Cala Ratjada is one of the most visited places and a popular tourist destination in the northeast of the island of Mallorca. The place is known for its beautiful beaches and picturesque harbor. Cala Ratjada offers a variety of leisure activities, including water sports, hiking, and a vibrant nightlife.
The official Catalan spelling is Cala Rajada, while the Spanish spelling is Cala Ratjada, which means Bay of the Rays. This is because local fishermen in the 17th century specialized in catching rays and lobsters.
Map and Location
Cala Ratjada is located in the northeast of the island of Mallorca and belongs to the municipality of Capdepera. The resort is about 80 kilometers from the capital Palma de Mallorca.
About Cala Ratjada
The old fishing village of Cala Ratjada stretches along a picturesque coastline and is known for its paradise-like sandy beaches, including Cala Agulla, Cala Gat, and Cala Mesquida, which are famous for their crystal-clear waters. Those who wish to stroll through the beautiful harbor, dine at one of the restaurants, or enjoy a cocktail in a biergarten or café with views of the harbor are in the right place.
The diverse offerings make this vacation destination especially popular among beach lovers, night owls, water sports enthusiasts, and families.
My 3 Highlights in Cala Ratjada
- The Lighthouse: If you love a romantic view, don’t miss the stunning view of the sea and coast from the lighthouse viewpoint.
- The Harbor: If you want to enjoy a cocktail with a view of the boats or stroll along the seafront, you’ll find a wide variety of restaurants and bars at the harbor.
- Villa March: On a visit to Villa March, you can admire the sculptures in the garden and on the ground floor and learn about how the family lived in that era.
When is the best time to travel?
The best time to visit Cala Ratjada is from May, when most hotels and bars open, until October, when the island starts to quiet down. Those wanting to experience the high season should plan their vacations between early June and late August.
Cala Ratjada – A paradise for both beach lovers and night owls.
Richard Hanke
Beaches in Cala Ratjada
Did you know that Cala Ratjada was the setting for the movie “Woman of Straw” with Sean Connery in 1964?
Each beach in Cala Ratjada has its own uniqueness, so there’s something for every taste. What is clear is that the beaches of Cala Ratjada are among the most beautiful on the island of Mallorca.
Regarding the beaches, it’s worth mentioning that the issue of sun loungers has been increasingly discussed in recent years. To rent a sun lounger, you have to arrive at the beach very early to get one.
Lounge chairs are often reserved days in advance and sometimes aren’t even used. Plus, you always have to reserve two chairs, even if you’re alone at the beach. So, if you want to rent a lounge chair, it’s better to get up early and come with someone.
Cala Agulla
Cala Agulla Beach is the largest and most popular white sand beach with crystal-clear waters in Cala Ratjada and is always crowded in the summer. The picturesque nature reserve with a large parking lot begins right behind it.
Unfortunately, the pine forest behind the beach is also illegally used for camping in the summer, and alcohol excesses are common on this beach during the summer months.
Cala Moltó
Cala Moltó borders the beach of Cala Agulla and is about three kilometers from Cala Ratjada. For those seeking relaxation, the rocky cove with some rock terraces for sunbathing is ideal, as there are no bars or other services at this beach.
The beach is accessed by a path that leads from the Cala Agulla parking lot to the left toward Cala Moltó. The water here is also very clear and often calmer than at Cala Agulla, making it a popular destination for kayakers and SUP enthusiasts. The beach is also popular among nudists.
Cala Gat
Cala Gat is a small bay near the harbor, beautifully nestled between rocks and pines, and very clean. The water is crystal clear, making it ideal for snorkeling. Unfortunately, it gets very crowded starting at 10 in the morning.
Those who visit the small beach bar, away from the parties, at Cala Gat cove should try the excellent burgers, they are highly recommended.
Son Moll
Son Moll is a beautiful sandy beach with a relatively steep slope near the town center and hotels. Due to its open location facing the sea and the surf, Son Moll is very popular among kitesurfers and surfers, but less suitable for young children.
On this beach, unfortunately, the Mallorca cliché is confirmed. Party tourists start celebrating from the morning, and the atmosphere is amplified by the schlager music from the beach bar. In summer, you can rent loungers and umbrellas, and there are lifeguards on site.
Those looking for a great location, away from the beach parties, with good music, food, and drink, should visit Coco Beach House beach club.
Cala Lliteras
Cala Lliteras, also known as the diver’s cove, is located near the Cala Ratjada lighthouse and is very popular among the locals. The beach is connected by a beautiful promenade with Cala Agulla.
