Palma Nova is one of Mallorca's most popular family resorts, occupying a prime stretch of the island's south-west coast with three wide, sandy beaches and a long seafront promenade. Originally developed in the 1960s, it has matured into a well-maintained, comfortable resort that appeals particularly to families and couples who want good beaches, reliable restaurants and easy access to the lively neighbouring resort of Magaluf and the historic capital Palma. For Irish holidaymakers, Palma Nova offers a reassuring combination of quality and convenience.
Location and Getting There
Palma Nova is on Mallorca's south-west coast, approximately twenty-five minutes from Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI). Flights from Dublin to Palma take around two and a half hours, with year-round services available. The resort sits between Magaluf to the west and Portals Nous to the east, and the island capital Palma is a short bus or taxi ride away. This central location makes Palma Nova an excellent base for exploring the island.
Beaches
Palma Nova has three excellent sandy beaches — Playa de Palma Nova, Playa de Son Maties and Playa de Carregador — connected by a seafront promenade. The sand is fine and golden, the water is clean and calm, and all three hold Blue Flag status. Facilities are excellent, with sunbed and parasol hire, lifeguards in season, and beach bars close at hand. The gentle shelving makes these beaches particularly suitable for families with young children.
Things to Do
The seafront promenade is perfect for evening strolls and connects Palma Nova to Magaluf, where you will find Western Water Park and the Pirates Adventure dinner show. The resort itself has mini-golf, go-karting and boat trips. Palma, the island capital, is well worth a day trip for its magnificent Gothic cathedral, the atmospheric old town and excellent shopping. For nature lovers, the Serra de Tramuntana mountains offer spectacular hiking, and the Caves of Drach on the east coast are a popular excursion. Boat trips along the coast are available from the beach.
Dining and Nightlife
Palma Nova has a strong restaurant scene with a wide range of cuisines along the main strip and seafront. Spanish tapas, Italian, Chinese, Indian and traditional British fare are all well represented, alongside several quality seafood restaurants. The resort has a comfortable evening atmosphere with bars and live entertainment, though the vibe is more relaxed than neighbouring Magaluf. Those seeking livelier nightlife can walk along the promenade to Magaluf's bar strip in around fifteen minutes.
Best Time to Visit
Mallorca enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters. Peak season runs from June to September, with temperatures regularly exceeding thirty degrees. May and October are excellent shoulder months offering warm weather, lower prices and fewer crowds. The sea is warm enough for comfortable swimming from May through October.
Practical Information for Irish Visitors
Mallorca is part of Spain and the EU, so the currency is the euro and Irish citizens need only a valid passport or identity card. Spain is one hour ahead of Ireland. Spanish is the main language alongside Catalan, but English is very widely spoken in resort areas. Driving is on the right. Healthcare is covered by the EHIC for Irish citizens, though travel insurance is always recommended.
Why Book with Sunholidays.ie
Sunholidays.ie is Irish-owned and fully licensed by the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA Licence No. T0601), so your holiday is fully protected. Secure your Palma Nova break with a deposit of just twenty euro per person and spread the cost with monthly payments. The price match guarantee ensures the best available deal.
Palma Nova is a popular and well-established resort on the southwest coast of Majorca, ideal for Irish families and couples. It boasts three expansive, gently-shelving sandy beaches – Playa de Son Maties, Playa Palma Nova, and Es Carregador – all connected by a wide, palm-lined promenade perfect for strolling. The resort offers a great selection of hotels, restaurants, and bars with a more relaxed vibe than its lively neighbour Magaluf, though it's within easy reach if you fancy more action. With mini-golf, watersports, and family entertainment, Palma Nova provides a classic, enjoyable Balearic holiday.