The Mallorca that doesn’t make it onto Instagram.
If you come in July or August, there are parts of Mallorca you’re better off skipping. Es Cala d’Or at 2pm. Central Palma on a Sunday. The beach bar that appears in every Reel. Nothing wrong with any of it. It’s just that the island has another Mallorca — slower, more ours. This list is for that one.
1. Cala Varques (Manacor).
You have to walk twenty minutes down a pine-shaded path. That’s why it’s always half-empty. Clear sand, transparent water, no beach bar. Bring your own food. Go early. Stay until sunset.
2. Es Caló des Moro (Santanyí).
Yes, it’s on Instagram. But at 7am there’s nobody there. Have a coffee up at the viewpoint before descending. The cove is twenty metres wide. It’s absurd. It’s perfect.
3. Sóller by bike.
Rent an electric bike in the village. Ride up to Fornalutx on the old road. Have an ensaimada and coffee in the square. Come back down to the port on the century-old tram. It will be the most Mallorca day you have.
4. Cala Pi.
More visited but still manageable. There’s a bar at the top with umbrellas that makes you slow down. If you’re eating, order the arroz brut. You won’t regret it.
5. Deià at sunset.
The village of writers. Walk up through the stone streets, buy an ice cream in the square, sit at Cala Deià until the sun goes down. Then head up to dinner at Café Sa Fonda. Stay late.
6. Es Trenc — but in May or September.
The longest beach on the island. In July it’s impossible. In the shoulder season it’s paradise. If you’re coming in those months, this is your beach day.
7. Sineu village, Wednesday.
The island’s traditional market, every Wednesday since the 14th century. Local produce, local people, unhurried conversations. Not touristy — real. Take home Mallorcan olive oil and Mahón cheese.
What to bring.
A Kaluca bikini. Mallorca, obviously. Or Cadaqués if you want that artist-on-holiday energy. And the feeling that the island has much more to offer than what scrolls through your feed.
Your favourite Mallorca spot? Tag us at @swimwearkaluca. We update the list with your tips.