However, anyone who thinks Cala Lliteras is a classic beach for swimming is mistaken, as its rocky bottom with many different fish makes it more of a diver’s paradise. The area for lounging is also not particularly large. Those interested in diving are in the right place with the “Mero Diving” school, where both recreational divers and beginners gather.
Those who simply want to enjoy the sea view can do so at the popular “Sa Cova” bar next door, where they can order delicious drinks and a wide variety of dishes, including vegetarian options.
Cala Mesquida
Cala Mesquida beach, located about 7 kilometers east of Cala Ratjada, is especially popular among families with young children. The fine, natural sandy beach is surrounded by the largest dune system in Mallorca. A paradise-like landscape with turquoise, shallow water.
Childcare at the hotels is excellent, so parents can also relax and enjoy their days by the pool.
It is also perfect for surfers, as the north wind brings a lot of waves, making this resort a perfect paradise for surfers.
Nightlife
When the sun sets, Cala Ratjada in Mallorca transforms into a vibrant hub of nightlife. From pizza, burgers, and classic German cuisine for dinner, to cozy tapas bars with delicious local dishes, and lively clubs and music events.
The city of Cala Ratjada offers a lively party scene with a variety of bars – such as The Nube, Chucca, Angels, Chocolate, or Coconar Bar – clubs, and restaurants. Especially along the waterfront and in the old town, party tourists find perfect entertainment and a vibrant nightlife.
If you pay attention, you might spot a celebrity in town. Goodbye Deutschland reported on the emigrants Peggy Jerofke and Steff Jerkel. Peggy Jerofke, who has already separated from her partner Steff Jerkel, runs the well-known restaurant “Tiki Beach” in the port of Cala Ratjada, while Steff is renovating a new restaurant with German cuisine and will open it soon.
Bolero
The Bolero in Cala Ratjada celebrated its 60th anniversary in 2018 and is still owned by the same family. The Bolero can be called an institution with its own charm, as it opened as a dance hall with live music for locals and had no competition. Word quickly spread that you could dance flamenco in this dance hall, so residents from the northeast of Mallorca would arrive by bus.
Nowadays, the DJs mostly play chart hits for the German tourists who dance until 6 am. The highlight for the tourists is the rooftop terrace. Anyone feeling hot can cool off under the Spanish night sky.
Keops
For many years, Keops has mainly attracted a younger crowd. The nightclub is known for its vibrant atmosphere, illuminated dance floors, and creative decorations. Unlike Bolero, where many current chart hits are played, Keops primarily prefers house and techno music.
The nightclub is located right behind the Chocolate, across from the shisha bar “The Nube.”
Physical
The Physical nightclub, with over 25 years of history, was one of the first in the area. Nowadays, Physical competes directly with Bolero, although it has lost some of its audience in recent years. Anyone who loves electro, black music, and chart hits can enjoy a great party here.
Hotels
Cala Ratjada offers tourists a wide variety of accommodations. From a hostel without breakfast right on the road to a 5-star hotel with a spa, its own garden, and both indoor and outdoor pools, everything is available in the old fishing village.
Activities and Attractions
1. Lighthouse
One of the most beautiful attractions in Cala Ratjada is the lighthouse at Punta de Capdepera. The lighthouse, also called Far de Capdepera, is located on a cliff not far from the center of Cala Ratjada and offers an impressive view of the sea and the surrounding rocky coasts from its viewpoint.
Unfortunately, the lighthouse itself cannot be visited. A visit to Far de Capdepera is a unique experience, especially in the early morning hours to enjoy a beautiful sunrise.
The lighthouse can be reached by a trail from the port or by road. It’s definitely worth taking the trail, but you can also get there by bike or car.
2. Port of Cala Ratjada
The port is a popular meeting place for both visitors and locals, and it is also one of the most important fishing ports in Mallorca.
On a stroll along the boardwalk, you can enjoy a beautiful view of the fishing boats and white yachts. The selection of restaurants and bars at the harbor is extensive, inviting you to enjoy a cappuccino with a view of the boats, dine, or end the day with a cocktail at night.
Anyone wanting more can take advantage of the coastal tours and see the coves from the water. From there, you have a magnificent view of the surroundings.
3. Villa March
Villa March is situated on a hill in the eastern part of Cala Ratjada and was acquired in 1915 by the March Severa couple. From the villa, there is a fantastic view of the bay of Cala Ratjada, which is surrounded by an impressive garden where more than 40 sculptures by well-known artists can be seen.
Guided tours of Villa March are conducted in the garden and on the ground floor and last approximately 90 minutes.
Guided tours are conducted Monday to Friday at 10:30 and on Saturdays at 11:00, or by request at 12:00.
