Secret coves near Palma feel like a private escape.

This small-group coastal walk trades the big-beach grind for quiet coves, snorkeling in clear water, and optional cliff jumps, with a local guide sharing why these spots matter. It ends at the Ermita de Portals Nous, a chapel perched for sea views and photos.

I especially like two parts: the early push to lesser-known shoreline and the way the guide keeps the group moving without rushing. Guides like Joan and Marc come up in reviews for friendly energy, history talk, and practical care like providing water shoes and goggles.

One thing to consider: you do get rocky, uneven paths, and the swim stops are not for people who freeze in cold water or hate heights. If you are a non-swimmer or prefer flat ground, this may feel stressful rather than fun.

Key things I’d zero in on before you book

• Max 8 people, so the coves can feel truly calm instead of crowded
• Bendinat start point keeps the route close to Palma, with a quick hop to viewpoint and shoreline
• Snorkel gear included, plus water shoes for rough, rocky entries
• Optional cliff jumps that do not require you to act brave
• Sea cave time and float time, not just a quick swim and back
• Cap and sunscreen friendly planning for a hot, outdoor morning

Why Bendinat to Portals Nous feels local, not touristy

This is one of those Palma-area tours where the timing and the route do the heavy lifting. You start in Bendinat, then work your way along coastline toward Portals Nous, hitting swim spots that locals actually use. The payoff is simple: clearer water, fewer people, and more time to enjoy the sea rather than queue for it.

A big part of the value is the small group size. With a maximum of 8 people, you are not wrestling around families, beach towels, and cruise-day crowds. That makes the snorkeling and cave exploring feel more like a day with friends than a packaged stop-and-go.

I also like that the guide approach stays personal. Reviews repeatedly mention guides such as Joan and Marc keeping people relaxed, adapting to the pace of the group, and adding local context while you walk. You end up with both: sea time and real understanding of what you are looking at.

Meeting at Bendinat pool, and what that means for your morning

You meet at the Bendinat municipal swimming pool, Av. República, 15, 07181 Bendinat. The directions are straightforward: after the roundabout, walk straight until the end of Avenida República, and wait in front of the blue fence.

This location is smart for two reasons. First, it puts you near the coastal start without wasting time in transit. Second, it sets the tone for an active morning. You are already in walking shoes mode before you even reach the water, so the day does not start with a long scramble.

If you are using public transport, the tour notes that Bus L108 departs from Palma’s main station (Estació Intermodal) at 8:50 a.m. If you prefer driving, the listing states there is free parking available.

The first coastal history stop: old military base views

Early on, you head to an old military base in Bendinat. Even if you only catch part of the story, the structure of this stop makes sense. The goal is less museum-style viewing and more, stand where you can see the coastline, then connect the geography to what it used to protect.

You get guided explanations here, and the views are the main event. For me, this is where the tour earns its credibility as more than just a swim trip. You are learning how this coastline was used, then you move on to the kind of places that look peaceful now but were strategically important before.

Practical note: this is a photo-friendly moment, but do not show up in flimsy footwear. The rest of the morning runs on uneven ground, and you will want grip.

The mirador interlude: Rafael viewpoint for quick, big payoff

Between swim time, you stop at Mirador de Rafael for about 15 minutes. This is a short break that keeps the momentum. You get a viewpoint without losing the day to sightseeing fatigue.

Why it matters: in half-day trips, a “big viewpoint” can either feel rushed or it can reset your focus. Here, the timing reads as a reset, not a diversion. You keep your energy for the next walk to the cove and for the swim slot that follows.

If your group likes photos, this is usually the moment you want to slow down for a few minutes. The chapel stop later also gives you shots, but the mirador is about seeing the shape of the coast in one frame.

Forest path to secret coves: the part you will remember

After the viewpoint, the route takes you along a forest path toward a hidden cove. This is where the tour turns from scenic walking into real water time.

You get around 1.5 hours here for your first swim slot. The description emphasizes quiet spots known mostly to locals, which lines up with what many people love in reviews: you can often have sections of the cove to yourselves. That is a big deal in Mallorca, where popular beaches can feel like outdoor lines.

At the water, you can:

• Explore small sea caves
• Float and relax in calmer patches
• Swim with your snorkel gear in clear water

You are also told to bring water and wear sunscreen. That is not just standard advice. The coves are outdoors, the sun reflects off water, and you will be away from easy snack stops. Some guides have been known to share homemade gazpacho in reviews, which is the perfect salty reset after swimming, but do not treat it as guaranteed.

One more detail that matters: you are on rocky entries. The included water shoes help, and they are genuinely worth wearing instead of relying on barefoot instincts.

Optional cliff jumping: fun with real safety brakes

Cliff jumping is listed as optional, not mandatory. That is important, especially if you are traveling with people who love thrills but you prefer to watch from the edge.

