Es Pontàs, Palma
Natural Phenomenon near Palma
On Mallorca's south-eastern coast, Es Pontàs rises from the sea like a giant stone doorway, a natural limestone arch that has become one of the must-see places in Mallorca for photographers, hikers and anyone who loves rugged coastal scenery. The grand bridge, as its Catalan name suggests, stands around 20 metres high between Cala Santanyí and Cala Llombards, its base constantly pounded by waves while boats and swimmers slip through the opening below. From the nearby mirador you get wide, cinematic views of the arch set against deep blue water and pale cliffs.
Although the arch itself can only be reached by boat or swimming, the Mirador Es Pontas offers an easy and rewarding way to experience it from land. A clearly marked path from Cala Santanyí leads you along the cliffs to this viewpoint without any risky edges, making it a very accessible outing for most visitors and families. The coastal paths here are often visited on walking tours of Santanyí, and sunrise or sunset at the mirador is especially magical as the changing light picks out the textures and colours of the rock.
History and Significance of Es Pontas
Es Pontàs is a classic example of a surf gate, a natural stone arch carved by the relentless erosive power of the sea. Over time, waves exploit weaknesses and softer layers in coastal limestone, gradually enlarging cracks and caves until only a hard “bridge” of rock remains standing, forming the arch you see today. The process is slow but constant, and Es Pontàs is one snapshot in a long geological story that began millions of years ago and will continue as the sea keeps working at the base of the structure.
In scientific terms, erosion here means the wearing down and destructive effect of water, wind and, elsewhere, ice on rock and soil. In coastal settings like Mallorca, the sea is the main sculptor: waves undercut and hollow out cliffs, forming caves that eventually break through on both sides to create arches. In deserts, similar stone gates can form when wind-driven sand erodes softer rock more quickly than harder layers, but along the Balearic coastline it is the combination of saltwater, storms and the natural fractures in the limestone that dominates.
Within the Balearic Islands, there are three especially notable sea arches created by this process. Alongside Es Pontàs in Mallorca, you have Pont d'en Gil near Ciutadella in Menorca and the stone bridge at Sant Antoni de Portmany in Ibiza. Together they highlight how the same forces can shape similar forms on different islands, while local conditions give each arch its own character and setting. Es Pontàs, balanced between two small coves and framed by cliffs and pine trees, is perhaps the most dramatic of the trio.
Things to See and Do in Es Pontas
Most visitors experience Es Pontàs from the land-based viewpoint at Mirador Es Pontas. From here, you can watch waves smash through and around the arch, see boats passing beneath it and enjoy wide views along the cliffs. Come at sunrise for a calm, pastel start to the day or at sunset for warm light on the stone and silhouettes of the arch against the sea. Photographers often spend a long time here experimenting with angles from different points along the path.
For those who enjoy walking, the route from Cala Santanyí to Es Pontàs is part of the appeal. The roughly 50-minute stroll follows a clearly marked path that avoids exposed cliff edges, making it suitable for families with children and for anyone who prefers gentle coastal walking over serious hiking. Along the way you get glimpses of the sea through pine trees and can stop at small viewpoints before reaching the main mirador, so it is worth allowing time for pauses rather than rushing straight there and back.
If you want to get closer to the water, you can view the arch from sea level by taking a boat trip from nearby coves or, for strong swimmers, by swimming out from Cala Santanyí on calm days. The arch is also known in the climbing world as a famous deep-water soloing spot, though watching climbers from a safe distance is far more sensible than attempting any climbs yourself unless you are highly experienced and properly prepared. However you approach it, remember that Es Pontàs is a wild natural feature rather than a fenced-off attraction, so caution and respect for the elements are essential.
How to Get to Es Pontas
Most visitors to Es Pontàs start their journey by flying into Palma de Mallorca Airport, the island's main international gateway with frequent connections from across Europe. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Palma on Booking.com. From the airport you can hire a car or take public transport towards the south-east of the island and Santanyí.
If you are relying on public transport from Palma, buses run towards Santanyí and the coastal area around Cala Santanyí, from where you can walk to the start of the path leading to the mirador.Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio. Once in Cala Santanyí, local signage helps guide you to the route out towards Es Pontàs.
Travelling by car, follow the main roads towards Santanyí and then on to Cala Santanyí, where you can park in the free parking area on sa Cova des Vell Mari Street, only a few minutes’ walk from the beach.If you are looking to rent a car in Spain I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you. From the car park, walk down to Cala Santanyí itself, then follow the clearly marked path that leads you along the coast to Mirador Es Pontas for your views of the arch.
Practical Tips on Visiting Es Pontas
- Suggested tips: Bring water, sun protection and sturdy shoes, even though the path is not technical; the coastal sun and heat can be intense, especially in summer.
- Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon is ideal, both for cooler temperatures and for the best light at sunrise or sunset over the arch.
- Entrance fee: Free – Es Pontàs is a natural coastal viewpoint with no entrance fee.
- Opening hours: Open at all times as a natural site, though it is safest and most enjoyable to visit in daylight and in good weather.
- How long to spend: Allow 1.5-2 hours if you are walking from Cala Santanyí and spending time at the mirador; longer if you plan to linger for sunrise or sunset.
- Accessibility: The path from Cala Santanyí is well marked and not exposed, but it is still a natural trail with uneven surfaces; it may be challenging for visitors with reduced mobility or very young children in pushchairs.
- Facilities: There are no facilities at Es Pontàs itself; use toilets, shops and cafés in Cala Santanyí before you set out.
- Photography tip: Use a wider lens or step back along the path to capture both the arch and surrounding cliffs, and consider visiting at golden hour for softer colours and dramatic shadows.
- Guided tours: Some local operators and walking guides include Es Pontàs as part of coastal excursions; joining one can be helpful if you prefer a guided route or want additional commentary on geology and local history.
- Nearby food options: Plan to eat in Cala Santanyí or in the town of Santanyí, where you will find cafés, restaurants and small supermarkets for snacks and meals.
Where to Stay close to Es Pontas
For easy access to Es Pontàs, staying around Cala Santanyí or in the town of Santanyí works very well. In Cala Santanyí itself, Hotel Apartamentos Cala Santanyí offers a convenient coastal base within walking distance of the beach and the path out to the mirador. If you prefer the atmosphere of a traditional Mallorcan town with good access to both the coast and the countryside, Hotel Can Ferrereta provides a stylish, historic setting just a short drive from the sea. For a more laid-back resort feel along the nearby coastline, Hotel Pinos Playa places you close to coves and walking trails while keeping Es Pontàs within easy reach.
Is the Es Pontas Worth Visiting?
Es Pontàs is absolutely worth visiting if you enjoy dramatic coastal scenery and natural landmarks. The combination of a striking limestone arch, easy access via a family-friendly path from Cala Santanyí and the option to time your visit for sunrise or sunset makes it a very rewarding half-day outing. It will not fill an entire day on its own, but when combined with a swim at Cala Santanyí or nearby coves and perhaps a meal in Santanyí, it becomes one of those coastal experiences that really captures the wilder side of Mallorca.
What Other Travellers Say...
Mirador del Pontàs in Cala Santanyí is a short, scenic hike that rewards visitors with sweeping coastal views over the natural rock arch and nearby coves; it’s popular at sunset and with photographers, hikers and families, though the path and cliff edges require sturdy shoes and caution. Park a little way out and expect a five-minute walk in; access isn’t stroller-friendly and reaching the sea involves scrambling on rocks, so swimming or cliff activity is best for confident climbers and when the water is calm.
FAQs for Visiting Es Pontas
Nearby Attractions to the Es Pontas
- Cala Santanyí Beach: A sheltered sandy cove ideal for swimming and relaxing before or after your walk to the mirador.
- Cala Llombards: Another beautiful cove nearby, with clear water, cliffs and a more laid-back feel, great for a swim or sunbathing.
- Cala Figuera: A picturesque fishing harbour with narrow inlets, traditional boats and waterside restaurants perfect for a leisurely meal.
- Mondragó Natural Park: A protected coastal area with walking trails, beaches and birdlife, offering more opportunities for easy hikes and sea views.
- Santanyí Town: A charming inland town known for its golden-stone architecture and lively weekly market, ideal for combining with a coastal trip to Es Pontàs.
The Es Pontàs appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Palma!
Moira & Andy
Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!
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Planning Your Visit
Open at all times as a natural site, though it is safest and most enjoyable to visit in daylight and in good weather.
Free - Es Pontàs is a natural coastal viewpoint with no entrance fee.
Nearby Attractions
- Cuevas del Drach (28.3) km
Cave - Cuevas del Hams (28.8) km
Cave - Palma Aquarium (42.3) km
Aquarium - Teatre Municipal Xesc Forteza (49.9) km
Theatre - Statue of Jehuda Cresques (49.9) km
Statue - Palma's Secret Synagogue (50.0) km
Historic Site - Iglesia de Montesión (50.0) km
Church - Convent of San Francisco (50.1) km
Convent - Banys Arabs (Arab Baths) (50.1) km
Baths - Puerta de los Judios (50.2) km
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