Santa Ponça is a charming coastal town in the southwest of the island of Mallorca. The coastal city is renowned for its beautiful bay and the wide range of leisure activities available.
Here you will find everything a tourist could wish for: sandy beach, nightlife, shopping, and a great connection with Palma, as well as the idyllic nature around Calvià.
The small town is one of the few tourist destinations in Mallorca where not all businesses and bars close in winter. This is partly because many British and Germans live there year-round.
The most important things about Santa Ponça
- Santa Ponça is a tourist destination in Mallorca with a wide range of activities and shops open year-round.
- Its proximity to Palma and natural landscapes makes it a perfect destination for a blend of entertainment and relaxation.
- A large international community contributes to the lively atmosphere in Santa Ponça, even outside the high season.
Beautiful beaches and sports activities
The family-friendly atmosphere is present throughout the year. Thanks to the calm waves and the playground by the beach, Santa Ponça is ideal for a relaxed family vacation. This makes the place a popular destination for British and German tourists during the high season.
A small town about 18 kilometers west of Palma de Mallorca annually attracts numerous sun lovers to the southwest coast.
Just like the neighboring town of Paguera, Santa Ponça is catered to a German audience. Many Germans have a permanent or second residence here, which they visit regularly.
Tourists, mostly British or German, as well as Mallorcans, are drawn by the warm turquoise waters and fine white sand to enjoy the Mediterranean Sea.
Santa Ponça is a place where the sea, sand, and sun meet a welcoming family atmosphere.
Richard Hanke
Sports tourists will also find numerous options during their stay. Activities such as jet skiing, water skiing, or diving promise a great swimming experience. In the town center, there are sports options like soccer, roller hockey, or pétanque.
Additionally, the area is ideal for long hiking routes because of its proximity to the Tramuntana mountain range. The lighthouses along the coast are a very popular photographic subject.
Map and Location in Mallorca
Santa Ponça is located in the southwest of the idyllic island of Mallorca.
Interesting facts about the location:
- Distance to Palma: Santa Ponça is just about 18 kilometers southwest of Palma, the lively capital of Mallorca.
- Affiliation: The town is part of the municipality of Calvià, a region famous for its exclusive destinations.
- Coastal features: The coastline is lined with numerous hotels and a welcoming sandy beach.
- Center: The heart of Santa Ponça stretches along a charming seaside promenade.
Distances by Car:
| Distance to the airport | Approx. 30 minutes by car |
| Distance to Palma de Mallorca | Approx. 25 minutes by car |
| Distance to Magaluf | Approx. 15 minutes by car |
| Distance to Port Andratx | Approx. 20 minutes by car |
The airport is also accessible by bus. With line A11, you can reach Santa Ponça from the airport in about 55 minutes. The ticket price is €4.05. More information on our page about the airport bus.
The proximity to Palma can be well utilized to experience cultural attractions during the trip.
Restaurants, cafés an Bars
Santa Ponsa offers a wide range of culinary delights, from traditional Spanish cuisine to international flavors. There are restaurants for every budget. Additionally, Santa Ponsa also features several cafés for a quick break or a coffee between walks.
My personal restaurant recommendations:
- 7 Fuegos for a Romantic Dinner at the Marina: This high-end restaurant is the perfect place for a dinner for two. The kitchen offers meat dishes and seafood specialties like octopus, lobster, and fish.
Web: https://www.7fuegos.es/ - Vivo for Families with Children: Near Santa Ponça Plaza, you’ll find this family-friendly restaurant. The dishes are specifically tailored to German tourists.
Web: Facebook page of the restaurant - Mesón del Rey for Mallorcan Cuisine: This popular spot among locals is decorated in a rustic style and offers traditional Spanish dishes.
Web: Facebook page of the restaurant
Moreover, bars and pubs are perfect meeting spots to explore the local nightlife or simply enjoy a relaxed evening. Thus, in Santa Ponça, you can have a great time in an awesome atmosphere.
If you travel during peak season, I recommend booking a table in advance. That way, you’ll ensure you have a spot at the most popular restaurants.