In practice, this stop is built for choice. People who jump tend to treat it like the highlight, and people who do not still get value from the swim time and the cave exploring. Reviews also mention guides being careful and not forcing anyone.

If you do jump, you get real prep: the tour includes swimming gear like diving goggles and water shoes. Reviews mention some guides also bring extra gear and even GoPro-style photo or video capture. You may leave with more than memories, but even without that, this is the moment when the day shifts from scenic to adrenaline.

If heights make you tense, do the safe thing: stay with the waterline and look at the jumpers. The point of the tour is to enjoy the coastline, not prove anything.

Ermita de Portals Nous: the cliffside chapel finish

The last stop is Ermita de Portals Nous, a small chapel set on a cliff. You get about 15 minutes for photos and a final viewpoint moment before wrapping up at Portals Nous Plaza.

Why this ending works: you go from sea action to a calm, scenic finish. It gives you a chance to dry off, check your camera roll, and settle back into normal Mallorca life. The chapel area also lets you stand farther back from the water, which is a nice reset if you spent the morning hopping rocks and swimming.

This is the place where the day feels complete. You have seen hidden coastal paths, swum in sheltered coves, and now you can look out across the coastline in a single sweep.

Price and value: what $52 gets you for 4 hours

At about $52 per person for a 4-hour small-group tour, the value is not just the guide. You are buying three practical things:

1) Access to quiet coves near Palma

2) Water time plus optional thrill time like cliff jumping

3) Included equipment for the sea, including water shoes and diving goggles

Transportation is not included, so you will want to plan how you get to Bendinat. But for most people in the Palma area, the meeting point is close enough that the cost feels fair versus arranging a private boat or doing this route with no local knowledge.

Also, small group matters. A bigger group often means rushed water time and crowded swim entries. Here, the guide can keep an eye on everyone, help with gear, and adjust if someone wants to swim longer or skip the cliff option.

What to bring, and how to not suffer on rocky Mallorca

This kind of coastal tour punishes the wrong footwear. The guidance is clear: bring comfortable shoes, not flip-flops. You should expect to cross rocky paths and uneven terrain.

Pack the basics:

• Swimsuit and sunscreen
• Cap and water
• Beachwear and a towel if that is your style
• Snacks if you want extra energy, since food is not included

Even if you think you are packing light, add one extra layer of practicality. If you get cold in shade after swimming, having something simple like a light shirt can make the transition to the chapel stop more comfortable. The tour is outdoors from start to finish, and that matters.

If you are a non-swimmer, skip this one. The tour is not framed for that, and you might find the swim time stressful rather than fun.

Who should book this small-group hidden coves tour

Book this if you want a morning that mixes movement and payoff. It fits best for:

• Thrill-seekers who want optional cliff jumping
• Nature lovers who enjoy clear water and sea caves
• People who want to avoid crowds and find calmer coves near Palma

It may not fit if you:

• Do not swim
• Have low mobility or find uneven rocky walking hard
• Need hearing accommodations, since the tour is not set up for hearing-impaired guests

Reviews also suggest solo travelers enjoy the small group vibe, with people meeting easily and spending the time with guides who keep the conversation going. That matters if you do not want an awkward, silent hike.

If you are only in Mallorca for a short trip, this is a strong choice. The tour is 4 hours, starts near Palma, and ends in a central area where you can keep going afterward.

Should you book it?

I would book it if you are excited by secret coves, you are comfortable with rocky coastal paths, and you like the idea of choosing your level of thrill. The included gear and the small group size make the $52 feel more like an activity day than a sightseeing add-on.

Skip it if you want easy, flat walking, or if swimming is not your thing. This tour is built around sea time, so the wrong expectations will spoil it.

If you want one Mallorca morning that feels more local than postcard, this Bendinat-to-Portals Nous route is a smart pick.

FAQ

Where does the tour meet?

The meeting point is the Bendinat municipal swimming pool, Av. República, 15, 07181 Bendinat, Illes Balears, Spain, in front of the blue fence.

How long is the tour?

The tour lasts about 4 hours.

What is the group size?

It is limited to a maximum of 8 participants.

What swimming or snorkeling gear is included?

Water shoes and diving goggles are included. The experience also includes swimming in small hidden beaches and coves, with optional cliff jumping.

Is cliff jumping mandatory?

No. Cliff jumping is listed as optional.

Is food included?

Food is not included.

What should I wear and bring?

Wear comfortable shoes and bring a swimsuit and sunscreen. The tour also recommends bringing water, beachwear, and comfortable shoes suitable for rocky paths.

Is there a public transport option?

Yes. Bus L108 departs at 8:50 a.m. from Palma’s main station (Estació Intermodal).

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?

No. It is not suitable for non-swimmers.

What is the cancellation policy?

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour also offers a reserve now & pay later option.