The East Coast delivers wide, sandy beaches by the bucketload, many backed by large, purpose-built resort hotels that give way to gentle hills and charming inland towns.
Porto Cristo, a former fishing village, is worth a stop for its lively harbour, excellent fish restaurants, and easy access to family favourites like the famous caves and Dinosaurland. Heading north, Sa Coma, Cala Millor, and Cala Ratjada are bustling seasonal resort towns, especially popular with German visitors, each with their own sweeping, family-friendly beach.
Venture further up the coast and you’ll find wilder, more remote stretches of sand — perfect for off-season hikes or escaping the crowds in summer.
Inland, the pretty towns of Capdepera, with its impressive castle and medieval fiesta, and Artà, known for its charming streets and weekly market, offer a more traditional Mallorcan vibe. The surrounding countryside is glorious, and dotted with spacious agroturismes and villas — ideal for families who want peace and views, but still be within a short drive of the coast.
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The beaches here are some of the best on the island, with wide stretches of soft sand and clear water that tend to be less crowded than Mallorca’s smaller coves. Cala Millor Beach is a long sandy stretch with shallow waters, great for kids to paddle or play. For a smaller, quieter spot, Cala Anguila, just outside Porto Cristo, is a stunning cove with crystal-clear water, perfect for younger kids to splash around. Over in Cala Ratjada, Cala Agulla Beach offers a mix of soft sand, turquoise water, and plenty of space for families.
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Relaxed Baby Friendly Beaches: With wide sandy shores, flat promenades and fewer crowds than the south, it’s a stress-free option for families.
Artà Market: Held every Tuesday, Arta’s weekly market is always worth a wander. It’s lively without being chaotic, with everything from local cheese and ceramics to beach baskets and fresh fruit if you’re stocking the villa. A nice excuse for a morning stroll and an easy win if the kids are into picking out snacks or souvenirs.
Santuari de Sant Salvador: Climb the 180 shady steps to this hilltop historic sanctuary for panoramic views of town and surrounding countryside. Promise the kids an ice cream at the top! (the cafe is open 10-18h in Summer)
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Coasteering, climbing and caving: The northeast coast is perfect for a bit of adventure, with dramatic coastal landscapes and rocky terrain made for exploring. There are plenty of experienced local operators offering family-friendly day trips for kids (and grown-ups) keen to scramble, swim or climb their way along the coast.
Flat Walks for Easy Exploring: The region’s flat promenades and gentle trails, especially in Cala Millor and Sa Coma, make it easy for families with younger kids or pushchairs to enjoy scenic strolls or enjoy cycle rides along designated bicycle paths.
Caves of Drach, Hams & Arta: Both caves are incredible to explore, with underground lakes and fascinating formations.
Dinosaurland: Perfect for little adventurers, with life-sized dinosaurs, a mini zoo, and a playground.
Capdepera Castle: A visit to this well-preserved fortress is a fun way to step back in time and enjoy stunning views over the coast.
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The seaside resorts from Sa Coma to Cala Ratjada largely cater to seasonal visitors and are undeniably touristy. If you’re after something a little more authentic, Cala Bona offers a quieter, more charming harbour setting that’s popular with locals — ideal for dinner while the kids play nearby.
For fresh seafood and a laid-back family lunch or dinner, head south to Porto Cristo. And if you’ve got a car, it’s well worth heading inland to Artà, Capdepera, or Son Servera, where you’ll find excellent Mallorcan food in more local settings — often open year-round, not just when the sun’s out.
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The North East Coast offers a variety of family-friendly accommodations, from large resort hotels to charming countryside retreats. Cala Millor and Sa Coma are perfect for families who want lively resorts close to the beach, while inland towns like Artà and Capdepera provide a more peaceful, traditional vibe.
Ca Na Nina (Artà): A beautiful agroturismo with spacious apartments, a large pool, and stunning rural views, perfect for families looking to combine relaxation with an authentic Mallorcan experience.
Son Jaumell Boutique Hotel (Capdepera): A stylish rural retreat offering family suites, a pool, and easy access to nearby beaches and towns.
If you’re looking for more space and flexibility, there are also plenty of villas in the area, many with private pools and easy access to beaches and inland towns.
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When to Visit: If you’re staying by the beach and want to eat, drink and play beyond your hotel, aim for April to October — most resort restaurants and attractions shut down over winter. That said, we love this stretch of seaside in the off-season for quiet cycle rides and early spring hikes. The inland towns are great to visit all year round, with spectacular local fiestas in January and again over the Easter period into May.
Distance from Palma Airport: Around 60–80km (about 1–1.5 hours by car, depending on your destination).
Transport: Buses run between Palma, Palma Airport and the resort towns but in land, public transport is limited. A car is recommended if you want to explore beyond your the beach.
Best for: Families after easy beach days and resort-style holidays with buffet dining and everything close at hand. The flat promenades and direct beach access make it especially convenient for parents with pushchairs or little legs in tow.
Not ideal for: Those after boutique seaside stays, eclectic international dining, or design-led experiences (unless you head inland). If you are staying inland, public transport is limited, so a car is recommended.
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