In the summer months, cultural events and concerts occasionally take place at Villa March. The villa is an ideal place to visit for anyone who loves art, enjoys a beautiful view, and wants to get a realistic impression of the life of the March family.
4. Weekly Market
The weekly market in the city center takes place every Saturday from 9 AM to 2 PM. Here you can find fresh fruits and vegetables, local specialties, as well as crafts, clothing, shoes, bags, jewelry, or souvenirs that you can take as a lovely memento of your vacation.
Shopping Advice:
Anyone looking for more souvenirs can find a variety of shops, boutiques, and markets on the boulevard where they can find what they’re looking for.
How to get to Cala Ratjada
By car from Palma to Cala Ratjada (78.4 km, approx. 1:02 minutes)
From Palma, take the Camí Vell de Sineu/MA 3011 to the MA 15. Follow the MA 15 to the MA 4030 in Sant Llorenç des Cardassar. Continue on the MA 4030 and MA 4040 to the MA 15 in Capdepera. Take Carretera Aguila and Carrer Castellet via Via Mallorca to Cala Ratjada.
From Palma by bus to Cala Ratjada (2:02)
The easiest connection is from Hospital Son Llàtzer (40127) with bus 401 heading towards Cala Millor. At the Molí – Hospital 2 stop (33059), switch to bus 411 heading towards Cala Ratjada. After 6 stops, get off at the Magallanes stop.
The bus costs €9 from Palma and the airport to Cala Ratjada. When booking online, the bus only costs €5.40.
By taxi from Palma to Cala Ratjada
A taxi costs approximately $143 for a one-way trip.
Distances by Car
| Place | Distance |
|---|---|
| Distance to the Airport | approx. 1 hour 05 minutes by car |
| Distance to Palma de Mallorca | approx. 1 hour 02 minutes by car |
| Distance to Artà | approx. 17 minutes by car |
Attractions in the surroundings of Cala Ratjada
Capdepera Castle
The medieval castle Castell de Capdepera is located about 3 km from Cala Ratjada on a 159-meter-high mountain and offers a fantastic panoramic view of the city and the sea.
The climb can be quite exhausting depending on the weather, as there are almost 150 steps to go up. However, you can also reach the castle via a steep path. The climb is worth it, as it’s an incredible experience. Even for children, the visit is an adventure!
Caves of Artá
The Caves of Artá are not as crowded or as well-known as, for example, the “Cuevas del Drach,” which can be very pleasant for many tourists. The cave is relatively large, with a 700-meter-long passage and offers impressive stalactite formations. The lighting setup highlights the formations impressively and is also an attraction for children, as the guided tours are interesting and, depending on the guide, also entertaining.
The guided tours last about 35 minutes and are offered in several languages. The cave promises a refreshing break when it’s too hot outside, as the temperature remains between 17 and 22 degrees throughout the year with relatively high humidity. Nonetheless, it’s recommended to bring a light jacket.
At the beginning and end of the journey, you are rewarded with a unique view of the Mediterranean.
Llevant Nature Park
Llevant Nature Park stretches along the coast east of Cala Ratjada and offers untouched nature, picturesque trails, and spectacular views of the sea and mountains. The stunning scenery provides countless opportunities for hiking, exploring, and taking photos. It’s best to plan a full day for this excursion. The nature park is especially recommended for nature lovers.
History & Culture
Originally, Cala Ratjada in Mallorca was a small fishing village that made its living primarily through fishing and maritime activities. The proximity to the sea shaped the life and culture of its inhabitants.
In the late 1970s, Cala Ratjada began to establish itself as a tourist destination. With the arrival of tourism, the old fishing village became one of the three most visited tourist destinations on the island.
In recent decades, Cala Ratjada has undergone rapid development, accompanied by a modernization of infrastructure. New roads, shops, and leisure facilities have been built to meet the growing needs of visitors.
Despite modernization, Cala Ratjada has preserved its maritime tradition. The picturesque harbor with its fishing boats and yachts recalls the area’s past as a fishing village, while local festivals and events still celebrate the region’s cultural identity.
Who is Cala Ratjada suitable for?
Cala Ratjada is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the northeast coast of Mallorca and the ideal spot for night owls and sun lovers who want to soak up the sun during the day and experience the lively nightlife in the evening.
At night, the town center, with its numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants, transforms into a vibrant hub of nightlife that lasts into the early hours of the morning.
With its dreamy white sandy beaches, the port city also offers ideal conditions for sunbathing, relaxing, and surfing. Those looking to enjoy a relaxing beach vacation with the whole family will find childcare services available at the hotels.
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