Places of interest and activities
Santa Ponça offers a great combination of cultural attractions and leisure activities. Here are some recommendations for you:
Beaches:
- Santa Ponça Beach: Enjoy a relaxing day on the wide sandy beach with crystal-clear waters.
- Caló d’en Pellicer: A small cove near the marina. Beautifully located and generally not very crowded.
History:
- Cruz del Descubrimiento: Visit the cross commemorating the landing of King Jaume I.
- Puig de Sa Morisca Archaeological Park: Explore the archaeological site and experience the region’s history up close. Admission is free.
Hiking, Cycling, and Nature:
- Jungle Parc: Test your skills on exciting tree-top climbing courses.
- Boat Excursions: Explore beautiful coves and landscapes from the water. I recommend a boat trip to Dragon Island Sa Dragonera.
- Hiking or cycling routes in the Sierra de Tramuntana: Enjoy these beautiful mountainous landscapes.
Leisure Activities:
- Water Sports: Try kitesurfing, windsurfing, or sailing on the sparkling Mediterranean Sea.
- Golf: Take the opportunity to improve your handicap on one of the nearby golf courses.
Golf Vacation
Aside from relaxing beach vacations, Santa Ponça also offers a sporting challenge to tourists interested in golf, thanks to its three large golf courses. One of the most active courses, hosting many national and international tournaments, is Golf Santa Ponça I. Opened in 1977, it has a playing length of 6,543 m and 18 holes (par 72), with the 10th hole being one of the longest in Europe.
Both ladies and gentlemen with a handicap of 36 can enjoy an exciting game here. This golf course is especially advantageous for players with a strong drive. Slightly more advanced golfers will fully enjoy this course.
The second golf course in Santa Ponsa, Golf Santa Ponsa II, is part of the private golf club (Urbanización Golf Santa Ponsa) and is only open to club members and their guests. The 18-hole, par 72 golf course is located next to the village of Santa Ponsa. From the white tee, there are 6,053 meters to play.
Also reserved exclusively for golf club members is Santa Ponça’s third golf course, Golf Santa Ponça III. The 9-hole, par 30 course is suitable for both beginners and those looking to practice short shots and the Pitch & Putt style. With an integrated golf school, eager beginners can also be easily introduced to this exclusive sport.
At the “Santa Ponsa Golf Club,” you have two professional golf instructors available for individual or group lessons.
Events in Santa Ponça
Santa Ponça is famous for its various events held throughout the year. Here is a selection of events that I recommend to you:
- Festes del Rei en Jaume: This festival commemorates King Jaume I’s landing in Mallorca and the subsequent reconquest of the island. It is celebrated annually and includes cultural and traditional activities, including a reenactment of the battle between Moors and Christians.
- Medieval Market: Experience the medieval atmosphere with market stalls, artisans, and entertainment. This market usually takes place in September, offering you the chance to immerse yourself in history.
- Nit de Foc: A special night with spectacular fire shows and parades. The Nit de Foc is part of the annual festivities and is typically accompanied by lots of music and dancing.
Living in Santa Ponça
Santa Ponça is also a sought-after place for expatriates who want to live in Mallorca. If you’re thinking about renting a home or even buying a house here, you’re not alone.
The region offers a wide range of properties, from luxurious apartments with ocean views to cozy apartments. Additionally, as a resident, you can enjoy the mild climate often described as the best on the island.
Real Estate:
- Rental Area: From around €750 per month
- Home Sizes: Generally between 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms
- Special Features: Parking, pools, and terraces often included
Equipment and Environment:
- Proximity to the Beach and Access to Various Water Activities
- Variety of Shops and Restaurants Nearby
- Close to Golf Courses and Other Leisure Activities
If you decide to choose a home in Santa Ponça, you can be sure that comfort and quality of life are top priorities. The community facilities in the residential complexes, such as pools and green areas, encourage social life and offer a pleasant refuge.
Get ready for a vibrant yet relaxed life in Santa Ponça, characterized by the international community and the picturesque landscape of Mallorca.
