CALA FIGUERA MALLORCA: DON’T MISS THIS QUIET ISLAND GEM!

CALA FIGUERA MALLORCA: DON’T MISS THIS QUIET ISLAND GEM!

DISCOVER CALA FIGUERA MALLORCA
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INTRODUCTION: CALA FIGUERA MALLORCA – DON’T MISS THIS QUIET ISLAND GEM!

Tucked away on the southeast coast of Mallorca, Cala Figuera is a picturesque fishing village unlike any other. Known for its serene atmosphere, charming whitewashed houses, and crystal-clear waters, this hidden gem on the Mediterranean offers both beauty and tranquility. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful escape or looking to explore this Balearic Island’s authentic side, Cala Figuera Mallorca is a destination you can’t miss. From scenic walking trails to delicious Mediterranean cuisine, you’ll love its unspoiled charm. Let’s take a closer look!

As someone who has lived on the Mediterranean for over a decade, I’m happy to share my inside tips and knowledge to help you make the most of your travels.

(To find out more about the Mediterranean see our related posts,”Discover Cala Santanyi”, “Best Things To Do In Mallorca”

Why You Don’t Want to Miss Cala Figuera Mallorca!

Discover Cala Figuera’s Natural Surroundings

If you are visiting Cala Figuera for the first time then you are in for a real treat. Unlike other popular destinations on the island, this small fishing village is a quiet refuge in a giant storm. You won’t find big crowds here or the hectic pace common at other Mallorcan hot spots. This is a place you come to visit to experience the island of Mallorca and discover what it has to offer. This doesn’t mean you can’t still enjoy a beach vacation (I’ll cover that a bit further on), it’s just that here you can have a calmer, quieter vacation experience.

The town is built on short rocky cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean and is made up of two bays that extend inland from the coast just a few hundred meters. This is a small harbor town with both fishing boats and leisure boats moored up and down the bay. With only about 600 permanent residences here, you can easily walk from one end of Cala Figuer to the other in just a few minutes. But with rocky cliffs, trails along the coastline, Mallorcan-style homes, and boats everywhere you look, you will definitely feel like you are on an island and know that you are by the sea.

The Rich Fishing Heritage of Cala Figuera

People have been fishing in Cala Figuera for generations and this has influenced the development of this town for years. The sea has been a source of livelihood for the local inhabitants for a long time, with a steady rhythm of ships sailing in and out of the harbor daily, bringing in locally caught fish for market. To this day, nets are laid out to dry or are mended and prepared for the next outing everywhere within the harbor area.

You are welcome to come to the harbor and see these activities for yourself. Afterward, you can head to one of the local restaurants to enjoy the freshly caught fish, prepared in the local tradition using locally grown spices and ingredients. The identity of this community is tied very closely to the sea and this can still be seen to this day.

DISCOVER CALA FIGUERA MALLORCA: Watch the Fishermen at Work, Spain, The Mediterranean
DISCOVER CALA FIGUERA MALLORCA: Watch the Fishermen at Work, Spain, The Mediterranean

Cala Figuera – A Quiet Place With Lots To Do!

Cala Figuera is a great place to relax and enjoy your vacation. But that doesn’t mean you can’t explore the area and find some new and exciting things to do. Personally, I love the rugged coastline along this side of Mallorca and enjoy any activity that connects with the sea and local landscape. I’ve put together a list of several activities you can do while in Cala Figuera that you will enjoy.

TIP: For most places on the Island, if you plan on getting that “perfect shot” then try to get “there” early before the crowds.

TIP #2: For most activities below requiring equipment there are plenty of rental places in the area, so virtually all activities listed below are accessible.

Best Things To Do In Cala Figuera

1-Visit the Mirador Es Pontàs:
Es Pontas is about a 2.5km walk from Cala Figuera and is a nice rock arch just off the shore. There is a viewpoint overlooking the arch so you don’t have to climb down the cliff and go into the water to see this. A great place to take photographs.


2-Try Snorkeling or Kayaking:
I usually encourage any kind of water sport when it comes to the Mediterranean but I especially recommend it for this part of the island. With a rocky coastline and crystal clear waters, this is a perfect spot for snorkeling and great for kayaking and paddle boarding. If you have a waterproof camera you might want to take it along.

DISCOVER CALA FIGUERA MALLORCA: A Perfect Place for Snorkeling, Spain
DISCOVER CALA FIGUERA MALLORCA: A Perfect Place for Snorkeling, Spain

3-Wander the Streets of the Village:
Make sure you pack a good pair of shoes for your vacation because you are going to want to walk around and explore, starting with the village itself. There are walkways and paths that wind their way through the village, the harbor, and along the bays, and there is a lot to see. Take your time and try to tap into the rhythm of the village.

4-Watch Fishermen at Work in the Harbor:
As part of your walk, make sure to spend time in the harbor and watch the activities going on here, including ships returning from the sea, fishing equipment being repaired and made ready for the next day, and fish being whisked away to local restaurants and markets.

5-Dine on Fresh Seafood:
If you followed my suggestion about the harbor, then you probably found yourself checking the menus at the local restaurants immediately after. My tip here is during the high season be sure to make reservations if you plan on eating at one of the local establishments. You would be surprised at how many people visit the harbor.

