Porto Petro, Majorca: the fishing port with a Mediterranean soul

In the southeast of Mallorca, within the municipality of Santanyí, lies Porto Petro (or Portopetro), a small fishing village that has managed to preserve its essence despite tourism. Surrounded by crystal-clear coves and framed by the Mondragó Natural Park, this enclave offers visitors a perfect balance between tradition, nature and tranquillity.

Anyone strolling through its harbour can still imagine how, centuries ago, this place was a refuge for sailors, a trading post for Santanyí stone and a hideaway from pirates. Today, Porto Petro is a peaceful and authentic family holiday destination, where white fishermen’s houses stand alongside seaside restaurants and charming little hotels.

History and essence of Porto Petro

The name Porto Petro comes from ‘port of stones’, as the famous Santanyí stone, highly prized throughout Europe for its strength and beauty, was exported from here. During the Middle Ages, the port was vital to the region: ships loaded with building materials set sail from here, while others arrived with wheat and goods. Ancient chronicles recount that the port served as a refuge for dozens of galleys in times of storm. There was also a watchtower, now gone, which served to control the coast and prevent pirate attacks.

Over the centuries, Porto Petro underwent a transformation: from a commercial enclave, it became a fishing port, and from the second half of the 20th century onwards, with the tourism boom, it became a seaside village geared towards visitors. In 2013, part of its heritage was declared a Site of Cultural Interest, recognising its historical and cultural value. An interesting fact is that the Danish architect Jørn Utzon, designer of the Sydney Opera House, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, lived here for years. Today, Porto Petro retains its old-world charm: colourful boats moored in the harbour, quiet streets with traditional houses and a relaxed atmosphere very different from that of the large tourist resorts.

What to see in Porto Petro

Although it is a small town, Porto Petro offers much more than meets the eye. Its main attraction is the port, a perfect place to stroll at sunset, sit on a terrace facing the sea or simply let yourself be carried away by the calm atmosphere.

Among the places of interest are:

Caló dels Homes Morts and Caló de sa Torre: Porto Petro’s two urban coves, small, quiet and with crystal clear waters.
The Tower of Porto Petro: a defensive vestige that protected the entrance to the port from pirates and corsairs. From here you can enjoy panoramic views of the bay.
The Royal Yacht Club: today it is the social heart of the port, with moorings for pleasure boats and sea excursions.
The promenade: full of seafood restaurants and bars with terraces overlooking the Mediterranean.

Other must-see attractions are just a few minutes away:

Mondragó Natural Park: one of Mallorca’s most beautiful natural areas, with unspoilt coves, trails, pine forests and viewpoints. We’ll talk more about this later.
Cala d’Or: just 4 km away, this is the liveliest area in the south-east of Mallorca, with a marina, shops and nightlife.
Cala Figuera: a charming fishing village with traditional houses and a harbour full of boats, one of the most photographed spots on the island.

Beaches in Porto Petro and the surrounding area

One of Porto Petro’s greatest attractions is its coves with turquoise waters. Small, secluded and surrounded by pine forests, they convey a sense of calm that is difficult to find in other more touristy areas. Here are some of the most recommended:

Sa Barca Trencada: a cove with fine sand and unspoilt surroundings, very family-friendly and perfect for children.
Porto Petro Beach: small and quiet, close to the port, ideal for those seeking comfort and proximity.
Caló de sa Torre: tiny and charming, surrounded by cliffs. It is very popular with boats for anchoring.
Caló dels Homes Morts: one of the most visited due to its proximity to the hotels in the area, with crystal clear waters and a seabed perfect for snorkelling.
Cala Mondragó: within the natural park, it is one of the most beautiful beaches in Mallorca, with white sand, shallow waters and pine trees that provide shade.
S’Amarador: next to Mondragó, connected by a coastal path. Wider, unspoilt and less crowded.
Caló d’es Burgit: a hidden cove within the park, small in size and with an intimate atmosphere.
Cala Figuera: an entire village grew up around this double cove, which still retains its seafaring essence with fishing boats and houses by the water.

Exploring the Mondragó Natural Park

Just 10 minutes away from Porto Petro is one of the most valuable natural areas of Mallorca: the Natural Park of Mondragó. This protected jewel combines virgin beaches, wetlands, cliffs and trails that will make you feel in the heart of Balearic nature.

