Cala Blava, Majorca: a hidden cove next to the bay of Palma

On the south coast of Mallorca, very close to the tourist area of s’Arenal and just a few kilometres from Palma, lies a little gem of the Balearic coastline: Cala Blava, also known as Cala Mosca or Cala Mosques. Although it is located within a residential area of the same name, the cove retains a peaceful, family atmosphere that makes it a perfect retreat for those seeking to escape the island’s more crowded beaches. Golden sand, clear turquoise waters and a setting of cliffs offering spectacular views of the bay of Palma make Cala Blava a special place. Its small size, discreet atmosphere and proximity to the capital make it an ideal getaway for a relaxing day in Mallorca.

Cala Blava: the residential area and its beach

Cala Blava is not only a beach, but also a residential area belonging to the municipality of Llucmajor, which borders directly on the municipality of Palma. It is located next to the areas of Son Verí Nou and Bellavista, and has just over 300 permanent residents throughout the year, although in summer the population increases with the arrival of temporary residents and tourists.

Within the residential area, there is a small square, Plaza México, where the only bar in the area is located: Bar Cala Blava, a neighbourhood meeting place that also organises sports activities and swimming or tennis courses. The atmosphere in the residential area is very family-oriented and peaceful, far from the hustle and bustle of the large tourist areas, but close enough to Palma and El Arenal to have everything within easy reach.

Cala Blava Beach

Cala Blava Beach, also known as Cala Mosca, is a small sandy cove nestled between low rocky outcrops. It is quite small, measuring approximately 30 metres long by 20 metres wide, which contributes to its intimate and welcoming atmosphere. Access is via steps with handrails, making it convenient but not entirely accessible for people with reduced mobility. Unlike other beaches in Mallorca, there are no beach bars, parasols, sun loungers or lifeguards here, so it is advisable to bring water, food and everything you need to spend a few hours there. There is little shade, so bringing your own parasol is a good idea.

Despite its small size, Cala Blava has a special charm. The sandy seabed with some areas of rocks and posidonia gives it that characteristic intense blue colour, perfect for swimming, snorkelling or simply floating in calm waters. During the summer, the waves are practically non-existent, making it ideal for families with young children. The surroundings are unique: nearby, there are cliffs up to 25 metres high, offering natural viewpoints over Palma Bay and its urban skyline. A walk at sunset through this area provides unforgettable images of the Mallorcan capital illuminated by the setting sun.

Atmosphere and visitors

Although Cala Blava is located within a residential area and its surroundings are highly urbanised, the beach is mainly used by local residents and summer visitors. It is not usually a destination for international tourists, unlike Cala Major or Playa de Palma, which gives it a more peaceful and authentic atmosphere. In high season it can get quite busy, especially in August, but it is unlikely to reach the levels of overcrowding seen at other nearby beaches. It is precisely this semi-local character that makes many consider it one of Mallorca’s secret coves, although it is becoming increasingly popular.

Festivals and local life

One of the most interesting aspects of Cala Blava is that, despite being a small residential area, it has its own summer festivals, which are held between 11 and 30 August. During these weeks, the community organises sports tournaments — table tennis, volleyball and beach football — children’s activities, open-air cinema nights and shows. The event culminates on 30 August with the verbena, a popular festival held in Plaza México with live music, prize-giving ceremonies and activities for all ages. The night ends with gatherings on the beach and, on occasions, with the more youthful atmosphere of the classic botellón. Although it is not a major festival on the island, it does add a very local and community touch that shows the neighbourhood spirit of Cala Blava.

Where to eat near Cala Blava

Although there is no beach bar in the cove itself, there is a restaurant with a long history: Restaurante Cala Blava, located in a two-storey building with a panoramic terrace overlooking the bay. It is a family-run establishment with more than 50 years of experience, specialising in paellas, grilled meats and traditional Mallorcan cuisine, with dishes such as octopus meatballs, cuttlefish with onion and fried seafood. The restaurant also has a unique feature: on the ground floor, it houses a diving school and a saltwater swimming pool exclusively for customers, making it an attractive option if you are visiting the cove with your family. However, it is advisable to book in advance, as it is only open from May to October. If you are looking for more variety, simply head to El Arenal, just 5 km away, where you will find a wide range of restaurants, bars and terraces facing the sea.

