When you arrive at Colònia de Sant Jordi, you get the feeling that Mallorca is opening up towards the horizon. This small coastal village in the municipality of Ses Salines retains a peaceful, seafaring character, far from the hustle and bustle of other more famous tourist spots. Here, the spotlight is not on large hotel complexes, but on the coastline, the landscape of dunes and pine forests, and the centuries-old salt flats that have shaped its history.
The origin of Colònia is linked to salt extraction, an activity that is still alive today and forms part of the identity of the place. For centuries, the fleur de sel harvested in these marshes was exported by sea from this point, thanks to its small natural harbor. This heritage is reflected in the aesthetics of the surroundings: dirt roads that border the ponds, windmills that are still standing, and low-rise architecture with whitewashed houses and simple profiles that blend harmoniously into the landscape.
Those who come to this area looking for hustle and bustle are in the wrong place. But if you want a peaceful stay by the sea, with good food and the chance to explore beaches and rural paths on foot, Colònia de Sant Jordi offers a rich and authentic experience. The surrounding beaches, such as Es Dolç, Es Carbó, and Es Trenc, are known for their unspoiled appearance, fine white sand, and crystal-clear turquoise waters.
It is also an excellent starting point for exploring the Cabrera Archipelago National Park, one of the most protected marine environments in the Mediterranean. Boat trips from the small pier in Colònia are frequent in spring and summer, offering guided tours, snorkeling, and hiking in an almost untouched environment.
Throughout the year, and especially outside the high season, the Colònia attracts German visitors who are already familiar with other parts of the island and are now looking for a more direct relationship with the natural environment, local products, and the leisurely pace of a village that lives by the sea. It is a place that invites you to walk, breathe deeply, savor every meal in the breeze, and return at the end of the day with bare feet and salt still on your skin.
Contenidos / Contents
How to get there: access by rental car from Palma or the airport
Getting to Colònia de Sant Jordi by rental car is undoubtedly the most convenient and flexible way to reach this coastal enclave in the south of Mallorca, especially if you want to move around the region freely, visit nearby beaches, or take trips to inland towns such as Ses Salines, Campos, or Santanyí.
From Palma airport, the journey takes approximately 40–45 minutes, following the Ma-19 motorway towards Llucmajor and Campos. When you reach Campos, simply take the turn-off towards Ses Salines and continue straight on until you reach the coast. The landscape changes: the motorway gives way to a quieter road flanked by windmills, cereal fields, and almond trees. It is an uncomplicated route, with good signage and light traffic outside the summer months.
Once in Colònia, it is useful to know that the town center is compact and easy to get around on foot. It is therefore advisable to park your car near your accommodation or in one of the free public parking areas, such as those located next to the port, on Avinguda Primavera, or near the municipal market. In high season (June to September), it is best to arrive before 10 a.m. if you want to find parking near the center or the beaches.
Another advantage of traveling by car is the possibility of exploring the most remote and least crowded beaches, such as Es Caragol or Cala en Tugores, which can be reached after a short walk from rural roads. It also makes it easier to visit other points of interest in the area, such as the Es Trenc salt flats, the Ses Salines lighthouse, or the rural routes of Son Estanys.
For visitors staying for several days, a car also allows you to complete the experience with cultural and gastronomic visits to farms, wineries, or small artisan workshops in the area. In many of these places, access by private vehicle is recommended or required, as public transportation is limited.
Although there is a regular bus service between Palma and Colònia (line A51 via Campos), its timetables are more limited and less frequent outside the summer season. For this reason, renting a car remains the most practical option, especially for those who want to explore independently and make the most of their stay in the south of the island.
Staying in Colònia: charming hotels by the sea and sustainable options
Staying in Colònia de Sant Jordi means choosing a peaceful way to relax, close to nature and with the sea as a constant backdrop. Here you won’t find large tourist complexes or impersonal hotels. The offering focuses on family-run accommodation, hotels with Mediterranean character, and sustainable options that cater to travelers who value tranquility, quality service, and an authentic environment.
One of the best-known options among German visitors is the Hotel Honucai, a four-star superior hotel located right in front of the port, with direct sea views and a panoramic terrace serving locally inspired signature cuisine. The rooms, decorated with natural materials, convey a calm atmosphere, ideal for longer stays.
Nearby, the Universal Hotel Marqués stands literally on the sand of Es Trenc, allowing guests to walk to the beach and enjoy views of the Natural Park from their rooms. It is a popular choice for those seeking to combine comfort with unspoiled natural surroundings.
For those who prefer something more intimate, the Hotel Villa Chiquita offers discreet and elegant accommodation with a small swimming pool, spa, and close access to Es Dolç beach. It is particularly suited to couples or visitors who already know the area and are looking for a peaceful atmosphere with attention to detail.
Another alternative that is highly valued by German visitors are the agritourism establishments near Ses Salines or Campos, located 10–15 minutes away by car. These restored fincas offer rooms with a rural character, a swimming pool surrounded by almond trees, homemade breakfasts, and direct contact with the agricultural landscape of southern Mallorca.
In addition, some accommodations in Colònia are committed to sustainability and respect for the environment, using renewable energy, local products, and waste reduction policies. This philosophy connects very well with the profile of European travelers who seek to leave a positive mark during their stay.
It is advisable to book in advance, especially between May and October, as capacity is limited and many visitors return year after year.
Asking about rooms with views, bike rental services, or organized excursions to Cabrera can also be a great way to enrich your experience.
Hotel Honucai (4 Superior)*
📍 Calle Bonança, 1, 07638 Colònia de Sant Jordi
📞 +34 971 65 51 01
Privileged location facing the sea. Contemporary design with Mediterranean inspiration. Rooftop with restaurant and swimming pool. Very popular with German travelers.
Universal Hotel Marqués (4)*
📍 Playa Es Trenc, 07638 Colònia de Sant Jordi
📞 +34 971 65 50 00
Located directly on the beach, between Es Trenc and Es Dolç. Ideal for those who want accommodation with immediate access to the sea.
Hotel Villa Chiquita (4)*
📍 Calle Caravel·la, s/n, 07638 Colònia de Sant Jordi
📞 +34 971 65 51 51
Intimate and elegant atmosphere. Swimming pool, wellness area, and proximity to the beach. Recommended for relaxing stays for couples.
Hotel El Coto (5)*
📍 Carrer de la Llagosta, 11, 07638 Colònia de Sant Jordi
📞 +34 971 65 51 25
Family-run boutique hotel. Excellent wine list, Mediterranean cuisine, and distinguished atmosphere. Highly rated for its personalized service.
Walks by the sea: coves, coastal paths, and quiet corners
Colònia de Sant Jordi is perfect for walking. Its urban layout is peaceful, with no hills, and the paths that lead out from the center allow you to discover a diverse coastline, where white sandy beaches alternate with dune trails, marshlands, and hidden coves.
These walks do not require any hiking experience: they are accessible to any visitor who wants to enjoy the sea air, the southern light of Mallorca, and the constant sound of the waves.
Colònia seafront promenade
A pedestrian promenade runs from the marina along the coastline to Es Dolç beach. It is ideal for a short walk at sunset or after dinner, with stone benches, discreet lighting, and terraces open to the sea. Along the way, you can enjoy views of the Cabrera archipelago, visible on clear days.
Camí de Es Dolç a Es Carbó
A 2.5 km coastal path, with no elevation gain, connects Es Dolç beach with the unspoilt beach of Es Carbó. This walk takes you over sand, coastal rocks and stretches of low forest, with no services or bars, preserving its natural character. It is common to find native turtles or seabirds among the bushes and reeds. A swim at Es Carbó upon arrival rewards every step.
Route to Es Trenc via Es Marqués and Es Estanys
If you want to walk west, the trail from Colònia to the famous beach of Es Trenc offers a peaceful walk through pine forests, shifting dunes, and wetlands. You can continue along the Camí de Sa Barrala, towards Es Estanys and then to Es Marqués, before entering the Natural Park. In total, it is about 4.5 km, highly recommended first thing in the morning or at the end of the day.
Camí de Ses Salines to the Cap de Ses Salines lighthouse
About a 10-minute drive from the Colònia, you can leave your car near the salt flats and walk along the Camí del Far, a coastal path that winds its way between rocky coves and stretches of beach until it reaches the southernmost lighthouse in Mallorca. The route, which is about 6 km round trip, offers one of the most peaceful and authentic experiences on the Mallorcan coast.
Tips for enjoying the walk
- Always wear comfortable shoes, a hat, and sunscreen. Some sections are not shaded.
- Be sure to bring water, especially outside of peak season when the beach bars are not open.
- If you want to swim when you reach one of the coves, bring a towel and water shoes.
- Choose the early hours of the day or late afternoon to avoid the strongest sun and enjoy the best light for photographing the surroundings.
Beaches and sea bathing: white sand, crystal-clear waters and a protected environment
Colònia de Sant Jordi is one of the most highly rated destinations in the south of Mallorca thanks to the quality of its beaches. Here, the sea retains its natural turquoise color, the dunes are still active and urban development has been kept at a distance from the coast. It is an ideal place to swim in peace, walk barefoot on fine white sand or simply enjoy the horizon from the shade of a pine forest.
These are the most outstanding beaches that you can discover on foot from the center of Colònia:
Es Dolç Beach
📍 Direct access from the promenade
One of the most popular with regular visitors, with fine sand, shallow waters and a sandy seabed, it is ideal for swimming or relaxing without waves. It has hammocks, parasols and a beach bar, but retains a very peaceful atmosphere even in high season.
Es Carbó Beach
📍 30 minutes’ walk along the coast from Es Dolç
With no buildings or services, this is a completely unspoilt beach, accessible only on foot or by boat. It is surrounded by pine trees, junipers and dunes, and the water is crystal clear even on windy days. It is the perfect choice for those who want to get away from conventional tourism. We recommend bringing water and sunscreen.
Es Trenc Beach (access via Es Estanys)
📍 About 4.5 km on foot or 10 min by car
Although it is more exposed to tourist traffic, it is still one of the most spectacular beaches in Mallorca. Its surroundings of marshes and salt flats make it a protected natural area. Access from La Colònia, skirting Es Estanys and Es Marqués, is especially pleasant at sunset.
Es Marqués Beach
📍 Between Es Dolç and Es Trenc
A small beach with a family atmosphere, limited services, and natural shade. It can be reached on foot from Camí de Sa Barrala. Ideal for those who want to avoid the crowds at Es Trenc without straying too far.
Cala Galiota
📍 Right in front of the town center
Small rocky cove with swimming areas and steps to access the water. Very popular with locals. Perfect for a quick dip or for those who want to swim without straying too far from the center. A good place to watch the sea and read in the shade.
Caló des Marmols and Cala en Tugores
📍 Accessible from the Ses Salines lighthouse (requires a 5-6 km walk)
These beaches reward those seeking complete solitude and willing to walk along coastal paths for just over an hour. They have no services, but offer a wild experience and unspoiled beauty. They are ideal for a whole day of disconnection.
Recommendations for enjoying the beaches
- In high season, arrive early if you want natural shade or a good spot.
- Some beaches (such as Es Carbó or Cala en Tugores) are not accessible by car: you must always arrive on foot.
- Always bring water, a hat, sunscreen, and suitable footwear, especially for rocky areas or long walks.
- Respect the natural environment: the dunes are a protected habitat and must not be walked on or altered.
The beaches of Colònia de Sant Jordi retain an authentic and peaceful atmosphere, highly valued by those who already know other areas of Mallorca and are now looking for well-preserved nature, uncrowded spaces and clean waters for swimming or floating in silence. Here, the sea is not just something to be contemplated, it is something to be experienced.
Local cuisine: seafood, locally sourced produce, and terraces overlooking the port
Colònia de Sant Jordi is an ideal destination for those who enjoy good food, without pretensions, in a relaxed setting where local produce takes center stage. In its restaurants and terraces facing the sea, you will find simple but authentic cuisine based on fresh fish, extra virgin olive oil, seasonal vegetables, and traditional products from the Mallorcan countryside. Here, it is not about impressing, but about respecting the real flavor of the island.
Seafood cuisine with local identity
Several restaurants on the seafront promenade and in the port offer a menu focused on the catch of the day: dolphinfish, squid, grouper, or raors, depending on the season. The recipes tend to follow traditional Mallorcan recipes, such as frit de peix, baked fish with potatoes and onions, or rice with seafood in broth.
One of these is Cassai Beach House, a spacious venue with open views, combining careful interior design and dishes made with local produce. On the menu you’ll find carpaccios, whole fish and well-executed vegetarian dishes.
Another option popular with German visitors is the Restaurante Sal de Cocó, next to the port, which offers creative cuisine with island roots. Here, extra virgin olive oil and flavored sea salts are central elements of the culinary offering.
Tapas and simple dishes in a relaxed atmosphere
If you prefer something more informal, there are several places offering set menus and tapas, perfect for lunch after the beach. At Strandkorb, run by a German-Mallorcan family, you can try tapas such as pa amb oli, Padrón peppers, grilled cuttlefish, and Mallorcan wines with local designation of origin.
Breakfast with a view and artisan ice cream
In the morning, there’s nothing like sitting in one of the cafés facing the sea to enjoy a leisurely breakfast: toast with olive oil and tomato, ensaimada, local orange juice, and mild coffee. At Panaderia Es Port, in addition to freshly baked bread, you can find savory trempó cocas and typical Mallorcan sweets.
And in the afternoon, don’t miss the artisanal ice cream: Heladería Colonial, located on the seafront, offers flavors made with natural fruit, such as apricot, lemon, fig, and Mallorcan almond.
Local products to take home
Be sure to visit a shop selling regional products such as Flor de Sal d’Es Trenc, with its range of natural, flavored, and organic salts, ideal as gifts or for use at home. You’ll also find artisanal jams, herbal liqueurs, extra virgin olive oils, and typical cured meats in shops such as Can Pep or Botiga Sant Jordi.
General recommendations
- Book in advance during high season if you want a table with a sea view.
- Ask about off-menu dishes: many restaurants offer daily specials based on the catch of the day or what’s available at the market.
- Be sure to try a dish made with local sea salt, the real star of the area.
- Most establishments accept card payments, although cash tips are appreciated if the service has been good.
Eating in Colònia de Sant Jordi is an essential part of the trip: a journey through the real flavors of Mallorca, served without pretension and always linked to the environment. Whether in a restaurant facing the sea or on a nearby estate, here every meal connects with the land, the sea, and the history of this peaceful part of the island.
Cassai Beach House
📍 Carrer de l’Estanys, 60, 07638 Colònia de Sant Jordi
📞 +34 971 65 53 07
Beachfront restaurant with modern design and a Mediterranean menu based on local produce. Fresh dishes, fish, and contemporary cuisine.
Sal de Cocó by Marta Rosselló
📍 Av. Marquès del Palmer, 07038 Colònia de Sant Jordi
📞 +34 971 65 51 00
Creative cuisine with Mallorcan roots. Signature dishes featuring fleur de sel and local olive oil. Highly rated by German diners.
5 Illes
📍 Carrer Major, 3, 07638 Colònia de Sant Jordi
📞 +34 971 65 55 60
Restaurant and lounge with a relaxed atmosphere. Mediterranean cuisine with modern touches. Ideal for informal dinners, cocktails, or brunch.
Strandkorb Mallorca
📍 Plaça Dolç, 7, 07638 Colònia de Sant Jordi
📞 +34 971 65 53 89
Mallorcan and German cuisine with a terrace facing the sea. Tapas, local wines, and simple dishes prepared with care. Family atmosphere.
Port Blau
📍 Passeig de la Mar, 20, 07638 Colònia de Sant Jordi
🌐 No official website (present on Google and Tripadvisor)
📞 +34 971 65 50 40
Restaurant next to the port specializing in fresh fish and rice dishes. Direct sea views. Friendly service and honest cuisine.
Es Port Bakery and Café
📍 Carrer Gabriel Roca, 9, 07638 Colònia de Sant Jordi
🌐 No website, but listed on Google Maps
📞 +34 971 65 52 43
Traditional café for breakfast or afternoon snacks. Savory pies, ensaimadas, Mallorcan bread, and homemade pastries. Very popular with locals.
Heladería Colonial
📍 Carrer Gabriel Roca, 17, 07638 Colònia de Sant Jordi
📞 +34 971 65 52 72
Artisanal ice cream made with natural ingredients: almond, fig, apricot, local citrus fruits. Terrace with views. Very popular with families and loyal visitors.
Activities and excursions: nature, history, and inland routes
Colònia de Sant Jordi offers much more than just beaches. Its location, surrounded by salt flats, pine forests and farmland, makes it an excellent starting point for easy excursions to discover the natural and cultural environment of southern Mallorca. On foot, by bike or by boat, you can explore protected landscapes, historical remains and agricultural areas that still preserve the traditional rhythm of the island.
Visit the Cabrera Interpretation Center
Located next to the port, this space offers a clear and visual introduction to the Cabrera Archipelago National Park, with models, aquariums, and audiovisuals that explain its biodiversity and history. It is a recommended visit before embarking on a trip to the archipelago, or as a cultural alternative on cloudy days.
