© [J.Rains]
© [J.Rains]
© [J.Rains]
© [J.Rains]
© [J.Rains]
© [J.Rains]
Portixol Beach, Palma de Mallorca
A charming shingle and sand beach on the outskirts of Palma. The beach at the little fishing village of Portixol is popular due to its proximity to Mallorca's popular capital, and has a wonderful atmosphere thanks to the coastal promenade, a cycle path and a great selection of bustling restaurants and bars that can be found at the rear of the beach.
Portixol is found just to the east of Palma's cathedral and is home to a little bay within which a little sand and shingle beach known as D'es Portitxolet Beach resides. The water is generally calm here due to the sheltered nature of the bay.
You will find many locals come here, especially on weekends throughout the year, and certainly show how it's done when it comes to putting on a family beach picnic spread. No sun loungers are available to hire, so bring extra towels or a deck chair for comfort, but there are showers to wash off the salt and sand. Note the beach does get busy in July and August, especially on the weekends, so get down there early if you are planning a trip. Free street parking is available behind the promenade, although you might have to endure a couple of laps of the one-way system to find a space if arriving from late-morning onwards.
Restaurants
Here you will find a choice of fine dining and international favourites through to authentic eateries, most of which have a casual but bustling atmosphere, from lunchtime until late into the night.
Nightlife
If you find yourself looking for somewhere to go after dinner, a Spanish style taverna or a couple of hotel bars can be found within the vicinity of this area. Those looking for a more vibrant party atmosphere, Palma and S'Arenal are both within easy reach (5-10 minutes by taxi) and offer a good selection of late night bars and nightclubs.
Hotels
Portixol is very much a residential area, however there's a good selection of hotels from trendy boutiques through to world-famous names within walking distance of the beach. Palma's city centre is just a few kilometres away where you are spoilt for choice when it comes to hotels, the old-town boutique hotels are a firm favourite for a city-break.
Setting & Location
A former fishing village and one of several suburbs of Palma that have been rejuvenated in recent years, Portixol has undergone a transformation from old, sleepy fishing village to vibrant Palma suburb, whilst maintaining its traditional charm. The old ex-fisherman's cottages that line the coast, have been updated with a modern flair, giving a pleasant backdrop to the beach along with the buzzing restaurants, bars and cafes that line the seafront. Portixol has moved from "up-and-coming" to cool in it's own right and the sea front properties, are now highly sought after.
Water Safety & Clarity
The water is clean and clear, and being relatively sheltered it's calm for swimming. Upon entry into the water, it is relatively shallow but does drop in depth once a few metres in. This doesn't deter families with young children but it is something to be aware of.
Beach Quality
The sandy beach here is relatively small, just 100m long and 20 metres deep and comprises of sand and shingle.
Watersports Nearby
Portixol beach offers no water sport activities, but the sea is calm enough in the bay to go for a little paddle board if you bring your own.
Directions
From Palma city centre, Portixol Beach can be reached by foot within 30 minutes from the cathedral, a 20 minute bus ride from Palma's main bus station or a 5 minute taxi ride.
