Surfing in Majorca: the best places to catch waves

Can you surf in Majorca? Not only can you surf but the largest of the Balearic Islands is also one of the best places on the entire Mediterranean coast to do so.

Although traditionally the surfable waves in Majorca were known for being irregular and discontinuous, research for a doctoral thesis presented in 2015 at the University of the Balearic Islands has revealed that the said reputation is unfair, since it has been estimated that there are 175 days a year when you can surf in at least one part of the island.

Moreover, the other attractions that Majorca offers fans of surfing, the sea and coastal life are clear: a pleasant climate during the four seasons, the warm, crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean and an established surfing community open to everyone who not only sees surfing as a sport but also as a lifestyle. In addition to classic surfing, Majorca is perfect for other varieties, such as bodyboarding, kitesurfing, windsurfing or paddle surfing, as well as other popular water sports. The most important thing? Finding the right places with the ideal conditions to practice them at any given time.

Where can you surf in Majorca?

Due to the characteristics of its coastline and its small size (which allows fast car journeys from one point to another), in Majorca the possibilities of finding a good spot (or good place to surf in surfing jargon) are multiplied.

Being aware of weather forecasts (which, fortunately, in recent years have increased in reliability thanks to the development of technology) is essential, although the reality is that the island has one of the most consistent coasts in terms of surfable waves in the Mediterranean. Winter is the season with the highest number of optimal consecutive days for practising this sport, especially in the Bays of Palma and Alcúdia, while in autumn and spring the best waves are on the eastern beaches.

However, the spots that are most frequented by local surfers and regular or occasional visitors are on the north-east coast of the island, in areas such as Cala Mesquida or Cala Torta. Son Serra beach, in the Bay of Alcúdia, could be considered the central point of classic surf on the island. The most experienced surfers will be able to enjoy up to 8 spots along its 7 kilometres, with catchy names like ‘the bunker’, which promises the best wave and, consequently, is the busiest area; ‘the gate’ or ‘cockles’, thanks to the three breaks it has, with options suitable for both beginners and advanced surfers.

It is not difficult to find a good handful of specialist shops in this area, as well as surf schools with courses for all levels, although it is recommended that surfers with a more advanced level go to Majorca with their own board, as the professional board rental market is somewhat limited.

Windsurfing and kitesurfing in Majorca

It is said among surfers that in Majorca, when there are no waves, there is wind, so both windsurfing and kitesurfing are excellent alternatives on days (or in areas) in which the conditions for classic surfing or bodyboarding (lying or kneeling on the board) are not ideal.

Windsurfing

In windsurfing, the surfer moves on the water on a board with an articulated sail that allows them to change direction and advance with the help of the wind. The part of the island you choose depends on your expertise and experience: Cala D’Or or Portocolom can be two good proposals for beginners and the Bay of Alcúdia, Palma or Can Pastilla, for more advanced athletes.

Kitesurfing

In this case, the board is complemented with a kite that the surfer wears with a harness on their waist. The sport is practised in mild weather and is a quite dangerous activity, both for those who practice it and for those around the surfer. The only officially authorised area for it is the Bay of Pollença although, unofficially, it is also practised in other places. However, it is strictly forbidden on the most crowded beaches during high season months.

Paddle surfing, the option for all ages

Paddle surfing, the modality practised on a large board where you must stand upright while moving with the help of a paddle, has gained popularity on the islands in recent times. Why? Because it is easy to learn and start practising in a short space of time, which makes it ideal as a new hobby during the holidays. Also, it is a low risk sport, which makes it a good option to practise with the family, in case you travel to Majorca with children. Furthermore, you don’t need wind or waves to practise it (rather, it is ideal in calm weather and calm waters).

A good idea is to book the activity at one of the many surf schools and choose one of the many coves, only accessible by sea, to practise it while enjoying the scenery and tranquillity.

Other water sports to practise in Majorca

Lovers of the sea and water sports will not be disappointed in Majorca. Other options to enjoy on the islands range from snorkelling and diving, kayaking, canoeing, renting jet skis, boats or sailing boats, to other more innovative and daring options such as flyboarding (which is practised with a board that ‘flies’ as it is propelled by jets of water pressure).