The park offers several hiking trails suitable for all ages, with routes ranging from 15 to 45 minutes. Here is a selection for you to choose from according to your desire to walk:

Route of the Mirador de ses Fonts de n’Alis: it starts from the parking lot towards the beach of the same name, surrounding a brackish pond between wild olive trees and pines. The viewpoint offers unique views of the junction of two streams and one of the last wetlands in the area.
Vuelta de sa Guàrdia d’en Garrot: a circular circuit that starts at Caló d’en Garrot, next to ses Fonts. It includes several viewpoints and the picturesque Caló des Borgit cove.
Punta de ses Gavotes: also circular, this route starts at S’Amarador beach and winds through coastal forest and cliffs. Here you will see old lime kilns and dry stone walls typical of the island.
S’Amarador Route: a walk through the wetland area of S’Amarador, ideal for discovering the rich biodiversity of the park and getting to know the stream and its pond up close.

The park is open all year round, with a visitor center operating from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm every day. Admission is free, although the S’Amarador and ses Fonts de n’Alis parking lots are fee-paying. In addition, you will find picnic areas, children’s areas and restrooms available to rest after the walk.

Activities and experiences in Porto Petro

In addition to relaxing on its beaches, Porto Petro is an ideal place to enjoy unique experiences:

Cycling and bike routes: the rural roads of the interior allow you to visit traditional villages such as S’Alqueria Blanca or Calonge, both with quiet squares and typical cafés.
Boat trips: speedboats, catamarans and glass-bottom boats depart from the port. One of the most popular trips is to the Cabrera Archipelago National Park, a unique place for snorkelling and bird watching.
Diving and snorkelling: the Petro Divers school organises PADI courses and diving trips, including for children, as well as seabed clean-up days.
Kayaking and paddle surfing: perfect for exploring the nearby coves and enjoying the coast from a different perspective.
Hiking in Mondragó: the park has marked trails through pine forests, cliffs and beaches. It is also a privileged spot for bird watching.
Horse riding: guided tours of the surrounding area, ideal for families.
Golf: a few kilometres away is the Vall d’Or golf course, one of the most complete in the area.

We offer here the possibility of chartering a boat in case you want to enjoy a more intimate and personal journey through the waters of Porto Petro. Whether cruising the glittering waters of the Mediterranean on a traditional fishing boat or simply absorbing the tranquil rhythm of harbor life, visitors are given an authentic insight into the historical legacy of the seafaring world that has forged the identity of this timeless coastal pearl.

Gastronomy in Porto Petro

Mallorcan cuisine is best enjoyed in Porto Petro, where the restaurants on the seafront promenade offer fresh fish, rice dishes and tapas with sea views.

Some recommendations:

Na Petra Gastrobar: creative cuisine and an elegant atmosphere next to the harbour.
Restaurante Norai: specialising in tapas and Mediterranean dishes on a romantic terrace overlooking the water.
Local seafood taverns: perfect for trying sobrasada, Mallorcan frito, fish stew or a simple but delicious pa amb oli.

You can’t leave without trying ensaimadas, sweet pastries or artisan almond ice cream, classics of the island’s cuisine.

Festivals and events in Porto Petro

Traditions are still alive and well in this small village. Among the most notable festivals are:

San José (19 March): patron saint of the village, with open-air dances, games and activities for all ages.
San Roque (August): another of the main festivals, with parades, music and folk dancing.
Sant Joan (23 June): celebrated with a community pa amb oli (bread and olive oil) outdoors, music and giant dances.
Fiestas de la Virgen del Mar in Cala d’Or: a spectacular maritime procession, along with cultural and gastronomic activities.
Sant Antoni (17 January, in Santanyí): bonfires, dances and traditional celebrations that attract people from all over the region.

During the summer, there is also a night market in Plaça des Caló des Moix, with crafts, clothing and local products.

Lodging in Porto Petro: tranquility by the Mediterranean Sea

If you are thinking of staying a few days in Porto Petro, you are in luck. Despite its small size, this charming seaside village offers a selection of accommodations with personality, perfect for those looking to disconnect in an authentic and relaxed environment.

Here you will not find large resorts or overcrowded hotels, but small boutique hotels, apartments overlooking the harbor and private villas surrounded by nature, ideal for families, couples or travelers who value tranquility and the local environment. Many of them are located a few steps from the promenade, allowing you to enjoy the nautical atmosphere from the same window. We leave you a selection of places well rated by travelers who have passed through Porto Petro:

Porto Petro is one of those places where the accommodation becomes an essential part of the experience: here you sleep with the sound of the sea in the background and wake up with the colors of the sunrise over the llaüts of the port.