6-Tour the Coastal Paths:
Once you have made your way around the village and the harbor then it’s time to follow the trails along the coastline. I love these walks. The trails here can be rugged (remember, wear good shoes) but you’ll find that you are going to be rewarded with one continuous spectacular view of the Mediterranean. You might want to consider bringing a daypack with a towel and a bathing suit because the trails will likely take you to some of the local “calas” or coves where you can swim.


TIP: Make sure to bring water and wear suntan lotion. A good pair of sunglasses is also a good idea. The sun here is strong and you can burn very easily if not careful)

DISCOVER CALA FIGUERA MALLORCA: Coastal Trail with Beautiful Views, Spain, The Mediterranean
DISCOVER CALA FIGUERA MALLORCA: Coastal Trail with Beautiful Views, Spain, The Mediterranean

7-Take a Boat Trip Along the Coast:
This one I suggest to everyone. There is no better way to cap your island vacation than by taking a boat tour. These range from a couple of hours to the whole day and will take you to many hidden coves and along the coastline to places you wouldn’t otherwise be able to see.
TIP: Try finding a boat tour that has a snorkeling or kayaking component included. These tours will take you to the best snorkeling spots or kayaking spots, and make the boat tour an even better experience.

8-Visit Mondragó Natural Park Nearby:
About 4km from Cala Figuera, this park is a protected area with various trails that wind through the forests, along the shore, and to several beaches. There are amenities here (restaurants, lifeguards, and washrooms) making this a great place for a day trip.

9-Explore Local Markets in Santanyi:
For a different experience, you can head to Santanyi for the local markets that are held every Wednesday and Saturday. You can pick up some locally made goods and/or locally grown produce and products like, breads, cheese, and meats.

DISCOVER CALA FIGUERA MALLORCA: A quiet day in the fishing village, Spain
DISCOVER CALA FIGUERA MALLORCA: A quiet day in the fishing village, Spain

Dining in Cala Figuera

With Cala Figuera being a fishing village, you shouldn’t be surprised to find that seafood features very prominently on every menu in town. What you may not know is that the Mallorcans have been preparing fish for quite a while so be prepared for some excellent seafood dishes. With some of the restaurants overlooking the water, there is an even stronger incentive to sit down and enjoy a meal at one of these local restaurants where the seafood here is prepared in a way that highlights local spices and ingredients and a traditional way.

Five Restaurants in Cala Figuera to Enjoy:
  1. Bon Bar – Known for its seafood and Mediterranean dishes, Bon Bar offers a dining experience close to the water, where you can enjoy the local catch.
  2. Restaurante La Marina – This spot is celebrated for its location and excellent service, providing a menu that highlights fresh seafood and local flavors.
  3. Restaurante Pizzeria Es Port – Offering a mix of Italian and Mediterranean cuisine, this restaurant provides a scenic view of the port, making it a great place for both traditional Mallorcan dishes and pasta.
  4. La Petite Iglesia – A French restaurant that has gained a reputation for its large portions and quality food, making it a favorite among visitors.
  5. El Mirador de Cala Figuera – Known for its Majorcan cuisine, this restaurant uses fresh, local products to create dishes that reflect the island’s culinary traditions.

TIP: Make sure to make reservations to avoid disappointment

DISCOVER CALA FIGUERA MALLORCA: Visit the nearby beach of Cala Santanyi
DISCOVER CALA FIGUERA MALLORCA: Visit the nearby beach of Cala Santanyi, Spain, The Mediterranean

Local Beaches

As mentioned earlier, this corner of the island is one of my favorites and I especially like the “calas”. There is something about the combination of crystal clear waters, golden white beach sand, and rock cliffs that creates a picture-perfect vacation setting. When I think of Mallorca, I immediately picture one of the many calas from the island in my mind. Cala Figuera is only a short walk from some of the nicest beaches on the island, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and other water activities. Below is a list of some of the nearby beaches:

  1. Cala Santanyí
    This beach is located a short drive from Cala Figuera and offers clear water for swimming and kayaking. Nearby facilities make it convenient to spend a full day by the sea.
  2. Cala Mondragó
    This beach is in Mondragó Natural Park which we discussed above. This beach is in a quiet location and is perfect for snorkeling and kayaking. From Mondrago Beach you can follow the trails to some of the other beaches in the park.
  3. Cala Llombards
    This small beach is framed by cliffs and is popular for its shallow waters, making it a good spot for families. Here you can enjoy the views from the surrounding cliffs or swim along the protected bay.
  4. Es Trenc
    Located further away but worth the trip, Es Trenc is famous for its wide beach and calm waters. It’s a great beach for long walks or relaxing by the sea with plenty of space to find a quiet spot.
  5. Cala s’Almonia
    A more secluded spot, Cala s’Almonia is accessed via steps and offers a unique environment for snorkeling and relaxing. There is no beach per se, instead, it has a low rocky shoreline but with crystal clear waters and in a sheltered bay, it’s an excellent place for swimming.
  6. Cala des Moro
    This beach is also a little more secluded and is off the beaten path. However, if you are up to the challenge this is a beautiful beach. Just know that there are no amenities at this beach so make sure to bring all of your snacks and beverages with you.
DISCOVER CALA FIGUERA MALLORCA:  Visit the nearby beach of Cala des Moro, Mallorca, Spain
DISCOVER CALA FIGUERA MALLORCA: Visit the nearby beach of Cala des Moro, Mallorca, Spain
DISCOVER CALA FIGUERA MALLORCA: Playa Es Trenc, Mallorca, Spain
DISCOVER CALA FIGUERA MALLORCA: Playa Es Trenc, Mallorca, Spain, The Mediterranean