📍 Carrer Gabriel Roca, 20, 07638 Colònia de Sant Jordi
🌐 balearsnatura.com
Exhibition space with aquariums, audiovisuals, and panels on the biodiversity and history of the Cabrera archipelago. Recommended before the boat trip.
Boat trips to Cabrera National Park
Boats depart daily from the port of Colònia, allowing visitors to visit the main island of Cabrera. The trips include swimming in Cova Blava, a walk to the castle and time to explore protected coves. The total duration is around five hours, and it is recommended to book in advance during high season. This is an essential experience for lovers of unspoiled nature and the sea in its purest form.
📍 Departure from the port of La Colonia
🌐 excursionsacabrera.es / cabreramediterranea.es
Daily excursions to Cabrera National Park: sailing, swimming at Cova Blava, hiking, and a visit to the castle. Duration: 4–5 hours.
Routes to the salt flats and windmills
On foot or by bike, you can explore the old rural paths that connect the Colònia with the Salinas de Llevant, a network of pink ponds where fleur de sel is still produced using traditional methods. Along the way, it is easy to see original windmills, some of which have been restored, and fields that characterize the agricultural landscape of this region.
📍 Ma-6040, Km 8, 07638 Ses Salines
Traditional salt flats with guided tours and a shop selling products made from fleur de sel. 10 minutes’ drive away.
Rural paths to Ses Salines, Campos or Santanyí
From the Colònia, you can set off on gentle routes to the inland villages, crossing fields of fig trees, almond trees, and wild olive trees. These routes allow you to discover a less touristy Mallorca, with traditional architecture, Baroque churches, weekly markets, and village cafés where local life is preserved. By bike, they are accessible for all levels.
Visits to farms, wineries, and organic orchards
In the surrounding area, there are several farms open to visitors offering tastings of extra virgin olive oil, fleur de sel, and wines with designation of origin. Some organize traditional cooking workshops or breakfasts in the countryside with seasonal products. It’s an excellent way to learn about the Mallorcan agricultural cycle and its influence on local cuisine.
Cap de Ses Salines lighthouse
📍 End of the Ma-6100 road, 07638 Ses Salines
🌐 General information: illesbalears.travel
The southernmost point of Mallorca, with open views of the sea and Cabrera. Access on foot from the nearby car park.
Practical tips for the discerning visitor
Traveling to Colònia de Sant Jordi means choosing a more natural and leisurely Mallorca, but that doesn’t mean giving up comfort or good organization. Here you will find a series of useful recommendations to enjoy your stay to the fullest, with a balance between rest, outdoor activities, and cultural exploration.
Best time to visit
The best months are April, May, June, September, and October, when the weather is warm but not extreme, the beaches are quiet, and the area retains its local rhythm. July and August can be hotter and busier, but Colònia maintains a more serene atmosphere than other parts of the coast.
What to pack
For walks and excursions along the coast or to the salt flats, bring comfortable shoes, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. A light backpack with water and some fruit or nuts is also useful, especially if you plan to walk to beaches without services. A sarong or towel and swimsuit are essential, even outside the high season.
Transportation and parking
The most convenient way to get there and get around is by rental car. Most of the town has paid parking, but there are some free parking areas on several streets in the town center. In high season, it is best to arrive before 10:00 a.m. to avoid driving around looking for a spot. The salt flats and most of the coves require a car and some walking.
Language and local customs
Hotel, restaurant, and shop staff usually speak German and English fluently. However, greeting people in Catalan or Spanish is always well received. The atmosphere is relaxed, and respectful and discreet behavior is particularly appreciated, in keeping with the tone of the place.
Reservations and schedules
In high season, it is advisable to book accommodation and excursions to Cabrera or seaside restaurants in advance. Most restaurants are open from 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. and from 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Small shops close at midday between 1:30 p.m. and 5:00 p.m.
Means of payment
Credit cards are accepted in most shops, but it is advisable to carry some cash for markets, bakeries, and tips. Some rural establishments and small businesses may not have card payment facilities.
Weather
The climate is very stable between April and October. You can check the weather by searching for “wetter Colonia de Sant Jordi” or through apps such as AEMET, Wetter.com, or Meteoblue. In spring and autumn, there may be cool breezes in the afternoon.
Products worth buying
The area is ideal for purchasing products such as fleur de sel, extra virgin olive oil, local honey, local wines, Mallorcan herbs, and handicrafts. Many shops prepare packages to take on the plane.
