Destination Guides

Santanyí and the South Coast; The Family Friendly Guide

Known for its sheltered coves and turquoise waters, the South Coast is ideal for families seeking a sun-soaked holiday. The area is perfect for cove-hopping, jumping off rocks, and whizzing around in little boats. Cala d’Or, the main resort town, stands out with its whitewashed architecture and lively atmosphere, offering plenty of dining and activities for families. Beyond, you’ll find the Caribbean-esque sands of Es Trenc, the quaint streets of Ses Salines, the bustling market town of Santanyí, and the picturesque harbours of Portopetro and Portocolom. For quieter days, family favourites like Cala Mondragó, Cala Llombards, and Cala Santanyí deliver insta-perfect beaches and calm turquoise waters.

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1. Best Beaches 2. Parent Perks 3. Family Fun 4. Eating Out 5. Practical Information

Best Beaches

This stretch of coast is packed with family-friendly coves. Cala Mondragó, in a nature reserve where you can also walk and ride, is a top choice with calm, shallow waters and soft sand. Kids will love Cala Llombards for its clear water and mini ‘cliffs’ to jump from, while Cala Santanyí is perfect for pedalo boat adventures. For wide-open sandy shores and aqua marine water, Es Trenc is hard to beat.

Parent Perks

Dreamy Beaches: Crystal-clear water, soft sand, and plenty of spots for sunset cocktails

Easy to explore: From Santanyí’s bustling market to the harbourside calm of Portocolom, and endless coves in between, this region is perfect for families who enjoy exploring new spots each day.

Markets to browse: The market town of Santanyí, along with nearby Ses Salines and Colònia de Sant Jordi, are home to just enough small design-led local boutiques — perfect for picking up something pretty and unique to take home.

Family Fun

‘Ladder-land’: Many of the little coves are equipped with metal ladders for climbing back up after the kids have launched themselves off the rocks into the sea — again and again.

Cala d’Or: A lively resort town with activities, boat trips, and evening play zones for the little ones.

Snorkelling and waterspouts: Depart from Portocolom, Cala Figuera or nearby harbours to explore hidden coves and pristine waters. Boats available with and without licence / skipper, plus water caves, kayaking adventures and more.

Artestruz Ostrich Farm: A hands-on experience where the kids can meet and feed ostriches.

Eating Out

The South Coast offers a fantastic mix of feet-in-the-sand lunch spots and year-round local favourites. Cala Petita in Cala d’Or and S’Arenal in Portocolom are perfect for laid-back seaside lunches or for a special harbourside meal, Norai in Portopetro serves fresh fish to your table on the slip. In the evening, the kids will love watching the homemade pasta machine at delicious La Pappa in Cala d’Or, or head inland for authentic local flavours and a stroll in Santanyí.

Practical Information

Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer are ideal for warm weather and beach days. Winter months are quieter, with some hotels and restaurants closed until April.

Distance from Palma Airport: Around 40 minutes to Es Trenc and up to an hour to Portopetro or Portocolom.

Transport: A car is essential if you plan to explore or visit multiple beaches.

Best For: Families who love laid-back beach days and exploring pretty towns and villages.

Not Ideal For: It’s not the best fit if your kids aren’t into the beach, sand, or you’re after water parks and big-ticket attractions. While much of the region feels peaceful and low-key, Cala d’Or has a livelier, resort-style feel that can feel a little commercial but will certainly keep the teens entertained.