How to get to Porto Petro

By car: Porto Petro is about 57 km from Palma and a 52-minute drive from the airport.
By bus: there are only four daily connections from Palma (line 501 to Cala d’Or). The journey takes 1 hour 40 minutes.
By taxi: from the airport it costs around £75.
Parking: there is free parking next to the Real Club Náutico and on Cristòfor Colom Street.

In addition, if you have a rental car, you can easily move around the area and discover other beaches or charming villages in a few minutes. Still don’t have a rental car? Book your car at the best price here and explore the coast of Santanyí at your own pace.

-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. 31 minutes by car (25.6 km).
Cala Blava: a peaceful, family-friendly atmosphere makes this the perfect retreat for those seeking to escape the island’s more crowded beaches. 48 minutes by car (51.7 km).
Portal Vells: coastal area with crystal clear waters, three picturesque coves and a historic cave. 1 hour and 17 minutes by car (85.9 km).
Camp de Mar: chosen by travellers seeking dream beaches, quality cuisine and peaceful surroundings. 1 hour and 13 minutes by car (90.3 km).
Cala Mesquida: a beach experience in a still wild setting, far from the hustle and bustle of more urbanised areas. 59 minutes by car (56.1 km).

-Charming Places

Cala Figuera: charming fishing port, known for its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere. 22 minutes by car (17 km).
Sa Pobla: a place with cultural heritage and a unique natural environment such as the Parc Natural de s’Albufera. 1 hour and 9 minutes by car (64.5 km).
S’Illot: a place that combines a unique archaeological past, quiet beaches and a relaxed atmosphere. 43 minutes by car (35.8 km).
Santa Margarita: a town that retains its authentic spirit, largely untouched by mass tourism. 53 minutes by car (54.4 km).
Estellencs: an idyllic coastal village nestled in Mallorca’s Sierra de Tramuntana mountains. 1 hour and 38 minutes by car (94 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. 58 minutes by car (49.7 km).
Sant Elm: once a humble fishing port, it has been transformed over the years into a peaceful tourist destination. 1 hour and 27 minutes by car (99.9 km).
Sa Ponsa: a cosmopolitan and vibrant place, full of hotels, restaurants, yacht clubs and golf courses. 1 hour and 13 minutes by car (84.8 km).
Magaluf: Mallorca’s premier resort, with turquoise waters and fine sandy beaches, modern facilities, shows, theme parks and nightlife. 1 hour 9 minutes by car (81.3 km).
Can Picafort: one of the island’s major tourist resorts, just a few decades ago it was a humble fishing village. 1 hour and 4 minutes by car (62.9 km).

Living in Porto Petro

With just 600 inhabitants, Porto Petro is a quiet town, ideal for those seeking quality of life and a leisurely pace. It has basic services (supermarkets, pharmacy, newsagent, bank), although schools and health centres are in Cala d’Or.

In terms of housing, supply is limited and prices reflect the exclusivity of the area: small flats start at €260,000, and houses or villas start at €600,000. It is an ideal destination for those who want a second home or to live by the sea, away from the hustle and bustle.

Surroundings of Porto Petro

Porto Petro is surrounded by villages and places of great interest:

Cuevas del Drach (Porto Cristo): about 25 minutes by car, one of the most visited attractions on the island.
Cala d’Or: 4 km away, with a marina, shops and nightlife.
S’Alqueria Blanca: a small village with a church and archaeological sites, famous for its pilgrimage in May.
Calonge: a typical Mallorcan inland village with peaceful squares.
Santanyí: the capital of the region, 10 km away. Its open-air market (Wednesdays and Saturdays) is one of the liveliest in Mallorca.

Porto Petro: a place with soul

Porto Petro is much more than just a picturesque harbour. It is history, tradition and nature in its purest form. A place that preserves the seafaring essence of Mallorca, far from the large tourist complexes, inviting travellers to enjoy themselves at a leisurely pace: strolling along the harbour at sunset, anchoring in a hidden cove, savouring fresh fish with sea views or losing themselves in the trails of the Mondragó Natural Park.

Small in size but big in experiences, Porto Petro is one of those places that remain etched in your memory and make you understand why Mallorca is such a special destination.

Finally, here is a list of items that may be useful to make your visit to Porto Petro as complete as possible:

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Photo Credits

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

Николай Максимович, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Xxlstier, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Xxlstier, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Thomas Tolkien from Yorkshire, UK, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Dronepicr, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Xxlstier, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Xxlstier, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons