BEST THINGS TO DO IN SANT JORDI MALLORCA: YOUR ISLAND GUIDE!
BEST THINGS TO DO IN SANT JORDI MALLORCA: YOUR ISLAND GUIDE!
INTRODUCTION: BEST THINGS TO DO IN SANT JORDI MALLORCA!
Welcome to Sant Jordi Mallorca, a quaint village nestled in southern Mallorca that offers a perfect blend of tradition and tranquility. If you want to escape the bustling tourist hotspots, Sant Jordi will sweep you off your feet! With its serene countryside, historic markets, and proximity to some of Mallorca’s most beautiful beaches, this destination captures the authentic charm of this island. Did you know that Colonia de Sant Jordi is just a stone’s throw away from the famous Es Trenc beach? Let’s uncover why this village should be on your travel list.
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, “Best Things To Do In Mallorca“, “Discover Cala Pi” and “Discover Sa Rapita“)
WHAT ARE THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN SANT JORDI MALLORCA?
Sant Jordi Mallorca – A Brief Overview
Colonia de Sant Jordi, or Sant Jordi, is a small town of about 2600, located close to the southernmost tip of Mallorca. Originally a fishing village it was transformed in the 1940’s into a popular tourist location.
The town features buildings that reflect traditional Mallorcan design, with stone facades and tiled roofs. Its streets are quiet and provide a glimpse into local life on the island. It sits right on the Mediterranean and is a convenient base for visitors coming to visit the nearby beaches which are by far its main draw.
10 Best Things to Do in Sant Jordi
Sant Jordi is ideally located for various cultural, natural, and recreational activities for visitors. From exploring local wildlife to enjoying boat tours, there’s something for everyone to experience in this serene destination. Here is a list of the top 10 things to do in Sant Jordi. Number 10 will surprise you!
- Swim at Cala Galiota
A small, peaceful beach near the town center, perfect for a quiet day by the sea. - Explore the Salt Flats of Es Trenc
Discover the history and process of salt production in this unique natural area. Guided tours are available through local operators. (book a tour with Salinas d’Es Trenc) - Relax at Platja d’es Trenc
Enjoy one of Mallorca’s most famous beaches, known for its clear waters and natural beauty. - Take a Boat Tour to Cabrera Island
Companies like Mar Cabrera and Excursions Cabrera offer trips to this protected national park.
- Cycle Through the Countryside
Rent bikes from Ciclos Mora in Colonia de Sant Jordi to explore the scenic routes. You can use the following link to rent a bike for your stay: ciclosmora.com - Visit the Aquarium Cabrera
Learn about the marine life of the Mediterranean at this interactive center. Find out more at aquariumcabrera.com - Enjoy Local Cuisine
Try traditional dishes like sobrassada and pa amb oli at restaurants such as Cassai Gran Café & Restaurant. ( cassai.com) - Explore Colonia de Sant Jordi
Stroll through this coastal town, visit its marina, and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. - Hike in Mondragó Natural Park
Take a short trip to this park for trails, beaches, and birdwatching opportunities. (Nature Park Mondrago) - Visit Artestruz Mallorca
Looking for something completely different? Visit this family-run ostrich farm and learn and interact with ostriches. Check out their website for current opening hours and special events: artestruzmallorca.com
Beaches Near Sant Jordi
Right close to Sant Jordi is one of the most popular beaches in Mallorca: Es Trenc. It’s about a km away from town and is about 4km in length. This is a white sand beach, the waters are crystal clear, and it is part of the regional park, “Parc Natural Es Trenc -Salobar”, which is a protected natural reserve. There are sand dunes and a pine forest the entire length of the beach and represents one of the few places on the island where you will find the coastline in its natural state. Sa Rapita is another beach, similar in all respects to Es Trenc, that is also close to Sant Jordi, providing a quieter option for visitors.
These are by far the larger beaches in the area but nearby there are also several smaller beaches a short drive away that you may want to visit. These small sand beaches are located in small coves with calm waters, protected by cliffs and pine forests, and feature prominently in many tourist images of Mallorca (bring your camera). They include Cala Pi, Cala Llombards, Cala Santanyi and Cala d’Or.
Where to Stay in Colonia de Sant Jordi Mallorca
Sant Jordi and the surrounding area, offer various options for accommodations, ranging from boutique hotels to fincas and villas. With this wide range of options, there is something for everyone, however, the one caveat here is “book early”, especially in the high season when demand is highest.
To help you plan your next visit and to determine availability and price for the right accommodations, I’ve included a link below that you can use. (For full disclosure, this is an affiliate link. You can search to your heart’s desire at no cost and you are not obligated to book anything. However, if you do happen to find that perfect spot and decide to book through this link, I will make a small commission and would be very grateful. Don’t worry though, you won’t be paying a higher price because of the commission and it does help me to cover my costs).
Mallorcan Cuisine
While in Colonia de Sant Jordi, take the opportunity to try some of the Mallorcan delicacies that you will find in most of the restaurants in Mallorca.