What to do in Cala Blava and the surrounding area

The cove itself is perfect for relaxing and swimming, but its strategic location means you can combine your visit with lots of other activities. Here are a few ideas:

Boat trips: from the port of s’Arenal, boat trips depart for various coves in the south, allowing you to discover the coast from a different perspective.
Snorkelling and diving: the clear waters and sandy and rocky seabed make Cala Blava perfect for beginners to snorkelling. The restaurant’s diving school offers courses and trips for those who want to take it further.
Cliff walk: the stretch of coastline between Cap Rocat and Cap Blanc is spectacular. Coastal paths and trails allow you to explore on foot, enjoying unique panoramic views of the Mediterranean.
Views from Cabo Enderrocat: just 2 km from the residential area, this cape offers some of the most impressive views of the bay of Palma.
S’Arenal Market: this traditional market is held every Thursday, perfect for combining the beach with the local atmosphere.
Prehistoric heritage: about 20 km away is the Talayotic settlement of Capocorb Vell, one of the most important archaeological sites in Mallorca.
Family fun: just a few minutes’ drive away are Aqualand Arenal, Forestal Park adventure park and Palma Aquarium, three ideal options if you are travelling with children.

Practical tips for enjoying Cala Blava

Bring supplies: as there are no bars or shops near the beach, it is advisable to bring water and some food with you.
Parasol essential: the lack of shade means that the sun is intense in the height of summer.
Comfortable shoes: although the beach is sandy, the surroundings are rocky and access is via steps.
Better on weekdays: if you want to enjoy it with fewer people, avoid Sundays and public holidays in August.

What to see in Mallorca

During your visit to the island, here are a number of places that we have included on our map in case you want to add them to your itinerary:

-Paradise beaches and coves

Cala Romántica: this is a hidden cove with pine-covered cliffs and crystal-clear blue waters that invite you to lose yourself. 58 minutes by car (61.6 km).
Portal Vells: coastal area with crystal clear waters, three picturesque coves and a historic cave. 39 minutes by car (41.8 km).
Camp de Mar: chosen by travellers seeking dream beaches, quality cuisine and peaceful surroundings. 35 minutes by car (42.6 km).
Cala Mesquida: a beach experience in a still wild setting, far from the hustle and bustle of more urbanised areas. 1 hour and 9 minutes by car (84 km).

-Charming Places

Cala Figuera: charming fishing port, known for its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere. 44 minutes by car (46.5 km).
Sa Pobla: a place with cultural heritage and a unique natural environment such as the Parc Natural de s’Albufera. 46 minutes by car (61 km).
S’Illot: a place that combines a unique archaeological past, quiet beaches and a relaxed atmosphere. 1 hour and 2 minutes by car (70.9 km).
Porto Petro: surrounded by crystal-clear coves and framed by the Mondragó Natural Park. 49 minutes by car (51 km).
Santa Margarita: a town that retains its authentic spirit, largely untouched by mass tourism. 51 minutes by car (64.1 km).
Estellencs: an idyllic coastal village nestled in Mallorca’s Sierra de Tramuntana mountains. 1 hour by car (49.9 km).

-Tourist Attractions

Artà: here you will find a complete destination, ancient history, charming cobbled streets, unspoilt natural landscapes, wild coves and a unique cultural heritage. 1 hour and 3 minutes by car (74.8 km).
Sant Elm: once a humble fishing port, it has been transformed over the years into a peaceful tourist destination. 50 minutes by car (55.8 km).
Sa Ponsa: a cosmopolitan and vibrant place, full of hotels, restaurants, yacht clubs and golf courses. 35 minutes by car (41.2 km).
Magaluf: Mallorca’s premier resort, with turquoise waters and fine sandy beaches, modern facilities, shows, theme parks and nightlife. 31 minutes by car (37.2 km).
Can Picafort: one of the island’s major tourist resorts, just a few decades ago it was a humble fishing village. 1 hour by car (72.5 km).

How to get to Cala Blava

Getting to Cala Blava is quite easy, both by car and by public transport:

By bus: although the residential area is not perfectly connected, there are options. The TIB interurban transport service offers line 504, and the EMT in Palma connects the capital with Cala Blava via line 23, with a journey time of around 45 minutes from the centre.
By car: from Palma, take the Palma-Llucmajor motorway (Ma-19) and exit at exit 13 (Arenal – Cala Blava). From there, the Ma-6014 road leads to the residential area. Once inside, there are signs to the cove. Parking in the nearby streets is usually relatively easy.
If you are staying in Palma, we recommend here a bike rental or here a car rental so that you can move around the island as you please.

Cala Blava: a hidden cove just a stone’s throw from Palma

Although it is located in an urbanised area, Cala Blava retains that air of a small secret cove that surprises with its beauty and tranquillity. It is not a beach with great services or amenities, but that is precisely where its charm lies: a simple spot with crystal-clear waters and a family atmosphere, just a few minutes from Palma and El Arenal.

Ideal for a relaxing morning, a dip after an excursion in the area or enjoying the sunset over the bay of Palma, Cala Blava is one of those places that proves that Mallorca still has hidden treasures very close to its most touristy areas. If you decide to take a trip to this wonderful cove, we recommend a guide to items that may come in handy for your trip:

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Photo Credits

Below are the photo credits in order of appearance. Royalty-free photos will not be listed below:

Antoni Salvà, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Sergei Gussev, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Sergei Gussev, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Sergei Gussev, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons