From mid-sized municipalities such as Campos, Llucmajor, Santanyi and Felanitx to stunning cove beaches defined by turquoise waters and rocky cliffs, as well a natural preserve and the home of the island’s salt manufacturer, the South of Mallorca has its own laid-back and authentic style.

As you leave the outskirts of Palma, along the southern coast, there are a few of the island’s more popular beach destinations: Ca’n Pastilla, Playa de Palma and S’arenal, built-up during the boom of tourism in the 1960s-70s. While they remain desirable destinations for certain holiday-seekers thanks to the large stretch of sandy beach and high number of hotels and rentals, Ca’n Pastilla in particular, is increasingly becoming more for local residents as well thanks to its easy connection into Palma and proximity to the airport and schools.  

Driving further southeast out of Palma, the landscape slowly shifts as it leaves behind the urban centre, transforming into terracotta-dusted fields dotted with pine and olive trees. About 20-30 minutes from Palma is Llucmajor, an under-the-radar town that deserves a closer look. Unique in that it is not a typical tourist destination, Llucmajor, population roughly 37,000, is a small city with an independent vibe. Steeped in history like most towns across the island, the town is contemporary and lively.

Further south is the municipality of Campos, which has a small commercial zone but is otherwise quite rural and laid-back. If cowboys were in Mallorca, they might hang out in Campos for its rugged style. From Campos towards the coast however, the landscape shifts again. Nearby is the iconic Es Trenc beach, the most Caribbean-like beaches thanks to its powdery white sand and shallow blue waters, and the impressive Flor de Sal de Es Trenc salt flats and adjacent natural preserve where storks and birds and other wildlife gather. Just south of Es Trenc is the beach town of Colonia de Sant Jordi, a mix of tourists and locals, the small town has a few parks and good restaurants.

Heading back inland again, Ses Salines is a sophisticated town with its own distinct style. Bustling with good shops and restaurants, the town has a strong local community not strictly dependent on tourism, giving it an authentic feel. That said, it does light up in summer months with visitors filling the streets, so it’s a nice mix of quiet and busy.