Practical Information for Visiting Cala Figuera

If you are driving a rental car from the airport in Palma, just follow the signs to get on the MA19 head south about 40km, and follow the signs to Cala Figuera. You can also reach Cala Figuera by bus from the airport. You can find the bus stop for the Mallorca public transport, TIB (Transport de les Illes Balears), underground right next to the metro station. Look for route 516  which will take you to Cala Figuera.

In terms of accommodation, there is a wide range of options to choose from, including hotels, guesthouses and fincas. Important is to book early as demand is quite high everywhere on the island during the high season. You can check available accommodations on the link below. (Full disclosure here: this is an affiliate link and if you end up booking something using this link, I will make a small commission. This will not however result in a higher cost to you and will help me cover my costs).

The best time to travel, if you are flexible time-wise, is during the spring and fall. The weather is exceptionally nice during these times and the island is far less busy than in the high season. As an added advantage, things are generally cheaper at these times: airfare, hotels, and many venues and tours.

For the summer, make sure to pack light clothes, good walking shoes, hats, and sunscreen. During the spring and fall, also pack light clothes to take advantage of the daytime weather but bring a sweater or jacket when the evenings can be a little cooler.

DISCOVER CALA FIGUERA MALLORCA: Fishing Boat Leaving the Sheltered Bay
DISCOVER CALA FIGUERA MALLORCA: Fishing Boat Leaving the Sheltered Bay for the Mediterranean

Planning a Day Trip to Nearby Attractions

During your stay in Cala Figuera, consider taking a day trip to other areas of the island to discover more of what the island has to offer. Solid choices are a day trip to Palma which has a beautiful Old Town, Cathedral, and Arab Baths to visit. (From Cala Figuera, you can easily reach Palma using the TIB bus which makes regular runs to and from the city every day).

Another great day trip option is Cala D’Or which is only about 7km away. This is one of the main tourist hot spots on the island and has numerous, shops, restaurants, bars, and several beautiful beaches.

One more suggestion is to visit one of the many vineyards on the island and find out about Mallorca’s wine industry. Below is a list of a few vineyards relatively close to Cala Figuera that offer wine tours or wine tastings.

Five Vineyards near Cala Figuera Offering Wine Tours:

  1. Ribas Winery – Located in Binissalem, this traditional winery offers personalized tours and tastings of their diverse wine selection, showcasing both young and aged varieties. Visit Ribas Winery website.
  2. Macià Batle – Situated in Santa Maria del Camí, this winery is renowned for its award-winning wines and offers tours that include tastings of their red and white wines. Visit Macia Batle website.
  3. Binigrau Mallorca – Found in the Biniali region, Binigrau offers organic wines and tours that highlight their unique blend of traditional and modern winemaking techniques. Visit Binigrau Mallorca website.
  4. Vins Miquel Gelabert – Near Manacor, this vineyard is famous for its Sa Vall Selecció Privada white wine and offers tours that explore their innovative wine production. Visit Vins Miquel Gelabert website.
  5. Mesquida Mora – This biodynamic winery in Porreres focuses on sustainable practices and offers tours that include tastings of wines made from native grape varieties. Visit Mesquida Mora website.

These vineyards provide a great opportunity to explore the local wine culture and enjoy the flavors of the Mediterranean.

Make Sure to Try the Wine in Mallorca!
DISCOVER CALA FIGUERA MALLORCA: Make Sure to Try the Wine in Mallorca!

FINAL THOUGHTS: DISCOVER CALA FIGUERA MALLORCA!

Cala Figuera Mallorca is more than just a scenic village; it’s a retreat into a slower, more charming side of island life. From its sparkling waters to its rich fishing heritage and mouthwatering cuisine, this hidden gem on the Mediterranean is worth exploring. Whether you’re a nature lover, foodie, or culture enthusiast, Cala Figuera has something special waiting for you. Don’t wait—plan your visit and experience the magic yourself!

“Don’t Just Dream It! Do it!”

How about experiencing the Mediterranean firsthand? Use the map below to inspire you and plan your next Mediterranean vacation right now!

Reg Auge

Reg holds an MBA, is a former Captain in the Canadian military and has worked as a consultant in industry for over 20 years. From his home in Spain, he has spent the last 10 years traveling throughout the Mediterranean, exploring the various countries and regions. He also regularly runs, windsurfs, and kite surfs, maintaining a healthy and active way of life. Captivated by this Mediterranean lifestyle, he began a Blog last year to inspire like-minded souls to learn about and discover this unique region for themselves.

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