- Ensaimada: Ensaimada is a round pastry crafted from flour, water, sugar, eggs, and lard. It’s baked to a golden perfection and typically sprinkled with powdered sugar before serving.
- Sobrassada: Sobrassada is a cured sausage crafted from ground pork, paprika, salt, and spices. It’s commonly spread on bread or incorporated into various cooked dishes.
- Tumbet: Tumbet is a traditional dish featuring sliced potatoes, eggplant, and red bell peppers. The vegetables are fried and layered, then topped with tomato sauce and baked.
Day Trips from Sant Jordi
Sant Jordi is a great location with plenty of attractions and activities to do right nearby but Mallorca is a big island and there is lots to see. The following is a short list of day trip suggestions of places that I have been to, that I recommend.
Cala d’Or
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.
Port Cristo
Taking a day trip to Porto Cristo is a fantastic opportunity to experience the natural beauty and charm of Mallorca. One of the main highlights is the Cuevas del Drach (Dragon Caves), where you can see stunning stalactites and enjoy an underground lake concert. The picturesque harbor adds to the town’s charm, offering waterside cafés, fresh seafood, and a serene coastal atmosphere perfect for a relaxing escape.
Palma De Mallorca
Consider taking a day trip to Palma to explore its “Old Town”, characterized by narrow streets and historic landmarks like the Almudaina Palace, the official royal residence of the Spanish royal family in Mallorca, the nearby Cathedral, and the Arab Baths. With plenty of cafes, shops, and markets to explore, it makes for a relaxing outing.
Tip: If you want to get some good pictures without hordes of people in your shot, try heading to the main sites early in the morning.
Visit one of the Local Calas.
This one I am throwing on the list because I personally love the Calas. When I think of Mallorca, these small beaches with crystal clear waters in the secluded coves, surrounded by cliffs and pine forests are the first thing that comes to mind. And from Sant Jordi there are several within a short drive: Cala Pi, Cala Llombards, Cala Santanyi, and a couple at Mondrago Park, to name a few. The beaches I’ve listed all have amenities, lifeguards, and beachbars or restaurants nearby. All you need to bring is a towel, sunscreen, and a bottle of water, and you’re good to go.
Practical Tips for Visiting Colonia de Sant Jordi
If you are coming mainly for the beaches then the best time is by far July and August, but this is also the peak tourist season in Spain so make sure to book accommodations well in advance and be ready for the crowds. If you are a little more flexible with your time however you may want to consider coming in the off-season, in May/June or September/October.
The weather is still great, but there are far fewer people, making for a less hectic and more relaxed experience. It can also be less expensive with cheaper airfare and lower room costs. I went swimming at Es Trenc last October and the conditions were great and there were still lots of people so there was no danger of getting lonely.
If you are renting a car, you can take highway Ma19 from the airport and head towards Campos, and once there follow the signs for the Ma-6040 which will take you to Colonia de Sant Jordi (a total distance of about 50km). You can also use public transportation and reach Sant Jordi by bus with TIB (or Transports de les Iles Balears the main island bus operator). Follow the link provided for routes and up-to-date schedules. The TIB has buses that service most major towns and popular tourist spots on the island so keep this in mind if you feel like exploring more of the island during your stay.
If you don’t plan on venturing too far, you may want to rent a bike during your visit to get around the area. The town is relatively quiet and a great place for families looking for suitable attractions for children (Did I mention the OSTRICH farm?) Families can enjoy the village’s quiet atmosphere and nearby attractions suitable for children. It’s a small town but you will still find several shops and markets where you will find everything you will need for your stay.
Why Choose Colonia de Sant Jordi Mallorca for Your Next Getaway?
Sant Jordi’s location puts it right close to one of the main tourist draws on the island, Es Trenc and Sa Rapita beaches, yet still finds itself far from the main tourist areas like Palma de Mallorca. With the beaches located in the nature park, commercial and residential development has been kept to a bare minimum, helping to keep the area relatively calm and relaxed.
The village combines historical charm with access to natural attractions, creating a balanced experience for visitors. Here you can enjoy a slower pace while still having access to essential amenities, various activities, and several natural attractions. The blend of traditional Mallorcan life and modern conveniences adds to its appeal. Colonia de Sant Jordi provides a chance to connect with the island’s culture and landscapes up close and personal.
FINAL THOUGHTS: BEST THINGS TO DO IN SANT JORDI MALLORCA, SPAIN!
Sant Jordi Mallorca has something magical about it—a village that lets you step into a slower pace of life, while still being close to all the wonders that Mallorca offers. From its natural beauty to its friendly locals and cultural charm, it’s a destination that caters to travelers hungry for authenticity. Why wait? Start planning your trip to Sant Jordi Mallorca and discover this hidden gem for yourself!
“Don’t Just Dream It! Do it!”
How about experiencing Mallorca, Spain, and the Mediterranean first hand? 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.
