Cala Ratjada
Cala Ratjada is a town, fishing port, and major tourist resort in northeast Mallorca, known for combining its seafaring past with a vibrant vacation destination. It offers beautiful beaches and coves such as Cala Agulla and Cala Gat, a busy marina, an active nightlife and restaurants, as well as the historic Capdepera lighthouse and nearby archaeological heritage sites such as the Talayotic finds at Son Sastre.
Main features
Cala Ratjada emerged in the 17th century as a port for fishermen working in the area. It has become a popular tourist destination since the 1960s, maintaining a local atmosphere thanks to its “slow town” character. Located at the easternmost tip of Mallorca, about 80 kilometers from Palma, it has the following main features:
Landscape and beaches: It is located in a coastal area with cliffs, coves, and beaches with fine golden sand, such as Cala Agulla, Son Moll, Cala Gat, and Cala Lliteras.
Port and fishing atmosphere: It maintains the atmosphere of an old fishing village with an active port where traditional boats (llauts) can still be seen, despite its tourist boom.
Proximity to Menorca: It is the closest point in Mallorca to Menorca, allowing you to see the neighboring island on clear days from the coast or the Capdepera lighthouse.
Leisure activities: It offers a wide variety of activities for all tastes, from water sports such as diving and snorkeling to golf, hiking, and cycling.
Nightlife: It is a popular destination for those looking for nighttime entertainment, with a wide range of bars, restaurants, and nightclubs.
Tourist infrastructure: It has excellent infrastructure, including numerous accommodations, restaurants, shops, and boardwalks.
Natural environment: Being close to the Llevant Natural Park, it offers hiking trails and the opportunity to enjoy its native vegetation and wildlife.
Toponymy
The toponymy of Cala Ratjada is related to the stingray, as it means “Cala de la Raya” in Catalan, referring to the abundant fishing of stingrays in the area since the 17th century. However, there is a historical debate about the correct spelling, as some sources defend the form with a “t” (Ratjada) and others the form without it (Rajada), arguing that the place name in Mallorcan sounds like “ratjada” and the official form should be Cala Rajada, according to the regulations.
Location and Accessibility to Cala Ratjada
Cala Ratjada is located at the easternmost tip of the island of Mallorca, belonging to the municipality of Capdepera. It is located in the northeast, about 80 km from Palma de Mallorca. Due to its location, Menorca can be seen on a clear day from the promontory of Punta de Capdepera.
How to get to Cala Ratjada? Arriving by car
From Palma: Take the Ma-15 highway eastbound. The route is well signposted and takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, passing through Manacor and Capdepera.
From the airport: Follow thesigns to take the Ma-15. The journey takes around 1 hour and 30minutes.
From other locations: If you are coming from Artà, take the Ma-15; from Cala Millor,you can take the Ma-4040.
Tip: Renting a car is highly recommendedif you want to explore other coves and corners of the island.
How to get to Cala Ratjada? Arriving by bus
From the airport: Takethe A42 line to Manacor and, from there, the 411 line to Cala Ratjada. Thisoption can take around 2 hours.
From Palma (Intermodal Station): Take the 411 line directly from theIntermodal bus station in Palma.
Other lines: Insummer, there are other lines such as the 422, 423, and 424 that also connect to Cala Ratjada from different localities or villages of Mallorca.
How to get to Cala Ratjada? Arriving by taxi
You can also get to Cala Ratjada by taxi if you are looking for a faster option. A taxi ride from Palma takesapproximately 45 to 60minutes, and the price is usually around €105-120, although the cost may vary depending on the fare and the pick-up point. You can request a taxi through well-known mobile app services. It is recommended to book inadvance, especially during high season.
Cala Ratjada: Historical overview
The original settlement was founded in the 17th century, when the inhabitants of nearby Capdepera established the port for fishing. The port focused on catching rays and lobsters, activities that remain important today. The historic white buildings on the seafront, called “lobster houses,” were used to keep the catches alive.
In 1885, the first hotel, the “Hostal Ca’s Bombu,” opened and has been run by the same family ever since. In the 1930s, it attracted exiled German writers and artists seeking refuge in its atmosphere. From the 1960s onwards, the town experienced rapid growth in tourism. Despite the increase in the construction of large hotel complexes in the surrounding area, the town center has retained much of its original charm.The port is now the second largest fishing port in the Balearic Islands, after Palma. It has become one of the most popular tourist destinations on the island, attracting visitors from all over the world. Despite the tourist boom, it has managed to retain its fishing village atmosphere, with narrow streets and a Mediterranean feel.
Places of interest in Cala Ratjada
Cala Ratjada is a vibrant tourist center in the northeast of Mallorca, known for its beautiful sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and lively nightlife. Originally a fishing port, it has retained its traditional charm while becoming a major holiday destination with a wide range of leisure activities, restaurants, and shops. Among its main features are its proximity to Menorca, its diverse beaches such as Cala Agulla and Son Moll, and its lively atmosphere both day and night.
Port: Combines the tradition of fishing boats with a modern marina.
Beaches and coves: These include the long, natural Cala Agulla, the small, popular Cala Gat, and the urban Son Moll.
Archaeological heritage: Near the town are Talayotic remains and lime kilns on the Son Sastre estate.
Capdepera Lighthouse: Offers panoramic views of the coast and, on clear days, Menorca.
Parish church: It is the venue for the classical music cycle “A Winter in Mallorca”.
Palacio March: Owned by the March family, it is of cultural interest.
Port of Cala Ratjada: It retains its character as a fishing port, being one of the most important in the Balearic Islands, although it has also evolved into a tourist destination.
Capdepera Castle: An imposing medieval castle near the village.
Activities in Cala Ratjada
Water sports: Ideal for diving, snorkeling, and water sports due to its clear waters.
Hiking and cycling: Explore trails in the nearby Llevant Natural Park.
Sports: In addition to water sports, you can play golf, tennis, paddle tennis, and go horseback riding.
Gastronomy: Enjoy local cuisine, especially fresh fish dishes.
Culture: Attend the classical music series “A Winter in Mallorca” at the parish church.
Enjoy the beaches and coves: Cala Agulla, Son Moll, Cala Gat, and Cala Lliteres are some of the most notable, along with other rocky coves and cliffs along the coast.
Stroll along the promenade (Avinguda d’Amèrica): Offers views of the bay and the port.
Visit the weekly market: Held on Saturdays and featuring regional products, fish, and seafood.
Visit the CAP Vermell cultural center: Located in a natural setting of centuries-old pine trees.
Go on excursions and guided tours: Boat trips are organized, for example to the caves of Artà.
Summary
In short, Cala Ratjada offers a complete tourist experience, with options for all tastes and budgets, highlighting its beaches, vibrant nightlife, outdoor activities, and local cuisine.
And that’s it for this brief guide to Cala Ratjada, Mallorca. We hope it helps.
By the way: Are you coming to Mallorca on a tourist trip? If you find it helpful, you can also check out our travel guide to Mallorca and more tourist information about the island
