Mallorca is one of the easiest European islands to visit with children. The beaches are gentle, the sun is reliable, restaurants welcome families, and there is a surprising range of family attractions, from an aquarium to a vintage train and an underground lake. This guide picks the best days out and the practical points that make family travel smoother.
Beaches come first
Many of the island's beaches are shallow, sheltered and sandy, which makes them ideal for young children, and several have lifeguards, showers and cafés in summer. Beaches in the bays of Alcúdia and Pollença and the south coast around Es Trenc are well known for shallow water. Bring sun hats, rash vests and plenty of water, and avoid the middle of the day, when the sun is strongest.
Marine and animal days
The Palma Aquarium is the best all-weather choice, with sharks, a big tank and an outdoor area, and it works on a rainy day or a hot afternoon. Marineland, on the south-west coast, has animal shows, an aquarium, bird areas and a small beach, and it suits families with young children who enjoy shows. Remember that views on shows with marine mammals vary, so choose the format that suits your family. Boat trips from Palma, including catamaran cruises with swimming stops, give children a taste of the sea, though some sailings are better for older children, since they last several hours.
Water park fun
Aqualand El Arenal, near the airport, is the big summer water park, with slides for every age, a lazy river and shallow play areas. It runs in the warmer months only, so it is a summer plan. Arrive when it opens, ride the biggest slides first and take a long break in the shade at midday.
Caves and trains
The Caves of Drach are always a hit with children, who love the huge chambers, the lights and the boat concert on the underground lake. The visit lasts about an hour and includes some steps. The Cuevas dels Hams and the neighbouring Dinosaurland make a good combination on the same coast, with models of dinosaurs for younger children. The vintage train to Sóller is another family favourite, with wooden carriages and tunnels that children enjoy counting, followed by a tram ride to the harbour at Port de Sóller.
Castles and history
Bellver Castle in Palma is a round castle on a pine-covered hill, with a roof walk and views over the bay, and children enjoy exploring its circular courtyard. Palma Cathedral is free for the youngest visitors, and the coloured light from its rose window can fascinate them for a while. For older children with an interest in sport, the Rafa Nadal Museum in Manacor has interactive displays.
Choosing a base
For a first family trip, Palma offers sights, restaurants and an airport close by, and a hotel with a pool and triple or connecting rooms is useful. Hotel Born offers triple rooms in the old town, the Portixol is a good seafront choice, and Hotel Saratoga has several pools including a children's pool. For a beach-focused holiday, a resort on the bays of the north or south-east gives easy access to shallow beaches, though you will need a car for sightseeing.
Beat the heat
Mallorca is hot in July and August, and young children tire quickly. Plan outdoor sightseeing for the morning, take a long lunch and rest, and return to the beach or pool in the late afternoon. Carry water, use high-factor sunscreen and keep children's heads covered. In spring and autumn the island is cooler and many families find it more comfortable for sightseeing.
Eating out
Restaurants are relaxed about children, and lunch can be early for families. Many menus offer simple dishes such as pasta, grilled fish and chicken, croquetas and pa amb oli. Dinner in Spain starts late, so for young children look for restaurants that open earlier, or eat a large lunch and a lighter supper. Try an ensaïmada for breakfast, which most children love.
Getting around
Old-town streets in Palma are cobbled and narrow, so a light folding stroller is easier than a large one. Taxis are plentiful and reasonably priced, and many taxi drivers can take baby seats if asked in advance. If you hire a car, book child seats ahead and check the seat rules. Mountain roads are winding, so bring remedies for travel sickness, and plan breaks.
A sample week
One day at the beach, one day at Palma Aquarium and the old town, one day at the Caves of Drach with lunch in Porto Cristo, one day on the Sóller train and tram, one day at Marineland or Aqualand and a lazy day by the pool. That gives a balanced mix of activity and rest, and leaves room for a boat trip if the weather is kind.