Living in Santa Ponça can also have its drawbacks, as I discovered on my last visit. There, I spoke with two teenagers who have lived in Santa Ponça for about two years. They told me about their boredom, as there’s not much for young people to do in Santa Ponça, except go to the beach, unless they have money. Their decision was made: at 18, one will go to Germany and the other to Hawaii.
History and culture
Despite being a popular tourist destination, the Mallorcans keep their traditions and history alive. Tourists can discover the authentic and original side of the old fishing village, especially in early September.
Even today, the landing of King Jaume I’s powerful army is commemorated with a grand celebration (Fiesta del Rei en Jaume). During this festival, the scenes of the landing and the battle between Moors and Christians, in which the island was reconquered, are faithfully reenacted.
The locals celebrate joyfully alongside the tourists, sharing a bit of history. This event features a great concert, as well as a festive parade and a wonderful medieval market.
The year 1229 was one of the most important years in the history of Mallorca. Every child knows the heroic story of the king’s victory. The Arabs were finally defeated in the battle, and a new era began for Mallorca as an independent kingdom.
On the outskirts of the center, on a small peninsula (Sa Caleta), stands an imposing stone cross, the Cross of the Conquest, also erected in memory of King Jaume I. At the foot of the viewpoint, you can also admire a wonderful marina, an ideal spot for a sunset picnic.
Discover the Surroundings of Santa Ponça
Santa Ponça offers a variety of vacation options. Nearby is the vibrant Magaluf, known for its lively nightlife and extensive entertainment offerings, especially for English-speaking tourists. Here you can stay in one of the many hotels, from budget apartments to all-inclusive resorts.
Along the coast, the glamorous Puerto Adriano attracts with exclusive boutiques and first-class restaurants, ideal for an unforgettable evening dining with sea views. Nearby, there are luxurious resorts and exclusive villas available for your stay.
Palma is a short ride away on bus 103 and delights with its urban charm, a contrast to the quieter atmosphere of Santa Ponça.
North of Santa Ponça, villages like Andratx or Valldemossa offer a quieter, more authentic Mallorcan experience. Small cafés and traditional shops await your visit.
On the boat trips from Sa Caleta, you can enjoy the stunning coastlines from a new perspective, while the Punta del Mar hotel, with its friendly staff, offers the perfect retreat.
In every way, the surroundings of Santa Ponça offer a rich variety and promise both relaxation and adventure for all tastes.
Conclusion
Santa Ponça is located in the south of the island and offers a beautiful bay. Here, you can find everything a tourist could wish for: beach, nightlife, shopping, and a good connection to Palma and the idyllic nature around Calvià.
Santa Ponça is one of the few tourist destinations in Mallorca where not all businesses and bars close in winter. This is partly because many British and Germans live there year-round.
Frequently asked questions
What attractions are there in Santa Ponça?
Santa Ponsa is a tourist destination full of attractions. Highlights include the large sandy beach, ideal for relaxing, as well as historical sites like the Cruz del Descubrimiento, which commemorates King James I’s landing in 1229. Natural parks and golf courses are also worth visiting.
What shopping options does Santa Ponça offer?
In the numerous boutiques, souvenir shops, and weekly markets of Santa Ponça, you’ll find a variety of shopping options. Whether it’s local crafts or international brands, there’s something for every taste.
What is the nightlife like in Santa Ponça?
The nightlife in Santa Ponsa is lively and offers something for all ages. There are a variety of bars, pubs, and clubs open until the early hours of the morning. Live music and DJ sets create a festive atmosphere.
Does Santa Ponça have an old town with historical charm?
Santa Ponça does not have an old town with centuries-old architecture. However, Palma, with its historic old town, is just about 18 km from Santa Ponça.
Which celebrities live in Santa Ponça?
It is known that some celebrities choose Santa Ponça for vacationing or living. We respect their privacy, so names are not published.
Does Santa Ponça have a promenade for strolling?
Yes, Santa Ponsa has a picturesque promenade along the beach. It’s perfect for a walk at any time of the day. The promenade is lined with cafés and restaurants that invite you to relax and enjoy the beautiful view.
Places near Santa Ponsa
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