Cala Ratjada, located in Capdepera on Mallorca, is one of the most beloved tourist destinations among travellers. This town is known for its rugged coastline, dotted with numerous natural coves along the eastern side of Mallorca, making it a paradise for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Cala Ratjada is one of the closest points in Mallorca to Menorca. In fact, on a clear day, you can see the neighbouring island. Despite being a tourist spot, the atmosphere retains a traditional charm. Cala Ratjada still maintains its fishing port, which is the second largest on the island, adding much appeal. Here, you can see the typical llaüts (traditional fishing boats) and the quaint fishermen’s houses.
Are you feeling tempted to visit Cala Ratjada? Come! We’ll tell you how to get there, the best things to do in Cala Ratjada, where to eat, where to stay, and much more to ensure your perfect trip.
The top things to do in Cala Ratjada
Cala Ratjada is a haven for water sports enthusiasts due to its purely Mediterranean location.
Its turquoise waters, which are rich in marine biodiversity, make it an ideal spot for diving or snorkelling to experience marine life up close.
Surfing, paddle surfing, and kayaking are also among the favourite activities in Cala Ratjada.
Of course, there are many other sports to enjoy nearby. For instance, golf is very popular in Cala Ratjada, with four courses just 5 km away. Tennis, paddle tennis, and horseback riding are also popular, as well as hiking and cycling.
The Llevant Natural Park offers various trails that take you through diverse landscapes, including mountains, forests, and beaches lush with vegetation and native wildlife. A must-do route is the one from the Mirador de Talaia de Son Jaumell, near the Castell de Capdepera, which offers a 360° panoramic view of the island.
Other types of activities that you shouldn’t miss if you are in Cala Ratjada include:
– Walking along its seafront promenade.
– Visiting the March family palace.
– Attending the weekly Saturday market in Cala Ratjada.
– Exploring the Capdepera Lighthouse.
– Going on a boat trip.
– Bird watching.
And of course, discovering and enjoying all its beaches!
How to get to Cala Ratjada
To get to Cala Ratjada, the first step is to get to Mallorca. You have two options: the most popular is to take a flight to Palma de Mallorca Airport. However, if you are already in Spain or another part of Europe, you might consider arriving by ferry boat. Some ferries connect the island with Barcelona, Valencia, and other Mediterranean ports.
Once in Mallorca, you can continue your journey in the mode of transportation of your choice: taxi, bus, or car. We rule out trains and the metro, as these services do not go directly to Cala Ratjada.
Hire a car
This is the most convenient and cost-effective option, especially if you are travelling with others. It allows you to move at your own pace and explore the island with greater freedom. The drive from Palma Airport to Cala Ratjada typically takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on traffic and the route you choose. The most common route is to take the Ma-15 from Palma towards the east of the island.
In Mallorca, you’ll find a variety of car rental companies, including international ones like Sixt, Avis, and Hertz, as well as local firms such as Roig Rent a Car and OK Rent a Car.
Bus
If you choose to travel by bus to Cala Ratjada, you have several options, though travel time can vary significantly. The shuttle service from companies like Flybus—available during the summer season—can take only about 1 hour and 15 minutes, while using the public bus service can double that time.
From the airport, you would first take the A42 line to Manacor, then switch to the 411. In winter, the 411 is your only option to Cala Ratjada, but in the summer, additional lines such as 422, 423, and 424 are available. Prices for direct shuttles start at around €13, and public buses range from €1.15 to over €15, depending on the payment method, booking, number of transfers, and whether it’s a direct service.
For detailed information about schedules, routes, and updated prices, check the website of the public transportation company of the Balearic Islands (TIB).
Taxi or private transfer services
Another option is to take a taxi or book a private transfer from the airport. This option is more expensive than taking the bus or renting a car, but it offers comfort, and peace of mind, and can also be economical if you are travelling in a group.
And once you’re in Cala Ratjada, enjoy your stay!
The best beaches in the vicinity of Cala Ratjada
Cala Ratjada has some of the most beautiful and appealing beaches on the island. These beaches and coves typically have fine sand and crystal-clear waters, mostly surrounded by rocks and vegetation. Here are a few notable ones:
– Cala Agulla: A large beach with white sand and transparent waters, located north of Cala Ratjada in a protected natural area.
– Cala Gat: A much smaller, quiet, and intimate cove with calm and clear waters.
– Cala Moll: A cove south of Cala Ratjada characterized by its rocks and rugged geological formations.
– Cala Lliteras: Another equally rocky and intimate cove, ideal for exploring marine life due to its clear and calm waters.
The great diversity of beaches makes it extremely easy to find the perfect spot to enjoy the coast of Mallorca. But not without first energizing yourself with the local cuisine.
Where to find the best cuisine? At the restaurants in Cala Ratjada
Cala Ratjada offers a top-notch culinary experience that will leave you with a great taste in your mouth. The dishes, suitable for all budgets, often feature rice, fideuás (pasta noodle paellas), and, of course, fish and seafood.
Some of the best-rated restaurants in Cala Ratjada that we love for their traditional dishes include Los Amigos, Es Coll d’Os, Sa Cova, Ses Ancores, and Can Matías.
If you’re looking for a gastronomic experience that’s a bit out of the ordinary, you can visit Euforia, which offers modern cuisine with seasonal ingredients, The Sea Club, or Forn Nou, where traditional culinary elements are combined with modern techniques in a sophisticated setting.
The pinnacle of the island’s gastronomy is to try the dishes at Set Roges, a Majorcan restaurant with French influences that holds a Michelin star.
Almost all of them boast spectacular sea views, completing the experience.
And finally... What type of accommodation are you looking for to visit Cala Ratjada?
No matter whether you’re looking to stay in an apartment, a private house, a country estate, or if you prefer to enjoy an entire villa. Do you want it to have a pool? Sea views? Or some other extra? Whatever it is, we’ll help you find it at Ideal Property.
