You won’t find many guides to the best beaches in Mallorca for families that don’t feature Playa de Alcudia, a Blue Flag–listed stretch in northern Mallorca that feels a world away from the blaring bars of the southwest. Kids will love the playground and wealth of water sports options—renting a jet ski is a particularly fun way to explore the coast—while ample facilities make for a hassle-free trip with younger travelers.

Part of the Salobrar de Campos natural reserve, Es Trenc Beach looks more like a beach you’d expect to see in the Bahamas rather than the Balearics, making it one of the must-visit beaches in Mallorca. The salt-rich waters aren’t only ideal for humans to bathe in; they also attract powder-pink flamingos and biodiverse birdlife, making them a top pick for nature lovers and those seeking unspoiled beauty. Plus, the calm and vivid waters are the ideal place to stand-up paddleboard.

Even though it's just a stone’s throw from Palma de Mallorca, the culture-rich island capital, Playa de Palma still boasts Mallorca’s signature golden sand and vivid water—it’s the perfect place to base yourself for a mix of city life and seaside splendor. Combine snacking and sipping with sailing on a private cruise from Palma, or tag some sightseeing onto your beach break with an electric bike tour that covers top Palma sights, such as the gorgeously Gothic Palma Cathedral (La Seu).

One of the best Mallorca beaches for snorkeling, Platja des Coll Baix's clear, turquoise waters only accessible by boat, so it’s also a prime Mallorca beach for relaxation. The bay’s crescent shape creates calm waters with good visibility, so you’ll have a good chance of spotting colorful fish, dolphins, octopuses, and even hammerhead sharks in spring and summer. Combine Platja des Coll Baix with other top snorkel spots on a boat trip, or opt for some extra adventure by arriving on a jet ski.

While it might not be for everyone, Playa de Magaluf is the epicenter of Mallorca’s renowned nightlife scene. With its pulsing clubs and neon-lit bars, it's easy to see how this island is in the same archipelago as Ibiza. Plus, this is a prime spot for water sports, such as banana boats, thanks to easy access to the Mediterranean Sea. A catamaran cruise is an excellent way to get the party started before you return to the island to fiesta Spanish-style.

Playa de Puerto de Sóller is hands-down one of the best Mallorca beaches for adventure seekers, as it's a lovely place to recharge between hikes in the Serra de Tramuntana—a mountain range whose unique landscapes have earned it UNESCO World Heritage status. Part of the pretty town of Sóller, this beach has fine sand and a mountain backdrop that is sure to get you in the mood for exploring the surrounding valley or jumping from the craggy cliffs.

Thanks to its rural location, Cove Badia Blava is one of the quieter beaches in Mallorca. While there’s no sand here, you can access the rocky cove via a sturdy wooden staircase leading from the clifftop. And while the journey is slightly steep, it’s well worth it for the crystal-clear waters that await—water shoes are recommended to clamber in and out, while goggles will help you admire the underwater flora.

With its lovely horseshoe-shaped bay and forest-clad hills, Camp de Mar provides a prime backdrop for enjoying Mallorca’s flavor-packed cuisine. This beach resort is famous for its food, which showcases Mediterranean cuisine and Spanish tapas at restaurants overlooking the ocean. Perhaps most famous is Restaurante Illeta, perched on a rocky islet connected to the beach by a wooden walkway. The dish of the day here is always paella, so be sure to order this hearty dish with a jug of sangria.

While the calm waters of the Balearic Sea are best for swimming, there are still some excellent Mallorca beaches for surfers. Topping the list for experienced surfers are Cala Mesquida and Platja de Canyamel. Build your surfing skills on gentle beach breaks at Playa de Muro, a wide and well-facilitated beach perfect for beginners. If you’ve mastered surfing and want to try something different while you’re in Mallorca, rent a fliteboard to feel like you’re hovering above the surface.