town: a small, sheltered sandy beach (about 100 m) with some good restaurants above. Quieter and more authentic than Puerto Portals — locals also come here to swim.

Historically interesting: Between Illetes and Portals once lay the Marineland, one of the oldest marine parks in Europe (since 1970). After years of controversy over animal welfare and economic problems, Marineland was finally closed in 2020. The site stands empty and awaits repurposing.

If you want to save: The public beaches in Illetes are free — you don't have to go to a beach club. Bring your own mat, your own umbrella, your own drinks, and enjoy the same turquoise water as the beach club guest next door. Bus line 3 from Palma (every 15 min., about 20 min. ride, 2 €).