Porto Cristo: Harbour, Beach and Caves
Accommodation in Porto Cristo
Porto Cristo is a natural harbour. Its small bay opens to the southeast; the large rock Es Morro de sa Carabassa seems almost to close it off on one side. Alongside the sandy beach are a fishing harbour and a marina. The beach is listed as 300 metres long and 30 metres wide; these dimensions may vary with shoreline conditions.
Coast, beach and walking paths
A tree-lined promenade runs along the beach and invites visitors to stroll. The Passeig de la Sirena runs along carrer Bordils, directly opposite the sea and Porto Cristo beach. In summer, it provides a setting for markets, celebrations and concerts. If you plan to attend any of these events, check the dates in advance.
At the end of the beach promenade, the Coves Blanques are at sea level. The caves were inhabited until the mid-19th century; fishermen were already staying there in the early years of the 19th century. Another coastal spot is nearby Cala Petita, which is accessible only on foot. As access may change, check the conditions before visiting.
Harbour and historic sites
Porto Cristo’s former fishing harbour was well protected and served as a refuge for many seafarers throughout history. A lighthouse built in 1851 stands at the end of Es Morro de sa Carabassa. The Torre dels Falcons was built in 1577—another historic landmark in Porto Cristo.
The Iglesia de la Mare de Déu del Carme is located in plaça del Carme. The first church of the Mare de Déu del Carme was built between 10 May and early July 1890. The remains of an early Christian baptismal font are also among the site’s historic features. Together with the caves and the lighthouse, these offer different ways to explore the history and coastal landscape of Porto Cristo.
Caves and their features
The Cuevas del Drach feature a 1,700-metre cave route with large, irregularly shaped stalagmites and numerous slender stalactites. They are located on the Coves de Porto Cristo road. The Cuevas dels Hams are also in Porto Cristo and are known for their hook-shaped formations: “hams” means hooks in Mallorcan.
A visit to the Cuevas dels Hams begins with a descent into the Cueva Redonda, which is considered a large botanical garden with native fauna. A music show is held at the underground lake Mar de Venecia. Before planning a specific cave visit, check the latest details on visits and performances.
Routes and excursions
A 2020 municipal route description names Porto Cristo as the starting point of a coastal route through Manacor. If you plan to use it for current navigation, check the route status in advance. Boats depart from the harbour for trips along the coast; near the seaport, you can also take a trip aboard local Golondrina motorboats. Check current travel options before planning. This way, you can consider the coastal route, a stroll along the promenade and possible excursions as different highlights of your stay.
Discover more destinations: Cala Morlanda, Cala Murada, Cala Romantica, Son Macià, Cales De Mallorca
Return to the main travel overview: Manacor.
