Platja de Can Pere Antoni

Platja de Can Pere Antoni is the sand beach closest to the centre of Palma, in the Balearic Islands of Spain, lying about 1.5 km east of the Cathedral (La Seu) along the Passeig Marítim. The beach is a straight, open stretch of fine sand facing the Bay of Palma, with a gentle slope into the water. Because the bay is sheltered from most of the island's prevailing winds, the sea is usually calm, with little surf, and the water is clear enough for comfortable swimming through the summer months, though it is less transparent than at the island's rural coves because of boat traffic and the city's proximity. The beach is relatively compact compared with the resort strips farther east, and in July and August the sand fills with a mix of local residents, office workers on a lunch break and visitors combining a swim with sightseeing. The atmosphere is urban and relaxed rather than a party scene: the soundtrack is the promenade rather than a beach club, and the view takes in the Cathedral skyline at one end and the harbour at the other. Amenities are those of a well-served city beach. Showers are available, sunbeds and parasols are hired out in season, beach bars and restaurants line the back of the sand, and lifeguards are on duty in season. The Passeig Marítim behind the beach is a wide pedestrian and cycle promenade, which makes the beach an easy add-on to a walk or bike ride from the old town. Access is simple. Visitors can walk from the Cathedral in roughly 20 minutes along the seafront, or take EMT bus line 35 from the centre and get off at the Porta des Camp stop. The EMT single fare is about €2 (about $2.30) in cash or about €1.20 (about $1.38) by contactless bank card, tapping on only. Parking is limited and metered in the surrounding streets, so public transport or walking is the more practical choice. The promenade is flat, so the approach is easy, and the beach suits a short swim between sights, a sunset stroll or a casual afternoon with a drink at a seafront bar. Visitors seeking space, dunes or very clear water generally head to the beaches on the southeast or west coasts instead, but for convenience, Can Pere Antoni is hard to beat. The surrounding neighbourhood offers cafes and bakeries within a few minutes' walk, and the municipal authorities in Palma publish information on beach flag status and water quality for the season.