Cala d’Or in the southeast of Mallorca
If you’re looking for a place that combines lively daytime and evening life, shimmering turquoise coves and neat, whitewashed architecture, then Cala d’Or Baleares is your spot. With a vibrant real estate market, and one of the most rising regions of Mallorca in recent years, properties in Cala d’Or are in high demand. The town is located in the east of Mallorca in the municipality of Santanyí, around 60 km from Palma – perfectly accessible and yet pleasantly relaxed.
Why Cala d’Or is so special
Cala d’Or was planned in the 1930s – not simply “grown”. The Ibizan architect Josep Costa Ferrer shaped the style with flat, cubic, white-painted houses and narrow streets. This Ibiza look is still noticeable today and gives the town its elegant, maritime character. Even the town hall insists on retaining this aesthetic in new projects.
Location & flair at a glance
-
Coast & municipality: Southeast coast of Mallorca, municipality of Santanyí.
-
Centers: Cala d’Or (center), Cala Egos in the west, Cala Ferrera in the east (which officially belongs to the municipality of Felanitx, not like Cala d’Or to the municipality of Santanyi) – each with its own small focus (marina proximity, family beaches, bars & restaurants).
-
Vibe: Well-kept, relaxed, with lots of Mediterranean lightness – boutiques, good gastronomy and a well-rounded offer for families and couples.
The bays of Cala d’Or: small, fine, turquoise
Five bays are the “classics”: Cala Gran, Cala Esmeralda, Cala Ferrera, Cala Serena and Cala Petita. They are narrow, sandy and mostly sheltered from the wind – ideal for relaxed bathing (Cala Serena & Esmeralda are considered particularly family-friendly).
Insider’s note: Cala Esmeralda used to be called Caló d’es Corrals – today it is named after the emerald green water.
Cala dor in the southeast of Mallorca beach
Marina lifestyle: life around Cala Llonga
The Cala d’Or marina is located in the long stretch of Cala Llonga. Restaurants and stores are lined up along the promenade – perfect for evening strolls, sundowners and watching the yachts. The harbor is well protected (only trickier in strong easterly winds) – a plus point for boat owners.
Handy to know: Official information can be found on the marina page (locations, contact, radio channel). For calls: VHF channel 9.
Everyday life & infrastructure: everything you need is there
-
Gastronomy & shopping: From uncomplicated beach clubs to fine dining – especially around the marina and in the center.
-
Nature on your doorstep: Mondragó Nature Park is just a few minutes’ drive away – fantastic paths and bays for easy hikes or beach days.
-
Weekly market in Santanyi: Nearby Santanyí attracts visitors on Wednesdays & Saturdays with an atmospheric market – ideal for local products and decorations for your new home.
Housing & Real Estate in Cala d’Or Baleares
Cala d’Or offers a healthy mix of apartments close to the beaches, terraced houses in quiet side streets and detached villas – some with sea views or within walking distance of the marina. Due to the growing vacation and second home character, demand is stable throughout the season; at the same time, the distances remain short: beach, restaurants, harbor – everything is close by. Anyone wishing to combine renting with own use will find solid conditions thanks to the proximity to the beach.
Popular microlocations (briefly explained):
-
Cala Egos (west): Close to the marina, family-friendly, good access to bars/restaurants.
-
Cala Ferrera (east): Beach focus, short distances, many services.
-
Center Cala d’Or: Walking distance to everything, lively in the season.
High season tip: The entire municipality of Santanyí is very popular in summer. Plan your beach visits early in the day – that way you can enjoy the bays in peace.
Cala dor in the southeast of Mallorca
Who is Cala d’Or suitable for?
-
Families who appreciate safe, manageable beaches with a clear structure.
-
Sailors & boat enthusiasts who want to use the marina’s infrastructure.
-
Couples & peace seekers who love Mediterranean evenings by the water – with a chic, lively yet relaxed atmosphere.
1-day experience: your perfect day could look like this
-
In the morning: early to Cala Gran or Cala Serena for a swim.
-
Lunch with a sea view at Cala Esmeralda.
-
Afternoon: Marina stroll through Cala Llonga – yachts, boutiques, ice cream for the kids.
-
In the evening: tapas in the center or a trip to Santanyí (market days: Wed/Sat).
Tips from Lucas Froese Real Estate (from the field)
-
Micro-location beats floor plan: In Cala d’Or, the street and proximity to the bay are often more decisive for rental/value potential than 10 m² more living space.
-
Check the season: If you want peace and quiet, check the location away from the main traffic routes – especially in July/August.
-
Combine marina & beach: Whether for your own use or renting out – walking distances to the harbor and beach are a clear argument.
-
Keeping an eye on nature: Proximity to the Parc Natural de Mondragó is a plus for recreational value and buyers.
Frequently asked questions about Cala d’Or:
Is “cala d’or baleares” family-friendly?
Yes, several sheltered sandy bays (including Serena & Esmeralda) are ideal for families with children.
What is the architecture like in cala d’or baleares?
Whitewashed, cubic buildings in the Ibiza style – a trademark since Josep Costa Ferrer’s planning in the 1930s.
Is there a marina/harbour?
Yes, the Cala d’Or marina in Cala Llonga – popular for walks, gastronomy and as a base for boat/yacht activities.
Which beaches belong to cala d’or baleares?
Cala Gran, Cala Esmeralda, Cala Serena and Cala Petita – all with fine sand and turquoise water.
- Real estate in Cala d’Or
- Buying a villa in Mallorca
- Real Estate Portocolom
- Buying a finca in Mallorca
Ready to discover Cala d’Or in person?
We provide independent advice on locations, properties and rentability – from the first viewing to the notary appointment. Tell us what is important to you – Lucas Froese Real Estate will find the right property for you.
